Hello, I am a new quilter and recently fell in love with the fabrics shown in this quilt:
http://tinselcompany.blogspot.com/20...-quilt_14.html
I decided I wanted to do something similar, but in a full/queen size. I finally tracked down most of the fabrics and am ready to start, but I'm hesitating over a couple of things.
First, most of the cuts I have are fat quarters. From what I've read, I see there is a lot of debate over pre-washing, particularly with precuts. I also get the impression that quilting helps prevent shinkage (something to do with the batting) but if I'm tying it, will that effect be lessened? I initially planned not to pre-wash but it is seeming like that may be the way to go.
Also, I can't decide how big to cut my squares for aesthetic purposes. I like the look in the picture linked above, but I can't tell how big the squares are and being a lap quilt the proportions are different anyway. Is there sort of a "standard" size for basic tied quilts? I'm thinking either 5.5" for 5" squares or 5" for 4.5" squares. I'm hesitant to just start cutting because the fabric was so hard to acquire, and I don't have any to spare!
I greatly appreciate any input!