In watching tutorials from Fat Quarter Shop for the Wishes quilt, she makes the block and then sprays with "non-flaking" starch, lets it sit for two minutes, and then presses. Turn out beautiful. Marianne Fons said on her show yesterday she washes her fabric and starches as she works with it. Especially flannel, which she was using yesterday. I wash as soon as I buy it. Can't take the chemical finishes and smells. Iron, fold and store. Then spray with best press and iron before cutting. Then steam, starch and otherwise, whip it into shape as I work on it. lol! Everybody has their favorite way don't they? Enjoy it whatever it is!