DirtyPaw

Can I use a front load machine to pre-wash fabric separately then dry and iron?

Thanks for the advice in advance.

zipit

I do. I serge the cut edges of my fabric first.

DirtyPaw

Could I just run a seam since I do not have a serger? That is a good point by the way that I had not considered.

Thanks

zipit

Zig-zag would probably be better than straight. I have used pinking shears occasionally if I didn't have many yards to do.

Mo_Chride

I prewash all of my fabric and have a front loader. I already had a front loader when I started quilting and no one told me that front versus top was a condideration so have never done anything prior to washing. I just throw it in and wash.

Now, I do admit that there is some thread tangling and trimming to be done before I dry it but I don't find that I lose anything significant.

Tara

sewgull

I always put fabric in a laundry bag or pillow case. Keep fabric from raveling so much. I have front loader, I like it better than top loader.

Wine Woman

I have a front loader and haven't noticed anything different when washing compared to a top loader. Just remember to use very little detergent.

I also prewash my warm and natural before using. Some say to use the bathtub method but no need to do it that way with a front loader! Much easier!

ssgramma

I clip the corners off on each end, seems to help a bit

SuzanneG

My front loader has a hand wash cycle. It's very gentle on the fabrics and I don't have to do a thing to the edges to stop fraying. Some will of course, but so minimally it isn't a problem at all.

mtnmama

I also use the handwash or delicate cycle. I don't use soap, but there is a little bit of fraying.