You don't prewash the flannel for a rag quilt. After the quilt is made and fringed you'll need to wash it at least 2 times. The flannel fuzz will float to the top of the water so scoop out as much as you can. Then you dry the quilt in your dryer and make sure you clean the filter afterwards. When all is done your quilt will be a little smaller and soft and cuddly. May in Jersey