ManiacQuilter2

I have never pre-wash my fabrics either. If they are gift, I would included washing instructions along with a box of color catchers.

lwbuchholz

You could probably wash the pieces by putting them into a mesh bag or pillow case but I have found that different fabrics shrink and fade differently. You could end up with pieces that won't fit together anymore. I know some people don't prewash but I have learned the hard way to prewash and I have read of others who have had bad experiences too. You may get by 90% of the time but those other times could ruin expensive fabric and a lot of time. I guess if I were in your shoes I would go ahead and make the quilt top and then wash it before I quilted it.
Lynda

Stitchnripper

I'm in the no prewashing camp. I've not had a problem yet. I do use color catchers and send washing instructions, letting the recipient know it has already been washed and dried in a regular machine and it doesn't require any special care. I don't think (or want) the gift quilts I make to be considered heirlooms, so if they use it and wash it that is great.