FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What size backing fabric should I send?
For an E2E quilt, your backing must be 8-10″ larger than the quilt top. In other words, if the quilt top is 50″x60″, then you should send a backing that is approximately 58″x70″.
For custom quilt, your backing must be 6-8″ larger than the quilt top PER SIDE. In other words, if the quilt top is 50″x60″, then you should send a backing that is minimum of approximately 62″x72″. This is to accommodate a ruler base.
All excess will be returned to you uncut.
How should I prepare the backing fabric?
Your backing may be pieced or it may be one single piece of fabric. Above all, all edges must be trimmed equally and it must be square (ie. 90 degree corners) . The edges of the backing must be on-grain (ie., no bias edges). When a backing is overly pieced, it can be difficult doing precise fine-quilting, so please limit how detailed the piecing is on the back.
Why is there an additional charge for doing quilt borders?
Borders tend to be more complicated and more detailed. Additionally, depending on the desired border, I may need to rotate the quilt and remount it to the frame.
Is there anything I should know before sending my quilt top?
Your quilt must lay flat AND square in order for the quilting not to pucker. A quilt top with excess ”puffyness”, will not always quilt flat. Please back-stitch any seams that come to the edges of the quilt as well. The edge of you quilt should not contain any bias-cut piecings. If it does, or if it is a pieced border (ie., many squares), then please stay stitch the quilt perimeter to keep the border seams from pulling open when the quilt is gently stretched on the frame. Clip or remove all threads from the top of the quilt top.
How is a thread selected?
I have many threads to choose from ranging from cottons to polyesters, solids to variagated. If I do not have a particular color thread, it can be obtained. I will choose a thread that will complement your quilt, not allow the quilting to overpower it, while also coordinating with your selected backing. Your suggestions are always welcome too.
I like a particular pantograph pattern? Can you quilt it?
I have several pantograph patterns, but generally I prefer to quilt “free-handed” all-over patterns. This allows me to quilt from the front side of the machine, where I can constantly see the quilt. I can, however, obtain whatever pantograph pattern you like.
May I send my own batting?
Absolutely. Some pre-packaged battings are poorer quality and will have wrinkles that are difficult to smooth. I will not quilt with puffy polester battings though. If you are making a show quilt, consider using a layer thin polydown or wool over a layer of lightweight cotton for a lovely look. It will beautifully accentuate the quilting details. I am happy to assist in locating a specific batting.
T-Shirt Quilts…
There should be a lightweight- fusible stabilizer beneath the knit portions of the quilt OR each knit section should be framed with a woven (non-knit) fabric. Additionally, the entire perimeter of the quilt shall have a 2-3″ border of a woven fabric, with the seam pressed towards the outside of the quilt. I will not quilt on this fabric; it is to stabilize the quilt. The quilt’s backing must also be a non-knit (ie woven or flannel).