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LUV2QLT 05-17-2010 08:38 PM

Trying to keep myself from being down on the hard floor taping and pinning my layers - so questions about those basting sprays I've heard about her on the board -

1) Which brand is best?

2) Easier on my body than taping & pinning?

3) Can it be done indoors?

4) Is there a lingering odor?

5) Will it stain my fabrics?

6) Must the quilt be washed after use?

7) How long will it stay basted, if I want to fold & pack & tote it around for a couple of weeks while working on it while traveling?

8) Must I use something on the floor or wall for protection - or will any overspray have to be washed off floors or walls?

Thanks for any help! I'm really trying to save my back & knees!

virtualbernie 05-17-2010 09:03 PM

Those are great questions! I always worried about the overspray. I'll be watching this for answers! Looking to save my back and knees too!

Prism99 05-17-2010 10:12 PM

The consensus is that 505 is the best. Definitely easier on the body than pinning. It can be done indoors *but* provide good ventilation; all aerosols have products that are probably best not inhaled for any longer than necessary. 505 does not have a lingering odor but some of the other sprays do. I haven't heard of 505 ever staining a quilt; some unusual brands or very old cans seem to have problems. The quilt doesn't have to be washed after spray basting but it's probably a good idea just from the standpoint of removing chemicals from the fabric. My spray-basted quilts have stayed fine for many months; some people like to safety pin the edges for extra security. I advise using a sheet to catch overspray; just throw the sheet in the laundry afterwards.

dar627742 05-17-2010 10:35 PM

i have 3large,full cans ofbasting sprays...2 june tailor,1sullivans.the problem is that they were bought before y husband died in '91.have not even turned on my machines up until my bf "nagged me into quilting again !do i dare use them,should i test them on something just to be sure they won't ruin something ?or just pitch them ?i really want to try the 505,but hate to throw the rest away !!

virtualbernie 05-17-2010 10:43 PM


Originally Posted by Prism99
The consensus is that 505 is the best. Definitely easier on the body than pinning. It can be done indoors *but* provide good ventilation; all aerosols have products that are probably best not inhaled for any longer than necessary. 505 does not have a lingering odor but some of the other sprays do. I haven't heard of 505 ever staining a quilt; some unusual brands or very old cans seem to have problems. The quilt doesn't have to be washed after spray basting but it's probably a good idea just from the standpoint of removing chemicals from the fabric. My spray-basted quilts have stayed fine for many months; some people like to safety pin the edges for extra security. I advise using a sheet to catch overspray; just throw the sheet in the laundry afterwards.

Thank you very much for the info!

ckcowl 05-18-2010 02:32 AM

as for the old cans you have...test them on something small...they should be fine, but better safe than sorry. they may not (spray) so well anymore, ya know...spit blobs...so try them out before just pitching.
and, as far as the other questions...
if you are making a quilt someone else is going to wash...don't you think you should be the first one to wash it? just to make sure it comes out the way it should? i never let a quilt go that i have not washed after i finished it. unless it's a wall hanging not meant to be washed. that way if anything runs, or a seam comes loose, or whatever may happen happens to me...not the person who's going to freak right out..and i can remedy any issue before it goes. so if i use a basting spray (i don't) i would wash it out before the quilt goes onto a bed or out the door.
i seldom prewash my fabrics, but i ALWAYS wash a finished quilt, in what ever way i think the person getting the quilt is going to care for it. if it's for a kid, it's going to get washed alot...i want to know it's going to go through the wash and dryer ok before i give it to a kid who's going to be heart broken if something happens to it.

quiltinghere 05-18-2010 02:32 AM


Originally Posted by dar627742
i have 3large,full cans ofbasting sprays...2 june tailor,1sullivans.the problem is that they were bought before y husband died in '91. should i test them on something just to be sure they won't ruin something ?or just pitch them ?i really want to try the 505,but hate to throw the rest away !!

It does sound like you're concerned about these.
If it were me, I'd call the company and ask them (1. they won't know 2. they'll send you coupons for $$ off. 3. Maybe they'll send you new ones :) )
Next I would try them on something.
Last I would dispose of them...they're 9 years old and I wouldn't want to waste my sewing/quilting time on something that's 9 years old and may ruin my work.
Good Luck!

sewcrafty 05-18-2010 02:56 AM


Originally Posted by LUV2QLT
Trying to keep myself from being down on the hard floor taping and pinning my layers - so questions about those basting sprays I've heard about her on the board -

1) Which brand is best?

