scraphq

All previous advice very good. In addition, I always baste around the outside edge and them fold the backing over the front and pin it with safety pins. It keeps the edges from fraying and prevents little bits of batting from being pulled out when you are moving the piece around a lot. So happy you are trying hand-quilting, am afraid it will be a lost art.

turner0106

Thanks to all of you for the wonderful advise. Since I am new to quilting I can not express how pleased I am that I found this board. I have learned a great deal from all of you. It is so nice to know that I have some place to go to ask all of my silly questions where I can get answers.

Thank you to all of you for taking the time to respond. And Happy quilting.

Diane

Val in IN

I handquilt too. I don't use a frame or a hoop. I thread baste the entire quilt using the above mentioned Sharon Shaumber method. I start in the center and work my way out to the edges in sections. I just lay the quilt on my lap and sew. I've never had a problem with puckers on the back even though I don't use a frame or hoop because I can feel the fabric underneath and smooth it as I go. Then I machine sew the binding on the front, turn it to the back, and hand stitch it down.

lillybeck

No question asked is a dumb question. This board is great for not being judgemental of anyone on here no matter what their skill and are eager to help.

ragladysews

I use the same process and it works great!

gramarraine

I know one person who binds before she quilts, I think it would be very difficult to do it that way and get your quilt to look nice. Just my opinion.

tkhooper

I think I'm the only one that prefers the pillow or envelope finish on a quilt rather than the binding. Admittedly it does leave me with a few puckers but that binding really gives me kittens.