From what you've said - you should avoid handling fabric until after it's washed.
Is there someone that you could get to do all the washing for you?
Overcasting/serging/pinking the raw edges does minimize fraying, but that's another time of handling for you.
It also saves on fabric - with the overcasting - maybe lose 1/8 inch on each end - I've lost up to an inch on each end (on a very few fabrics) before I started overcasting the raw edges.
I usually dry the fabric just until it's dry - don't overload the dryer - hand press it and fold it - then press it (with an iron) right before cutting it. (Like MadQuilter does)
As you can tell - there is definitely more than one way to do things. :?