using used fabric softener sheets for foundation piecing
#1
using used fabric softener sheets for foundation piecing
would like an opinion on using used fabric softener sheets for foundation piecing.... is it a good idea to use them for a quilt? or for small items only?
thank you
thank you
#2
Super Member
Join Date: Dec 2010
Location: Chula Vista CA
Posts: 7,401
Too many of mine are too distorted to try and use. I would rather use muslin or paper.
Some people are concerned about residual chemicals left in them - not sure if that matters since I use them in my dryer, the chemicals are already in my clothes with no problems.
Some people are concerned about residual chemicals left in them - not sure if that matters since I use them in my dryer, the chemicals are already in my clothes with no problems.
#3
I have used the dryer sheet appliqué technique and I really like it. With this method you wash the dryer sheets before using them. Haven't tried dryer sheets for foundation piecing, but now I want to The dryer sheet appliqué is sturdy and my quilts have been washed successfully.
#4
Power Poster
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Ontario, Canada
Posts: 41,535
Try ironing your sheets first. If the shrink up or curl up then I wouldn't use them. I saved the fabric sheets that covered my new couch for foundation piecing. When I ironed one block the " fabric" was like a shrinky dink.
If yours iron okay then go ahead.
If yours iron okay then go ahead.
#7
Super Member
Join Date: May 2011
Location: Pacific NW
Posts: 9,556
Agreed. You are welcome to do a search and read many more opinions on the matter.
I made about half a quilt with fabric softener sheets before I quit. The smell was just way too strong and was making me ill, and I do not have any chemical sensitivities or allergies. And yes, the sheets WERE used and washed. I might have been able to get through it if I hadn't been pressing anything, but it's a quilt - pressing is almost mandatory when making a quilt!
I made about half a quilt with fabric softener sheets before I quit. The smell was just way too strong and was making me ill, and I do not have any chemical sensitivities or allergies. And yes, the sheets WERE used and washed. I might have been able to get through it if I hadn't been pressing anything, but it's a quilt - pressing is almost mandatory when making a quilt!
#9
Super Member
Join Date: Feb 2011
Location: Yorkville, IL
Posts: 7,639
I use "Sewer paper" available at Home Depot or a similar store in the section that sell sewer pipes. It comes in a HUGE roll of about 30 yards for about $30 and beats anything I have ever tried for applique. I sew it on the back of the piece and then turn it. It is so easy to attach to my piece I am constructing. I simply love it!
#10
Power Poster
Join Date: Mar 2013
Location: Corpus Christi, Tx.
Posts: 16,105
I use the unscented dryer sheets from Seventh Generation. You can tear off a whole sheet or a half sheet. Half sheet will go through at least 2 large loads and another medium load. They are already perforated for ventilation I guess. I like to use these for scrappy bindings. The sheet are 6" wide and can be split in half for a 3" scrap binding like adding machine tape or register paper. They curl up so I just smooth them out and place under or in a book. My favorite for paper foundation is cheap tissue paper for gift wrapping. Usually comes in 20x30" sheets so that gives you 6 10" layer cakes.
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cny_sewer39
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06-08-2011 04:41 AM