Hello. I am relatively new to quilting and need advice on using flannel for a quilt. The quilt would be all flannel. Are there techniques to using flannel in a quilt? Any advice is welcome! Thanks.
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Advice on using flannel
Hello. I am relatively new to quilting and need advice on using flannel for a quilt. The quilt would be all flannel. Are there techniques to using flannel in a quilt? Any advice is welcome! Thanks.
Wash it first to check for colour run and shrinkage. Iron and starch well. Beware of fluff building up in your machine (it sheds a lot).
It will be a heavier quilt than if made with cotton. You can even go without batting depending on the use of the quilt.
Flannel is generally a looser weave than cotton so more prone to stretching hence the importance of starching.
Use a larger seam if possible
My only other advice would be to use the highest quality flannel you can find/afford due to all of the reasons stated above. Personally, I think Moda flannel is very good. I'm sure there are others out there but that is my best experience.
Thanks so much everyone! I will be sure to utilize the advice given!
I love,and make, lots of flannel quilts. My favorite flannels are Benartex and Moda double side flannels ( both sides are brushed, soft, very substantial good quality flannels. I've never had a problem with colors running. I do prewash ( gently) in warm water, dry to just barely dry. Starch & iron before cutting. Nice, sharp New blade in the rotary cutter. I use a normal seam allowance unless making raggy quilts. Prewashing helps tighten up the weave so fraying isn't that much of an issue. I always use batting in my flannel quilts. They are so wonderfully soft, lofty, cozy.
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Most important advice to remember: show us what you accomplish 😊
Flannel is very stretchable compared to cotton. You might want to make a test (practice) block first.
A Good Friend, like an old quilt, is both a Treasure and a Comfort
I usually pre-shrink flannel, unless it's a rag quilt. It's a good idea to serge the edges (or sew a zig-zag) before you wash flannel so it won't unravel. I also like to use my walking foot. Flannel is kinda loose and squirel-y when you sew it, and a walking foot helps a lot. And I do give it a slightly wider seam allowance -- just a bump of the needle position.
I love flannel quilts because they "breathe" well, and wick away any moisture.
Annette in Utah
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