New! Shannon Cuddle + a few tips
We have some exciting news! We’re now carrying Shannon Fabrics, WOOHOO! You can check out the nine colors we’ve picked to kick off our collection below. You may also find them {HERE}.
If you’re planning to use minky on a quilt that I’ll be longarming, make sure to select local pickup at checkout and we’ll hold it at the studio for you.
Bringing in Shannon has been a longtime mission of mine since getting my longarm. I’m a huge fan of their soft, cuddly backings and use them often on Christmas or winter quilts, as well as my super snuggle quilts. You know, the ones that comfort you when you’re relaxing on the couch or home sick and don’t feel good.
Above: Homecoming Quilt by Lo & Behold Stitchery and backed in Shannon Ash.
To celebrate the launch, I wanted to share some of my favorite tips for working with minky and cuddle fabrics so you can have the best experience possible.
Above: Vintage Lace Quilt by Lo & Behold Stitchery in Warp and Weft by Ruby Star Society stitched in Arris pantograph backed in Shannon Crimson.
Tip 1: Start with quality
One of the biggest reasons I love Shannon Fabrics is the quality. Their cuddle fabric washes beautifully, stays soft, and doesn’t bleed. Investing in a good brand makes all the difference, especially for projects that will be loved and used often.
Above: Interwoven Quilt by Lo & Behold Stitchery in Kona snow and doeskin and backed in Shannon White.
Tip 2: Longarm or domestic—both work!
Longarming your quilt is a great (and easier) choice but if you’re quilting at home on a domestic machine, here’s what helps:
Pin baste like crazy! The more, the better.
Use a walking foot to help manage the stretch.
Check your quilting lines often and watch for puckers or folds as you go.
A little disclaimer, I’ve never sewn with minky on my domestic but relay these tips to you from others who have. The overall consensus is that longarm is the way to go on this product considering the stretch.
Above: Starling Quilt by Suzy Quilts stitched with Double Wedding Pantograph by The Quilting Mill and backed in Shannon Navy.
Tip 3: Cutting and cleanup
Minky sheds, a lot (when cutting)! My best advice? Keep a vacuum nearby or trim your backing outside. Personally, I like to de-fluff in the garage and leaf-blow the extra fuzz straight to the curb for the street sweeper. Hehe.
(Or, you can always send it to me and I’ll handle the trimming and fluff explosion for you!)
Above: Nightingale Quilt by Lo and Behold Stitchery
Tip 4: Get a color card
If you plan to use minky regularly, this is a game changer. Shannon’s color cards are the easiest way to match backings to your quilt tops and avoid guesswork with online photos. We have some in our store for you to buy {HERE}.
Above: Peanut Butter Quilt by Then Came June (free) stitched with Christmas Star and. backed in Shannon Cardinale.
Tip 5: Know your options
Minky comes in a few widths but I love the 90-inch width, which means you can often skip piecing your backing altogether. There are tons of available colors, so you can easily find something that fits your project perfectly.
A quick note about the long nap variety: you’ll likely want to use a thick or high loft batting when working with it. Without it, the longer fibers can poke through your quilt top and make for a colorful adventure. Another helpful tip is to use thread that matches your minky color or choose a background color that closely matches your minky color. It helps everything blend beautifully and keeps the focus on your quilting.
Above: Star Lake Quilt by The Blanket Statement sewn by Ashley of @ashleys.quilting.diary using the Chevron Tumbler Pantograph and backed in Shannon Evergreen.
Tip 6: Have fun with your pantograph
When you use minky on the back, your quilting design really pops. Choose something fun, bold, or textural because you’ll see every swirl and loop show up beautifully in that soft pile.
Above: Sweater Quilt by Home With Andrea Sims stitched in the Blender pantograph backed with Shannon Cardinale.
Tip 7: Remember, it’s not just for kids!
Minky might have a reputation for being a “kids only” fabric, but adults and pets love it too. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a quilt that’s extra soft and inviting.
Above: Upscale Plaid Quilt by Lo & Behold Stitchery using the Paradoxical pantograph and backed in Shannon Ash.
Tip 8: Piecing with minky
If you’re piecing minky for a backing or small project, make sure the nap (the direction the fabric lies) runs the same way on each piece. It keeps your seams smooth and prevents weird texture shifts in the finished quilt.
I hope these tips help you fall in love with minky as much as I have. It’s a dream to work with once you get to know it, and the results are always worth it...beautiful, soft, and oh-so-huggable.
Now go pick your favorite color and start planning your next cozy quilt! See you in the studio!