Originally Posted by
dunster
I do pre-wash. There are too many potential problems if I don't. Uneven shrinkage, dyes that bleed unexpectedly, chemicals in the fabrics from manufacturing... I still get puckery quilts if the batting shrinks, and anyway having a quilt pucker is not a priority with me. You'll find that pre-washing is a hot topic of conversation, with many on both sides of the issue.
True dat, Dunster! A hot topic...
I'm one who doesn't mind the pressing of washed fabric, as I love handling my new fabrics! But a lot of the time you can just fold and 'hand smooth' it and then ruler fold it, and store it. By the time you use it, it is often smooth. If not, you can press it then.
Swapping: A swap I'm in requires only prewashed fabric. I thought that was going to be great until I got some that was washed with a heavily perfumed laundry detergent... so much so that it made me feel sick to work on it.
Especially putting a hot iron to it!