Prewashing Flannel

I am planning on making a flannel rag quilt blanket, well comforter, and I have read on the directions that you should NOT prewash the flannel first.

I usually prewash all my fabric. But now I am unsure because it will be frayed when I have the finished product.

I am scared that the flannel will shrink weird and make a mess of my finished product if I don't prewash it.

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ANSWER

If your pattern advises against prewashing flannel, it's because they want to save you an extra step. They know you're going to wash your completed quilt anyway (to get the raggy look).

But, it won't hurt your flannel if you decide to prewash. Just make sure you use quality flannel. Also, remember to wash (preshrink) ALL the fabrics you're using in the quilt.

That way, when you wash your finished quilt, the fabrics will shrink at the same rate. This prevents stretching and distortions in your fabric.

Prewashing flannel is a personal choice. Either way, your rag quilt should turn out great.

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