I wash and dry all cottons except for fatquarters. New fabric stays separate until washed. when using, I use wonder under or steam2steam. I found starching well before fusing controls most potential fraying on edges another suggestion from Polly and friend pollyv9, says don't rush pulling the backing off until it is entirely cooled and I have found this usually is best. Flannels get washed and dried at least 2 times before using.