I have always washed the fabric, even if its for clothing sewing. And always press it so that it keeps the shape. That said my sisters, dont wash?
Who is right I guess we will never know....
but I know mine are washed and will look great when washed again...For Crhistams one year my sister made us all quilts for our beds. I love it and its still on the bed now, but its been washed 4 times now....She told me she doesnt like to see the wrinkles in it after washing? (told her to iron it then, to much work she said) Thats what makes it a quilt i told her......snuggly one to boot....