Quilt Preparation

1. Remove any buttons, crystals and other embellishments. 

2. Sew a victory lap around the quilt top. To do a victory lap, sew all around the quilt, 1/8" away from the edge.

3. Repair any skipped seams to ensure they do not snag the quilting machine's foot.

4. Snip threads on the front of the quilt top so they do not get quilted into the quilt.

5. Snip threads on the back of the quilt top to make sure they don't show on the right side of the quilt after quilting.

6. Press the top well. Big creases an cause some extra fabric to be quilted into the area where they appear.  

7. Mark the top of your quilt top, and the top of your backing.

8. Neatly fold the quilt top.

9. Place into a bag with the backing. If you are bringing your own batting, please slip that into the bag as well. Ensure your contact information is included in the bag. Your bag will be returned to you.

1. When preparing your quilt backing, it should be at least 8 inches longer and wider than the size of your quilt top. If your quilt measures 60 x 80 inches, you backing should measure at least 68 x 88 inches. The extra 4 inches on each side is to accommodate the side clamps, and the 4 inches on the top and bottom are required to keep the machine from catching on the leaders while quilting. 

2. Whether you cut your selvedges off of your backing fabric or not is up to you, and somewhat depends on the pantograph (design) you choose for your project. a) If you want the pantograph to run vertically, the quilt is loaded sideways on the quilting machine. In this instance, leaving the selvedge on provides a great way to help with squaring up the back and is great for loading the back onto the machine. b) If the pantograph runs from side to side on the quilt, then the selvedge should be cut off. The selvedge is generally more dense than the rest of the fabric and will cause the fabric to pucker or sag since the selvages are tighter than the rest of the fabric.

3. If you are piecing your quilt back, please use generous seam allowances (1/2 inch or more) and press them open.

4. Please backstitch seams at the end to prevent them from coming open when loaded onto the quilting frame.

5. While horizontal seams on your quilt back are preferred, vertical seams are also welcomed. 

6. Square up the quilt backing for best results. There is charge for squaring up the backing should you decide to have it done for you. Working with backings that are not square is possible, does not give the best result.

While batting is available at Quiltinator, I realize it is expensive. You are welcome to bring your own. As with backing, please ensure your backing is 8 inches longer and wider than the size of your quilt top. If your quilt measures 60 x 80 inches, you batting should measure at least 68 x 88 inches.