Thread: Gees Bend Quilt

I recently bought a Gees Bend Quilt kit and have been washing the fabric as the directions say. They say to use either Retayne or Synthropol. I have both and have been using Synthropol. So far I have been washing the first color--red--and still have color coming out after 4 washings. Does anyone have any suggestions? I have several colors left to treat and at this rate I will never get them done, especially if I break my washing machine!! lol The fabric has retained it's color by the way. Thanks in advance for your help.
Sue

I would recommend switching to Retayne in order to set the dye. I have had only one instance where Retayne failed to set the dye and stop the bleeding.
Dayle

I would go for the Retyane ... it is effective in setting dyes. Just remember 140 degree water is required , and any washings after must be in cold water. As a rule of thumb Retyane before you cut and sew . Sythropol for once a fabric has been cut and sewn.

Thanks for all your help. The blogs by Vicki Welsh were especially helpful. I continued with the Synthapol and even put a few like colors together. The color catchers were saturated, but the scraps of white fabric had no dye on them. The red included. I don't think I am going to sew the quilt right now--too many UFO's. But I am confident that the colors are now set. I think I will use a couple of color catchers in the final wash when the quilt is finished. I may even use Retayne in the final wash. I'll have to think about that since it needs cold water after treatment. Thanks again.
Sue