Before sending your quilt top off to be longarm quilted, taking the time to properly prepare it can make all the difference in the final result. From ensuring flat seams to selecting the right backing fabric, each step plays a crucial role in achieving a beautifully quilted masterpiece.  Here are some of Thread the Needle Quilt Studio’s best tips on preparation.

Square Up Your Quilt Top: Start by carefully trimming and squaring up your quilt top to ensure straight edges and square corners. This step is essential for achieving a professional finish and ensuring that your quilt lays flat on the longarm quilting machine.

Thread the Needle Quick Tip on squaring up your quilt.

1. Lay your quilt top out on a cutting mat, making sure all edges are aligned.
2. Use a square ruler to check the corners for accuracy.
3. Measure the length and width of your quilt top at several locations. If the measurements differ, adjust the fabric until they’re the same.
4. Once the corners and measurements are accurate, press the quilt top to remove any wrinkles or creases.
5. I find it best square up all blocks before sewing them together – and then square up each border added.

Press Seams Flat: Next, press your seams flat to create a smooth surface for quilting. Use a hot iron and plenty of steam to press seams open or to one side, depending on your quilting pattern and preference. This will help prevent puckering and ensure that your quilt stitches lay flat.

Choose the Right Batting: Selecting the appropriate batting is key to achieving the desired look and feel for your quilt. Consider factors such as loft, fiber content, and durability when choosing batting for your project. At Thread the Needle Quilt Studio we can discuss some batting the best batting for your specific needs.

Backing Fabric Selection: Choose a high-quality backing fabric that complements your quilt top on all sides to allow for proper loading onto the longarm quilting frame. top and batting. Ensure that the backing fabric is at least 4-6 inches larger than your quilt.  We suggest avoiding fabrics with large-scale prints or directional patterns that may be challenging to align during the quilting process.

Secure Loose Threads and Embellishments: Before handing off your quilt top to be longarm quilted, take the time to trim any loose threads and secure any embellishments that may come loose during the quilting process. This will help prevent thread nests and ensure a clean finish to your quilt. 

Communicate with Your Longarm Quilter:   Finally, don't hesitate to communicate with your longarm quilter about any specific preferences or concerns you may have regarding the quilting process. Providing clear instructions and discussing your vision for the finished quilt will help ensure that the final result meets your expectations.

By following these steps to prepare your quilt for longarm quilting, you'll set yourself up for success and ensure a beautifully quilted masterpiece. From squaring up your quilt top to selecting the right batting and backing fabric, each step plays a crucial role in achieving professional results. With proper preparation and communication with your longarm quilter, you can bring your quilting vision to life and create a quilt that will be cherished for years to come.

Have questions?  We love to share our love of quilting ... we are warm supportive group of quilters and we look forward to seeing you at the studio (Live or Virtually).

Happy Quilting...