I've use June Tailors with no problems, not tried 505 yet.

2) Easier on my body than taping & pinning?

Most definitely!!!!

3) Can it be done indoors?

Yes. I do it in my LR with the windows open.

4) Is there a lingering odor?

Little, not bad though, goes away fast especially if windows are open.

5) Will it stain my fabrics?

Haven't had that problem.

6) Must the quilt be washed after use?

I always wash a quilt before I give it to someone. Its the just incase thing with me.

7) How long will it stay basted, if I want to fold & pack & tote it around for a couple of weeks while working on it while traveling?

Should not be a problem. The one thing I do do is pin around my borders. It helps in keep everything nice a taut.


8) Must I use something on the floor or wall for protection - or will any overspray have to be washed off floors or walls?

I usually put down an old sheet then start my layers. I've never gotten it on the walls. I'm spraying in a downward pattern so no overspray.


Thanks for any help! I'm really trying to save my back & knees!


Lisa_wanna_b_quilter 05-18-2010 06:39 AM

I tried basting spray once expecting to make a mess and hate it but I LOVED IT! I used June Tailor because that was what Walmart had. I may try the 505 because I hear so much good stuff about it.

sewnsewer2 05-18-2010 06:43 AM

1 Attachment(s)
505 is what I always use too, but I also bought these ratcheting clamps at home depot and now sandwich on my table much easier and no back pain!!

They cost about $6 each, I have 4 and want 2 more.

Holice 05-18-2010 06:50 AM

There is an interesting segment on The Quilt Show that shows hanging the quilt on the wall to spray baste. I havn't tried it but looks easy. yes you need to protect the table with paper or sheet or something. I basted on plywood that I put on the dining table with paper around the edges. . Learned that the most important thing is doing sections at the time and really smooth it down. I taught a class in which groups of students worked on spray basting tops for the class. Discovered that all spray basters are not equal. Some of the tops were well smoothed and other were not. Next time I will have only the quilter to do his or her own quilt. Then no one but themselves to blame if it doesn't come out correct.

JackieG 05-18-2010 07:29 AM

Not a fan of basting spray. I have only used June Tailor. I had some overspray on my tile floors. The nozzle kept getting clogged, so it dripped on the tile and grout. It totally ruined my floor and I can't get it out of the grout.

littlehud 05-18-2010 07:47 AM

I like 505 and it is definitively easier on the body than taping and pinning. I do mine indoors with the windows open and there is a little order but it dissipates in minutes. I have birds and it is not strong enough to bother them. It doesn't stain my fabrics. I would suggest washing after you are done. I have some that were spray basted a while ago and are still fine. I do baste around the edges though because they can come undone if it is handles a lot. I didn't put anything around my first quilt and the floor was sticky so protect your floors. I also had to lock up the cats because they were drawn to it and would walk where I had sprayed. Then their paws were sticky. Don't worry about them, I cleaned them up after I stopped laughing.

LUV2QLT 05-18-2010 08:13 AM

I appreciate all the responses to my questions - now a couple more questions on the same subject - does the basting spray work OK with the polyester high loft batting? That's what I have already purchased and prepared for this current quilt. This is a full size quilt - does the basting spray work OK on that size - or should it just be reserved for smaller projects?

Prism99 05-18-2010 08:33 AM


Originally Posted by LUV2QLT
I appreciate all the responses to my questions - now a couple more questions on the same subject - does the basting spray work OK with the polyester high loft batting? That's what I have already purchased and prepared for this current quilt. This is a full size quilt - does the basting spray work OK on that size - or should it just be reserved for smaller projects?

It works fine for large projects. Some quilters have said they spray baste polyester battings with no problem; others have a problem with it sticking to polyester. I suspect the difference may be in the brand of basting spray used. I don't remember anyone reporting a problem with 505, but it might be a good idea ask specifically about 505 and polyester batting in a separate post, so people with experience will respond.

I always use 100% cotton batting, so I don't have personal experience with basting spray and poly.

