Fusible batting

[MaryUK]

OK, this is a question in two halves. Firstly, if I use fusible batting on a quilt will I have to wash it afterwards before use. I was thinking of using it on some Linus quilts but don't really want to wash them before donating but is that the better way?
If I have to wash them how do I do it (having never had the need to wash as I haven't made many quilts as yet). Also what is the best way to dry them bearing in mind I live in England where we are fortunate to have two days together of dry weather to hang them on the line.

OK, the second part of my question is that I would like to use the fusible batting to make some cosmetics bags, do I have to wash those too?

[auntiemern]

Re: Fusible batting

You don't have to, but I always wash donation quilts before giving them out. It helps to get rid of the oils from our hands, any pet dander, and any chemicals used in the fabric. As far as the cosmetic bags, I would not wash those.

[LizTheScot]

Re: Fusible batting

I can't comment on the fusible batting but I wash all my quilts before gifting because (a) they accumulate oils etc as we handle the fabric, (b) I have cats so there's inevitably cat hair / dander on them and (c) I like the post-wash crinkly look. When I get them out of the washer I usually fold and hang over a clothes horse (I think they're called drying racks in the US?) indoors, refolding in different configurations every few hours to make sure all areas are exposed to air. I know the air will be damper in the UK than where I live in TX but I think you'll find you'll be able to get them dry okay this way - especially if you have a front-load washer, as my experience has been that they leave clothes drier than many of the top-load washers I have used.

[stationarymom]

Re: Fusible batting

I would wash before donating and make sure to use a couple of color catchers in the wash,if any colors bleed rewash with more color catchers until the bleeding has stopped.I like the look and feeling of a quilt that has been in the dryer.

[MaryUK]

Re: Fusible batting

Thanks for your advice, I knew someone on here would be able to help me. I will get some colour catchers when I shop next.

[easyquilts]

Re: Fusible batting

Don't know about the fusible batting...but... I xpwouod definitely was before donating... You want to present a fresh, clean quilt... No chemicals, no basting spray, no pet hairs, no finger prints, etc... Clean.... Besides, washing will give your quilt that lovely "quilty" look...