It is important to have enough backing and batting for your quilter to load the quilt onto the frame.
Be sure to provide at least 6" more backing fabric than the quilt top on each side of the quilt.
Example: Quilt top is 100"x100", 100" + 6" +6" = 112" and 100 + 6 + 6 =112". So your backing fabric must be at least 112" x 112" for the 100" x 100" quilt top. Bigger is great too!
Provide at least 4" more batting than the quilt top on all sides.
Example: 100" x 100" quilt top. 100" + 4" + 4" = 108". So your batting needs to be at least 108" x 108".
Bigger is Better! If you have larger backing fabric or batting, be sure edges are straight and leave it. Request any extras to be returned, if you wish. I always save leftover pieces for my customers. If they do not want them, I repurpose them into other pieces or use them as test pieces.
TIP** Double check with your long arm quilter if you want your pieces as not all of them save small scraps.
You know what to do-do it! The more even your edges and corners are the better your results will be.
Some minor wrinkles happen in transit, but be sure to get the sharp creases out of the fabric such as those created on the bolt. Remember that creases next to a seam can shrink your blocks and ultimately your quilt considerably and make your quilt uneven, so be sure that all seams are pressed properly. Most long arm quilters do some steaming or pressing touch-ups as part of their process. But, some long arm quilters will charge for pressing services, and some will give it back to you to press it properly before loading the quilt on the frame if it is really wrinkly.
TIP** For tough creases on cotton fabric use one teaspoon of white vinegar and 1 cup of water in a spray bottle. Spray creases and press with appropriate iron temperature- they come out like magic! Always test on fabric scrap first, especially with hand dyed fabric.
If you piece the backing fabric, be sure to use at least 1/2" seam allowance when sewing the backing pieces together and PRESS OPEN. Personally, I use 1" or more seam allowance. If the selvage edge is being sewn, trim off the tighter weave of the selvage edge as this will shrink differently and could cause your quilt to pucker during washing.
**You do not need to remove the selvage edges of extra wide fabrics, or on the edges of a pieced backing - trim selvage only in the seam allowance.
TIP** To keep an opened seam straight, first press it to one side. Then open the seam and press again. Do not scrub or wobble the iron when pressing or you will have a wonky seam.
Loose threads from fabric or seams can show through on light colored fabrics or get caught in the machine.