How to Layer a Quilt for Basting

Quilting can be done with a machine or needle and thread

Quilts are typically comprised of three layers: a quilt top that features patchwork or applique elements, soft batting material in the center and a solid piece of fabric at the back. These three layers must be lined up evenly in order to be temporarily joined together. This basting process allows the quilter to sew or tie the layers together permanently, or to do more work on the quilt top. Once that step is completed, the basting is removed and the final step of binding the edges can commence.

Things You'll Need

• Finished quilt top
• Basting material
• Backing fabric
• Ruler
• Scissors
• Straight pins
• Sewing machine or needle and thread

Instructions

1. Measure the dimensions of the finished quilt top with a ruler.

2. Use the ruler and scissors to measure and cut a piece of batting material and a piece of backing fabric that larger around the edges than the quilt top. If you are making a small quilt, cut the batting and backing fabric to be 2 inches larger than the quilt top around the edges. If you are making a larger quilt, cut the batting and backing fabric to be 3 inches larger.

3. Lay the backing fabric out flat with the wrong side facing up.

4. Lay the batting material directly on top of the backing fabric, so that the edges line up evenly.

5. Lay the quilt top with the right side facing up top of the batting material, so that it is directly centered with an even 2- or 3-inch space of batting extending past each side of the quilt top

6. Insert a straight pin into the center of your quilt. Add more straight pins spaced 6 inches apart until the entire quilt surface is pinned.

7. Baste your quilt layers together with a sewing machine or needle and thread. Use a loose running stitch to connect the lines formed by the pins.

Tips & Warnings

• Use sewing thread in a color that contrasts with the quilt top to baste your quilt. This will make the basting highly visible and easier to work with when you remove the stitches.

References

• "Reader's Digest Complete Guide to Needlework"; 1979
• Quilting 101: Assembling the Quilt Sandwich
• Quilting 101: Basting/Tacking the Quilt
• Quilt Chat: General Quilting Instructions
• Ideas for Quilting: Layering the Quilt