Backing

Let Us Handle the Seams

We have all been there: the quilt top is finished, the threads are trimmed, but the thought of measuring, cutting, and sewing that large expanse of backing fabric feels like one step too many.

If a missing backing is the only thing standing between you and a finished quilt, let Mane Line Quilting take that task off your plate. We offer professional backing piecing to ensure your quilt has a flat, secure, and square foundation.

Professional Piecing Services

When you send us your yardage, we will professionally sew and square your backing to meet the necessary dimensions for the longarm frame.

Standard Backing Piecing: $15.00

• We will sew your yardage together using as few seams as possible.

• We take care to remove selvages before seaming to prevent “puckering” and ensure the backing lays perfectly flat during the quilting process.

• Note: This service is for piecing from standard yardage (not scraps or fat quarters).

Pattern Matching: $35.00

• If you have a large-scale print or a bold geometric design, a standard seam can sometimes feel disruptive. We can meticulously match the pattern across the seam so the backing appears seamless.

• Pro Tip: If you request pattern matching, please provide an extra 1/2 yard of fabric. Intricate patterns often have large “repeats,” and we need that extra length to align the design perfectly.

Backing Requirements for Longarming

Whether you piece it yourself or have us do it for you, every backing must meet these “Safety & Security” standards to be loaded onto our Longarms:

1. The 5-Inch Rule: Your backing must be at least 5 inches larger than your quilt top on all four sides. For example, if your quilt top is 60" x 70", your backing should measure at least 70" x 80". This extra fabric is essential for the rollers, side-clamps, and tension testing.

2. Squaring Up: A squared backing ensures that the tension remains even across the entire quilt. If the backing is “wonky,” it can lead to tucks or pleats on the back of your finished project.

3. Selvages: Please remove the internal selvages if you are piecing the backing yourself. Selvages do not stretch the same way the rest of the fabric does, which can cause tight spots in the quilting.

Directional Fabrics

If your backing fabric has a clear “up and down” (like a landscape print or lettering), please let us know by marking which is the top! We will ensure the backing is oriented to match the top of your quilt so everything faces the right way when the project is complete.

Ready to Begin?