I know it is preference as to pre washing pre cuts like fat quarters. However, when I pre wash things, there is some shrinkage as when I fold the washed/dried item, matching the salvages...the fold is wonky. So to make an even fold, I have to allow the salvages to be crooked(not matched evenly) and then start the cutting. So obviously there is shrinkage somehow in the yardage. Now just cause it is a pre cut, doens't mean this will not happen...they have a salvage also. And when washed...odds are these non pre washed fabric will shrink somehow/where and that will make the quilt have that puckered look. I like that some times, but other times it looks out of place...like the quilt is wrinkled and is not appealing.

I just bought 2 sets of FQ's when they were on sale and got the little stars and little dots from CT and they are beautiful prints and colors and I want to create with them. I usually put them in a lingerie bag. But last time I did that with some I had, they got all wrinkled and wadded up together. No big deal really as I just ironed them out but still...I would rather that not happen. And rather not have that extra work on 48 fat quarters... and I also got 48 cake layers!

So what I'd like to hear from those that DO NOT prewash fat quarters....when the quilt is done, how do the areas you used the FQ's on .. look? How does the whole quilt look if the FQ's are not pre washed and now have done any shrinking they will do? I also am cautious of colors bleeding, but have been using the color catchers and they seem to do great so if I decide not to pre wash, I know those would cover the bleeding.. (unless I use red..then it is pre wash a few times!) But if anyone has any experience with cutting pieces of non pre washed fat quarters..please share and if you have them..post a close up picture.

I assume they cut and sew fine, but if that is a problem due to no pre washing... share that experience if you would. I have my "to do" list for next year in the making and these fat quarters as so awesome, I want to use them right away! Thanks for your comments