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

i mean being brand new before cutting it

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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