Tuesday Tip - Do You Pre-Wash Fabrics

I know this is a hot topic with some quilters.  Some quilters are avid at pre-washing fabrics before adding them to their stash or quilts.  I have heard many a conversation about this subject at quilting classes and retreats as well as reading about it.  I believe it is a personal choice for each of us to make.

I have not been a pre-washer.  I will check dark fabrics (reds, purples, hunter green, black) by rubbing them with a white sock or wash clothe, to see if dye rubs off.  Mostly, I believe that using Shout Color Catcher Sheets will alleviate most of you bleeding and color transfer issues.

See the comment on the bottom right hand corner of the box, "The Proof is on the Sheet".  Now look below.

The top sheet is fresh out of the box, un-used.  The second sheet has been used in a load of colored clothes with a few new items I thought might bleed.  It was a good idea that I used the sheet because look at the dye it caught.  The dirty look could have been deposited on the laundry making it look dull and dingy.

When I wash a quilt, unless its a tablerunner, I use a minimum of two Color Catcher sheets.  I truly believe this has saved me many headaches and damage to quilts.  I do this at least the first two times I wash the quilt.  Also, I include two Color Catcher sheets in a ziplock baggy with the care instructions when I sell a quilt or make a custom quilt for a customer.  Hopefully, this will prevent the customer from having any issues with the quilt.  Its part of the process of educating our customers on how to care for their quilt.

I have linked up with Connie at Freemotion by the River and A Quilt Story.

Enjoy Christmas Eve with family and friends. I will be celebrating with our son, his girlfriend and my wonderful husband.  Many blessings to all.

Yours in quilting,
Terry