Glue Basting and Fabric Preparation Tools at Linda's Electric Quilters
Glue basting has largely replaced pin basting for applique, English paper piecing, and binding preparation. This guide covers the essential adhesives and prep tools. Related reading: GO! Sticky fabric basting, Best Press spray starch, and fusible web and tape adhesives.
Glue Baste It by Roxanne
Glue Baste It (2oz) is the most popular liquid fabric glue for quilters -- a water-soluble, fine-tip glue applicator for basting applique pieces, English paper piecing hexagons, binding, and any application where a light, temporary fabric adhesive is needed. The glue washes out completely and doesn't gum needles or distort fabric. The Roxanne formula is noticeably finer and more controllable than generic fabric glues. One of Linda's highest-velocity accessories at 391 orders.
Quilters Select Glue Stick Refill
Glue Stick Refill in Yellow for the Quilters Select precision-tip glue stick system. The yellow colour allows you to see where glue has been applied before it dries clear -- critical for precise placement applications like English paper piecing and applique.
Glue Stick Precision Tip
The precision tip glue sticks (available in Blue and Pink) provide a narrow, controlled glue application for fine placement work. The precision tip format allows applying a thin bead of fabric adhesive exactly where needed without excess coverage.
Spray Mister Bottle by Mary Ellen
Mary Ellen's Spray Mister is a purpose-built quilting spray bottle -- fine, consistent mist rather than the uneven spray of standard bottles. Used for dampening fabric for pressing, applying Best Press evenly, and dampening fabric for accurate bias cutting. The fine mist prevents water spotting on delicate fabrics.
Fabric Tube Maker by Clover
The Fabric Tube Maker (4022) is a precision tool for making narrow fabric tubes and straps -- insert a strip of sewn fabric, draw through the tool, and the fabric tube turns right side out cleanly without distortion. Used for sashing loops, bag handles, applique stems, and Celtic applique work.
Shop Fabric Prep Tools at Linda's
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Glue Baste It wash out completely?
Yes -- Roxanne Glue Baste It is fully water-soluble and washes out completely in a normal wash, leaving no residue. Use small dots rather than lines; a tiny dot every half inch holds securely and rinses away without stiffening the fabric.
Will glue basting gum up my needle?
Used correctly, no. Apply sparingly and let the glue dry (or heat-set briefly with an iron) before stitching through it. Wet glue on the needle is the usual cause of gumming -- dry glue stitches cleanly with both hand and machine needles.
Why use a coloured glue stick for fabric?
Coloured precision-tip glue (yellow, blue, or pink) shows exactly where adhesive has been applied before it dries clear -- essential for English paper piecing seam allowances and applique edges where placement accuracy determines the finished result.
