Preparing Your Quilt for the Quilter

Quilting is an additional artistic element on a quilt that can help the piecing on a quilt top stand out, build on a theme from the fabric prints, or tie it all together. You have put a lot of time and care into your quilt top, and the following steps will ensure your quilt top has a smooth trip through the quilting process:

  • ALL SEAMS SHOULD BE PRESSED FLAT for quilting. If this has not been done prior to receiving your quilt there is a charge for the time to complete this crucial step.

  • BACKING & BATTING should be at least 6 inches wider and longer than the quilt top to leave room to adjust for squareness, and for my side clamps. For example, if you have a quilt that is 60” x 80”, the batting and backing should measure 72” x 92” or more. If larger than this you will be given the scraps back to use on another quilt.

  • BACKING SEAMS should have a 1/2” seam if possible and any selvages should be removed before seaming. Seams can be pressed in any direction.

  • FOLD THE QUILT TOP, BACKING & BATTING SEPARATELY for delivery as each piece is loaded separately on the machine.

  • SECURELY TACK THE OUTSIDE SEAMS as they get a lot of handling before they are secured for the finished quilt.

  • SNIP ALL LOOSE THREADS & REMOVE ALL PINS.
    Tip: I like to put a pair of scissors on a lanyard around my neck and snip threads as I do the final iron down to ensure nothing is missed.

  • SPECIFY THE DIRECTION OF THE QUILT TOP AND BACK if it affects the design.