Flat

Lay your quilt top out on a flat surface and verify that the quilt lays flat.
Wavy borders, or fullness in the body of the quilt cannot be quilted out completely and I cannot guarantee the finished product will be free of any puckering in the body, or tucks in the quilt edges


Square
 
When constructing your quilt top, try to keep its’ blocks and piecing square as you go along.

When adding borders, make sure you measure properly or your quilt will not be square and you will end up with wavy borders (see Border Tips for methods of measuring for borders)

A quilt top that is not square will not roll onto the frame properly.  The adjacent sides should be at right angles and parallel sides should measure the same.

Pressed

Please press quilt top seams open or to one side.

Verify all seams are complete and that no open seams and/or holes are present.

Once your top is complete, make sure all seams that meet the edge are secure.  (Stay stitch 1/8’ around the edge of your top is necessary)

Free of Loose Threads & Embellishments

Trim all loose threads on your quilt as they can show under light fabrics.  They can also cause snags and uneven stitching.

Quilt top should be free of embellishments such as buttons, charms, pins, sequins, couching, etc.

Embellishments can keep the quilt from rolling up right on the rollers, so your quilt won’t advance straight and square, and the tension can be off due to bulky spots.

Important Reminders

Do not pin or baste your layers together as they are loaded on separate rollers on the frame.

Identify the head or top of your quilt top and head or top of the backing is applicable, with a safety pin.