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Quilting with Flannel

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Old 04-04-2011, 04:21 PM
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I'd like to do a quilt all in flannel from the Connecting Threads line Sunny Day.

Is there anything different I need to do when using flannel rather than cotton? I don't normally prewash, do I need to for flannel? Can I still use Hobbs fusible batting?

Thanks!!!
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Old 04-04-2011, 04:26 PM
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Flannel can shrink a lot, I would always prewash it :D:D:D
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Old 04-04-2011, 04:36 PM
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It shrinks a lot and not necessarily the same amount top to bottom as it does across. It will also be much easier to cut & sew if you starch it. It gets very floppy and slippery if you don't starch it--even the good heavy flannel. Be aware that it will leave lots of fuzz behind so you will need to clean the bobbin and needle takeup area often.
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Old 04-04-2011, 06:06 PM
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I make lots of flannel quilts and I don't prewash. My flannel is from LQS and when I wash it it gets puckery just like other fabrics. It is not washed frequently. I have never used the fusable batting, just Warm and Natural. The fabric that you are using is really pretty and should make a lovely quilt for spring.
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Old 04-04-2011, 06:39 PM
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I'm not a prewasher - but when it comes to flannels , I ALWAYS prewash and dry , using the dryer until it is completely dry. The shrinkage can be substantial.
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Old 04-04-2011, 06:40 PM
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Good question I wondered the same.
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Old 04-04-2011, 07:38 PM
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Be sure to clean your bobbin area. Flannel is very messy. I don't think I prewashed my first rag quilt and it was fine in and out of the w/d. Have fun!
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Old 04-04-2011, 07:41 PM
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DO prewash. Sometimes different flannels shrink at different rates and really need the prewash so that you don't end up with some smooth blocks and some puckery ones.
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Old 04-04-2011, 11:44 PM
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I don't prewash for a rag quilt, but I prewash flannel for a regular quilt. I also only do flannel quilts that are simple type patterns, but that is just me. I did a baby Trip Around the World and loved it.
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Old 04-05-2011, 03:05 AM
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Originally Posted by cherylynne
I make lots of flannel quilts and I don't prewash. My flannel is from LQS and when I wash it it gets puckery just like other fabrics. It is not washed frequently. I have never used the fusable batting, just Warm and Natural. The fabric that you are using is really pretty and should make a lovely quilt for spring.

Cherylynne, I have a bunch of Moda flannel homespuns that I bought at least 15+ years ago and they are all fat quarters. Normally I wash all flannel yardage but am scared to death of washing these fats for fear of unraveling. By what you're saying I should be fine without washing them. When I ever make/finish this quilt do I just wash as I do all my other quilts? Will they all shrink the same...I use Quilters Dream batting. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Anyone's opinions would be greatly appreciated!
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