To ensure the best results, and save some money too…

• Ensure that your backing and batting are large enough – they need to be a minimum of 4 inches larger on all sides than the quilt top eg if your top measures 60 x 70 then your backing and batting need to be at least 68 x 78 inches. . This is because the quilt layers are pinned onto long rollers, and held with clamps at the sides.
• Cut off selvedges before joining backings. Use 1/2″ seams and press open.  Make sure pieced backings are square and sit flat.
• When choosing a backing please remember the thread on the back will match the quilting thread on the top.
• Do not baste or pin the quilt layers together.
• Clip any stray threads (especially dark threads!) from the back of the top to reduce the chance of them showing on the front.
• Stitch in the Ditch (SID) is a lovely, but time consuming quilting technique. It is usually used to separate borders or highlight blocks, but on full custom quilts it can outline much of the piecing or appliqué. Successful SID depends primarily on how the seams are pressed. In order for the stitching to lie nearly invisibly in the seam, the seam allowance must be pressed consistently to one side. If the seam allowance waves from side to side, then the SID will appear to jump out of the ditch as well.
• Ensure both the quilt top and backing are well pressed.
• If the outside border is pieced please stay stitch 1/8 inch inside the border so seams do not pull open and distort the quilt top.
• Do not add any embellishments until after all quilting is complete.
• If posting, gently fold all layers separately, seal in a plastic bag, and pack in a sturdy box or bag -Expandable Tough Bags from Australia Post work well.