Preparing your quilt

1. Your quilt top should be square when it is being loaded.  If you measure the opposite side of the top you'll be able to compare the two sides.  If it is more than 2 inches you may want to trim it a little so that is isn't wonky.
2. Embellishing the top should be done after it has been quilted.  I can not quilt thru those items which may cause the quilt to not lay flat or even.  Embellishments such as buttons, sequins, etc. (If you have these items on your quilt and I can't see them it could  do damage to the machine which you would be responsible for. Please make sure I am aware of any of these items)
3. Press your top from the back side so you can make all seams  lay flat.
4. Trim any loose threads, especially those that would show thru the lighter fabric.
5. Inspect your quilt top for any seams which may have come loose and repair. Also check for puckers of pleats as these can get caught in the sewing foot and cause damage to the fabric.
6. Please pin a note on the top of the fabric if it is  directional.
7. If your top has embroidery, applique, folds such as prairie points please discuss with me.
8. DO NOT layer your top in any way, as this hinders my being able to load the quilt on the machine. 

1. No matter what your backing needs to be larger than the top.  Preferably 3-4 inches all the way around. So if your quilt is 40 x 50 your backing should be 46 x 56.  The extra backing is needed to load the backing onto the roller bars, to do tension checks and to insure it clears all clamps.
2. The backing should be have even edges in order to ensure that it is loaded on evenly.  If the salvage edge on the outside I can use that for a straight edge.  When it has jaggered edges it can cause some puckering on the back. 
3. Also the seam on the back is loaded horizontal. Please take that into consideration when your placing the top and back together.
4. If you  make backings that need to matched to the center of the top, I will get them as closely matched as I possibly can.
5. Remove the salvage edges unless they are on the outside.  The salvage is the tightest weave of the fabric.  Therefore it can cause puckers, inconsistent seams and pulled thread.
6. Use 1/2" seam allowance if you are using large pieces of fabric.  If you are using scrappy fabric or squares from the top then 1/4" is fine.
7. Press your backing and if directional please put a note.

1. I carry Dream Cotton batting which is of good quality. I sell this batting at a discounted price to my clients.
2.  If there is specific type of batting you would like please let me know as I can order it.  (example: wool, bamboo, polyester, blends, etc.)
3. You can provide the batting if you prefer.  But please remember that not all batting is the same and I may be able to offer you a higher quality for about the same price.
4. If you have any questions about batting please give me a call.

Thread for the long arm machine is different. I have a wide variety of thread.  When you come, we will go over your many options.  You can bring your own thread and we will match it, if  we don't use it.

Embroidered labels for the back of your quilt.  You choose the design and what you would like to say.  Also specialty blocks of embroidery can be made for you to use in your quilt top.

We will discuss all your options including quilting designs, thread, batting, binding.  When you leave you will have an estimate of cost and an approximate completion date. If you need it for a special date, please let me know, because many times I am able to change things in order to accommodate.