flannel

Posted by monique on July 27, 2009, 10:59 am

Some flannel followed me home. I know that
--flannel shrinks a LOT, so I'll be sure to pre-wash
--flannel ravels more than regular cotton, so I'll plan on a wider seam
allowance.

Is 3/8" seam allowance enough, or does it need to be 1/2"?
Is there anything else I need to know about working with flannel? I've
made clothing before, but not quilts...

Monique in TX

Posted by on July 27, 2009, 11:09 am

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Sometimes flannel (particularly prewashed) can stretch quite a bit
more than regular cotton. Depending on your pattern (bias edges or
not, for example), you might want to use sizing/starch when pressing
the flannel after washing - to make it less stretchy.

I only did rag quilts with flannel, and used it for backing in a
regular quilt, so I don't know about the seam allowance.

Hanne in DK

Posted by Joanna on July 27, 2009, 11:32 am

I didn't use a big seam at all. I also did have a 1/4 foot at the time
so I just used the foot I had. I always ironed and starched before hand
though because I'm a prewasher. Before I prewash I zigzag the edges
that's it. But I do that with everything. Zigzagging also helps me to
remember what pieces have been prewashed. I enjoy working with flannel.
Hope this helps
Joanna

monique wrote:
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Posted by Pat in Virginia on July 27, 2009, 2:07 pm

A flannel quilt is quite heavy. You may want to forego batting.
Have fun! Pat in Virginia

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Posted by Sandy E on July 27, 2009, 6:18 pm

Howdy!

I like to use Hobbs Thermore batt w/ flannel; drapes beautifully,
not too heavy. I've made several flannel quilts in the past 3 yrs for
"comfort quilts", given to cancer patients.
The seam allowance hits somewhere between 3/8" & 1/2",
just as I've done for years w/ flannel (pre-washed once, as all my
fabric is). So far, in the past 18 yrs, there've been no reports
of seams separating or failing. They're soft & cuddly.
Quilt "enough" but don't over-quilt it (2"-3" apart works well).

It's cotton: treat it w/ the respect you'd show any good fabric. ;-)
Good luck!

R/Sandy - w/a reversible flannel quilt pulled out for summer naps
http://www.hobbsbondedfibers.com/products-retail.html

On 7/27/09 9:59 AM, in article h4kfbn$a8t$1@news.tamu.edu, "monique"

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