I hate kits...
Most I have found don't have the exact fabrics that drew you to buy the quilt in the first place.
I have never washed the pieces in a quilt...I have washed them after and they turned out ok.
I find it easier, and just as much money to find a pattern, pick my own fabrics and go from there!!!
Plus if I get a bit extra fabric then I have a 'fudge" factor!
Kirsten