For the best possible results, please read these important reminders:

Please trim all loose threads from the front and back of your top. This is especially important if you are using both light and dark fabrics. Those dark threads will show through if left untrimmed from the back of your quilt top.

Check that your quilt top has square corners and that the borders lie flat. To check that this, measure your quilt top across the top, the bottom and through the middle. These three measurements should be the same. Do this for both the length and width of the top. If there is a significant difference in the measurements it may compromise the quality of the quilting. The most common reason a quilt does not lay flat and square is because the borders have not been measured and applied correctly. For a tip sheet on applying borders click HERE

Your backing and batting need to be 6-8 inches wider and longer than your quilt top. For example, if your top is 60" X 80" then your batting and backing must be at least 66" X 86". This is important because it gives me room to pin the backing to the rollers on my machine, yet avoid hitting the pins while sewing. Extra width allows room for the side clamps, which also need to be out of range of the sewing needle.

Please do not baste or pin the three layers together, If your piecing design or backing fabric has an up and down, please put a safety pin in each to indicate which end is the top.

When selecting your backing fabric please keep in mind that the quilting thread will be chosen to match your quilt top. If your top fabric is dark, and your backing is light, you will see the contrasting thread on the back. Some people prefer this look, some do not. This will be your choice.

Please thoroughly press your quilt top and backing. Creases from being neatly folded are okay.

Backing also needs to be squared and selvages should be removed. If you are piecing the back, I recommend half-inch seams, pressed open. You should also check that the pieces are the same length so the edges are straight. You can find more tips on working with your backing fabric on my tips page.

I can use any batting you choose to provide. I stock a small selection as a convenience to my customers.

Please do not plan to bring your own thread. I have a good selection available in my studio.