🧵 Welcome to My FAQ + Quilt Prep Guide

Here you’ll find answers to common questions about backing, batting, thread, ordering, and care for your handmade quilts.
I’ve gathered these details to help you choose the best materials and understand how each step contributes to a beautiful, long-lasting quilt.

🧵 Backing, Batting & Thread FAQ

💡 Backing Fabric

Your backing fabric plays a big part in how smoothly your quilt finishes.
Here’s what I recommend:

✅ Best Choices

• Quality 100% cotton (quilt-shop quality preferred)

• Flannel for a soft, cozy feel

• 108" wide-back fabrics — fewer seams and smoother quilting

⚠️ Minky, Cuddle, or Plush Backings
While soft and luxurious, these fabrics can be difficult to quilt. They often:

• Shed heavily when cut

• Stretch and shift during quilting

• Pull darker fibers through to the quilt top

• Cause thread breakage or skipped stitches

Because of the extra handling and cleanup required, minky or plush backings may incur an upcharge.
If used, please make sure the fabric is:

• Pre-washed (if possible) to remove loose fibers

• At least 4" larger on all sides than the quilt top

• Cut square and free of wrinkles

🪡 Batting Requirements

Batting determines the texture, warmth, and drape of your finished quilt.

Recommended Options

• 100% Cotton (Warm & Natural / Warm & White) – smooth quilting, minimal shifting

• 80/20 Cotton-Poly Blend – adds a touch of loft and durability

• Wool or Bamboo – light, breathable, elegant drape

🧶 Batting Available for Purchase
I carry Warm & Natural 100% cotton batting, available at $15 per yard.
If you’d like me to supply the batting, just note it on your order form or send me a quick message when booking your quilt.

Not Recommended

• Thick polyester batts that create uneven quilting

• Reused or low-quality batting (can cause puckering and lint buildup)

➡️ All batting must extend at least 4" beyond your quilt top on every side.

✂️ Thread Options

Quality thread ensures smooth, clean stitches and fewer breaks.

Standard Threads Used

• 40–50 wt polyester or cotton-wrapped polyester (brands like Glide, Superior, or Aurifil)

• Neutral tones unless a special color is requested

Specialty metallic or variegated threads are available upon request and may require a small additional charge due to slower quilting speed and tension adjustments.

🧵 Summary

For best results:

• Backing and batting must each be 4" larger on all sides

• Minky or plush backings accepted only with pre-approval (may include an upcharge)

• Fabrics should be clean, pressed, and squared before drop-off or shipping

• Contact me anytime if you’re unsure which materials to use — I’ll gladly help you choose the best options for your project

💰 Ordering, Turnaround & Pricing

🧵 Placing an Order
You can request a custom quilt, wall hanging, or finishing service directly through my Custom Quilts

page or by contacting me. Once we confirm your design, I’ll send a written quote and estimated completion time.

📦 Deposits & Payments
A deposit may be required for large or custom orders. The remaining balance is due upon completion before delivery or pickup. I accept most major payment options.

⏰ Turnaround Times
Turnaround varies by project size and current workload. Smaller items may take 2–3 weeks; full quilts typically range from 6–10 weeks.
Rush orders can sometimes be accommodated—please ask early.

💲 Pricing Transparency
All quotes include materials, design work, and quilting time.
Extra charges apply for:

• Minky or plush backing (extra setup and cleanup)

• Specialty threads such as metallic or variegated

• Oversized quilts requiring extended frame time

You’ll always receive a detailed estimate before any work begins, so there are no surprises.

📦 Care Instructions & Shipping

🧺 Quilt Care
Your handmade quilt is meant to be used and loved! With proper care, it can last for generations.

• Wash gently in cold water on a delicate cycle.

• Use mild detergent (no bleach or fabric softener).

• Tumble dry on low heat or air dry flat.

• Avoid hanging quilts for long periods, as fabric can stretch over time.

• For wall hangings, use a sleeve or clips that support the quilt evenly.

🚚 Shipping Options

• Quilts are shipped via USPS Priority Mail with tracking and insurance.

• Local pickup may be available for nearby customers.

• Each quilt is carefully packaged to prevent moisture and dust during transit.