I'm working on a project using about 55 different fat quarters of indonesian batik. can i wash them all together? I could seriously use your opinions here, thanks, Sandy

I've washed lots of batik, never runs and as far as I can tell, it doesn't shrink either. THe batik process takes care of all of that--

Lani is right. Because of the process of batiking, they will not run. Is this batik from silk or cotton. Because you might deal with a little shrinkage if it is silk, even tho it has been processed. You should be fine with the cotton...Can't wait to see your project when complete!

I made a tablecloth using batiks applique designs, before I used them I washed all the fabrics. The tablecloth is perfect.

I agree with other comments ... batiks do not usually run. I also use fabric type sheets that I buy at Krogers, but since I am out of them right now, I don't know what the name is. They work fine. I made a jacket with about 15 or so different batiks, and no problem with running. That is one of the few fabrics I just STEAM press before cutting. Your project sounds quite ambitious. However, you might want to do a test run, just in case.

Sandy, I can't wait to find out - if the colors run or what you are going to make with them all.

When I am worried that dyes will run, I use a product called Woolite Dye Magnet. I just toss 1 sheet in with the clothes and have never had a problem. Do we get to see the finished project ?

due you think the colours are going to run? I guess that is the question.

1 comment

by ken174 15 Jul 2010

Well, I've always thought, like Lani, that batiks are the least to change, but always better safe than sorry =) thanks, Sandy

I love batiks. I personally wash all my fabrics before cutting and sewing them. Pre washing will pre shrink if the fabric is to shrink. It also will wash away any excess dye that might run later. An most improtantly, it washes away the sizing and chemicals that are put on the fabrics, that can be unhealthy. All that being said, true baticks have been boiled to get the wax out. They are the least likely to shrink or bleed their dyes. I use regular detergent most of the time, but if I think that the fabrics might bleed I use a soap called , Synthropal.Happy quilting. Lani

1 comment

by ken174 15 Jul 2010

great info =) Can I just wash them all together? Thanks Lani