Quilting by the Stitch

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE BRINGING YOUR QUILT FOR MACHINE QUILTING

Your quilt top will be loaded on the machine in 3 separate layers.  The top, batting and back require special attention to ensure a high quality, finished product.

CONSTRUCTING YOUR QUILT TOP

Sew using an accurate ¼ inch seam allowance.  Press, measure and square up each block as you go.

ADDING BORDERS

Apply side borders by measuring across the center of the quilt top and cut to fit that measurement. Apply borders from the center out, easing as necessary.  Repeat same method for top and bottom borders.

BACK AND BATTING

Both the back and the batting should be at least 4 inches larger on all four sides than your quilt top to allow for mounting on the machine.  For example:  if your quilt top is 70 x 80 inches, both the back and batting must be 78 x 88 inches.  To piece the back, remove all selvages, use ½ inch seam allowance, backstitch edges and press seams open.  For best results, square up the back after it has been pressed and pieced.