OneMoreQuilt

It's not lazy, it's a preference. I do not prewash. I buy many bolts of fabric at a time. I like the fabric stored on the bolts so I can see what I've got. I also like the crisp new look and feel of the fabric. I like the way the quilt gets a little wrinkly when first washed. If I'm worried about colors bleeding I soak the quilt in cold water and vinegar for 15 minutes before washing or use Retayne. I've heard good things about the new color catchers but haven't tried them yet.

tellabella

I don't wash either...but I have been working on a batik quilt and I would like to know if that fabric is any different...should I be worried about those collours running...?

kbs

I never prewash.

dunster

Yes, batiks are much more likely to bleed, some colors more than others.

SherriB

Add me to the list of quilters who doesn't prewash their cotton fabrics. I love how it crinkles and wrinkles after the quilt is made and then washed. The only time I pre-wash is when I use flannel for the backing. And I only wash and dry it one time.

Mariposa

I do wash my fabrics when I buy them--I can't stand the smell of the chemicals they use!!

trisha

Count me in with the lazy group!!!! Way too much effort to prewash and then iron.

luvTooQuilt

Me too.. Ill wash when Im finished with the quilt..

ljsunflower

I'm another one who never washes fabric before making a quilt. I like the way that it looks after the first washing also.

Jim's Gem

I do not prewash before using. Unless it is a flannel fabric.
I do only buy better quality fabrics, though I try to find it on sale. Most people in our guild (over 300) do not prewash and non of the 10 or so ladies that I quilt with monthly pre-wash their fabrics, unless it is flannel. I do wash all quilts before they go out the door, after they are finished.
I have never had a problem with dye's running. I do use at least 2 dye catcher sheets when washing.