Prepare Your Quilt

How To Prepare Your Quilt Top for Machine Quilting

QUILT TOP:

1. PRESS your quilt top well. It's best to press the back first and then the front.

2. TRIM loose threads from the back of the quilt. If there are light areas on your top, dark threads can show through and detract from the finished product.

3. Make sure that all SEAMS are SECURE. If you have PIECED BORDERS, STAY STITCH 1/8 “ or so over each seam around the perimeter of the quilt top (and back if applicable). If you have BIAS EDGE borders, please stay stitch 1/8” around the entire quilt top.

This keeps seams from pulling apart or stretching when attached to the machine

BACKING:

1. Please ensure that ALL SELVAGES (except MINKY- see #2) are removed from the backing fabric.

2. If using MINKY as a backing, please leave the selvages on.

3. BACKING AND BATTING should be at least 4" larger than the quilt top on ALL SIDES. More is better. Why? Because top and bottom ends must wrap around the pick-up bars and the sides need to be clamped, to ensure even tension. 

4. If your quilt top is wider or longer than the width or length of your backing fabric, you will need to piece the backing. If seams are necessary, you need to decide whether your want them to be horizontal or vertical on the back of the quilt. The following are suggested configurations:

 

I know this seems like a lot of work when you've already worked hard to complete your top. However, doing these things will make all the difference in your finished quilt!

If you have ANY QUESTIONS, please don't hesitate to contact me!