How to Price Longarm Quilting Services — A Guide for Longarm Businesses

Setting prices for longarm quilting services is one of the most challenging aspects of running a longarm business. Price too low and you lose money; too high and you lose customers. Here’s a practical framework for pricing your longarm work profitably.

Linda’s Electric Quilters Business Guide

Common Pricing Models

Model	How It Works	Best For	Pros / Cons
Per square inch	Measure quilt top, multiply by rate	All-size studios Most Common	Fair to customer; requires measuring
Per linear inch	Count rows of quilting stitched	Pantograph work	Easy for pantographs; complex for custom
Flat rate by size	Set price for crib/twin/queen/king	Simple studios, beginners	Easy to communicate; less accurate
Hourly rate	Track and charge time	Custom quilting Custom	Fair for complex work; hard to estimate

Sample Pricing Framework (2025)

Service	Typical Range	Notes
Pantograph edge-to-edge	$0.015–$0.025/sq in	Queen = approx $65–$110
Custom quilting	$0.03–$0.06/sq in	Or $50–$100/hr
Batting (customer provides)	No charge or small handling fee
Batting (you provide) — Hobbs 80/20	Material cost + 15–25% markup	~$6–$8/yd installed
Backing (if customer provides)	Loading fee $10–$20
Machine binding	$0.15–$0.25/linear inch	Queen perimeter ≈ 400” = $60–$100
Hand binding	$0.25–$0.50/linear inch	Premium service

▶ Pricing Principle Know your costs first. Add up: machine payment or depreciation, thread (approximately $0.50–$2.00 per quilt), batting markup, time, electricity, and business overhead. Your price must cover all costs plus a reasonable return for your skill and time. Underpricing devalues the entire longarm industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I charge extra for difficult quilt tops?

Yes — a badly pieced top that requires extra loading time, a very complex custom design, or rush turnaround all justify surcharges. Many operators charge a “difficult top” fee or build it into a minimum charge. Communicate these policies upfront in writing.

Should I charge for thread?

Most longarm operators include standard thread in their base pricing. Premium threads (King Tut, variegated) are often upcharged $5–$15 per quilt. Be transparent about this in your pricing menu.

How do I compete with low-priced online longarm services?

Compete on quality, communication, turnaround time, and the personal experience of working with a local quilter who understands the project. Customers who care about their quilts will pay fair rates for personal service. Compete on value, not on price.

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