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Thread: Question on softening a used quilt

  1. #1
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    Question on softening a used quilt

    Bought a double-bed size used quilt. Love the colors and starburst design; however, when I got it home I realized the fabric is very stiff. It's in excellent condition, but when I roll it out it feels like a thin rug.

    Question for the sewing and fabric experts: is there an easy way to soften this? Should I just wash it and use some fabric softener? Should I just roll it or fold it and then roll or fold it the other way until it is more pliable?

  2. #2
    Moderator Float On's Avatar
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    I wonder if the previous owner added starch or something to protect the fabric while having it hung like in a wall display. Or if whoever made it didn't pre-wash the fabric before quilting. That may cause problems if you wash a quilt that wasn't pre-washed like pulling and shrinkage.
    Maybe use dreft or woolite or other baby friendly liquid detergent. Handwashing might be prefered. Here are some basic instructions: http://www.quilting101.com/care/quilt-washing
    Float On: My "Happy Place" is on my little kayak in the coves of Table Rock Lake.

  3. #3
    Senior Member Teacher Terry's Avatar
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    If something has been starched it will come out when you put it in the washing machine or at least that has been my experience.

  4. #4
    Senior Member flowerseverywhere's Avatar
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    It may be stitched on an interfacing type material. There was a quilt smart type product that was all the rage for these designs at one point. Is it handmade or factory made?

  5. #5
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    Quote Originally Posted by flowerseverywhere View Post
    It may be stitched on an interfacing type material. There was a quilt smart type product that was all the rage for these designs at one point. Is it handmade or factory made?
    As far as I can tell it was hand-made, but am not 100% sure. I've washed it once but will try again, maybe a few more washings will do the trick.

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