How To Prepare Your Quilt for Longarm

  1. Trim and square - Please trim loose threads on the top and bottom of your quilt top. If you have a light colored quilt top these threads may show through your quilt top.   We also ask that your top batting and backing be squared (example shown here) to the best of your ability.  Additional measures will also be taken to square your quilt on our frame. 

  2. Lock seams - Secure any stitches that have or may pop open in your quilt and along the perimeter.  It’s suggested that you run a ⅛ stay stitch (example shown here) around the entire perimeter of your quilt top to ensure that all stitches are secure.  This is not required but highly suggested. 

  3. Press - All seams should be pressed either to the side or open to lay as flat as possible.  Give your quilt top and backing a final press before shipping.  We know it will wrinkle in shipping and will give it a light press upon arrival with a dry iron.   

  4. Mark - If your pantograph and/or quilt is directional, please mark the top/bottom of your quilt to ensure that it is loaded in the correct direction.  

  5. Measure - Please verify that your batting and backing are at least 8 inches larger than your quilt top.  Example:  60x80 quilt top means you need to send in a minimum of 68x88 batting and backing.  

  6. Protect - We want your quilt to be safe during shipping. Please wrap in plastic and place inside a hard sided cardboard box to protect against moisture and sharp objects.  

  7. Ship - Secure with tape and label clearly.  Avoid putting the word “quilt” on the exterior of your package to protect against theft.  Tracking suggested but not required.  

Notes: If you have a seam in your backing it is suggested that you place the seam horizontally in relation to your quilt top. This ensures that your seam isn’t stressed during stitching. Please use a ½ inch seam allowance when piecing your backing and iron your seam open to prevent bulk.  Please remember to mark your backing top/bottom if it is directional.  If you are able leave your selvage on your backing this is helpful for the loading process.