I generally prewash my fabrics before quilting, as I've had some fabrics that bled even after 2-3 washings. I did not have the color catchers, but I'm going to try to remember the next time I go to the store. I've tried to pull the fabrics out of the dryer while still damp, which makes ironing that much easier. However, I don't think I have ever had a fabric shrink that much though. Thanks for sharing your beautiful quilt.