Same thing recently happened to Rachelcb80 on a red and white quilt she was putting in a show.

Here's her thread:
http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-144836-1.htm

Red bled all over the white (she hadn't prewashed).

Ah, you're in the UK - were you also using a front loading washer?

She fixed it - read the thread.
Just don't put it in the dryer yet.

Good luck!

ditto

Yes i am in the UK and I do have a front loading machine (I didn't know you could get any other type!) I will try it in the bath with oxyclean as I have some of that. I will also see if I can get some synthrapol. Does anyone know if it is available over here?

Here's Synthrapol on eBayUK.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Synthrapol-S.../dp/B004BPBR52

Here in the US, until relatively recently, most washing machines were top loaders.

Now all the major US manufacturers are selling front loaders.
(Plus, we're suckers for anything "European" style. :roll: ;-) )

The front loaders are more efficient and use less water.
Which, sadly, in your case, might have contributed to the problem.
Plus, it takes so long for the cycle.

The top loaders use so much more water (and are larger) that much of the loose dye would have rinsed away instead of settling back on the quilt.

Also, the entire cycle is much quicker, so the the quilt isn't in the machine as long.

Hoping it all works out for you.

Thank you so much for the link, I will give the oxyclean a go and if that doesn't work I will get some of that too.

Fingers crossed.....

I think your Dad would love it any way. You made it with love. :wink:

One reason I pre-wash! Hope you can salvage it!