Preparing your quilt backing is an important step to finalizing your project in a clean manner. Careful preparation makes the quilt slide smoothly through the longarm quilting machine, giving the quilt that expert finish.
Below we’ll discuss everything you need to know, from backing size to directional fabrics, in order to set your quilt up for success.
Start with Size: Add 3–4 Inches on Every Side
Longarm quilting machines need extra fabric around the edges of your quilt top to secure the layers to the frame. Hence, one should leave 3-4 inches extra with backing on each side of the quilt top.
If the quilt top measures 60" x 80", the backing can safely be 66" x 86" at a minimum. This will allow free movement of the machine and will also keep the edges from getting damaged.
Backing Seams: Clean, Flat, and Strong
If the fabric backing is not wide enough, multiple pieces will have to be sewn together. Here is the right way to do it:
- Use a ½-inch seam allowance for durability
- Remove selvages before sewing — these woven edges are tighter and can pucker
- Press seams open to reduce bulk and avoid visible ridges
A smooth, well-prepared seam helps the longarm machine stitch without interruptions or uneven tension.
Don't Center Your Seam
With backing piecing, never put the seam right in the center. Instead, fold the fabric so that the seam is slightly off-center. Why?
- It balances visual weight from the back.
- Prevents the eye from being drawn to the seam
- Reduces stress on a single point of fabric
This simple shift improves the overall look and longevity of your finished quilt.
Custom Quilting? Allow for More Room
If your quilt features custom quilting, such as swags, scalloped borders, or curved edges, you will need to accommodate a bit of extra space.
Allow the backing an additional five to six inches on all sides to provide the longarm quilter adequate working space for detailed stitching and layout tinkering. A quick consultation with your quilter can help you adjust accordingly.
Mark Directional Fabrics Clearly
Using a fabric with a clear direction? Think florals, animals, or stripes? Put a note or stick a pin on the upper edge of your backing to help the longarm quilter orient the design with respect to your quilt top and avoid upside-down motifs in the final product.
What to Leave Out
Before you send your quilt for longarm quilting, check that none of the following are in or on your quilt backing:
- No pins — they can damage longarm needles.
- No buttons or embellishments — they're a hazard and must be added after quilting
- No adhesive batting — it can leave sticky residue on the machine
A clean, flat backing surface makes quilting easier, safer, and more consistent.
A Solid Foundation for a Beautiful Finish
Backings appear to be just some kind of behind-the-scenes thing, but the real question is whether the quilt turns out well or not. Sizing, seam placement, and a bag full of small decisions altogether make the longarm quilting process a much smoother one.
At Fabrics by the Creek, we offer quality-backed quilt fabrics and friendly guidance to prep you confidently. Whether it is your first quilting experience or a fabulous new finish, we are here for you.