I hand wash using a phosphate free "earth friendly" washing liquid. I tend to use cool water and gently agitate with my hands and rinse under cool running water. You can remove excess water by rolling in a light or white towel and dry flat out of direct sunlight.
If I am lucky enough to have found a big piece I use the same liquid and wash on the gentlest cycle of my machine.
I like to be able to use the things that please me (Sorry Nan...I do use that china you had stashed in that cabinet untouched for decades). So, I would not use a fabric that was overly fragile or not able to stand up to a little wear.
Your fabric sounds beautiful....when you quilt are you going to use a Japanese style (Sashiko) or blend the Japanese fabric with American style?