Please use the following information to prepare your quilt top for quilting.
BACKING
Backing must extend at least 4" beyond quilt top on all sides. This means it must measure 8 inches longer and 8 inches wider than your quilt top. For example, if your quilt top measures 60" wide and 80" long, the backing must be 68" wide and 88" long. This very important because if the back is not big enough I cannot attach your quilt to the machine.
QUILT TOP
Please mark the top of the quilt so I will know which way the quilting pattern should run. If the backing has a top and bottom, please mark that also. (Safety pin a note to indicate the top).
Check your quilt for extra or stretched fabric. This often happens when attaching borders, but can occur anywhere in the quilt top. When placed on a firm smooth surface the quilt top should lay flat. If you see any tenting or bubbles these areas may end up with small folds or overlaps when quilted. If there is too much extra fabric, even if I slow the machine down and manually adjust as I quilt, tucks and overlaps may occur.
Please try to make sure your quilt top is square. If you measure your quilt in all directions there should not be more than a 1/4" difference in any direction. Measurements should be taken at both ends and middle of both length and width and across both diagonals (corner to corner). Make sure edges are straight. Don't stress if it is not square. Just remember it won't be square after it is quilted.
Check seams to make sure they are secure and trim off hanging threads. All loose threads should be removed.
If your top has no borders or pieced borders, stay-stitch 1/4" all the way around the edge. This keeps the seams from opening and prevents stretching when attaching it to the canvas on the rollers. Please, no serger stitching.
Your quilt top should be well pressed.
Do not add any embellishments. Please wait to add these after quilting. If your quilt top has any overlaps or loose fabric it must be must be temporarily tacked down for quilting.
BATTING
I have high quality batting at very competive prices. Any batting you supply must be at least 8" wider and 8" longer than your quilt top (same as backing).
Please do not baste your quilt together-This includes Spray basting.
Disclaimer---Fullness/puckers cannot always be quilted out; we do not guarantee they will not be sewn in; in some cases excessive fullness may cause the quilt to not be square.
Mechanical Disclaimer---Sewing machines are mechanical devices. Despite careful maintenance, mechanical problems may occur and cause damage to a quilt top or back.
Quilting is an art and not exact. Minor imperfections are normal. You are financially responsible for the cost of services as stated. If the quilt is displayed in a show or publication, you agree to credit the machine quilting to Parker Quilting.
We will make and document several attempts to reach you, but quilts left for longer than 3 months will be considered abondoned and the property of Parker Quilting.
Payment in full is due when you pick up your quilt. We accept cash or check.