Please Don't Use Dryer Sheets for String Quilting or Applique
 

I love string quilts. I commonly see folks posting thrifty tips about using used dryer sheets for applique or string quilting, but it's not a great idea. The chemicals and fragrances can cause allergy problems, and no one would ever think the trigger was Inside the quilt! This could cause unnecessary medical tests and treatments, and could even be life threatening. Unscented dryer sheets still contain other chemicals. If the quilt goes to someone with recent surgery an unexpected cough or sneeze could rupture stitches. Dryer sheets might not be a problem for you, but who gets the quilt after you? I'm a retired Nurse Practitioner, and have mild asthma. I wonder if the chemicals will degrade or discolor the fabrics as time goes on. I'd recommend using clean white sheets or lightweight interfacing for stabilizer instead.

Muslin is also a good foundation. Or lighter, ugly, fabric you'll never use.

Very good advice.

I always layer my backing and batting and then string piece on top of the layer. The block is quilted as I go.

I use pages from the phone book. (tear out before quilting, of course)

I can't believe we can get free advice from a medical professional!!!! This is the greatest board! You probably just helped quite a few people with your advice!

I was thinking of using them but I guess I will stick to muslin now. I bought a roll of the cheapest stuff I could find so I will have enough for a while.

Thanks for the tip.

I like using the cheap fabric ($1 yard) from WalMart and/or Joann's. The stuff you can see your hand through. I wash it to shrink it, then I cut it into strips and/or squares for making string quilts. It's a lot nicer than dryer sheets and/or paper that has to be torn out.

yes, I do the ugly fabric thing ;-)

Thanks for posting this--I am sensitive to fragrances! Recently I bought a couple of yards of lightweight interfacing.