I always wash because of allergies and the fabric being dirty if left on shelf too long uncovered at LQS. Once got fabric in the mail and as soon as I opened the box, my allergies started. My husband had to take the fabric and wash it immediately before I could touch it. Once I wash, if I am not going to use the fabric, I just fold it up and put it in tub. If I am going to use the fabric, I usually make the staf-flo starch (1/2 starch and 1/2 water) and spray the fabric until very damp. Then I roll it up, put in a plastic bag and into the frig until I am ready to iron. My fabric is stiffer than store bought and much easier to use on biases.
Thanks for the info on the drier, I am going to try that. You have lots of good info.
And just an fyi, the quilt will have the wrinkled antique look when washed because the batting shrinks wrinkling the fabric. I always wash my quilts twice to make sure the are livable for whoever I make them for and to remove all the marks of quilting.