Preparing Your Quilt for Longarm Quilting Services
❖ BASICS
- Quilt top and backing fabric should be cleaned, pressed and folded carefully to minimize wrinkles during transport and submission.
- Please mark the top and center of the quilt top, and the top and center of the backing with a piece of tape or a pin if applicable.
- Important note: Do not baste your quilt. The backing, batting and quilt top must all be loaded separately onto the quilting frame.
- If you are providing binding for us to attach, please roll up loosely, put in a Ziplock-type bag to keep it from fraying, and clip it to the quilt or intake form.
❖ BACKING FABRIC
- Backing fabric must be at least 8” longer and 8” wider than your quilt top, so there is a minimum of 4” of extra fabric on all sides to fit on the machine.
- Single piece backing is preferred. However, if your backing fabric is pieced or seamed, please note the direction of the seam should go, (horizontal or vertical). Selvage edges should be removed before sewing, and if possible, use a ½” seam and press seam open to minimize bulk.
➢ Consider using a diagonal seam vs. traditional horizontal or vertical seams.
- Planning to use your backing fabric for your binding? Please add a few additional inches to the backing fabric.
- Press your backing fabric and fold it carefully to minimize wrinkles during transport. Also, if your backing is seamed and pressed open, avoid folding it along the seam. Both of these tips will help avoid extra charges for pressing before quilting.
❖ BATTING
- Batting should be of similar size to your quilt backing; 3-4” wider than your quilt top all the way around.
- We carry a selection of Quilters Dream® Batting for purchase. (See PRICES & SERVICES.) If you prefer a different batting than listed, you can supply your own with your quilt project, or we can special-order it for your project.
❖ QUILT TOP
- Be sure to square up your quilt and correct any wavy or ruffled borders. The edges of your quilt top should all line up and have 90-degree corners. If your top is not a perfect square or rectangle, then it will likely not load onto our frame straight. You’ll also want to make sure the quilt top lays flat. Despite our best efforts, waves, fullness and puckers on your top may result in unwanted tucks and gathers.
- Make sure all your quilt seams are pressed well, double-check for loose seams and trim all loose threads.
- If you have a lot of seams around the outside edges of the quilt, pieced or bias borders, please stay-stitch 1/8" from the edge all the way around for added stability.
- Important note: Any additional pressing or re-seaming needed before quilting can begin will be billed at an additional charge. (See PRICES & SERVICES for rates.)
~~~ Please feel free to contact us should you have any questions or special requests!~~~