Hi! I am completely new to quilting, haven't even started with my first. I just retired and it's something I've always wanted to do. I have been reading and reading and looking. I am so inspired by all the beautiful, magnificent and intricate work I have seen displayed in this forum. All of you are amazing!

I am going to start small and see if this is something I can really do and really enjoy. I'm going to make some potholders, then graduate to placemats and then go for it if all goes well.

I have a very elementary question, I'm sure, so I need help. Some of the reading I have done says to wash my fabric the minute I bring it home from the shop and then iron. Is this required? Do all of you do this? Thanks for the feedback.

Welcome from Ireland

no i do not pre wash my fabric unless i have to for a swap

Hello and welcome from SW Iowa. Glad to have you here. I do not wash my fabric before using it.

welcome from NM. Pre-washing is not required. Some do, some don't. I only wash flannels prior to using since they shrink more than other types of fabrics. You'll get opinions from both and in the end it is up to you.

Welcome from In. No it is not required. I do not wash mine until the project is finished. Fabric can and will unravel and can make a knotted mess, alse unwashed fabric is easier to work with. If you have anyother questions feel free to ask, any of us will be happy to answer.

Welcome to the board from Southern California!!

I do wash mine, but only because I thought you had to. Interesting.

Welcome.

Your question is the source of endless debate, has been for years, and will continue to be.

Half of quilters prewash and the other half don't. Depends on you. No right answer, and I'm sorry that it doesn't help you.

I prewash, but ONLY because I don't like the chemical smell of the new fabrics. No other reason. I'm not worried about colors bleeding or shrinkage.

Hello and welcome to the board!