10-16-2012, 01:20 PM
I wash most everything before using. There are rare exceptions. I thought it was a given. Maybe that's what I watched my mom do; who knows. Sometimes there is sizing and/or other chemicals on the fabric. If water beads up on the fabric, it probably has some type of protective coating. I always wash fabric before I use in a sewing or craft project (so paint or dye will adhere or penetrate). This made me think of something I saw on Pinterest. "How to make your tees feel vintage soft"
1 qt. of water
1⁄2 cup salt
Brine your t-shirt in salt water for 3 days. Machine wash and tumble dry.
I want to try this. I suppose it would work on most fabrics. Jeans perhaps. I stongly believe that a t-shirt is not a t-shirt. The feel means everything. I can't frickin stand those stiff t-shirts when the sleeves stick up like I'm taking flight. Need to test on a junky shirt first cuz I imagine there might be some significant fading, but, then again, that's how I like um'. And speaking of t-shirts, I can't wait to try and make a t-shirt rug I saw on Pinterest. Easy-peasy, no sew and I can use up the kazillions of tees we have, especially if they're stained or no longer wearable. Anybody into Pinterest? I'm hooked! Can't stop! Somebody help me!