Quilt Preparation
Before I can work on your quilt, it needs to be made “machine ready”. The checklist below specifies exactly what I require. If you need any advice or assistance, please contact me.
- Backing and wadding should be cut 6″ to 8″ longer and wider than the quilt top.
- All edges of the wadding and backing should be trimmed straight and squared.
- Quilt top and backing should be ironed with seams pressed flat.
- Secure all seams that run to the edge of the quilt to prevent them from pulling apart.
- Trim all loose threads, dark threads on the back may show through light coloured patches in your quilt.
- Do not pin or baste your layers together.
- Indicate the head of the quilt top and backing if applicable.
I can provide all or part of this preparation service for a reasonable hourly fee.
Borders
Wavy borders cause more grief to quilters than almost anything else. If you are new to quilting perhaps these hints will help. When you have completed the inner part of your quilt top BEFORE you attach the borders:
- Measure the quilt top in 3 places, short length first. Average the 3 numbers.
- Cut the short borders to exactly this length.
- Attach the borders to the 2 short sides of the quilt first ie opposite each other. You may need to pin mark the border and the quilt top in quarters and then gently ease the border in to fit. This is a good time to use your walking foot if you have one.
- Press the first borders.
Now:
- Measure across the middle of the quilt top again (long direction), this time including the 2 attached borders
- Cut the next 2 borders exactly to this length.
- Attach them down the long sides of the quilt.
- Finally press the quilt top again.
Hanging the top and the backing over a coat hanger will ensure they stay neat and tidy.