In order to ensure that the layers of fabric and basting are centered well, you can tape button to the center of the table – this enables you to feel where the central position is located. Also when positioning your quilt, make sure that the lengthwise grain of the lining runs from the top to the bottom of the quilt. The lengthwise grain should also be used as a guideline for securing the quilt, prior to stretching – this ensures that the quilt is not distorted.

When stretching, make sure that the fabric and basting is not stretched too much, or you will get a puckering effect. The best results are gained by starting your pinning of the fabric and basting from the center of the fabric and working your way to the outer edge. When laying pins, it is best to have them only 3 to 4 inches apart.

Batting, Needles and Thread

Cotton, or cotton blend batting tends to be the best type of batting to use when making a quilt. This is available in a wide variety of brands. When choosing needles and threads, make sure that you chose the threads that you want to use first and then match the needle size to the threads that you will be using. Often when fine thread is used good results are achieved. Make sure that you needles match the machine that you are using – usually information about needles is found in the Quilting machine’s manual. Changing your needles regularly can help avoid breakages.

Handy Tools
A great way to control the quilt is to buy some finger, or thumb rubbers with nodules on them to help with gripping the fabric. Another successful tool for quilting is the Quilt Sew Easy Hoop, which allows you to manipulate the fabric through the Quilting machine. Knit gloves are also an option.

Managing the Bulk

Sometimes by rolling up the excess quilting fabric and only having the area that you are going to quilt free, you will find that quilting is much easier. The result is that you will find that you have more arm room and it lowers the possibility of making mistakes.

Balancing Tension
Balancing tension is one of the most important aspects of maintaining your Quilting machine. To ensure that your Quilting machine operates at its best performance level, it is always a good idea to ensure that your Quilting machine gets a yearly checkup. Having a professional from the company that you bought the Quilting machine from to check you Quilting machine and make any required adjustments is highly valuable.