There is no need to pin or baste the quilt layers.  The backing and the batting must be at least 4" but no more than 8" longer than the quilt's length and width.  The bigger the quilt the more backing and batting will be used in the quilting (king size should have 6" to 8"). Example, if our quilt is 80" x 90", the batting and backing should measure at least 84" x94".  If you are sending your own batting, keep in original packaging and I will cut to size.

         Make sure that both the top and backing are squared with no ragged edges.  Cut off selvage on seams before they are sewn.  Selvage seams cause extra bulk and can cause backing to pucker.  Also, press open seams on backing also cuts down on bulk. A 1/2" seam is good.

        There are a couple of ways to make the backing. Using the length of grain, the direction that the selvage runs, is best to cut down on shrinkage of the quilting.  I try to quilt with the length of grain.  The other way is to put the seam horizontal but can cause stretching.

        When adding borders, measurements should be taken across the center in two or three places for both the width and length.  If these measurements are different from that of the outer edge, accidental stretching has occurred.  To keep the finished quilt as straight and square as possible, you must measure the centers.  Also when you sew borders on use pins to cut down on stretching.

If quilt is not square there may be puckers in the quilting.  There will be an addition fee for squaring or pressing the backing or top.

        Please snip any loose thread and selvages.  The less bulk, the less interference in the quilting.

       Check your tensions on your sewing machine before you piece your quilt.  Improper tensions can result in weak seams.  Also on some bulky pieced blocks press open the seams to help block lay flat.

       Please iron top and backing.  Major wrinkles will cause puckering.  Be careful not to stretch quilt or blocks as it will cause problems in not being squared or able to lay flat.   Wrinkles may form during shipping but will not be a problem.

        Your quilts are insured while in my possession however, I recommend when you mail them to insure them.  When I ship out the quilt it will be insured up to $200 (Post office will only cover cost of fabric & supplies)  The quilts are worth more than that.

[Home] [Quilt Preparation] [Patterns] [Pricing] [Order Form] [Personal Info]

Send mail to webmaster@huttidesigns.com with questions or comments about this web site.
Copyright © 2002 Hutti Designs
Last modified: 03/13/06