Fusible web problem, i think
 

I have a top finished which i appliqued using fusible web. I want to send it out to have quilted, but the fused part is quite stiff. Should I wash the top before the long arm quilter gets it?

washing an unfinished top isent a good idea i would talk to the longarmer and see what she says. she would be the best one to tell you what to do.

why is that? it is very stiff and I just don't see how she could do the sewing. But, I shall call her. I haven't even figured out if I will use her yet, not ever having send a quilt out before.

Washing an unfinished top can result in distortion and -- if there is any piecing -- raveled seams. Plus, I don't think washing makes a fusible any less stiff.

Which brand of fusible did you use? And are there many layers of fusible? Does the quilting need to go through the fused areas, or could the quilting simply go around the fused areas?

I've never had a sweatshirt with stiff fusible applique soften in the washer and dryer. That's why I chose a soft fusible for my appliqued quilt, though I echo quilted around the appliques, not through them. Do not wash the quilt until the backing and binding are on, please. Your long armer can sew through anything except Heat 'n Bond regular. Lite can be sewn through as can WonderUnder and the newer ones.

When I had a longarm I managed to sew thru a wooden ruler. I'll bet she can sew thru most any fusible.

What kind of fusible did you use that made it so stiff ????
Perhaps next time either "window" your interfacing or use washable glue ????

what kind of fusable did you use? are your appliques sewn down? the fusables made for quilting projects hold the pieces in place so they can then be sewn into place (like wonder under, steam a seam lite, heat & bond lite)
there are fusables that are (No- Sew) fusables- if you used one of those- you want to let the long armer know so she will not try to sew over them- they are not made to be sewn- and do not soften up- they are best used for craft projects- perhaps wall-hangings- that will not be sewn through- they gum up needles, sometimes break needles- are not meant to be sewn through.
if you used one of the sew(able) fusables the quilter will not have a problem quilting- and the fusable will wash away when the quilt is finished, bound & laundered.

Really ???? what fusable do you use that washs away ????? was unaware there was such an animal ???????

Oooh yes, it's printable, fusible, and dissolves in water. I think the brand I have is Solvy.