Quilting Services

Definitions

The following paragraphs explain a few quilting definitions. These definitions help make it clearer what services are offered by Sunflower Quilting.

Edge to edge/pantograph – A continuous line quilting pattern from one edge of the quilt to the other, repeated in rows for the length/width of the quilt. Rows usually interlock to give an all-over pattern on your quilt, there are many patterns available.

Basting - Long tacking stitches are done in rows from top to bottom, ready for hand quilting. Easily removed, saves you pinning on the floor.

Creative/freehand - An all-over freehand design to suit your quilt top.

Custom- Quilting designs that complement and enhance the quilt top, includes stitch in the ditch, sashing patterns, block motifs and more.

Binding - A range of services from cutting the binding from your fabric, applying by machine only, to completing by hand.

Mail Order - If you are happy to view photos and quilting patterns via email or online I can meet your quilting needs even if you are not nearby.

What type of quilting should go on my quilt?

When you come to the quilting stage there are some factors you should consider when deciding the quilting style.

The use of the quilt - will it be a bed quilt, wall quilt, knee rug? Have you made it for a child? Is the intended recipient male or female?

Function of the quilting - Have you spent many hours piecing a fantastic quilt? In that case the quilting should not be the focus- your piecing should be.

Thread colour, again the quilting need not be the focus.

The recipient of the quilt; male, female, child, teenager, baby and/or friend - Do they have specific tastes or themes? Flowers, abstract, nature, geometric. e.g. Steer away from quilting flowers on a man's quilt.

Are you aware of any health issues for the new owner? This may determine your choice of batting to allow for laundering and avoiding allergies.

The quilting done on your quilt is completed by me using a hand-guided machine, as such there may be some variation in the pattern to enhance your quilt's uniqueness.

Quilt Preparation

Quilt preparation is important as it can affect the finished result.

• You should make sure your quilt top is pressed well and that all the seams are flat with none changing sides halfway through a seam.
  
  
• Cut all the loose threads from the back, especially high contrasting colours next to each other.
  
  
• Check that your blocks and borders lay flat and are not 'wavy'. Uneven piecing or fullness cannot always be absorbed into the quilting.
  
  
• Does the border have numerous seams? Stay stitching around the outer edge will help keep it together.
  
  
• Backing fabric pressed well and pieced or cut to be 3-4 inches (20cm) longer and wider than the quilt top. Please make sure the backing is squared ready to use, seamed pressed open.
  
  
• Batting also should be 3-4 inches (20cm) longer and wider than the quilt top.
  
  

Backing fabric

Think carefully about the fabric you choose to go on the back of your quilt.

• Choose as good quality as you can afford. 100% cotton is recommended.
  
  
• Fabric that compliments the top and thread colour will give a pleasing result. Most thread is matched in the bobbin and will show both sides of the quilt.
  
  
• If you choose a contrasting thread colour a busy print on the back will 'hide' the quilting. Especially if there are numerous stops and starts as in custom quilting.
  
  
• An all-over quilting pattern with a plainer backing fabric will allow the quilt to become reversible. Two quilts in one!
  
  
• I will have samples from Widebacks Australia for you to look through and can order your backing for you.
  

Please feel free to browse the website for further information, or call me on 02 6259 6045 to discuss your quilting requirements.