Iron? !nope..
just wash with a little detergent with tepid water, on a gentle cycle.
line dry or in the dryer on a low setting. that is what i do.
issues? lol! i have had my binding show where i didn't quite catch it right..and had some fraying.nothing i could not fix!
yes it is expensive..but there are places you can get fabric pretty cheap.
connecting threads is one that comes to mind.
shop with a coupon at Joanns,Hancocks or Hobby Lobby!
join a freecycle group in your city or check out craigs list for free or cheap material..garage sales are good,as are estate sales! good luck!
check these links out:
http://www.google.com/search?q=the+f...=com.microsoft:en-US&ie=utf8&oe=utf8
old clothes work too!