I know it's cold pretty much everywhere - even Florida, but this is crazy! The kids have been home from school on break and we haven't done much this week other than appointments to squeeze in while they're available, some great family dinners, and movie watching/game playing. It's been really nice to just enjoy being together (and thus ease my usual maternal anxiety because I had all my chickens back in the nest at once where I could keep an eye on them!).
I did get out to the laundromat before they were up and I'm happy to report the king size quilt survived the experience. I had the place to myself but I still stood guard over the machine - more to make sure it didn't start shredding my quilt or overflowing. I used my non-rinse Soak Wash, the low-suds, gentle 'delicates' soap I prefer to use on my quilts. I only addd a quick squeeze into the dispenser because I really wanted to just rinse the quilt to make sure no marking pen dots remained on the fabric. I had done a once-over with a wet cloth prior and I think I got all the marks removed before going out. After the machine started the cold-water cycle there was an abundance of suds and bubbles in the window. I started to worry since I'm not sure if the washers are simply commercial size or actually High Efficiency models requiring special detergents and even though my bottle of Soak Wash says it's for H.E. machines, it looked very, very soapy! I was hoping and praying during the spin cycle as I watched a kaleidoscope of shapes whir around the drum.
In the end, the quilt came out perfectly and dried in no time. There was no damage at all and my hand-sewing stayed stitched! The machine wash freshened up the quilt after all the starching, sewing, quilting, and manipulation and the drying process resulted in that nice, antique crinkle I love. The micro-stippling shrunk up and really made the feathers stand out and the texture over the quilt is amazing!
I'm actually very pleased to know that the laundromat is available to wash large items and that it is so fast and efficient. The whole process only took about 65 minutes and I didn't have to worry about my home machine knocking and straining or damaging my quilt with the agitator or getting burn marks from being restricted in my regular size dryer.
Angie I am so glad every thing worked out for you. I can just imagine an I love Lucy episode going on in the Laundromat with all the suds. The quilt looks great . Job well done. What's the next project? I think we are all fed up with this weather. Stay warm friend.
Posted by: Diane S. | February 20, 2015 at 02:44 PM
I was very excited to see the finished quilt after washing and drying. It turned out perfect. The quilting shows up so nicely, yet does not take away from the wedding rings. Awesome.
Posted by: Karen | February 21, 2015 at 09:48 PM
Angie, you have to be so so thrilled with your finished quilt! It is completely gorgeous!! I have totally enjoyed watching your process and so much appreciate your sharing. The laundromat was the perfect solution for a nice wash. I couldn't do a large quilt at home either. Love love love those crinkles, and the colors, and everything about your quilt! Congrats on what is sure to become a family heirloom!
Posted by: Margaret A | February 22, 2015 at 03:46 PM