Thread: Washing Batiks

I have a beautiful batik fabric with zebras on it. I could only get a yard and it was the only piece of this design the woman at the quilt show had left. I washed it but did not use retayne (sp.?) or anything else. I may have used laundry detergent, I can't remember it was so long ago. Looking through my stash I came across it again, and my heart broke again because I just loved this piece. Is there any way to save it. The background was a terra cotta color and it ran. You can see the fabric dims lengthwise and the color from the dim spots has run into the areas next to them. If I wash it again, will this correct it? I am not sure what to do.

Guess what? Use it in a quilt even with the runs and no one but you will know the difference. If I have a fabric that when I wash it bleeds onto another piece I just go ahead and use them. With all the blended colors today no one can tell the difference. Instead of being broken hearted find a way to overcome and adapt your "new" fabric into a quilt.
Years ago I when I was dying my hair it came out pink one time(before it was fashionable) I just held my pink head high and went on about my business. On the rare occasion that anyone made a comment I just said, "I'm trying out something new, who knows I may decide I like it."

I would try washing it again. Maybe use a color safe bleach alternative if you have one or soak it first then wash it again. It's free to try and it may work!

In fact, if it doesn't work the first time, try it again. You never know. :)

I have gotten out some old set in stains before.

pick up some color catcher sheets, or use synthropol in the wash either one will take care of any 'loose' color. the synthropol only takes about a teaspoon in the wash and works great.