Quilting with Darla
Sending your quilt top to a longarm quilter is exciting! You’ve put in the time piecing it together, and now it’s time for that final, beautiful step: quilting. Preparing your quilt top properly helps your longarm quilter do their best work and ensures your finished quilt looks amazing. Here’s a quick guide to get your quilt ready for the longarm machine.
1. Press Those Seams Flat
One of the simplest but most important steps is pressing your seams nice and flat. This helps avoid bumps and bunching during quilting. Use an iron with steam or a spray bottle with water to press. Some quilters also use a light starch for a bit of extra stiffness. Whether you use water or starch, aim for a smooth, flat surface. Proper pressing helps create a polished result and makes your quilt easier to work with on the machine.
2. Trim Excess Threads
Take a few minutes to trim any loose or stray threads from the front and back of your quilt top. These threads can create shadows or even show through the quilt top, so it’s worth tidying them up. This small step can make a big difference in achieving a neat, professional finish.
3. Make Sure Your Batting and Backing Are Bigger than your Quilt top to accommodate the Longarm Machine
Longarm quilters need extra fabric around the edges to load your quilt securely onto the machine. Make sure your batting and backing are at least 4 inches larger than your quilt top on all sides. For example, if your quilt top is 60” x 80”, your backing and batting should measure at least 68” x 88”. Double-check these measurements so there’s enough fabric for the quilter to work with.
4. Be Upfront About Any Imperfections
Longarm quilters don’t expect perfection—most have plenty of experience working with “not-so-square” tops, wrinkles, or minor blemishes. They have ways of making small adjustments, but it helps them a lot if you’re upfront about any issues. If your quilt has a section that didn’t quite go as planned, let your quilter know! Knowing about any spots that need extra attention allows them to prepare their approach to quilting.
5. Let Your Longarm Quilter Know About Binding
Your binding choice matters to your longarm quilter, so let them know what option you’re planning to use. Will you be binding it yourself after it’s quilted, or would you like the longarm quilter to attach the binding? Communicating this upfront ensures everyone is on the same page and helps avoid any surprises or extra charges.
A Quick Checklist:
Press seams with water or starch for a smooth finish.
Trim threads on the front and back.
Double-check batting and backing for 4 inches extra on all sides.
Be honest about any imperfections so your quilter can prepare.
Inform your longarm quilter about your binding plans.
By following these steps, you’re setting your quilt up for a great quilting experience. Your longarm quilter will appreciate your preparation, and you’ll be one step closer to seeing your quilt beautifully finished! Happy quilting!
Want to learn how to free-motion quilt yourself, so that you don't have to send a quilt to a longarmer?
I can help with that! Learn about the Free Motion Quilting Series for Long Arm Quilters!
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