PLEASE READ BEFORE SCHEDULING YOUR QUILT
QUILT TOP:
Check for any seams that are not properly caught in the 1/4" seam
allowance. These could come apart when the top is on the rollers.
If borders are pieced on the outside edges, staystitch 1/4" along
edge to keep them from pulling open when quilt is loaded on the
machine.
Have seams well pressed (spray sizing helps but do not iron the
fabric out of shape) and clip threads that would cause "varicose veins"
under light fabric areas.
If there are rippled borders on your quilt I will use utmost care as
I quilt, with your understanding that pleats or puckers may be impossible
to avoid.
If there are puckers within the body of the quilt, I cannot help
quilting over them and they may show a crease.
BACKING:
Select with quilting thread color in mind. Wash in the same way top
fabrics were washed. Multiple pieced backs need to be staystitched 1/4"
from edge.
Please have backing squared with seams pressed flat and selvages
removed. Square up by rotary cutting instead of tearing as today's
manufacturing methods tend to pull fabric off grain and it will not tear
straight.
The backing needs to be at least 6" wider and 8" longer than the top,
"After" shrinkage and squaring. For example, a 60"x60" top needs a
66"x68" backing. If you are using traditional poly batt, allow 6" width
and 10" length.
Sheets used for backings must have all hems removed and be washed twice
Because of the higher thread count of sheets, there may be irregularities
in stitch quality and tension. Please be aware of this if you choose to
use a sheet for backing.
BATTING:
Cotton batting gives a smoother flatter look and polyester batting has a
more texture of "poof". Select a quality batt that can be quilted 2"-3"
or more apart. If you do not want the old puckered quilt look after
washing, pre-shrink your cotton batt or use one that is pre-shrunk.
The batt needs to be at least 6" wider and 8" longer than the top. If you
use poly, allow at least 10" in length and choose a "bonded" batting.
Unbonded traditional poly batts are too delicate for handling on the
longarm machine.
For darker fabrics (black, dark blue, etc.) a black or "non-bearding"
batting is suggested so the batting doesn't migrate through 100% cotton
will not migrate through your fabric, but traditional polyester batting
will eventually show.
