Longarm Quilting Prep
Seam check, 1.2.3, seam check…
Seams on the edges of quilt tops can start to come apart when being prepared for longarm quilting. Check all edge seams before shipping and fix any loose seams by backstitching or sew a line ⅛” around the entire edge of the quilt to secure seams from coming apart.
Press it, press it real good!
Press all seams either open or to one side of your quilt top. Press as best as you can to avoid wrinkles and bulky seams during longarm quilting.
Put the strays at bay!
Trim as many loose threads and unraveling fabrics the best you can. If you have a light colored quilt top these can show through after longarm quilting. Don’t skip this important step!
Which way is up?
Mark the top of your quilt with painters or washi tape and feel free to write the dimensions on the tape as well (60” x 80”). This ensures your quilt top and backing are loaded properly and that the longarm quilting is done in the direction you are envisioning.
What size should my backing be?
I require backing to be 4” extra ON ALL SIDES. Backing can always be bigger, but cannot be smaller. This extra fabric is necessary for longarm quilting because extra space is needed to clamp the backing to the sides of the frame.
Example: If your quilt top is 60” x 80”, your backing should measure at least 68” x 88”.
What if I have a seam in my backing?
Ideally this seam will run horizontal across the width of your backing. This way when the backing is loaded onto the longarm the seam isn’t stressed during the entire longarm quilting process.
I use a ½” seam allowance when I piece my backing and iron the seam open to reduce bulk when quilting. The extra allowance helps ensure the seam lays flat during quilting. An extra couple backstitches on the ends of the seam will help them stay put.
If your backing is directional please use painters tape or washi tape to mark the top of your backing.
It is helpful to leave the selvage on your backing. This will help me load the backing with a straight edge.
Protect your precious cargo!
I recommend sending your materials enclosed in some kind of plastic sack or bag to protect against possible moisture in transit and then placed in a hard-sided cardboard box. Make sure the box is securely taped and labeled clearly.
Tracking not required, but recommended!
If you ship USPS Priority mail or UPS they will provide a tracking # for your package. Feel free to share this with me and track your precious cargo to make sure it arrives safely.
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