Thread: Washing

Do you always wash your fabrics before you begin a quilt?

Nope, never unless it's for a swap

It's up to you, really. About half do and half don't here. This subject has been discussed before, and that's about how it comes out. Different people have different reasons for which way they go. I wash them because it seems to help my allergies, but some people prefer the crispness of new fabric. Flannel is the one time you should ALWAYS wash before sewing. (Precut I don't wash)

BTW- I love your pom(s) pic for your icon.

I never used to wash, but after a quilting class I recently took, I'm washing it now. Fabric mostly comes from overseas, and in containers and they have to use chemicals to keep pests from it. That just kinda freaks me out not knowing what's really on the fabric I'm cutting, handling, etc. But then I won't eat at salad bars again because I saw a guy sneeze into his hand, then grab the tongs for the lettuce. Just me.

I'm with you of the yucky stuff! I think I will wash....

And thanks; the poms are my "assistants" with everything I do around the house!

I think if I had all the stuff for that quilt and it was all yardage or fat quarters, I might. But a lot of the stuff I buy isn't earmarked for any project and I'd hate to wash it and then later, decide to use it in a project with something like jelly rolls or charm squares. Because it's really not practical to wash those.

No. I usually wait until I have finished the quilt before I wash it. I kind of like the wrinkled, old look a litte bit is shrinkage gives to a quilt.

If I am in a swap and it is required, then I will wash them with a gentle soap and dry them without fabric softner.

I never wash it until after it has been used and therefore needs a wash.

Originally Posted by Pommom

Do you always wash your fabrics before you begin a quilt?

Flannel, always yes, other fabrics, maybe. It depends on how I am going to use it. For kids stuff, usually. For table runners and decorative things, no.

No, not now, but I used to. I think it's basically a personal choice.