Quilt Preparation Guidelines:

1. Maintaining layer separation: Throughout the preparation process, keep the quilt top, batting, and backing as three separate layers. Using curved basting pins or spray adhesive can cause issues during longarm quilting, so refrain from employing them.

2. Proper sizing for longarm quilting: To ensure the best results, both the batting and backing should extend 3 inches beyond the quilt top on all sides. This additional fabric allows for secure attachment to the longarm machine's bars and proper tension management.

3. Preparing the backing: If your quilt backing consists of multiple pieces, sew them together horizontally to minimize stress on the seams and maintain a consistent appearance. No additional preparation is needed for wideback fabric.

4. Squaring the quilt top: Accurately squaring your quilt top is crucial to avoid distortion in the final design. Measure and trim the edges to achieve straight sides and perfect right angles at each corner.

5. Thread trimming for a polished appearance: Carefully remove any loose threads from the quilt top. Pay special attention to white fabric, as stray threads on the back can become more visible when quilted.

6. Marking directional elements: If your quilt top or backing features a specific orientation, use a safety pin to mark the top-left corner. This method ensures proper guidance during the quilting process and prevents regular pins from falling out.

7. Ironing for smooth quilting: I will personally iron your quilt top and backing using a hot iron and best press. This step guarantees a flat and even surface when loaded onto the longarm machine, reducing the likelihood of puckering.

8. Centering preferences and customization: By default, I will center your quilt on a sewn backing. If you have alternative preferences or specific instructions, please communicate them before starting the quilting process.

9. Quilting over appliqué or embroidery elements: Inform me if you approve of quilting over appliqué or embroidery on your quilt top. This information allows me to plan the quilting design with your preferences in mind.

10. Considerations for backing fabric choices: Be aware that certain backing fabrics, like fleece, minky, or flannel, may show through on the front when stitched. I will make every effort to adjust tension and minimize this effect, but it's crucial to acknowledge the potential outcome.

11. Addressing potential puckering: Despite thorough preparation, puckering may still occur in some cases. I will do my best to prevent this by carefully managing tension and adjusting the quilting process as needed.

12. Communication and collaboration: To ensure the best results, maintain open communication about your expectations and preferences throughout the preparation and quilting process. Your satisfaction is my priority, and I will work with you to create a beautiful, high-quality quilt.

13. Additional services and requirements: If your quilt needs special attention or you have specific requirements, such as adding borders, binding, or custom quilting designs, please let me know in advance. This information helps me tailor the quilting process to your unique needs and create a final product that exceeds your expectations.