Tippy 05-18-2010 09:16 AM

I'm a new convert to basting spray.. I use 505 and it is AMAZING! If you get it one surfaces there is a chemical the company recommends for removing it.. so I use old rolls of cheap christmas wrap to catch the overspray. It says it can be used on synthetic or cotton batting.. it is EXTREMELY flammable so use in a well ventilated room with NO flames around. I love it because you can peel the fabric up and replace it if needed. It's truly amazing.

reach for the stars 2 05-18-2010 09:37 AM

I think it is more trouble than it looks. I have used it on small projects and it's ok, but large I go with basting pins.

Melinda in Tulsa 05-18-2010 09:45 AM

I *love* spray basting! So much faster and easier.

schwanton 05-18-2010 11:45 AM

I have basting spray (June Tailor) - have not used it yet. But I was advised by a woman in my guild never to spray on the fabric - spray on the batting for the top - place on the finished quilt top. Smooth then turn the quilt and repeat the process for the back. Good luck!

LUV2QLT 05-18-2010 12:19 PM

Getting more pluses than minuses from the board - so will pick up a can in the next day or two - gotta get moving on this latest quilt top - been procrastinating way too long - and knew it was bkz I didn't want to do the next step - layering (taping) and basting (pinning) - so will follow everybody's great suggestions, hints & tips - thank you all ever so much!

Melinda in Tulsa 05-18-2010 01:14 PM

I have a can of June Tailor, had to buy it as it was all they carried. I was surprised at how well it worked, altho the odor was kinda bad. I don't like it as well as 505 but it is was a larger can and cheaper than 505. After using a 40% off coupon, it was very reasonably priced. I wouldn't hesitate to buy more if I couldn't get 505.

JHolm 05-19-2010 03:01 AM

I used spray basting on several quilts. One which the batting was low loft polyester with no trouble. I don't have an area in my house big enough to baste a quilt so I take it to my church and pull together several Sunday School tables and baste it on top of them. I don't have real good ventilation but there is no lingering odor. I've never had problem with over spray and just wash the tables when I'm done. They stay together and quilt just fine. Good Luck. I never thought about washing my quilts before giving them away but that is a good idea and I will do that from now on.

Karen's Kreations 05-19-2010 04:14 AM

The first basting spray I used was in a pink & white can - can't remember the name of it but the odor was overpowering. I just bought a can of Sulky KK2000 from my LQS - haven't tried it yet but it's supposed to be odor free.
When the weather is nice I do it outside on a big table.
Had to get off the floor - getting down there was easy but crawling around on my knees?????OUCH!

LUV2QLT 05-19-2010 05:13 AM

I went on line to find pricing for the 505 - found a 17 oz. can at www.sewforless.com on sale for $13.49 - it comes in a red can but was told it was the same item, just a larger can and it is made in France instead of England - doesn't gum up the sewing needle - oderless & colorless - won't spot fabric, cleans up with soap & water - acid free - environmentally friendly & contains no fluorocarbons(?). I read all of the reviews (36), and it was given 4.5 stars out of 5. So, I bit the bullet and ordered 2 cans, so I now can only hope that it really is the same as the smaller cans of 505 that can be purchased locally! If not, I've learned another lesson! I'll let you all know how I do with using it! Thanks so much to everybody for all your suggestions, hints & tips - I really am hoping this stuff saves my knees & back!

pflum1 05-19-2010 05:36 AM

I like 505 and have had great luck with it.
I use my picnic table and another table the same height, put an old plastic table cloth over them, use clips on one end and gentle work the backing, batting and top with my hand as I roll it up to keep it smooth. Then I spray a short section, then unroll a little more, spray, etc. I have always got a very smooth quilt this way. I also use a few safety pins around the edge to keep it in place, just as a safety net. Never needed then so far.

vschieve 05-19-2010 07:22 AM

I HAVE USED THE Sulky; it is gentle and yes, it is odorless. Expensive; I bought it at JoAnns with a 50% off coupon. I am on my 2nd can. Now I want to try the 505 since everyone is raving about it. Where do you buy it?

Melinda in Tulsa 05-19-2010 09:23 AM

I think Hancocks is where I bought my 505. I just saw some on a website for $10.39 a can, but for the life of me, I can't remember where. If I find it, I'll post. Seems I paid around $13-14 for 505 at Hancocks.

Melinda in Tulsa 05-19-2010 09:26 AM

Found it...It is at Quiltinaday.com under *notions*. I hope the link works... http://www.quiltinaday.com/shoponline/notions.asp

hokieappmom 05-19-2010 12:35 PM


Originally Posted by sewnsewer2
505 is what I always use too, but I also bought these ratcheting clamps at home depot and now sandwich on my table much easier and no back pain!!

