I am getting ready to use my fat quarters I won last spring. The colors are a mix of red, black, and white. Should I wash first to stop any bleeding? Also I am confused on cutting squares, any information will be greatly appreciated. Thank you and flowers to all, Suzanna

I would wash them - red is just awful for running (as others have experienced too).

1 comment

by sebsews 08 Nov 2018

That looks to be true. All will get washed. Thank you.

I would wash the red quarters in a separate wash. And then the black quarters in a separate wash. And then in a third wash everything else. Hot water and two color sheets (from grocery store, near the laundry detergent) for each wash. That way you will continue to have crisp, separate colors.

1 comment

by sebsews 08 Nov 2018

Yes separate wash for each color. Never used the color sheets but I will get some. Thank you!

I usually wash fabric before cutting out quilt blocks. That is just the way I was taught, but I think that is a matter of preference. One instructor that I had said that it really didn't matter if it was washed or not. Just be sure that all of your fabrics are treated the same way. Wash them all or don't wash any of them. That way you will get consistent shrinkage throughout the quilt. So, my suggestion is if you are going to wash the reds, then wash all of them.

1 comment

by sebsews 08 Nov 2018

Yes you are right, they will all get washed and dryer dried. Thank you.

Hi! I always prewash red fabric ever since I made a red boats with white sails on a deep blue background sail boat quilt that hadn't been prewashed. After the first washing, it became pink sails on the sail boats. Hard way to learn my lesson, to say the least. I'm not sure what information you need on cutting squares. Can you elaborate?

1 comment

by sebsews 08 Nov 2018

OK thanks! I think I will first soak in white vinegar then wash. I have been watching lots of you tube on beginner quilting giving me much information.