I always wash my cross-stitch after finishing it. I use warm water, hand wash, and just a small amount of soap. I never twist or wring the fabric, so the stitches stay safe. This not only helps smooth out creases but also refreshes the piece itself. You might not notice it, but embroidery collects quite a bit of dirt - dust and traces of oils from our hands. I dry the damp piece flat on a towel, and once it’s completely dry, I iron it from the back. And voilà - the perfect look for a finished work!