Preparing your Quilt for the Longarm Machine

• Quilt, backing and batting must be separate. Do not pin or baste layers together.
• The batting and backing should measure at least eight inches longer and eight inches wider than your quilt top. For example, if your quilt measures 60" x 80", the batting and backing should measure at least 68" x 88". This will allow four inches completely around the quilt top.
• If your quilt top or backing has a definite “head”, and you think we might not recognize it, please apply a piece of masking tape to identify it.
• The top must be free of embellishments such as buttons and beads. You may add them after quilting.
• Clip all loose threads and press the seams well.
• Backing: We recommend putting a good deal of thought into your backing choice. Machine quilting provides a beautiful design on the back that you’ll want to show off!
• Please trim off the selvage edges before seaming your backing. Sides should be straight and the backing squared. Press seams open.
• Don’t enjoy preparing your backing? Three Bears will provide this service for you at your request.
• Remember the investment in time and money that you have in the top you’ve pieced. Don’t cut corners on the backing.
• Binding: Include one yard of fabric if you would like to utilize our binding service.
• Place quilt, backing, batting and a printed copy of the service order form in a heavy duty ziplock “big bag”. Write your name and phone number on the outside of the bag and mark it Attention Three Bears Quilting.