Quilt Preparation for Machine Quilting

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Quilt Preparation for Machine Quilting

Quilt Top:

Smooth, 100% cotton fabric is recommended for best results.
Press back of top well; make sure that all seams are flat and facing the direction desired.
Trim all loose threads. Untrimmed threads can show through the top and may cause snags and uneven stitching.
Stay stitch a scant 1/4" from the outside edge across seams to secure them and prevent stretching.
Borders must lay flat to avoid tucks, pleats, etc.
Top (and backing) must be squared with straight edges and square corners.
The same (or very similar) color thread is used for top and bottom. Using 2 different colors would result in "pokies" (dots of thread from the opposite side) showing on both the front and back of quilt.
Do not add embellishments until after quilting is complete.
Identify the top end, if applicable.
Do not baste or pin your quilt together.

Backing:

Pre-washed 100% cotton prints are recommended. Polyester blends can cause uneven or skipped stitches and also will eventually pill and cause bearding. Rough or dense fabrics are not appropriate as they cause broken thread and/or needles.
Must be squared and pressed.
Should be 6" wider and 8" longer than top.
If backing is pieced, remove selvedges first. Seams should be ½", pressed open and secured at the edges. (Note: Horizontal seams cannot be centered.)
Identify the top, if applicable.

Batting:

Ideally should be at least 4" wider and 6" longer than top.
Low loft recommended - high loft batting is not appropriate for hand-guided machine quilting.
Cotton batting is required for all large quilts.
Must be prepared as necessary per manufacturer's instructions.