MargeD

I belong to the "pre-wash" side of quilters, and wash all fabric before using, with few exceptions. I did try washing some pre-cuts, but decided I should let them be, even with using a laundry bag. I do like to take the fabric out while still slightly damp, then ironing it is a breeze and when I'm done, the fabric is ready to be made into quilts, washed, dried and ironed.

Melanie Rudy

Fabric is stiffer and easier to work with if you do not prewash. Prewashing then starching adds chemicals back anyways. But I always wash my quilts before I use them to remove the fabric chemicals.

MadQuilter

I either wash all of the fabric for a project or none of it. That way I won't worry about uneven shrinkage. Do what makes you happy.

bearisgray

I have learned that "new" cottons can shrink unevenly. Some don't shrink at all - some over two inches in width or length.

IAmCatOwned

I prewash everything except flannel. I prefer working with unwashed fabric, but I just don't want to deal with the occasional bleeding fabric. Flannel is simply too hard for me to work with once it is washed, so that is the exception. Still prewash a backing though, even if flannel.