Preparing Quilt Top
Preparation Checklist
Click HERE for pdf of this information.
Please use the following information to prepare your materials for the longarm quilting process. If you follow these steps, you will be happy with the results.
To avoid any confusion, use a safety pin or other method to …
Mark the top edge of the quilt top.
Mark the top edge of the backing fabric.
Note: The “top edge” will be by the pillows on a bed.
Quilt tops should be …
Squared
Trimmed straight on all 4 outside edges (to trim any misalignment when blocks were sewn together.)
Stay stitched around all 4 outside edges (within the 1/4” binding area) to prevent the edges from stretching and to prevent any seam edges from pulling apart.
Pressed
Free of pins, buttons, or anything that can catch on the longarm’s sewing foot.
Backings should be …
At least 8” wider and longer than the quilt top (60” x 80” quilt top needs a backing no smaller than 68” x 88”).
Squared and edges cut straight. (The top and bottom edges will be attached to rollers on the quilting frame.)
Pressed
Note: If your backing fabric is flannel, it needs to be prewashed because flannel shrinks much more than other materials.
Pieced backings should …
Have horizontal seams when possible*. (See note below.)
Have as few seams as possible **.
Have trimmed off any selvage edges from within the seam allowance. (If two selvage edges are sewn together to form the seam, sew an extra deep seam to accommodate the trimming you will do after the seam has been sewn.)
Have wide seam allowances (5/8”-1/2”)
Have tight stitching (smaller stitch length) .
Have back stitching at the ends of seams to secure them.
Have seams pressed open.
Note: Horizontal seams (those that run parallel to the top/bottom of the quilt) are preferred because a horizontal seam will lay flat on the quilting frame. A vertical seam will be rolled onto itself on the quilting frame and become a thick spot.
* Sometimes horizontal seams are not possible and I can work around that problem.
** I do accept backings made from scraps and orphan blocks, but I cannot guarantee perfect alignment of every seam on the back since I am unable to watch it as it is being stitched.
If shipping, place all items in a strong plastic bag before placing in the shipping box/bag to protect it from moisture during the shipping process.