Re: prewashing fabric-If you are just worried about certain colors bleeding, just cut a small piece off, put in a container of hot water and see if it bleeds color, then put on a piece of paper towel to dry ans see if it leaves any color on paper....... I am not a prewashed, but do "Test" any questionable fab this way.....btw, if it bleeds, I don't use it! Just me. But if you plan on prewashing, I think all to be used should be washed, this way shrinkage is balanced....that's what I gave read anyway, since I don't.......
you mentioned your mom has Quilts, has she made them? If, so, she will be a great mentor for you.......