I pre-wash all my fabric. I don't want to breathe the chemicals, and I don't want any bleed or shrinkage surprises. I hand applique and buy a lot of pre-cuts because i don't use a lot of one fabric. I wash in a bowl by dunking up and down with soap in the water. I rinse the same way and lay on a towel to dry. If I'm in a hurry for one, I will press it dry.