Tips for Pre-washing Fabric
Why Pre-washing is Important
Pre-washing fabric is an important early step when sewing a project.
You don't want to spend valuable time on a sewing project only to find the fabric ruined after the first wash.
3 key reasons to pre-wash fabric before cutting it out for a sewing project.
- 1: Remove shrinkage from the fabric
Avoids the finished project shrinking after it has been made - especially if you've taken the time to make it and have fit it to your body.
- 2: Test if elements added to the fabric are secure
Such as dyes, special inks or decorative elements - such as sequins or beads
- 3: Remove the sizing from the fabric
Sizing is a substance often applied to the fabric during production to prevent the fabric from warping when it is rolled and folded onto bolts. Removing sizing can sometimes change the way the fabric feels and moves - sometimes this changes the suitability of the fabric for the project.
Instructions for Pre-washing Cotton
1. (Recommended but not essential) Zigzag the cut edges of the fabric
so the fabric doesn't unravel in the washing machine
2. Wash cotton fabrics in the washing machine in a hot wash
to remove as much shrinkage from the fabric as possible
3. Dry the fabric
hang on a clothesline or tumble dry in a dryer.
4. Press the wrinkles out of the fabric
making sure to press (up and down "stamping" motion with the iron), not iron (sliding the iron on the fabric) - as ironing can distort the fabric.
TIP: If you have a very stubborn wrinkle, dampen it with a cloth and press again.