How to Attach Canvas Rollers on Quilting Frame

The quilting frame keeps your quilt fabrics tight while stitching the quilt. Quilters using roller-style frames apply canvas leader fabric to the length of the roller bar. The quilt fabric attaches to this leader with hand basting stitches during the setup phase. Securing the quilt layers to the canvas makes the quilt more manageable during quilting. The quilt is rolled on one roller and unrolls from the other roller as the users progresses with the quilting pattern.

Things You'll Need

• Utility knife
• Towel
• General purpose cleaner
• Canvas
• Pencil
• Double-stick carpet tape
• Duct tape

Instructions

Prepare the Roller

1. Remove the old canvas from the roller bar. If the canvas is worn or dirty from storage, cut the canvas from the bar with a utility knife. It is common to replace the canvas periodically due to wear. If your canvas remains in good condition. Do not remove, skip the cleaning instructions and simply install the rollers on the frame.

2. Clean the bare rollers to remove any debris, grease or residue. Use a towel and any general purpose household cleaner. Follow the directions on the cleaner bottle. Apply the cleaner to the towel and wipe the roller several times.

3. Cut the leader canvas fabric 103-inches by 16-inches. Center the canvas on the length of the pole. Place a reference mark at each end of the canvas on the pole with a pencil.

4. Cut a piece of carpet tape 103-inches long. Remove one side of the backing from the double stick carpet tape. Stick the carpet tape to the pole, lengthwise. Position the tape from one reference mark to the other reference mark. It is important to position the tape exactly straight. Remove and reposition the tape as necessary. Smooth it down to ensure it sticks. Take the protective backing off the tape.

5. Notice the direction the gear teeth are pointing on the end of the roller. Install the canvas fabric, wrapping it the same direction the gear teeth are pointing. Position the edge of the canvas over the tape and press. Position a piece of 103-inch duct tape half over the canvas and half over the roller. Press.

Install the Canvas Roller

1. Install a roller in the lower carriage. Slide the roller bolt, located on the end of the roller, through from the inside and go toward the outside. When the bolt is in the position, insert a nut on the end of the bolt. Tighten the bolt and nut.

2. Slide the roller bolt, located on the opposite end of the roller, through the other side of the quilting frame. This bolt also inserts from the inside. Insert a nut and tighten.

3. Repeat the instructions to install a roller in the upper and middle carriages.

4. Screw on T-knobs to each end of all the rollers.

Tips & Warnings

• Ticking fabric can be used in place of canvas.

• The canvas must turn the same direction as the gears on all rollers.

References

• Hinterberg Design: Attaching Apron and Quilt to Machine Frames (PDF)