quiltmaker123

I probably lay the quilt top out on the green grass if it is a really nice day. Green grass works wonders on getting bad ordors out of fabric. After it has been out for a few hours, I would bring it in and place in a mesh bag or a pillow case and wash on gentle cycle.

kidhauler1948

After I had a house fire I couldn't remove the smoke even airing on screened porch, couldn't throw the clothes out so I hung them outdoors, after being rained on on a couple of times the smell was gone..........Try putting it out on the line wrong side out thru a couple of rain showers and see what happens, nothing ventured nothing gained........

ArchaicArcane

You could also serge the edges of the top before throwing it into the washer. I had a log cabin top sent to me to LA that the gal serged first. I didn't have to worry about raveling or the stitches at all.

Bree123

Or just overcast it. My low-end Bernina has a basic overcast stitch. That way you don't have to worry about accidentally cutting into the quilt.

mcfay

I think it depends on the fabric it's made from. I have one that was given to me that had been washed and it's so frayed I don't think it's salvageable. It looks like it is made from the old time feed/flour sacks.

ArchaicArcane

Good point! My friend is incredibly steady and sews these amazing tops and can get away with that. I would introduce tons of "wonk" or lop a corner off. I tried straight stitching just for stay stitching on the edges on my last top and turned it into a parachute (with an IDT machine yet!)

maryellen2u

What's the worst thing that can happen to it? Become useless? It's pretty much that way now, huh? I agree with Maureen NJ. Wash it and begin enjoying that thing!

bearisgray

there is that to consider ---

Thank you for the thoughtful responses.

Narda

I heard that vinegar is a natural deodorizer...i wonder if spraying it wit vinegar and let it dry outside(the vinegar smell does not stay)