Frequently Asked Questions
Whether this is your first quilt, the first quilt you've had machine quilted, or you've been at it for years, you may have questions. These are some of the most frequent questions I am asked:
If you don't see the question you have, or the answer you are looking for, please send me an email and I will be happy to answer your question.
Do I need to make a reservation?
No, you don't. I work on a FIFO (First In, First Out) schedule so I do not take reservations. You are welcome to contact me anytime by phone or email and I'll let you know how my schedule is running, but with two machines I can usuallly offer the fastest turnaround time around. Keep in mind that my schedule creeps out in the weeks preceeding major holidays.
How much is it going to cost?
This is the most frequently asked question by far and the answer is always different! There are many factors involved, the most important being the size. I do have a minimum of $50 for any project. From there we work on stitch density and intricacy of the work involved. Even pantographs can be in the same range as custom or heirloom quilting if they are very dense patterns. If you know all the measurements for your quilt you can get a rough estimate by looking at my pricing page. If cost is a concern, let me know what your budget and quilting tastes are, and I can make recommendations to satisfy both.
Can you do rush jobs?
Yes, I can do rush jobs for an additional charge. This rush fee usually runs around $50, but can increase depending on the intricacy of the work and time-frame involved. If you need your quilt to be quilted as soon as possible, please call me first and I'll do my best to work your quilt into my schedule. If you do not call ahead with your request for a rush job and only tell me when you are dropping it off it will be more difficult for me to accomodate your schedule.
What do I need to do before I bring or send my quilt top?
First, you'll need to press your top so that it is as flat as possible. Check that the seams don't have any folds in them. This will also give you a chance to make sure you've caught both sides in the seams. This avoids the chance of my machine's hopping foot getting caught in an open seam and tearing your quilt top. You do not need to baste your layers together. All three layers are loaded separately. Second, if you have had to piece your backing, make sure you trim the selveges off of the seam so that only a 1/4" remains. Leaving the selveges on can cause it to bunch up and not lay flat. Wrinkles from folding the quilting will not be a problem the way poorly pressed tops are. The more careful you are in preparing your top, the better the end result.
Do you supply batting?
I carry Hobbs Heirloom in 94" and 120" widths. I have customers all over the world and for shipping considerations it may be more practical for you to purchase batting for your project from me. You may provide batting as long as it is NOT Mountain Mist. Mountain Mist is much less stable and durable than most other batts.
How much batting do I need?
If you do choose to provide your own batting please include batting that is the same size as your backing.
What size does my backing have to be?
Your backing should be at least 6" larger than your quilt top (at least 3" on each side). This is the most frequently made mistake by those new to machine quilting. For the Baptist Fan pattern, please allow 8" in length and width. If you have questions, please contact me.
Do I need to supply thread?
Usually no. Thread is included in the cost of the quilting and I have a variety of threads and colors from which you can choose. If you do choose a specialty thread, the quilting will be more expensive to reflect the higher cost of the thread.
Do I have to give you a design?
I can follow your design instructions, create one of my own, or use a pantograph. Many of my customers leave it up to me to decide what design will compliment their quilt pattern.
How do I pay?
All orders picked up directly from my studio are COD. All orders delivered by mail must be paid for in advance. I accept cash, check or money order and I can accept Pay-Pal with a 4% service fee.