Preparing the quilt top:

1. Borders should be added carefully. Often the borders are stretched and will become wavy. The best way to add borders to the quilt is to measure across the center of the quilt, then create two borders of this length. Sew the borders to the top and bottom carefully easing or stretching the quilt to fit. Then measure across the center of the quilt, top to bottom and add the last two borders similarly. This has the effect of squaring up your quilt.

2. Carefully press your quilt top, making sure all seams lie flat.

3. Clip all loose threads. This is particularly important when you have a light colored quilt.

4. Make sure all the seams are secure. If your quilt does not have borders, or if there is a lot of piecing at the borders, you can stay stitch the edge 1/8th of an inch from the edge to keep it from stretching.

Preparing the quilt back:

1. I have a variety of wide fabrics that can be used for the quilt backing. These are available for $10-$12 per yard. A large quilt only requires 2-3 yards of this fabric and there are no seams!

2. The back must be 4 inches larger than the quilt top on ALL four sides.

3. If the back is to be pieced, use the minimum amount of seams and trim the selvedges of the seam. Use at least a 1/4 inch seam.

4. Press your backing carefully.

What to bring:

1. You can bring just the quilt top, if you wish. I have batting and backings, or you can bring your own.

2. Some idea of how you want your quilt quilted. We will discuss all the options when you come.

What NOT to do

1. Baste the top to the back.

2. Use polyester fabric or sheets for the backing.

3. Embellish with beads or buttons prior to quilting.

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