You were all so helpful with my previous flannel question. I have read 2 different viewsa on pre-washing flannel. The first said to wash and dry it 2 times. The second said she never pre-washed so it wouldn't get limp and never had a problem. I am using good quality quilt shop flannel at $9+ a yard so I am thinking it shouldn't shrink much. What is your experience? Also, if I decide to tie it for finishing what kind of thread do I use/ Thank you in advance.

Flannel will usually shrink, quiltshop quality or the cheaper stuff. If I did not want my blocks to shrink, I would probably wash and dry it twice. One way to find out is to cut and measure a square of fabric, wash and dry it twice and see if/how much it shrinks.

Yes, prewash!!! I don't normally prewash my regular cottons but I always always prewash flannels. Even quilt shop quality! they shrink more than regular cottons and different manufacturers shrink at different rates. Once may be enough if you are going to use a cotton batting and like the "shrunken" look after washing.

I prewash all flannel because it can shrink so much (even quilt shop quality). I paint it afterwards with a solution of Sta-Flo starch and water, toss in the dryer, and then steam iron to restore body and give it some stiffness.

I once had a class with Harriet Hargrave, and she showed us a flannel quilt she made to prove that even flannel does not have to be pre-washed. Her secret, she said, was machine quilting it appropriately before washing the quilt. Her quilt looked fine! However, having seen for myself how much flannel can shrink, that's the one fabric I will take the time to prewash before using.

I vote to prewash flannel because of the shrinkage issue. I also prewash my quilt fabric if I'm using fabrics from different manufacturers. I do this to prevent uneven shrinkage and to remove the chemicals from the fabrics.

I don't wash a lot of my fabrics, but I always prewash flannel. Even the best stuff will shrink. Why take a chance.

I did 2 dorm quilts...and, used homespun flannels....did not prewash...had to wash 1 w/in a month due to a soda accident:)Washed and did great! You would have never known!! I detest prewashing...I really do...so, am thrilled it didn't have to be tossed over the bridge or anything:)I think like anything...it is preference. I just can't get the crisp feeling I love w/new fabrics after washing...just preference:)Skeat ...who had stippled the quilt