Oh, my, what a terrible experience, and how disappointing for you, after putting all that work into it! It just goes to show how sometimes what you see is NOT what you get. Caveat emptor applies here, too. I haven't washed that patriotic-themed fabric yet, but I think I shall before I use it, just so I'll know whether to use it or not. And I thought I was being so careful! Thanks for sharing your experience.