Quilt Preparation

The better that the quilt top is prepared, the better the finished product will be.  Please keep the following in mind to guarantee the highest quality finished quilt and to minimize cost, as they are very time consuming.

Note: Please DO NOT baste or pin the three layers of your quilt together.

Backing

  • Cut the backing fabric a minimum of 4" larger (6" recommended) than the quilt top on all sides.  This is required for me to load the quilt on the machine.
  • Please have backing squared with seams pressed flat and remove selvages prior to piecing.  If your quilt is not square, the backing will not be smooth and tucks and wrinkles can be quilted into your quilt.
  • Pre-washing your backing is highly recommended.

Batting

  • Your batting, if you supply it, should be at least 6 inches longer and wider than your quilt top.
  • If you choose to supply your own batting, please ensure that all wrinkles are removed.
  • Batting choices will greatly affect the appearance of your quilt.  Cotton provides a smoother, flatter look and polyester batting has more texture or "poof".
  • If you do not want the old puckered quilt look after washing your quilt, pre-shrink your cotton batting or use one that is pre-shrunk.

Borders

  • Before you bring in your quilt to be quilted, lay it on a flat surface and make sure your borders lie flat.
  • Quilts with wavy borders or other areas that will not lie flat require extra work, which WILL result in extra charges.

Top

  • Please iron your quilt top and check for loose threads, holes, possible mistakes, etc.
  • Please remove all loose threads and complete any corrections prior to delivery.
  • Be sure that all the seams that come to the edge of the quilt are backstitched.  When placed on the longarm machine rollers and rolled taught, edge seams can come loose if not well reinforced.
  • Identify the top and bottom of the quilt clearly if necessary.

Mailing Your Quilt

  • For added protection, it is a good idea for you to photograph and insure your quilt top.
  • Before mailing, place your quilt top in a plastic bag.

 

Final Note: fullness, tucks, and puckers stitched into your quilt cannot be quilted out. I will try my best to minimize their appearance.