Everything you wanted to know but were too afraid to ask!
Long arm quilting may be new to you, but trust me, we all started somewhere! In this blog post I’ll discuss long arm quilting, what it is, how much it costs, and answer some frequently asked questions.
What is long arm quilting?
Long arm quilting is using a long arm sewing machine to sew together three layers (quilt top, batting, and the quilt back). Long arm sewing machines have a deeper throat and are much sturdier to withstand thousands of stitches.
When you think of a traditional sewing machine (like you’d see in a home ec. class) you’re most likely thinking of a short arm machine. Most short arm machines have a bout 8 inches of sewing space between the needle and the “throat” of the machine.
Long arm machines, by contrast have significantly more sewing space. My Gammill Statler has 30 inches of sewing space.
How does a long arm quilting machine work?
On all long arm machines the quilt top, batting, and back fabric are sandwiched and rolled on the frame. The quilt stays stationary as the machine moves over it, sewing one “strip” at a time. After each strip the quilt is rolled and a new strip is quilted.
Some long arm machines are manual. These machines typically have heavy duty handles on the sides for the operator to move an manipulate. More modern machines, (like mine) are computerized. The stitches are precise and nearly perfect.
What is edge to edge quilting?
Edge to edge quilting (also sometimes called E2E) is when one pattern is used all over the quilt. Think of the pattern like a stencil that repeats itself seemingly seamlessly.
Notice how the same quilting pattern repeats itself over and over. 
Don’t worry, I’ll remove the basting and loose threads! 
One of my favorite designs. Loops and circles are so beautiful! The white thread really pops against the red fabric. 
I have hundreds of edge to edge patterns for you to choose from! How fun is this one?? 
Holly leaves and little berries are the perfect touch for this Christmas quilt 
This cosmic edge to edge pattern is one of my favorites! Planets, stars,, moons and swirls for an outer space look. 
The machine is automated and moves around by itself for edge to edge quiltilng 
Straight lines and geometric forms are a fun way to give a quilt a modern look
What is custom quilting?
Custom quilting is when each block has the quilting designed especially for it. Custom quilting takes additional time for me to plan out the project, program specific points in the computer. It is a true art form, and a great way to create a unique heirloom quality piece. Custom quilting is a difficult skill that requires years of experience and very expensive equipment to do well.
How do I prepare a quilt for long arm quilting?
You need to get your quilt top to me, and decide if you want to provide the batting and back fabric (or if you want to purchase from me). I prefer each side have 3-4″ extra of batting and back fabric. So if your final quilt top is 110″ x 110″ I need your batting AND back fabric to be AT LEAST 116-” x 116″.
I sell batting at my cost (my current prices are listed here), and I also have numerous choices of backing fabric on hand to sell as well. This is a great option if you’re shipping the quilt top to me. Be sure to contact me to see what batting and back fabrics I have on hand.
How much does long arm quilting cost?
I strive to offer the BEST quality quilting to my customers at very competitive rates. For my current pricing information please check out this page.
