Prewash or not? 5 Questions to Ask
There is this debate about Prewashing your fabric or not. For me, the answer depends. Here are five questions to consider before you prewash your fabric.
How big are the pieces?
I never prewash precuts. The pieces are too small. Same is true for fat-eighth and quarter yard cuts. When you start with small pieces and then prewash, you might find yourself with not enough fabric to complete the project.
Are the colors colorfast?
Certain colors, for example Red, are notorious for releasing color when washed. If you are concerned about the possibility of color-run, prewashing can help reduce and even prevent this problem. Just be sure to prewash in batches of like colors. Whether I prewash or not, I always throw two to three Shout® ColorCatchers® from SC Johnson into the wash load.
Is shrinkage a concern?
When cotton is washed there is usually some shrinkage. Cutpieces also ravel which can contribute to reducing the amount of remainingfabric. Be sure you have enough fabric before you toss your fabrics in the washer.
What look are you going for?
Prewashing, or not, can affect the final look of your quilt. I like the crinkly look of old antique quilts. If you like that look, don't prewash your fabrics. The shrinkage will naturally give that old, crinkly look to a new quilt. On the other hand, if you are going for a more modern look, crinkly is out. In that case, you want to prewash your quilt fabrics. And, don't forget the backing.
What is the final use for the quilt?
Sometimes the way you intend to use the quilt will determineif you should prewash the fabric. Quilts that are going to be used frequently canbenefit from prewashing. If you're making a wall hanging or art quilt,prewashing may not be necessary.
Are there time constraints?
Prewashing takes time. Not just the time to wash and dry the fabrics. You also need to iron and possibly starch your fabrics. If you are on a time limit or you have a busy life (who doesn't?) you'll want to factor in the amount of time prewashing adds to your project.
Final thoughts
For me, I want to get to the quilting. I like the crinklylook that occurs from not prewashing. And ironing? There's enough of that to dowhen quilting, why create more?
Do you prewash or not? Why?