I use all kids of crazy colors together. Never prewash. White background with bright colors. Back and white. I haven't had any problems except a couple of weeks ago. I washed a red, white and blue wall hanging. I know I have washed it before without problems. For some reason one of the reds ran into one of the whites, there are 6 different whites. It came out when I washed it in OxyClean.I just throw in a couple of color catchers.

Color catchers are great. I always use them, even if I'm not concerned about the colors running. Just gives me some piece of mind.

Hope you will post pictures once your creation is completed!

I don't prewash my fabric either...and I normally don't starch, however, I just attended a lecture by Pam Buda called "Hints from Professional Quilters" and she explained why starching is helpful with piecing...so I am trying it for the first time on a Warm Wishes baby blanket. I will then wash the entire quilt before gifting it or include instructions for the new mother to wash it.