Congratulations! You’ve created something beautiful and you’re ready to have your quilt completed. Here are a few things to keep in mind when preparing your quilt for longarm quilting. I’m excited to work with you to finish your quilt!
Quilt Top
- Make sure you trim your threads. Once quilted, dark threads are super noticeable behind lighter fabrics. Also, loose threads on the edges of your quilt (and backing) can get caught in the wheels of the machine.
Tip
When adding borders, measure the top, bottom, and middle of your quilt and take the average measurement. Then cut your borders to that length, easing in the excess along the whole length. This will help you get it much more square.
Backing Size
- Please provide a backing that is 6-8 inches longer and wider than your quilt top. If your quilt is 60×80 inches, the backing needs to be 68×88. Larger is totally fine!
This is because the backing is attached to the machine’s leaders and clamped on the sides to create the right tension. The machine needs a bit of space while stitching.
Pieced Backing
- If your backing is not all one piece, it is ideal to use a 1/2″ seam allowance, pressed open.
- A horizontal seam is preferred, as it loads much smoother with the seam running along the bars of the machine rather than perpendicular. This can also be done by loading the quilt sideways with a vertical seam (if the pantograph design will look ok that way). Send me an email if you’re unsure!
Batting
- If you’re providing your own batting, please include a piece at least 5-6 inches longer and wider than your quilt top.
- I have batting available for purchase if you would like: 96″ Hobbs Heirloom 80/20 for $0.35/inch. I will cut 5 inches wider than your quilt top.
Shipping
- I am happy to receive your quilt by mail if you’re not in the Edmonton area. Package your top, backing and batting (if you have your own) in a clear plastic bag to prevent any moisture getting to your quilt and then in a solid cardboard box. Tape securely, label and ship. I highly recommend getting tracking and insurance.
- Once I’ve finished your quilt I will ship it back to you the in the same way with tracking, insurance and required signature. If you’d like your parcel to ship with more than the $100 of insurance please let me know. The cost of shipping will be added to your invoice once your quilt is completed and ready to ship.