Preparing your Quilt

Make sure the top is flat and square.
If you need help applying your borders so the quilt is flat and square, check out a free handout ("How to Measure and Sew Straight Borders on Your Quilt") available on my "Quilting Tips" page.
Clip loose threads, on the front and the back, and check that all seams are secure and pressed in the desired direction. Dark threads may shadow through light fabrics.
Trim any seam allowances that might cause lumps in the quilt.
Press well (don’t “iron”, which can stretch piecing.)
If borders are pieced, stay-stitch within the outside seam allowance (straight stitch, about 1/8” from the edge) to make sure seams stay secure during the quilting process.
If the quilt is directional or has a definite top or bottom, safety-pin a note to the top to make sure designs are placed right side up.
No embellishments, please. Beads, crystals and the like must be added after quilting

Busy prints make good backing choices.
Backing must be 6 to 8 inches larger than the quilt top. The larger the top, the more margin is needed.
Backing must be square and pressed. Do not include selvages in seams as it can cause puckering.
Seamed/ pieced backs must be flat and with secure seams, just like the top.
I recommend 1/2 inch seams in your backing. Press open for less bulk.
Consider pre-washing your backing if other fabrics are pre-washed, or if it is likely to bleed.
"Minkie" and "cuddle" fabrics make wonderful quilt backings! But avoid fleece and other knit fabric if it is not stable (not stretchy) in at least one direction.
While some "purists" may not use sheets for quilt backs, they can be an economical choice. If you do use sheets, remove all hems and square up by tearing with the grain. I recommend that you do NOT choose microfiber or polyester sheets. Choose 100% cotton, without a very high thread count. In this case the less expensive sheets are often better than more expensive sheets. Permanent press is a plus. If you choose a "vintage" sheet stick with top sheets and check carefully for wear and holes.

Batting must be 6 to 8 inches larger than the quilt top.
If you are supplying your own batting, verify that it is of a type suitable for machine quilting. Some high-loft or poor quality batting will not be accepted as they will affect the quality of the quilting. Contact me if you have a question about your batting.
Packaged batting can be removed from the bag and fluffed in the dryer to remove creases. If pre-shrinking is desired, follow package directions.
Fold the batting for shipping if necessary; please do not stuff it back in the bag.

If you wish to have your binding attached by machine, prepare your binding of bias or straight strips (whichever you prefer.) Strips 2 1/4" to 2 1/2" inches wide are suggested; seam on the diagonal to measure the perimeter of the quilt plus 12 inches. Press in half lengthwise.
If you would like to have your binding cut and sewn for you, include one yard of pressed fabric. Any extra will be returned to you.

In person-- Call or email me for an appointment. If you are in the local area, we will arrange a time and place that is mutually convenient.
By mail-- Print and complete the quilt order form. Pack the top, backing and batting (if you are supplying your own) each folded separately. Use your favorite delivery method (insure if you wish; don’t forget the return address inside and outside of your package.) Ship to: Anne Hurlburt, Scandia Quilt Studio, 7778 Hill Point, Woodbury MN 55125.
When I receive your quilt, I will contact you to discuss quilting designs and the other details of your order. You will receive a written, final price quote. A deposit of 50% of the charges may be requested before quilting is begun, with the balance on delivery.

Contact Anne by phone (612 202-8325) or e-mail.
Please see the Customer Service/ Payment Policies page for more information on payment and return shipping options.