I wash everything that comes into the house to remove chemicals, but also find that every single piece shrinks or "reshapes" itself after washing and drying, EVEN the "higher quality" stuff from the LAQ stores!
I buy nice fabrics at garage sales for 50 cents a yard than 12.99 a yard for the same stuff at the LAQ stores...just needs to be washed!
Once washed & dried, I iron, going with the grain to keep from stretching it out of shape. I DO use sizing because it really does make it easier to cut. I thought some were nuts to say that, but found out for myself. I think it makes a big difference.
Steam? NEVER, I am a stritzer!
Walmart- rarely
Hobby Lobby- not since their quality now matches Walmart.
Joann's- never, their quality also matches walmart and I would have to drive 2 hours to get to one!
Any machine is a sewing machine as long as it sews properly. Yes, some of the newer features are very nice, but you're paying dearly for them...sort of like having a remote for your TV...does it make the show any better? No
Applique- NO. I'd much rather piece, and love paper piecing results!
Haven't done the LAQ trip yet. I'm cheap...oops, there it is again. lol
Definitely stitched over tied.
Binding definitely cut on the straight grain- it doesn't stretch as much and I think it produces a much nicer finish to the edge.
I am the "quilt police" in that I do believe there are better ways to do things, and if I am going to spend my valuable time, money and energy doing something, then I am going to do it the best I can at 200% or why bother??