Originally Posted by Maia B
So if a top is 40x40", and you piece the backing just to have the excess needed to load it on the frame, then how can you do it so that the added pieces end up trimmed off? I've seen some pieced backs that must require some pretty precise positioning...
when the (longarmer) loads a quilt the backing is fastened to leads- and rolled up on roller bars- then the top is loaded- and rolled up= then the backing is pulled across the quilting area and again fastened to leads- (pinned or basted) the top is brought up over the backing and the batting is (floated) inbetween- clamps are used to hold the backing/batting taut on the sides-
if you work closely with the long-armer---and they are willing to do the extra work/time they may try to line things up===but as the quilt is quilted the backing/batting draws up---much like doing embroidery or applique---which is why you need extra fabric/batting in the first place- so things are not likely to stay---lined up
after the quilting is finished and removed from the frame you lay it out and trim/square it in preparation for binding...cutting off the excess backing/batting