Expert: Luna - 10/11/2007

Question
I have just finished making cross stitch blocks for a graduation quilt for my grandson.  I have put the quilt together already.  The cross stitch blocks are in between strips of flannel sheet.  Flannel sheet is also the backing for this quilt.  Will it be all right to dry clean this quilt?  Or what is the best way to clean the quilt?
Thank you for your help,   Arloa White

Answer
Hello Arloa,

Based on what you described to me I don't see any reason why you can't dry clean your quilt.

Flannel can act very funny in the wash and if you did not pre-wash it, you may be in for a surprise. Flannel can shrink or stretch depending on the quality and has a tendency to 'lint up' after a few washings.

Also, depending on what type of colors you used in your cross stitch you may be faced with color bleeding if you did not already hand wash your pieces before sewing them to the flannel.

I suggest you just stick to dry cleaning the quilt. Those do-it-yourself at home dry cleaning kits work really well.

I hope this helps.