I'm beginning a new quilt, and am considering having it quilted at my local quilt shop. In the past, I have always hand-quilted my quilts myself. Is there anything I need to do/not do when piecing my quilt that will make the quilting easier???

Just be sure to add four inches to the backing on all four sides. Plus if you have alot of pieced edges you might want to stitch around the outside edge.(stay stitching) so, if your quilt is 80x80 the backing should be 84x84

make sure that your seams are all pressed flat.

You really need to call the quilt shop and speak directly to the person who will be quilting for you. Communication is key. Find out how he/she wants the quilt.

My dear friend just sent me her quilt top, and as much as I love her it was a mess, so on that, be aware of your seams, open or closed all going one way and clip those thread ends LAQ's can be very fussy bout the condition on these areas, of the top you give to them and press it nice and flat. I am greatful the woman who LA's for me will tollerate my messhaps.

Actually backing should be 88 by 88... :thumbup:

Yes. Make sure your back is at least 4 inches bigger all the way around. It helps to have a pin put in the top of your top, batting, and back to mark the direction of your quilt. As long as you press all your seams after you sew them, they should be good.
It is a good idea to talk to the person that you want to quilt it to see if they have any requests.

Check with your quilter. Mine likes to have 6 inches added to each side. Also ask if he/she has any other suggestions.

Hi and welcome to Iowa. Just visit with your quilter and that should make it easy for both of you.

Your right carisma my math was lacking the day i wrote that. I did say four inches on all sides.