Question for those who don't pre-wash

I pre-wash because of the sizing that is on the cloth to help it go through the machines as it is dyed, dried, and rolled during the manufacturing process. I have an allergy to the dye and sizing. If it were not pre-washed I would not join in with the block swap and would appreciate knowing this information. HTH Barbara in FL

Pre-washing is probably preferred, only because some people are allergic to the sizing in most cotton fabrics. I, myself, do not pre-wash, except for reds, and would need to have this stipulated before the swap. All the swaps I've been in, no-one pre-washed. I do wash after assembly, and get that wrinkley look.

It's worth a try, Susan. You could add that some quilters are seriously allergic to dyes and sizing. Maybe your group will show some mercy. From reading here through the years, it seems that some folks will produce blocks that measure exactly ½" too small no matter how carefully the instructions are worded. I've always been astounded that our Hug hosts manage to get a quilt together without killing one single soul. Polly

"Bobbie Sews More" <

One of the reasons for pre-washing is to remove some of the chemicals that may be left on the fabric by the manufacturing process. Heavy steaming would not help for that. I'm also not convinced that steaming would reveal dye problems.

Julia > I am arranging a block swap at our local store. I know there are two

Because of the people who are allergic to all of the chemicals used during fabric production that stay on the fabrics until properly washed, I would suggest block swap events on two different days -- one for pre-washed, and one for not washed. Or, keep them completely separate such as on different tables.

This is getting pretty complicated. I have tried to come up with something that makes sense and I just want to say- better you than me! ;-)

Leslie & The Furbabies in MO.

IMO the average piece of good-quality cotton just doesn't shrink much if any. My main reasons for pre-washing won't be satisfied with "heavy steaming". (getting rid of chemicals, relaxing wonky grain). And does it really identify runny dyes?

Based >I am arranging a block swap at our local store. I know there are two

I just prewashed some purple fabric using 2 Color Catchers in the wash. I couldn't believe how purple the Color Catchers were when finished with the wash. So, it's not just red dye that runs in abundance!

Donna in Idaho

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