Spray size (not starch) will make a huge difference in your quilting. Before, I used sizing, my quilt blocks would always come out small. This was not due to my 1/4″ seam, it was a scant and not a true 1/4″. I no longer wash my fabrics. I think companies have figured the bleeding out, but I also do not do anything using white or really light fabrics, so i am safe…if i for some reason would I use white Iwould test the fabrics. So because I don’t pre wash what was happening is my fabrics were shrinking because i use lots of steam when I iron as i was making blocks. They shrink ever so little but by the time your block is together you have lost 1/4 to 1/2″ on your blocks. So how does the size come in…BEFORE you do any cutting. Spray size your fabric, spray it good and then iron it dry. This helps pre-shrink your fabric NOW before you cut your strips or pieces. Now you have it all shrunk up, you have added more size to the fabric, it will now cut and piece nicely. Then here’s the added bonus….I have always envied my friend Carole’s quilt tops, they do not have all those little strings on the back…the SIZE also helps with that too! Carole is the queen of sizing, she buy six cans at a time….I am going to the store right now to buy my six, because it sure stinks to run out in the middle of a big quilt! So give it a try and let us know if you agree…size matters
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I’m going to stock up on Spray Size too. It makes sense to me. Thanks for the awesome tip!!
I’ve found that sizing also helps with Applique…both fusible and needleturn, and also using the templar plastic. Thanks for the tip about the sizing!
If you had a fan club, I would run for President!
Thanks again!
I agree with using it for applique—gave up prewashing fabrics so I’m going to try the sizing before I cut–I am always ironing my fabric first anyway–just thought I’d let you know that I DID finish my Home Sweet Home BOM—
I also use size-Magic Sizing_ however I always pre-wash, but not because of bleeding- but because of allergies-
By washing everything before it hits my sewing room- it helps to keep allergens down.
I just started following your blog and find it inspiring and encourages me to get moving w. my projects
Thanks.
Sizing is also nice for getting ready to machine quilt on a regular machine. It will glide easily under the needle for ease of movement when freemotion quilting. I spray the backing before pinning on any golden threads paper.
Can’t believe how much money I have spent(in my head – not literally)and I haven’t even left for Paducah yet! Can’t wait to get to your booth. Oh, those gorgeous wool kits!!! Love your blog, Sue
What is Spray Size? is this the brand name? help. I’ve tried a search and can’t find anything….
Magic Size….look for it in the grocery store…or if you have to you can get it from Walmart..
Hi1 I took a class a few years back and the teacher warned us about spray starch (does spray sizing consist of the same ingredients??). She said that the stuff is food for bugs and if your quilts will be stored on the shelf for some time, be sure to wash out the starch or the bugs will find it, feed on it, and make a mess!
Spray sizing and Spray Starch are two different things…I think the bug story is related to when women used Argo powdered Starch. once a quilt is washed the starch is naturally removed…
I, too, have stopped pre-washing; I love the antique look that results from washing AFTER it’s finished! I ALWAYS crack my windows because of the chemicals, even in the dead of winter.
I think I’ve tried everything EXCEPT spray-sizing all the fabric before beginning, but I am starting that step today for all of it’s benefits!! What a simple yet fantastic change that can make our blocks behave so much better! Thanks:-)
PS – Spray sizing around here is called Magic Spray Sizing – I’m sure there are others. It’s sold right where the spray starch is.
so much helpful information, love your blog
I swear by fabric sizing!! It is the best for any sewing project, clothing included. It gives a little extra body and, as you state, preshrinks the yardage a bit as well, leading to more true size quilt blocks. The ‘Magic’ brand is what I use too, it is truly magic! I also use Mary Ellen’s Best Press, a spray starch alternative. It comes scent free or 6 scents, I like ‘citrus grove’ or ‘linen press’, yummy! Most larger quilt stores carry it or you can buy online: http://www.maryellenproducts.com/Best-Press-The-Clear-Starch-Alternative.html
This is really interesting but I was wondering if you could tell me what the equivalant of this product might be in Australia?. Thank you
Thanks for the giveaway!
Thanks for this great tip…. it really does make a huge difference for sure! I have not had problems with my blocks since I’ve started using your tip! It has made quilting more enjoyable because I can count on things to come out accurate now that I am doing this! Have a great day! Love your blogs and shop! Wish I lived close! :O) Bari Jo
Hi Lisa, Our Quilting Sisters group had a great time at THE GATHERING last weekend. Such a relaxing ,wonderful weekend. Thanks for everything, and Hope to see the binding trick on your blod soon. All I remember is point to the pin!! LOL. Deb & the rest of the quilting sisters
So excited to find your blog.
I love the Primitive Garden Quilt—
I am an accomplished quilter, and want to work with some of your patterns.
Cannot wait till I can meet you in person.
I used to always pre-wash, but now do so selectively. I always pre-wash blues, blacks and reds because their dye is not colorfast. In the past, the issues were always with red and black, but now add blues to that list. I like the idea of using the sizing, and have used it with applique. Will start using it more often.
I have been building a fabric stash for 20 years. I have always prewashed and everything in the sewing room is prewashed. I like the way the fabric feels after it has been washed and because I have already prewashed everything I think I will continue. The only time it becomes a problem is during fabric exchanges or buying pre- cut squares and this is when Magic sizing really helps, that is except fabric bleeding. color catchers in the wash will help this some. I do use the Magic sizing for setting the seams of the blocks as they are pieced!
I hae to tell you, I learned this little trick last time I was at the retreat house. It absolutely, positively works! I don’t do alot of tiny piecing – but what I have pieced with it makes a huge difference. The blocks are so much sharper. Love it! Just need to go and get the handle now.
It’s nice to know it not all my fault, no matter how carefully I work and check my 1/4″ seams! thanks for the tip!
Thanks, Lisa, for the advice. I will be sizing a try…
I meant I will give sizing a try…. it was a long day in second grade today….. Smile.
From my personal experience I don’t care for the aerosol cans of spray sizing or starch. I buy the liquid sta-flo starch and mix it to the consistency that I want and put in a spray bottle. The trick to using this is to let it sit a couple of minutes before ironing it ( like your grandmother used to do) Don’t use the high cotton setting as this will make it flake and stick to the iron, use a lower temp. Plus I iron it on the side that wasn’t sprayed, usually the backside, less chance of making the fabric shiny.
Thanks for sharing your methods with us Debi!!!
First of all I want to say terrific blog! I had a quick question which I’d like to ask if you do not mind. I was interested to find out how you center yourself and clear your mind prior to writing. I’ve had a hard
time clearing my thoughts in getting my thoughts out there.
I truly do take pleasure in writing however it just seems like the first 10 to 15 minutes tend to be
lost simply just trying to figure out how to begin. Any ideas or tips?
Cheers!