How to Long Arm Quilt

Long arm quilting is perhaps the most efficient and technologically advanced method available today. Though it requires an initial outlay for a long arm quilting machine which may be quite expensive, proficient long arm quilters often operate successful small businesses by finishing quilts for a fee.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Thread
• Long arm quilting machine
• Quilting frame
• Batting
• Quilt top
• Quilt backing

1. Start by preparing your quilt for quilting. Trace the quilting pattern onto the right side of the quilt top with either tracing paper or a water soluble marker or pencil. Many quilters also use lightweight tracing paper to mark their design by simply pinning it to the quilt top before sewing. The paper can be ripped off after sewing is complete.

2. Layer your quilt. Start by placing the quilt backing face down on a large flat surface. Smooth out any wrinkles and then place the quilt batting over it, repeating the smoothing process. Finally place the quilt top right side up on top of the two layers.

3. Baste your quilt layers together if you do not have a three pole quilting frame. You will need to work out from the center of the quilt to ensure that the layers remain straight and do not develop wrinkles or folds.

4. Load the quilt onto the quilting frame by following the manufacturer's directions.

5. Use a long arm quilting machine to great success with continuous line quilting patterns. With long arm quilting, you will be moving the sewing machine around the quilt, as you would draw on a piece of paper, making continuous line designs.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have never seen a long arm quilting machine in operation, look for a quilt show in your area. Vendors are generally present at these events and free demonstrations are held for the general public. It is a great way to preview this expensive machinery before purchasing it.