Starch/Sizing
 

I will use it - occasionally -

But I still want my washed fabric to have enough body to "stand up on its own" without NEEDING the starch/sizing added to make it "substantial enough to use."

I think of starch/sizing like Spanx or foundation garments - remove the garments and the body goes back to how it was - wash the item and the fabric reverts to how it was without starch/sizing.

I understand what you are saying and somewhat agree. However, I do use starch in my construction process only because I find it makes everything more stable and 'crisp' while handling. I do wash all my finished quilts and like the 'softer' feel in the finished product.

Never thought of starch in terms of spanx though - good analogy!

I starch only to get better construction results. It sure helps with bias edges, and cut down on the raveling. It is my favorite sewing notion.

I think using starch - to help with the process is a good idea -

I think using starch - to give the illusion that flimsy, poor quality fabric is better than it is - is not for me.

I like my fabric to be stiff before I cut it. I don't restarch after sewing but I may use a spray like Flatter or Best Press to get a flat block.

I haven't used starch, or anything even remotely resembling it, since 2007. Haven't missed it in the least and my quilts have certainly not suffered as a result. Just another of those 'personal choices' that makes us all unique. :)

I don't pre-wash and I still use starch lightly just to make sure the block keeps it's shape. So many of these new techniques coming out on u-tube have bias edges so with those, one would have to heavily starch for the block to keep it's shape.

I agree with Lori S. 100%. I heavily starch, 80% Sta Flo, 20% water. I put the starched fabric in the freezer. When I take it out, it does take me a long time to iron it dry; but, to me, this is worth all the time it takes. Construction is a breeze. I use lots of bias edges and never have a problem. With all that starch, I have little raveling. I love,love,love starch! As soon as the binding is sewn on, I wash the quilt which removes the starch. I use starch only as a quilting aid. Oh, all that starch makes FMQ easier for me on my DSM.

Like franc36 I love my Staflo but use it 50/50. Now if I could conquer my quarter inch I would be So happy!!

I use Terial Magic then wash out when finished.