Prewashing large cuts of fabric?
 

I know I read a thread about this before but have not been able to find it. I am about to start a couple large sized quilts and the fabric is all over 3 yards of each piece. How do you wash these to stop the twisting and knotting? I have washed up to 3 yards but I always end up with strings that bind around the center of fabric. Any tips would be appreciated!

One thing would be to cut the large piece in half and finish the edges (serge or pink the cut edges)

I've washed larger pieces and not had this problem to any great account.
If so, then just cut the strings and it'll soon be apart ... and toss in the dryer.

I wouldn't cut the pieces down, to avoid wastage.
If you do, make sure you don't need the length in a continuous piece. eg. borders.

If you zig zag or serge the ends of the material, they won't ravel, so there's no strings to get tangled. Then they wash just like sheets.

Some people accordion-fold the yardage and pin the edges together.

I have accordion folded and pinned across the top (safety pins) and made sure the cut edges are folded inside. I have had good luck with that.

Try a gentle cycle if you have a top loader that tangles your clothes. All the fabric really needs is soap and water, not necessarily strong agitation.

Jan in VA

My DH zigzags the edges for me so they don't fray. I always wash my fabrics before using them. I have no problems with 3 plus yards of fabric. Whatever you try, I hope it turns out well. :):):)

I zigzag edges also and have not had a problem with large pieces.

I have pinked the edges with good success.