FAQ and Tips
FAQ’s & Tips:
Square the quilt top:
You must square your quilt top and backing. To square your top, measure the center of the quilt vertically. Then measure the outside edges vertically. All three measurements should be the same. If not, you should make any adjustments necessary. Do the same measurements horizontally. If there is more than a 1-1/2 inch difference, it is possible that your quilt will have tucks when quilted. The most common reason for measurement differences is stretched bias edges and mitered corners that leave extra fabric on one or both sides of the miter. Too much easement, when piecing blocks, can result in small tents or puckers, which will cause tucks when the quilt is machine quilted.
Quilt Preparation:
- Do NOT baste your quilt.
- Square the quilt top and the backing.
- Identify the top of the quilt and backing by pinning paper that says “TOP”.
- The quilt backing and batting should be a minimum of 3-6 inches wider and longer than the quilt top. (Ex: Top is 38"x42" then backing should be minimum 44"x48")
- The quilt top should be free of embellishments such as pins, buttons, charms, etc.
- Check quilt top for seam separation, especially at the end of a row where threads have been cut. Old quilts are prone to seam breaks. These can cause tearing of the quilt.
- Clip loose threads on the quilt top. These can cause snags and uneven stitching. On light colored fabrics, loose threads on the backside will show through.
- Top and backing should be pressed with seams open or going to one side.