They cost about $6 each, I have 4 and want 2 more.

I use the extra large binder clips like you find in office supply stores. They are usually packed by the dozen and are much cheaper than the ratcheting clamps. I think Wal Mart may have them too. Work great too.

hokieappmom 05-19-2010 12:37 PM


Originally Posted by LUV2QLT
I appreciate all the responses to my questions - now a couple more questions on the same subject - does the basting spray work OK with the polyester high loft batting? That's what I have already purchased and prepared for this current quilt. This is a full size quilt - does the basting spray work OK on that size - or should it just be reserved for smaller projects?

I have used the 505 on polyester batting for a queen-size quilt and it was fine.

Sparky 05-19-2010 03:44 PM

505 will work with polyester. It's the best. No clogging of your machine or needle.

LUV2QLT 05-19-2010 05:09 PM

Thanks everybody - now I know not to fear using 505 with polyester - so I don't have to change my batting preferences! Waiting for my order to show up from 'sewforless.com' - a 17 oz. can for $13.49 (+ S&H) - will keep you posted on how it works for me - or should I say, how I work with it! ;o)

Delilah 05-19-2010 05:14 PM

Really don't want to sound like a know-it-all but I have spray basted over 100 quilts and have learned some tricks. I put down a big flannel sheet on my king size bed then spread the batting on that. Next I arrange the backing on the batting, pull back half the backing, spray, and smooth backing back. Makes no difference if you spray the backing or the batting, same results. Repeat for second half. Flip project over, arrange quilt top on batting, and follow the same procedure. I mostly use the June Taylor and purchase it from Joann's with a 40% off coupon. Have never had a gummed up needle and the layers stay together nicely for a LOOOONG time.

JoAnnGC 05-19-2010 05:30 PM


Originally Posted by JackieG
Not a fan of basting spray. I have only used June Tailor. I had some overspray on my tile floors. The nozzle kept getting clogged, so it dripped on the tile and grout. It totally ruined my floor and I can't get it out of the grout.

I used June Tailor also and was concerned when the overspray ended up on my table. I used rubbing alcohol to dissolve it and it cleaned right up without leaving any gumminess behind. This might work on your floor.

rahaube 05-19-2010 06:45 PM

I have used the June Taylor brand of spray bast and am very happy with the results. I first used it on a wall hanging for my daughter-in-law and am now using it on a large quilt. I am having much better results than I did with pinning. I recommend a painter's drop cloth for protecting against overspary. It works great and is safe. I use a plastic one but one that is heavy enough it does not tear easily. When done, I just fold it up and put it a way for next time. I too find it much better than crawling around on the floor to pin baste as I have done in the past.

Ditter43 05-19-2010 09:16 PM


Originally Posted by LUV2QLT
I appreciate all the responses to my questions - now a couple more questions on the same subject - does the basting spray work OK with the polyester high loft batting? That's what I have already purchased and prepared for this current quilt. This is a full size quilt - does the basting spray work OK on that size - or should it just be reserved for smaller projects?

I love 505 as many here know :lol: I just recently used it on a top that was poly cotton and a poly batting....I had no problems. I havent quilted it yet but it is still "stuck like glue"......It is a queen size.....I love, love, love 505!!

Ditter

nonnie60 05-19-2010 09:17 PM

I tried June Taylor and had a mess with sticky stuff all over . I hear 505 is good and got some in Paducha quilt show. You may want to try the iron on batting....Fusiboo by Fairfield and Hobbs. Email the companies and they will send you samples. I've tried it and it's neat stuff. No spray, No pins, No basting. Just sandwich and steam iron.Good luck.

craftybear 05-19-2010 09:23 PM

I will follow this thread, thank you

zz-pd 05-20-2010 01:00 AM

I love the spray bast, just so exspensive. God bless. Penny

quiltin mimi 05-20-2010 01:19 AM

I really like using basting sprays. But not June Tailor. I wound up throwing the can away after trying it once.


Originally Posted by JackieG
Not a fan of basting spray. I have only used June Tailor. I had some overspray on my tile floors. The nozzle kept getting clogged, so it dripped on the tile and grout. It totally ruined my floor and I can't get it out of the grout.



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