Tips for Preparing Your Quilt Top

• Check if your quilt top is square. Measure the length and width in three places (top, center, and bottom). If there is more than 1-½" difference between the center and edge measurements, there is a chance there will be a pleat in your quilt after quilting.
• Your choice of backing can make a difference. Keep in mind, the thread selected for your quilt top will also be used for the bottom thread. Machine quilting requires tiny back stitches to secure the threads when starting and stopping. If the thread selected for your project contrasts with your backing, these "starts and stops" will be noticeable. Consider using a patterned fabric instead of a solid color.
• It is recommended that all seams in your backing go in the same direction (i.e., all seams go either the width or length of the backing).  Multiple direction seams in the back could possibly result in tucks in the back of your quilt.  I will make every effort to avoid tucks, but cannot guarantee there will be none when the quilting is completed.
• Quilt backing and batting must be a minimum of 6 inches wider and 6 inches longer than quilt to allow for shrinkage during quilting and for ease of mounting your project for quilting.
• Make sure your quilt top and backing are pressed.
• Check for tucks, loose or raw seams. Your quilt will be under tension while on the quilting machine and weak seams could pop open.
• When seaming your backing, be sure to remove the selvedges on the seamed edges. A ½” seam works well for backings.
• Backing seams should be pressed open or to one side so that seams lay as flat as possible.
• Trim any loose threads from the back of your quilt top and backing; especially if the threads are dark and could show through lighter fabrics.
• Fusible appliqués should be securely topstitched.
• Identify head of quilt top and/or backing with a pin or masking tape if your quilt top or backing is directional.
• Do not thread baste, spray baste, or pin baste quilt top, backing or batting together.
• Fold quilt top and quilt back separately.

Thread

• I will provide thread and will recommend a color to compliment your quilt or you may request a specific color. 
• You may choose up to two colors of thread to be used in your quilt.  
• Additional thread charges will be incurred if using more than two colors (see "Pricing" page for charges).

• Quilter's Dream Select Cotton (100% cotton)
• Quilter's Dream Select Poly
• Quilter's Dream Puff (high loft poly batting) 
• Warm and Natural (100% cotton)
• Warm and White (100% cotton)
• Hobbs Heirloom 80/20 (80% cotton/20% poly)