Quilting by KC
Quilt Preparation
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On this page, I'll share with you how to prepare your quilt top for machine quilting.

Quilt Top Preparation

  • Before beginning to make your top, consider your quilting options.  Pressing seams in all different directions can make a difference, especially when stitching in the ditch is desired.
  • Trim all loose threads and dog ears.  Loose threads may show through your top.
  • Make sure all your seams are secure.  Reinforce if necessary especially if seam is less than scant 1/4 inch.
  • If your border is pieced, stay stitch around the entire quilt top to prevent seams from opening.
  • Make sure your top is square.  Measure your side borders as well as the middle of the length of your quilt top.  Your measurements should be the same in all three measurements.  Measure the top and bottom and across the middle widthwise.  These three measures should be the same.  If not there is a possibility of puckers or tucks in your quilt.  The biggest problems seen by machine quilters are borders that do not lay flat.
  • Give your quilt top a final pressing and place it on a hanger.

Backing Preparation

  • Make sure your backing is square and at least 6-8 inches larger than your top.  There needs to be extra fabric and batting on all sides of the quilt.
  • If you are using a pieced backing, it is best if you can piece it horizontally.  Please cut the selvage off the fabric edges, make your seams are ½” wide, use a very small stitch length and press the seam open to reduce bulk.  (Especially if you are using flannel) The sides of your backing should all be cut the same length, not left all different lengths. 
  • Piecing your backing may be done for an additional charge.
  • I try to save you as much backing fabric as possible.  Please let me know if you have specific instructions regarding directional fabrics, seams, etc. 
  • If you have washed your fabric for your quilt top, it is advised that you also wash the backing fabric.
  • If the machine quilting will have many stop and starts, you may want to consider using a busy print.
  • Always press your backing and place it on a hanger.