Suzette316

I live in Georgia (hot and humid in the summer) and I starch using a homemade formula (corn starch and water). I have never had a problem with bugs when I've stored starched fabric. I'm not saying it's not possible to have a problem, but in ten years of storing starched fabric, I haven't yet. Still, if it concerns you I would try the rubbermaid container idea. Sounds like a good way to keep the top fresh all the way around.

DebraK

there can be numerous reasons. I don't think anyone should have to explain. We all do things our own way.

J.M.

As far as I know, bugs are not a problem where I live, but everything I’ve read warns against storing starched fabric as the starch attracts bugs. So that’s where the question came from.

Good to know that in a ‘low-bug’ climate like here it’s not such a problem.

If you follow the course laid out in the book, you make multiple tops throughout the book, but don’t attach any borders until one of the last chapters. No border = no quilting. So that’s why. And the way the book’s laid out, this approach does make sense, as your skills build up throughout the lessons in the different chapters. I don’t want to jump ahead, so that means storing tops.

I like the Rubbermaid container idea – or in my case a similar plastic box with lid. It will keep the tops safe, dry, and also dust-free. Bonus for keeping (possible) bugs out . Thanks for the input!

wanda lou

I always use Best Press.

Nammie to 7

I love those books - they contain a wealth of information. That is another one of my retirement goals. I want to make the quilts in those books - when finished a person will have a lot of knowledge and practice! I think a new book should be out in a couple months!

J.M.

I read on the blog that the 5th volume is nearly ready to send to the publisher, and they expect that it will be available in the summer of 2014.

mike'sgirl

You can put little sachets that deter moths and bugs in the bin with the quilt tops. They work best in an airtight container. I've bought them at Walmart before.

quiltin-nannie

Ok, thanks for the explanation! I just thought that quilting as you get them done would make your life easier, but I understand now why you won't be doing that. Makes sense to me!

Peckish

I live in the Pacific NW in a cool and damp climate, and have had problems with both silverfish and moths eating through bins of clothing that were stored in Rubbermaid containers. These clothing items were not starched.

I think if it were me, I might store the tops sealed in ziplock-type bags and take them out once a month or so for a good shake.

cizzors

Maybe I'm not thinking deep enough but if bugs are attracted to starch, what the heck do you (in general) do with your ironing board/table, carpet/rug, walls or anything else in the room that gets hit with starch? Was doing my hair the other day which literally takes 3 minutes and when I walked out of the bathroom and seen the sun rays shining in the bedroom about 7' away, the hairspray was floating everywhere. Guess I just don't get how to control an aresol spray.