Unwashed vs. Washed Fabric
#1
I am learning so much on this board. Thank you everyone for sharing all your incredible experience.
I was always told to pre-wash my fabric before quilting or any sewing for that matter; in fact, the FIRST thing I do when I get home from the fabric store is throw my new fabric into the washing machine.
But I've seen reference to preferences for unwashed fabric. And on e-bay I'll often see -- for example -- jelly rolls that contain unwashed fabric. (And what the heck do you do about THAT? Seems like washing 2.5" strips would be a nightmare.)
So are y'all willing to share your experience again on this topic? When would one want to work with unwashed fabric?
Thanks!
-- Jillaine
I was always told to pre-wash my fabric before quilting or any sewing for that matter; in fact, the FIRST thing I do when I get home from the fabric store is throw my new fabric into the washing machine.
But I've seen reference to preferences for unwashed fabric. And on e-bay I'll often see -- for example -- jelly rolls that contain unwashed fabric. (And what the heck do you do about THAT? Seems like washing 2.5" strips would be a nightmare.)
So are y'all willing to share your experience again on this topic? When would one want to work with unwashed fabric?
Thanks!
-- Jillaine
#6
Banned
Join Date: Nov 2010
Posts: 4,134
Originally Posted by Murphy
I never prewash my fabric (smile). It is a matter of preference for most people.
I do prewash some fabrics I buy internationally, like batiks (not those that are commercially manufactured). But that's it. I can't be bothered, and I've never had a problem.
#7
I only pre-wash things that will likely fade and run, like Reds. Other wise I piece the quilt and when it's finished I give it a soak, not an agitation, and then dry it to remove most of the dies, finishes and get some shrinkage on it. Once quilted and binded I wash again with agitation and dry in the dryer to make sure it's completely clean and nice and fluffy. I might do things differently if were a heirloom quilt, but one that is to be used by family and babies etc. get the washing treatment.
#9
I only prewash when I have to - like for a block swap on this board-LOL. My most recent experience w/that reinforced my feeling that I don't need to prewash. The focus fabric in the block swap was black. I purchased two different black fabrics to use in the swap and was dreading the washing process. I loaded the washer with color-catchers and crossed my fingers. Neither of the black fabrics ( or any of the other colors) bled!!! I will happily continue to NOT WASH my fabrics until after my quilts are done!
#10
Moderator
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Camarillo, California
Posts: 35,242
I only pre-wash flannel fabrics. They all shrink so differently!!
Also, I never use a pure white, maybe a white on white occasionally and hardly use reds. I always wash my quilts before going out the door with a couple color catchers and with the over 200 quilts I have made thus far, have never had a problem with bleeding or excessive shrinkage.
Also, I never use a pure white, maybe a white on white occasionally and hardly use reds. I always wash my quilts before going out the door with a couple color catchers and with the over 200 quilts I have made thus far, have never had a problem with bleeding or excessive shrinkage.
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