I am a washer. I have never used charm packs or layer cakes because I can't wash it first. I have seem too many fabrics bleed and run--especially the 100% cottons--plus the shrink factor, which you mentioned. I just do not want to put so much money, time and effort into something that will be ruined in the first wash. And since I rarely make wall hangings, I expect my quilts to be used, abused and washed.