Washing fabric
08-13-2012, 05:30 AM
#61
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Join Date: Jan 2009
Posts: 4,688
Originally Posted by QuiltE
Originally Posted by teddysmom
What is the advantage of pre-washing other than dark fabrics that might bleed?
08-13-2012, 08:23 AM
#62
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Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: northeast NE
Posts: 1,072
I DO NOT pre-wash my fabric except for red, black and blues and I soak them in Retayne before I put them into a hot wash. The amount of color left over in my sink with these colors is enough to create a rainbow.
I have 3 boys so I already have enough laundry to do, the last thing I want to do is pre-wash my my hobby. That takes all the fun out of it.
I have 3 boys so I already have enough laundry to do, the last thing I want to do is pre-wash my my hobby. That takes all the fun out of it.
08-13-2012, 08:26 AM
#63
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Location: Texas, USA
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08-17-2012, 08:06 AM
#64
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Location: England Alton Towers
Posts: 6,673
You can't always wash, especially if you purchase fabric directly from a shop where you have a class. But I always try to wash but a must every time is a colour catcher even when it has been quilted. Some people have been known to make a quilt from the colour catchers .
08-17-2012, 11:07 AM
#65
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Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: Northern Wisconsin
Posts: 7,991
I don't prewash anything. I've been sewing for years, and never had any issues. If I ever do have an issue, I might change my mind, but I have so much fabric...I'd have to wash, dry, and iron for a few years to get it all done. Lol....that's not happening!! 
I've even done bright batiks with white backgrounds...no issues.
If you are concerned, you can take a little piece of the fabric and put it in a bowl of water to see if the color comes out at all. You can use color catchers too when you wash it. I have them, used them a few times, but found that our clothes bleed more color than any of my quilts have.
I've even done bright batiks with white backgrounds...no issues. If you are concerned, you can take a little piece of the fabric and put it in a bowl of water to see if the color comes out at all. You can use color catchers too when you wash it. I have them, used them a few times, but found that our clothes bleed more color than any of my quilts have.
08-17-2012, 11:37 AM
#67
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Join Date: Jan 2009
Posts: 4,688
All you have to do to test for bleeding is rub a one inch corner of the fabric with a wet cotton swab or paper towel. If the color transfers, deal with it in whatever way you choose. If not, you're all set. At least you'll know, one way or the other, for the price of a Q-tip and a few minutes time.
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