Longarm Quilting Service Checklist — What to Ask Before Sending Your Quilt

Longarm Quilting Service Checklist — What to Ask Before Sending Your Quilt

Sending a quilt to a longarm service for the first time can feel nerve-wracking. Here’s exactly what to prepare, what to ask, and what to check before and after the quilt leaves your hands — so every quilt comes back beautiful.

Linda’s Electric Quilters Expert Guide

Before You Send: Preparation Checklist

Task Why It Matters
Press the quilt top completely Unpressed tops create tucks and distortion under the longarm Essential
Square the quilt top Crooked tops can’t be fully corrected on the frame
Fix any loose threads or open seams Thread tails and open seams get caught in longarm stitching
Check backing is large enough Minimum 4" overage on all sides; 6–8" is better Critical
Press backing seams open Thick backing seams show through as ridges in the quilting
Communicate thread and design preferences Give specific guidance — don’t assume the quilter will guess
▶ The Most Important Thing A well-prepared quilt top makes the longarm quilter’s job possible — a poorly prepared one makes it impossible to do their best work. The time you spend pressing, squaring, and fixing your top before sending directly determines the quality of the result you get back.

Questions to Ask Your Longarm Service

Ask before sending

  • What backing size do you require?
  • Do you provide batting or do I need to send it?
  • What thread colors do you stock?
  • What is your turnaround time?
  • What pantograph designs are available?

When picking up or receiving

  • Check that all thread tails are secured
  • Check that binding corners are even and square
  • Check that the backing is flat with no tucks
  • Review the quilting design as agreed
  • Ask about care instructions for the batting used

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if my backing is too small?

Most longarm operators will contact you and ask for a new backing or a backing extension. Some will add a strip to the backing themselves (with your agreement) and charge for the material and time. Never assume a small backing will be OK — it leads to an unusable quilt.

How do I communicate my design preferences?

The more specific you can be, the better. Rather than “I want something pretty,” say “I’d like a feather meander in medium density with a warm cream thread.” Photos of quilts you love are extremely helpful. Most professional longarm operators appreciate specific direction over vague guidance.

What is a reasonable turnaround time?

Busy longarm services typically have 2–6 week turnaround. Rush fees are common for faster turnaround. Plan ahead — holiday and quilt show season create backlogs. If you have a deadline, communicate it clearly upfront.

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