bearisgray

So far, when I buy my fabric, I just wash it, fold it, and stow it. I usually just "hand press" it when it comes out of the dryer and that is smooth enough for storage purposes. (Sometimes relocating it later is a challenge, but that's another issue)

Of course I press the fabric before cutting it.

The question I have is:

Do any of you press your fabrics with spray sizing or starch before storing it?

I was wondering if insects are attracted to starch?

amma

I do like Loretta does, so some of my starched fabrics do end up back in my stash. I have not had any problems with bugs, but it may be due to locality, too. You could call your local exterminator and ask them if it could be a problem where you live :wink:

azam

I've heard that you shouldn't use starch or use sizing when storing fabrics. Some of my starched fabric does end up back in my stash and I haven't seen a problem yet. Normally, I just wash it and fold it nicely so that when I do go to use it I don't have to iron out a ton of wrinkles.

kluedesigns

i do not wash or spray starch any fabrics that are going into storage.

the fabric is treated to prevent fading, molding, bugs - this is why fabrics can remain on the shelf for a long time in the local quilt shops.

i wash and spray starch my fabrics only when i will be using them in a project.

littlehud

I'm with you Klue. I don't wash my fabric til I'm ready to use it.

Pam in WV

I have been told by the local quilt ladies that spraying and then storing will attract silver fish. I don't know for sure, but I would think that in certain areas, this could happen.

bearisgray

Even with the protection, I couple of times I bought fabric that had a fade line on the fold. Of course, I didn't see it until I was going to use it much later.

Doesn't hurt to check extra carefully - especially if it's been around for a while.

kluedesigns

how terrible and absolutely never store in sunlight if you can avoid it.

i store mine in the closet in my sewing room to avoid any sunlight.