top of page

Quilt Prep

Your top needs to be properly prepared before I can load it on my frame. This quilt prep ensures the quilting process goes smoothly, and that you'll be happy with the results. You can do the prep yourself, or I can do it for you for an additional fee.  Please refer to the Longarm Quilt Prep Handout for more details.

​

Top:

  • Should be clean, pressed, and trimmed/squared to final finished size.

  • Trim any loose/long threads. This includes dark threads on the back of the top that might show through lighter fabric once top is quilted.

  • Make sure all seams are secure. Back stitch or stay stitch any pieced seams along the outer edge of your top.

  • Use a safety pin to mark the top of the quilt and remove any pins other than the one marking the top.

  • Quilt top should lay flat without puckers or ruffles, especially along the outer edges.

  • Measure across the top, middle and bottom edge of the top in both directions (width and length). These measurements should be the same. If not, fullness has been incorporated into the top and will need to be addressed either by fixing it before you send me the top, or in the quilting process which might result in puckers or tucks being quilted into the top.

​​

Backing:

  • Should be clean, pressed, and squared to a size that is at least 8-10” bigger than the quilt top in both directions.

  • If backing is directional, use a safety pin to mark the top of the backing.

  • Ideally, backing is one piece of extra wide fabric without any seams.

  • Seamed backings: If you seam your backing, seam should run parallel to the top of the quilt.

  • Pieced backing: Not a good idea. I charge extra for pieced backings (those incorporating blocks or different fabrics) and can’t guarantee that patterns in the backing will be lined up squarely with the quilt top.

​

Batting:

  • If you choose to send your own batting, it must be at least 8-10” bigger than the quilt top in both directions.

  • Please include details on brand, fiber type, and recommended quilting distance for any batting you send.

 

DISCLAIMER:

Finally, longarm machines are mechanical devices. I do my best to ensure that you will be thrilled with my results every time. However, on very rare occasions, mechanical problems can occur which may cause minor damage to a quilt top and/or backing. If this occurs on your top, I will contact you and we will work together to come up with the best remedy for the given situation.

​​

Thank you for trusting me with your quilt top! Annette

bottom of page