Prissnboot

I quit using steam - it would warp the fabric, turned it into freeform objects! I also lowered my iron setting to one setting cooler than cotton for piece pressing.

Raggiemom

I generally use steam but have to watch out for steam burns! I agree with the others, do whichever way you're more comfortable with. I don't really think there is a right/wrong way.

ccrow99

Another steamer, here! Love the look of nice steamed pieces.

bearisgray

Some methods do give better results - for me - than others.

If I were a newbie, the many answers to "basic questions" would be very confusing.

lclang

I will steam yardage if it has hard wrinkle lines in it, but I never steam patchwork unless it needs some coaxing to lie properly. I don't like starch either so I don't use it. I have used some fabric sizing for small projects, but not in larger quilts.

quilterpurpledog

I usually do not wash new fabric before I put it away. However, when I am ready to use it I use steam to press it before I cut it. I do know that the steam can cause some shrinkage. I also know that if fabric is going to shrink it will shrink the first time it is exposed to water or steam. I would rather have that happen before I cut the pieces. Some people think that the shrinkage won't happen if they cut, don't use steam when pressing and finish quilting it. The fabric will still shrink when you wash it in the finished product. I believe that shrinkage at that point stresses the seams or the fabric around the quilting design which will cause undo wear at those points. So, I press early and often so the patch, square, row or border will be relaxed during construction and not cause problems later.

ghquilter53

I steam the finished block. I don't like to chance stretching the pieces before the block is put together.

AZ Jane

PP - personal preference. No quilt police allowed.

feffertim

I starch before i cut my fabric, that way any shrinkage happens before i cut, then I best press the seams after piecing. works really well for me

sxboyer

I use lots of steam and am very heavy handed with my iron.. don't pre-wash fabric.. and don't have a lot of problem with distortion or shrinkage! Personal preference!