Up until the last quilt I finished, I always prewashed, starched and ironed every piece. What a job ironing so much fabric. :-( I have decided it isn't worth the trouble. The fabric feels nice and has 'hand' when it comes off the bolt and is easy to sew on. Why go through that whole routine! Now I will never wash the fabric first, but will always use a color catcher when I wash the finished quilt. So many on the board don't wash the fabric first and still their quilts come out beautifully. Why make more work for yourself, life it too short!!