Long-Arm Quilting Preparation:

v Make sure the top and bottom edges of your quilt are straight. The quilt is loaded along the top and bottom, so this is really important.

v All threads should be trimmed, unless you'd like to leave them for added texture J. Any seams reaching the outside edge of the quilt should be reinforced to avoid them "busting open" when placed on the long-arm frame.

v The batting and backing should both be larger by the quilt by 4" on all four sides. Any larger and it must be trimmed; any smaller and we'd be nervous! (Example: A quilt top that measures 50" x 64" should have batting and backing the size of 58" x 72".)

v Unseamed backing is best, but not always feasible. If you must seam the backing, it is strongly recommended you make the seam run side to side (east/west) rather than from the top to the bottom (north/south) of the quilt. This avoids seam bulking as the quilt is rolled onto the long-arm machine.

o We suggest you make this seam at least 1/2" deep (rather than the quilting traditional 1/4" seam depth).

o Press the seam to one side rather than pressing it "open".

v Press all seams on the backside of your quilt top flat! Your quilt will be so much nicer if those seams are well-pressed.

v Carefully place a safety pin at the center of the top edge of both your quilt top and quilt backing. Many quilts are non-directional and we prefer you choose which edge will be the "top".

v Our batting pricing is comparable to what you'd pay retail for batting. If you choose to purchase your batting from us, then you will likely save a bit on shipping costs! You may choose to provide batting for your quilt as long as it is Dream Cotton, Warm and Natural, or Hobbs 80/20. Other batting types require pre-approval from us. The long-arm machine is a bit fussy as to which battings yield the best results.

v If you pre-washed your fabrics before you made your quilt top, then you should pre-wash the backing and binding fabrics as well.

v If we are preparing your binding, we'll let you know how much fabric to include.

v To keep your quilt clean, it is suggested you neatly fold and place your quilt top, backing, and batting (if applicable) inside a cotton pillowcase prior to packing and shipping. Write your name/phone number in Sharpie on the pillowcase edge.

v I've chosen to mail my quilt top to Quilt It For Me. How do I package it?

o Pack the items to be included (quilt top, batting perhaps, backing, binding fabric, etc) carefully in a sturdy box. Be sure to include a sheet with your name, address, email, and phone number inside the box. On the outside of the box clearly mark the mailing address as: Sheila Miller, 905 Hillside Drive, Grayson, GA 30017. On the outside of the box, do NOT indicate anywhere that a quilt top is inside. This is a security measure to avoid temptation to others who might be as interested in having a quilt as you are!

v How should I ship the package?

o You may use the carrier of your choice. We have no particular preference. However, you should insure the package. Quilt It For Me cannot be responsible for failed deliveries. Our business is in a very secure area, but your quilt may travel many miles between your home and Quilt It For Me. Please don't risk losing your masterpiece! Insure your quilt! If you are required to list contents at the time of purchasing shipping insurance, you should simply mark the contents as "bedding". It is a good idea to also use package tracking when you ship your quilt. If you make us aware of the carrier and the tracking number via email (email@quiltitforme.com), we'll keep an eye out for your quilt!

v How will I know the package made it?

o As soon as we receive the package, we'll contact you to let you know it arrived safely and discuss final considerations for quilting!

v How do you proceed once you receive my quilt top?

o First, we'll email you a final Invoice that outlines all services to be provided. This Invoice will include the final price. If your quilt will be shipped back to you, the return handling/shipping charge of $20.00 will be included on this Invoice. Once you email us back to confirm receipt and acceptance of the Invoice charges, we'll schedule your quilt to be completed.

o Once the quilt is completed, we'll contact you. Upon receipt of full payment, your quilt will be shipped to you.

v Additional questions?

o Send an email to email@quiltitforme.com with your additional questions or requests and we'll be happy to respond.