julie777

if material is 100% cotton do i really have to wash it?

julie777

i mean being brand new before cutting it

QuiltingGrannie

Some quilters prefer to wash it before they even store it. Others don't wash it at all until the quilt is complete.
I wash it if it is a solid color and if I think the color will bleed and use the color catchers.
I also wash the fabric just before I use it, if it is a quilt I am going to sell vs one I keep - not sure why I do that.

luvspaper

There are many opinions on this one. Personally I always do (1) due to possible shrinking and (2) due to possible color running.

But your mileage may vary.

erstan947

You will find lots of discussion on this question. It is a personal preference. I do not prewash my fabrics. I like the feel of the unwashed fabric when I am cutting and sewing.

Barb44

I've learned to wash it as soon as I buy it. I didn't like the odors from the chemicals they treat the fabric with when I ironed it. Now I much prefer to work with fabric that has been washed, starched and ironed. So much easier to cut and keep straight. Sews up nicer too.

cny_sewer39

Good Evening Every1,

I do prewash my fabrics for a couple of reasons. Reason #1- To hopefully avoid possible shrinkage. Reason #2-To avoid the colors running or bleeding. Reason #3-Fabrics are set & ready to go (for the next project) whenever I am. It is really a personnel preference.

Have a blessed day.

debra

Marion T

I don't prewash, but I do press well before I cut. I like the feel of new fabric, especially if its a bit stiff and I don't have to starch. For dark colours or red, I usually test a small piece for colour fastness, but todays fabrics seem to be ok. I always wash the quilt when it is finished.

ckcowl

it is a personal choice...some people pre-wash to prevent shrinkage in their finished project, some pre-wash to remove sizing/chemicals in the fabric used during the manufacturing, some pre-wash to make sure no fabrics will run. some pre-wash because that is what they were taught to do...some never pre-wash anything- and take their chances.
me- i prewash fabrics that...feel funky- may bleed- or may shrink more than others being used-or if their is an odor in the fabric.

Scissor Queen

No, you don't have to wash new fabric.