Bree123

I typically strongly prefer to pre-wash all my fabrics. I do this for two reasons: first, to remove allergens since I work exclusively with baby quilts; second, because I sometimes use fusible web and the instructions suggest it works more consistently with washed fabrics.

But I'm looking to create my first ever entry into a quilting competition. Once again, it's a baby quilt. All my fabrics are cotton. They range in color from bright red to dark blue to off-white. The quilt shop lady suggested only washing the bright red Kona solid. If it won't impact how the quilt shows, I'd really prefer to just gently wash and dry everything but I wondered if perhaps there is some reason (other than economy of time) that people do not pre-wash their fabrics before piecing/applique.

I do understand that I should not wash the quilt once it's assembled until after the show. But can anyone explain if there is a quality issue that arises with fabric that is washed before it's cut?

Thanks!