Thread: Flannel Rag Quilt Question

I have been making my first flannel rag quilt. It now measures 50 x 51". How much does flannel usually shrink when washed? I want to know about what size to make it end up for a lap quilt? Thank you.

Funny thing about the rag quilts I've made, they actually didn't shrink much. I didn't prewash my flannel either. I sewed two layers of flannel together and put an X through the square before sewing them together. Once they were washed they frayed out but didn't shrink enough for me to notice. Good luck

I've made about 30 rag quilts, they are so quick and easy. I allow about two inches for shrinkage in length and width. The quality of the flannel has a lot to do with it.
J

it depends on the flannel- but allow an inch or two in both directions.

I don't think it is enough to worry about.

Oh, good. I thought they might shrink 30% or more. Whew.

Originally Posted by athomenow

Funny thing about the rag quilts I've made, they actually didn't shrink much. I didn't prewash my flannel either. I sewed two layers of flannel together and put an X through the square before sewing them together. Once they were washed they frayed out but didn't shrink enough for me to notice. Good luck

I do it the same way and didn't see any noticable shrinkage either.

I did some googling and most websites said flannel could have a shrinkage of up to about 5%. One site said up to 13%, but I have never had a quilt shrink anywhere near that much.

I used non-prewashed flannel for one of the ones I made for my daughter. Honestly, I don't think it shrunk all that much, maybe an inch or so.

I had cotton batting in the ones I made & did stitch the X as well.... They shrink.... but not a huge amount.