Have also been sewing since class in junior high. Clothes were always what I did. Always prewashed what I could and if I could't wash, off it went to the cleaners to get cleaned first. Habit carried over to quilting. Never take anything for granted. With the different types of fabric from who knows where from to be wash first or steam press. Your pride in the finished product, knowing that nothing will happen in the future is always the best feeling.

I had to learn that the hard way too. It too was one of those colors that I never expected to bleed.

You have a very valid point !!!!!!!!!!

I learned this week from my new Q.B. 'mentors' to pre-wash and everything will be good from there. I did just as they said and was very happy with how my fabric washed and dried. Next I need to learn how to keep the threads in place. Tried clipping a corner off, it didn't work too well. I think practice is what I need ;)

another reason to pre wash , esp that from yard sales etc. Bed bugs...nuf said......

As a rule i don't prewash as i don't like the wrinkles and I hate to iron--I'm admittingly lazy. So that said i use the color catchers with any new fabric or article of clothing in case there is bleeding. I've had color catchers turn colors everytime I wash. Greens have been my worst at leeching into the water. I'm not sure it is the fabric or the quality of the dye, or how much over dying is done. Some fabrics have a stiff feel and it is mostly from the dye.

I just bought a lot of fabric at the LQS and I was wondering if I should wash and I'm thinking after listening here that I better to be safe. This is for a king size Wedding Ring. Thanks ladies. Sue

I would like to know the of the color catchers and where do you buy them? I have used Retayne for all my quilts I have washed but have know Idea where to get these color catchers.

Thanks!
Quilterfay

i bought some gold batik from a LQS. I thought it felt "funny" so I washed it with a color catcher. The color catcher was a gold as the fabric afterward. Before I use that fabric I would wash it again with another color catcher. Also, my mother always prewashed her fabrics. To Needles3Thread: You may have some uneven shrinkage when you wash your quilt. I would suggest using cotton batting and having it machine quilted with lots of quilting.

I had that problem with a yellow of all things. I know how dissappointing it can be. Now I always use a color catcher