Longarm FAQ

Got questions? You're in good company! Here are the ones I hear most. If yours isn't here, just ask. I'm always happy to help.

What is edge-to-edge quilting?

It's a pretty repeating design stitched all the way across your quilt, holding the top, batting, and backing together. Think of it like an all-over pattern rather than quilting each block separately.

Can I book if this is my first quilt?

Absolutely! I love first quilts. I'll walk you through every step, and there's no such thing as a silly question.

How do I pick a quilting design?

Browse my pantograph gallery, or tell me about your quilt and I'll narrow it down to three favorites. You make the final call, unless you'd rather I choose.

What if I find a design you don't have?

Send it my way! If it's a good fit for my library, I'll buy it. If it's very specific to your project, we'll talk about any added cost first.

Do I need to bring thread?

Nope, thread's on me. Just pick a color you love, or let me suggest one. (During the soft launch, I'm only using my own thread.)

Can I bring my own batting?

Yes! Bring your own, or ask about buying batting from me.

How much bigger does my backing need to be?

At least 4 inches bigger than your quilt top on every side, so 8 inches bigger overall in both width and length. My prep guide walks you through it.

Does my backing seam have to be horizontal?

Nope! Horizontal is nice when you can, and pressing seams open helps, but it's not a must.

Can you quilt minky or other specialty backings?

Maybe! Reach out before you buy so we can talk about your specific fabric.

Will you fix problems with my quilt?

If I spot something that could affect how your quilt turns out, I'll stop and reach out to you before doing anything. No surprise charges, ever. Some fixes I can do for a quote, and some might need to go back to you first.

Do you wash quilts?

I don't, so please bring your quilt reasonably clean.

Do you offer binding?

Not during the November soft launch, but stay tuned!

Will you trim my quilt?

Only if you'd like me to, and it's free during the soft launch.

How long will it take?

It depends on my current schedule. When we go over your quilt, I'll give you an estimated finish window, and I'll let you know if anything changes.

Can you rush my quilt?

Not during the soft launch, but I may offer rush spots in the future.

Where do I drop off my quilt?

Drop-off is by appointment in Eagle Lake, just outside Mankato. If it's easier, we can arrange pickup of your finished quilt at St. Clair State Bank.

Are there pets in your home?

We have two cats, including our newest kitten! Neither one is allowed in my quilting room, so your quilt stays fur-free. Our home is smoke-free too.

Will you share photos of my quilt?

I take photos at drop-off and when it's done, just for my records. I'll only share them publicly with your permission. If you're getting soft-launch pricing, photo sharing is part of the deal. Making a gift? Tell me the reveal date and I'll keep it secret until then!

Can you quilt fabric for bags and other projects?

Yes, that's something new I'm offering! If you're making a tote, pouch, jacket, or basket, I can quilt your fabric so it's ready to cut and sew. Just contact me before you buy foam or stabilizer so we can make sure it'll work on Birdie.

Still have questions?

Send me a message here, and I'll get back to you!