Best Press vs Starch — Which Is Better for Quilting?
Best Press vs Starch — Which Is Better for Quilting?
Best Press and spray starch are both used to give quilting fabric body and crispness before cutting and sewing. Here’s the head-to-head comparison.
Linda’s Electric Quilters Expert Comparison
Best Press vs Spray Starch
| Feature | Best Press | Traditional Spray Starch |
|---|---|---|
| Flaking on iron | None — non-starch formula Best Press | Can flake and leave residue on iron |
| Crispness | Moderate — firm body without stiffness Best Press | Variable — very stiff possible with heavy application |
| Scent options | Multiple scents + scent-free available Best Press | Standard starch scent only |
| Fabric damage | Minimal at proper temperature Tie | Minimal at proper temperature |
| Cost | Higher per ounce | Lower — commodity product Starch |
| Insect attraction | None — plant-based sizing, not starch | Starch can attract insects in long-term storage Best Press |
▶ Our Recommendation Best Press is worth every penny over traditional starch for quilting. No flaking, no insect attraction in stored quilts, and the scent options make pressing a genuinely pleasant part of the workflow. The Crisp collection is the most popular for quilting cotton. Use the lightly-scented or scent-free version if fabric is going into long-term storage.
Can I use Best Press on pre-washed fabric?
Yes — this is the ideal use case. After pre-washing, fabric loses the factory sizing that gives it cutting body. A light application of Best Press before pressing restores workable crispness for accurate cutting. Spray lightly from 6–8 inches away and press immediately for best results.