Resources and Tips

To wash or not?

Whether to wash quilting fabric or not before using it depends on how the quilt will be utilized. Just to be on the safe side, I sometimes wash deep colors and very old fabrics but typically I do not wash before cutting. Washing softens the fibers and frays the cut edges which makes it more challenging to cut. Purchase good quality fabrics. If the quilt will have heavy use and require frequently washing, pre-washing the fabric might be wise.

If you feel that you must wash your fabric, hand wash it in the sink using just clear water. Keeping the fabric flat, roll it in a large towel to soak up most of the water, then air dry it. Do not put it in the dryer as this will fray the edges and it becomes difficult and messy to cut. You will need to iron it before cutting and you may need to spray starch it before cutting.

For quilts that will be low use, I use clear water in a spray bottle and spray my fabric then iron it using a dry iron. Most of my quilting projects will not be used in a manner that necessitates washing.

Quilters should make the decision that they feel most comfortable with when deciding whether to wash fabric. 

Basic Fabric Terms

Selvage edge – the edge along each side of the fabric.

Straight gain - runs parallel to the selvages
Cross grain - runs perpendicular to the selvage edges
Bias Grain - is at a 45-degree angle from the straight grain (diagonal).
Right Side – The face of the fabric that you want to be seen on the outside of a garment or project.
Wrong Side - The wrong side is the back side of the fabric, usually the side that is on the inside of a completed garment or project.  
100 % Cotton - a fabric made from the natural fiber produced from a cotton plant.