Customer Guide
Preparing Your Quilt
Preparing your quilt properly ensures the best results and can save you from additional labor fees. Please deliver your quilt as three separate layers: the top, the batting, and the backing.
01
The Quilt Top
- Press Thoroughly: Ensure all seams are pressed flat. Pressed to the side or open as your design recommends is acceptable.
- Trim Loose Threads: Clip any "whiskers" or loose threads on both the front and back of the top.
- Stay Stitch the Edges: If your quilt has many pieced seams at the edge (like a piano key border), sew a stay stitch about 1/8" from the edge around the entire perimeter.
- Mark the Top: If your quilt is directional, pin a note to the top edge that says "TOP" so the design is oriented correctly.
- Remove Embellishments: Buttons, charms, or sequins should be added after quilting to avoid damaging the machine.
02
The Backing Fabric
- Size Requirements: The backing must be larger than the quilt top to allow for machine loading and clamping.
- Standard Rule: Provide at least 4 to 5 inches of extra fabric on all four sides (8 to 10 inches total wider and longer than your top).
- Squaring Up: Trim the backing edges so they are straight and the corners are square.
- Remove Selvages: If you piece your backing, trim off the selvages before sewing the seam, as they can cause the fabric to pucker or pull unevenly. Use a 1/2" seam allowance for pieced backings and press the seams open.
03
Batting
- Size: Like the backing, your batting should be at least 4 inches larger than the quilt top on all sides.
- We offer high-quality batting (like Hobbs 80/20) for purchase, which can save you on shipping costs if you are mailing your quilt.
04
Final Hand-Off
- Do Not Baste: Never pin, spray, or sew the layers together before delivering them.
- Packaging: If shipping, place the layers in a sturdy plastic bag inside your box to protect against moisture during transit.
- Communication: Discuss your desired quilting design (e.g., edge-to-edge vs. custom, quilting density, thread color/type), and timeline with us.
Good to Know
We offer high-quality batting (like Hobbs 80/20) for purchase — this can save on shipping if you're mailing your quilt.
Never baste your layers together before drop-off or shipping. Deliver them as three separate, unattached layers.
A stay stitch around the perimeter is especially important for quilts with many pieced seams at the edge, like piano key borders.
Ready to send your quilt?
Get in touch and we'll walk you through the next steps.