cloth..cloth..cloth..

LIke everyone says...preference, preference, preference. I always have but lately this fabric I have been getting at the fab store (50/50 cotton/poly) has been really stretchy and thin. So I take it as it was cut, baste stitch the side (salvage) closed and then wash it. Helps it not to stretch and to stay in shape during the wash. I have discovered...100% cotton only for quilting tho..at least for larger areas. the 50/50 doesn't work so well!

Hi all, thank you so much for all the advises given. Now I know what to do. Hmpphh..wish me luck for my very first project.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Terryquilter

I'm one who doesn't pre-wash. I love the crinkly antiquey look of the quilt when I wash it after it is completed. I do use color catchers when I use batiks, reds, burgandy, etc. It's a personal choice. I have never pre-washed batting, I've read too many horror stories about doing that.

---

I'm the same as Terry. I never pre wash but always wash when I am done. I too love that crinkled old look the quilt gets after the first wash.
It's really a personal choice I think. But NEVER EVER wash precuts except for fat quarters. You will end up with a shredded mess of threads instead of fabric.

Good luck with your project!

I don't normally wash my fabric until after I am done.

I prewash everything. I had already washed ALL the fabric for this project, then I got a charm pack. I didn't want to mix washed and unwashed fabric, so I put them in a lingerie bag and tossed them in with a regular load of laundry. Dried them with the clothes too (still in the bag). I took them out, uncurled them with my fingers and stacked them.

This is what they looked like straight out of the bag and only using my hands to spread them out. They were not even ironed yet. Yes there was some fraying, but as you can see it's minimal.

Attachment 17408

Attachment 17409