Prewashing large cuts of fabric?

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I know I read a thread about this before but have not been able to find it. I am about to start a couple large sized quilts and the fabric is all over 3 yards of each piece. How do you wash these to stop the twisting and knotting? I have washed up to 3 yards but I always end up with strings that bind around the center of fabric. Any tips would be appreciated!
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One thing would be to cut the large piece in half and finish the edges (serge or pink the cut edges)
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I've washed larger pieces and not had this problem to any great account.
If so, then just cut the strings and it'll soon be apart ... and toss in the dryer.

I wouldn't cut the pieces down, to avoid wastage.
If you do, make sure you don't need the length in a continuous piece. eg. borders.
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If you zig zag or serge the ends of the material, they won't ravel, so there's no strings to get tangled. Then they wash just like sheets.
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Some people accordion-fold the yardage and pin the edges together.
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I have accordion folded and pinned across the top (safety pins) and made sure the cut edges are folded inside. I have had good luck with that.
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Try a gentle cycle if you have a top loader that tangles your clothes. All the fabric really needs is soap and water, not necessarily strong agitation.

Jan in VA
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My DH zigzags the edges for me so they don't fray. I always wash my fabrics before using them. I have no problems with 3 plus yards of fabric. Whatever you try, I hope it turns out well.
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I zigzag edges also and have not had a problem with large pieces.
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I have pinked the edges with good success.
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