I buy what I love, if not for a project, it will just sit on my shelf (organized by color) until I need it. I DO NOT wash my fabric. I used to years ago but really, there is not much shrinkage in fabric anymore. I will test for bleeding (if it looks like it might) but really haven't had many problems with fabric bleeding. I like how crisp and bright the fabric is without washing and I find it much easier to work with right off the bolt. Its really personal preference but washing and ironing is just too much work before sewing the quilt.