Absolutely prewash everything flannel. Some of them shrink alot :lol: :lol: :lol:

I use flannel a lot for the quilts I make for preemies. I use it for all the backs and I use the scraps for making some of the tops .

I have been doing this for 5 years and I never prewash. I have never had any problem with shrinking.

I wouldn't wash flannel for a rag quilt or for chenile items, but for my quilt backs, I always wash in warm water. I also don't buy cheap flannel from Wal-Mart, etc. I have used Jo-Ann's more expensive flannel. The cheap stuff is really thin and gets stiff and rough after washing. Just my opinion.

oh yes - what a great idea.

Agreed - cheap flannel not worth the money - actually gets stiff and uncomfortable.

I am glad to be reminded about the shrinkage in flannel. I think it is important to absolutely get the shrinkage if you are using it to back a cotton quilt since the shrinkage is so different. Interesting topic.

Also, avoid patterns that have intersections with lots of seams. And if you can't avoid them, press the seams open to reduce bulk.

I have made at least 6 flannel quilts and never have washed flannel before quilting. I washed after the quilt was done and it shrinks like cotton fabric and gives it the old look. Maybe if a person buys real cheap flannel but I buy the flannel at the quilt shops. I have bought flannel from JoAnns and that shrunk more but it didn't affect the quilt. I have used flannel for backing on a cotton quilt and have had no problems.

thank you to everyone for experiences.

My grandma almost always used flannel for backs of her quilts. My sister in law (owns a quilt shop) made a flannel quilt back and front, it is awesome.