Preparing a quilt top for longarming is essential to ensure that your quilt turns out beautifully and that the longarming process goes smoothly.

Below are the steps we recommend our clients follow to prepare their quilt top for long-arming services:

1. Press the Quilt Top

• Why: A well-pressed quilt top ensures that all seams lie flat, and it helps prevent puckering during the quilting process. Wrinkles or creases can distort the fabric and quilting design.

• How: Press all seams in the quilt top, paying special attention to the seam allowances. Press the quilt top flat (not just the seams), and DO NOT use steam - which can cause shrinkage.

2. Trim the Quilt Top Edges

• Why: A clean, square edge makes the quilt easier to load onto the longarm machine and ensures a smoother quilting process.

• How: Use a rotary cutter and a ruler to trim any excess fabric and ensure the edges are straight and even. If the quilt top has any "dog ears" or extra fabric from corners, trim them off.

3. Square the Quilt Top

• Why: Squaring the quilt top ensures that the quilt is symmetrical and fits properly on the longarm machine. An out-of-square quilt can cause uneven tension and stitching.

• How: Measure across the quilt in multiple places to ensure all sides are the same length. Adjust if necessary by trimming the sides or adjusting the fabric.

4. Prepare the Backing Fabric

• Why: The backing fabric must be at least 6-8 inches larger than the quilt top on all sides. If it's too small, it will be difficult to load on the longarm machine, and there won’t be enough fabric to complete the quilt.

• How: Measure the backing fabric to ensure it's at least 6–8 inches larger on each side than the quilt top. For example, if your quilt top is 60" x 80", the backing fabric should be at least 68" x 88". If you need to piece the backing, make sure the seams are pressed open and aligned.

5. Check for Loose Threads

• Why: Loose threads on the quilt top can cause tangling or tension issues during the longarming process.

• How: Inspect the quilt for any loose threads and trim them carefully. This includes any threads that may be hanging from seams or along the edges of the quilt top.

6. Fold the Quilt Top Neatly

• Why: A neatly folded quilt top helps the quilter handle it efficiently when it’s time to load it onto the longarm machine. Wrinkled or bulky folds can cause issues during loading.

• How: Fold the quilt top as neatly as possible. Avoid folding it too tightly, as this can distort the quilt top. If possible, place the quilt top in a large, clean bag to protect it from dust or dirt.

7. Label the Quilt

• Why: If you have any special requests (such as thread color preferences, specific quilting patterns, or any other notes), labeling your quilt will help the quilter understand your expectations. Please make sure to note if there is a designated top of your quilt.

• How: You can include a note inside the quilt bag or attach a label with your name, contact information, and any special instructions for us.

8. Discuss Special Requests

• Why: If you have any specific preferences for quilting (e.g., a certain quilting pattern, thread color, or edge treatment), it’s important to communicate this before the quilt is loaded onto the machine.

• How: Contact us before dropping off your quilt to discuss your preferences. Bring any design ideas or swatches to the consultation, and clarify things like:

  • Quilting design (edge-to-edge, custom)

  • Thread color(s)

  • Any special requests (e.g., "I want my quilt to have a modern geometric design")

9. Drop Off Your Quilt on Time

• Why: Timely drop-off ensures we can fit your project into the schedule and meet deadlines. Be mindful of any appointments or deadlines set by Lowcountry Quilt & Embroidery Co.

• How: Double-check the scheduled time for drop-off and make sure all the quilt components are ready. Bring the quilt top, backing fabric, and any additional materials or instructions for us.