You do not have to layer it, they do it. Each long arm quilter has different requirements as to how they want the top and backing done so make sure that you talk to them first. As to the batting, check with the quilter as to what batting they use. I usually do not supply the batting if the batting that the LAQ uses is acceptable. The cheapest services are for edge to edge quilting. If you require custom quilting the price is usually higher. In regards to the binding, I supply the binding and ask that they sew it on to the front of the quilt because I like to hand sew the binding to the back. If I mail my top and backing I always put them in a plastic bag just in case the box gets wet.