Can I Bring My Quilt Already Basted?

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Please don't baste!  I need to receive your quilt in three layers as each individual layer is loaded separately onto the longarm frame.

 

What Size Should My Backing/Batting Be?

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Here's an easy way to remember:  five-for-five!  I require both the backing and batting to be a MINIMUM of 5" extra ON ALL FOUR SIDES.  For example, if you have a quilt top that is 60" x 80" both your backing and batting should measure at least 70." x 90".  They can be bigger, not smaller.  Extra fees may apply if I have to put extra time and effort into getting your quilt ready to load.  If you have questions, please ask!

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What If I Have a Pieced Backing?

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No problem!  If you are piecing the backing, use a 1/2" seam without selvages.  Make sure the seam is pressed open to reduce bulk.  Horizontal seams on your pieced backing are preferred.  On the flip side selvages can be left on the outside edges of your backing (i.e. top and bottom of backing fabric) as this provides a straight, firm edge to attach your backing to the leaders.

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Do I Need To Wash My Backing Fabric First?

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No and yes!  I do not require your backing fabric to be washed unless you are using batik fabric as your backing.  This is strongly recommended.  Batik is a stiffer fabric by nature.  The amount of sizing/wax in the fabric that contributes to its stiffness can affect the tension and look of the stitches.  Washing the batik fabric before the quilting process will take out some of that sizing and soften up the fabric, allowing for better stitch quality.

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Tidy It Up!

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Please press your top and backing so that its nice and tidy and ready for me to load.  Seams should be well-pressed. 

 

Please clip stray threads or raveling fabrics on your quilt top as best you can.  You might not be able to get them all but to prevent dark threads from shadowing through your quilt top, please don't skip this important step.  

 

Be sure your quilt top and backing are clean and free of pet hair and loose threads.

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Securely tack any outside seams on your quilt top so they don't unravel as they get a lot of handling before the end of the quilting process.

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Do not apply any embellishments such as beads, buttons, sequins, ribbons, couching, hand embroidery, etc until after the quilt is finished.  

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If your top or backing is directional, please mark the top with a piece of painters tape or a safety pin.

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Quilting/Thread Choice

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Decisions, Decisions!  I want this to be fun for you and not overwhelming!  Sometimes you have a design and thread colour in mind for your quilt and other times you're not sure what it is that you're looking for.  I'm here to help you any way I can to ensure a smooth process and help get your quilt finished!

 

Have questions?  Please ask me!  

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