Prepare backing by pressing it well. Lay it right side down, on a large flat surface (such as a table or floor), and secure it around all edges with masking tape, stretching it tight and flat.

When you begin pressing seams, you can either press them open or to the side, but for this quilt, we will press our seams open. Pressing Seams Open: To press your seams open, first press them closed. What? I know, hang with me. As soon as you pull the stitched seam off the sewing machine, the seam is flat, and the fabrics are together.

If you started your sewing journey making garments, you are likely familiar with a 5/8” seam allowance. My first quilt used a 5/8” seam allowance and well, it was bulky and clunky.

For a quilt, the seam allowance should always be ¼” unless otherwise stated in the pattern. This length maximizes your fabric and minimizes your bulk.

Cutting your fabrics correctly is a critical step in a lovely quilt. Incorrect cuts can not only waste fabric but cause frustration when you begin trying to match up your seams. The Golden Rule for Quilting is “measure twice and cut once.”

There is a bit of debate in the quilting world about whether you should prewash your fabrics. Like with all hobbies, there are purists who can suck the fun out of it and become “police.” Here’s what you really need to know to make the best decision for you.

Batting can is sold in individual pre-cut sizes like Crib, Twin, Throw, Queen, and King. It is also sold on long 10, 15, or even 30-yard rolls. Your quilt may be a size other than standard, so be sure to consider that when purchasing. You want your batting to be 3-5” larger on every side if you are having your quilt finished by a longarmer. If you are quilting it yourself, I prefer the batting to be 2-4” longer on all sides.

For 100% cotton fabric in quilting, I recommend you use 100% cotton thread. When choosing thread for quilting, you also need to consider the weight and the ply. When looking at thread numbers the top number is usually associated with the weight and the bottom number with the ply.

Choosing the fabric for your first or next quilt is important. Not all fabrics are created equal. It is important to choose a high quality fabric so the quilt will last and stand the tests of use and time.