Preparing the Top

  • Press the quilt top so seams are flat.

  • Square up your quilt. Make sure the top width is equal to the bottom width and the right side is equal to the left side. TIP: The best way to have a square top is to make sure you square each block or component of the top as you go. As you piece the top together, ease where you need to to make sure all the rows are the same length and height. At the end you will have a fairly square quilt. The method to adding borders is also crucial. See my video on how to add borders.

Preparing the Back

  • If your backing is pieced, make sure the grain of the fabric is running the same direction with all the pieces. If possible, take a 1/2" seam and press open. TIP: If you can't have all the fabric grain running the same direction, make sure that your cross grain cuts are perpendicular (at 90 degree angle) to the grain. If it's off you will have a bias cut which will make the back sag and may create tucks when quilting, since the back can't be seen.

  • Square up the backing. Please trim all sides of the backing so it is square. Make sure the top width is equal to the bottom width and the right side is equal to the left side.

  • Press the back well. If you have not washed your backing fabric, then there will be a hard fold(s) from how it was folded on the bolt from the manufacturer. These folds do not release when stretched on the frame. Pressing is the only way to remove them. Spraying with water and using steam is the best way to remove the folds.

Backing and Batting

  • Your batting and backing should be at least 4-6 inches larger than your top on all sides. Therefore the total size of the back and batting should be at least 8 inches wider and longer than the top. This is necessary for loading your quilt on the longarm machine frame. As the quilt is rolled up on the roller more backing is necessary to ensure that there is enough at the bottom of the quilt and extra width is needed for the side clamps.

  • If you prefer, I can supply you with the batting. We can discuss your options at the consultation. Click here or on "Batting" above for the types I usually have on hand.

Embellishments

  • If adding any embellishments such as beads, buttons, ribbon, etc., please do so after the quilting.