Originally Posted by May in Jersey
What is a resonable amount of time to expect your quilt back if the longarm quilt doesn't give you her turnaround time? I've used this longarm quilter in the past and a month was her turnaround time. Gave her one a few months ago with a due date of 1 month, she didn't say anything about it being too soon, etc. After 6 weeks I called her and she said "when do you need it?", told her wanted to gift it the next weekend and she had it for me in a few days.
Gave her 2nd quilt when I picked first one up, agreed on due date of 7/23 - a month. Asked should I call you? No, she said she'd call me. Here it is Aug. 9 and I haven't heard from her even after I've called her last week. Thought I'd ask here if I'm being unreasonable wanting my quilt back after almost 7 weeks. She does excellent work, gives guild members a reasonable price but it isn't worth it if I have to beg to get my quilts back. The one she has now is a queen size, simple meander requested and I want it back so I can add binding. It's for DS#2 and his wife's 30th anniversary which will be in 2 weeks. Let me know what you think, May in Jersey
I think you should call her and explain that you expected your quilt to be done around July 23, and were wondering if there is a problem. Tell her it is for a gift and you need it next week.
I'm a longarmer, and I give scheduled due dates, typed in black and white on the first line of my workorder.
If my machine needs a part, or I am injured and out of commission, the quilt is going to be late. I usually know it long before the quilt is due, because I don't cut it close with my schedule.
I have had several situations where quilting was delayed. once my stepmom was very ill and I needed to take care of her. Once I was on crutches. Once my machine needed a part and they sent the wrong one--it was down a week that time--grrr!
Life happens. But when it does, I can look at my project plan,see what's next and know what will be delayed.I ALWAYS call my clients and explain, and give the option of coming to get their quilt without it being quilted. I haven't had anyone take me upon it. But I know 3 good local longarmers who I admire and trust, and I will refer clients to them if necessary.
Good luck to you with this situation. I hope you get your quilt in time for the anniversary!