Texasjunebug

Of course I use 100% cotton - but, I also consider the tightness of the weave, the weight, and the finish. Some finishes wash repeatably well, others do not. If I wanted to buy some, I'd purchase a small amount and go home to wash and dry it several times. Mark a ruler on it with permanent ink to find out how much (if any) it shrinks. If it looked the way I wanted, I'd rush back to the store!

Linda R

I think I'm going to go back on Monday and pick up a little fabric and try out your suggestion. Thanks a bunch! Thanks to all of you!

Quiltforme

I found a place near me that will give you their scraps you just have to haul away. I ended up with so much it was amazing good quality fabric!

grann of 6

It would work, but it is a little heavier than quilting cotton. It works great for bags and purses. I would try a simple project before I used it on a big project like a quilt.

Lori S

The plus side of decorator fabrics is that most do not fade in sunlight as fast as many quilting cottons. The downside is that most are not made for machine washing, even if they are cotton. The dyes used are not intended for repeat washings and do not stay true after a few washings.
When was the last time you put your couch in the wash?

sueisallaboutquilts

I also agree, too heavy for quilts IMO

wolfkitty

I would think the weight would be similar to that of denim. Don't know about the fading during washings, tho'.

grann of 6

Most or all of home dec fabric is treated for ultraviolet resistance, which may be fine in quilting. But it also has a treatment that gives it the nice crisp feel and look. The first time you wash it, that is gone and more so each time you wash it. This is true especially of Waverly fabrics. I used to do a lot of home dec sewing for people and have used the scraps for pillows etc. Just doesn't hold up to a lot of washing. If you do decide to sew with it, use a heavy needle, 90/14, or even a denim needle.

Linda R

Thanks for the info Gran of 6! I will remember that. I think I will wash what I buy first just to see how it does hold up. They sure had some beautiful fabric and I liked the idea it was wide. I'm thinking it would be great for backings if nothing else.

akrogirl

Agreed, the washing aspect would also concern me if the fabric is going to be used for a quilt that will get heavy usage.