Good morning everyone. I'm getting ready to make a flannel quilt with wool batting for my DH. So far I've learned that I should:

1. get QSQ flannel
2. wash and dry it two or three times beforehand
3. sew with a 1/2" seam

My last question deals with stitch length. I've been told that setting the stitch length a little longer (say, from 2 1/2 > 3) is the way to go. OTOH, I could swear I read somewhere that the stitch length should be shortened to stabilize the loose weave of flannel. What do you guys think?

Can you tell I've never sewn flannel before? :?


Dorothy in snowy PA

i've sewn flannel with a normal stitch length and it has held up through 3 DGKs. and i didn't know about the larger seam allowance... i used 1/4"

i use a normal 2.5 stitch length for flannels/wools, choose one that does not pull on the fabrics- cause puckering.

Thanks Nancy and ck. I am busy today washing and drying the flannel. I appreciate your feedback.

Dorothy

I believe the 1/2" seam is mainly for making rag quilts.
I only prewash and dry the flannel once. Prewashing and drying quality flannel tightens the fibers plenty for me.
I use regular stitch length (2 or 2.5) and 1/4" seam allowance.

I only prewash flannel once as well. I do use a normal stitch length (for me that is a 2). Because the flannel is bulkier, I use a simpler pattern (not as many pieces) and I try not to use smaller pieces (2" is about the smallest I will do).

Oops -- double post -- sorry

I've made a couple of flannel quilts and go just a bit longer on the stitch length, while still staying at 1/4" seam allowance.
I don't pre-wash, and find I have to clean out the lint(around my bobbin, etc) often while sewing. Just a FYI to check that every now and then.
:) :)