Client Quilt Preparation Requirements

Quilt Top

Quilt top must be complete, pressed, and clean. Clip loose threads, secure seams, and make sure the top lies as flat as possible.

Squaring Your Quilt

Squaring your quilt before longarm quilting gives the quilt the best chance to load smoothly, stitch evenly, and finish flat. Longarm quilting can add beauty and texture, but it cannot completely correct fullness, wavy borders, or an uneven quilt top. Taking time to square the quilt before drop-off helps prevent puckers, pleats, distortion, and disappointment in the finished quilt.

Backing

Backing must be larger than the quilt top. Many longarm quilters require at least 4–6 inches extra on each side (total 8–12 inches) and 10 inches on the top and bottom (total 20 inches).

Backing should be squared, pressed, and seam-ready. If pieced, seams should be strong and preferably pressed open or to one side consistently.

Batting

Batting must be large enough. Batting should also be larger than the quilt top, often about the same size as the backing.

Do Not Baste

Do not baste the quilt layers together.

Mark Direction

Mark the top of the quilt and backing if direction matters. This helps with directional prints, borders, or special placement.

Check Borders

Check borders for fullness or waves. Wavy borders can cause puckers or pleats during quilting.

Quilting Instructions

Provide clear quilting instructions. Clients should choose or approve thread color, pattern style, density, and any special placement.

Understand Fullness & Puckers

Understand that fullness and puckers cannot always be fixed by quilting. A quilter may not guarantee that an uneven top will finish perfectly square.

Pay Deposit or Fees

Pay deposit or fees as required. A deposit might be required at drop-off and final payment at pickup.

Sign an Intake Form or Disclaimer

Sign an intake form or disclaimer. This protects both the customer and the quilter by confirming choices, pricing, and risks.