Blocking and Starching a Filet Runner

[rhelena]

I have a reader who is making a filet table runner as a Christmas gift. She is using bamboo thread and would like to know the best way to block the runner. If using starch she'll have to reblock every time it get's washed. Is using glue and water an ideal way to permanently block it? or will that ruin the bamboo thread? If it is suitable, what is a good ratio for mixing it?

Or is there any other way to block it so it don't have to be redone?

Thanks so much in advance.

[Nova55]

Whenever I had to stiffen something, I always use Aleene's stiffener. I did notice that when I put an item back in water, a lot of the stiffener did release, but whatever the base of the stiffener is stayed in the thread. Maybe this would be enough to keep the shape with a minimum of fuss. You didn't say what color the runner is. I have noticed that Aleene's coats the thread, so colors are subdued (or maybe I was just applying it too thick!). There are other stiffeners on the market and they can be watered down, but I'm not sure that you can eliminate all re-blocking after washing.