if you choose to pre-wash ...
wash (like colors) together ((separate lights from darks))
use a mild detergent-
do not use fabric softener
regular setting is fine
tumble dry in dryer - or line dry
reasons for pre-washing---
1. to check for color fastness...hate those running colors that ruin beautiful quilts.
2. to pre-shrink the fabrics so when your quilt is finished and washed the fabrics will behave (together)
3. to remove chemicals/oils/odors/soil from the fabric
some people do
some people don't
some people wish they had
personally-
if the fabric (might) bleed
if the fabric feels or smells funky or stiff
if i am mixing fabrics (flannels w/ flat cottons w/ corduroy...ect.
if i purchased it at a (big-box store-like joannes, wallyworld,hobby lobby ect)
if i purchased it from a thrift shop or yard sale.
and i wash and dry EVERY QUILT - as soon as the binding is finished...i want to see how it comes out before anyone else sees it...just in case....