I just made a quilt for warmth using different fabrics...I'm not patient enough to wash fabric first but if your worried I would take the fabrics you want to use together and make something small but useable, potholder, mugrug, table topper 12x12. I'm all about my quilts having a purpose. Whip it up bind it and wash it, see what happens....you really wouldn't be out use it as a pot holder if it messes up but then you would know!