Hand quilting the border question...
 

Hello all! It is time to mark the 3.5" border for DH's quilt. I want the quilting to be centered, of course, and I'm pretty sure where the binding will be... do I try to center the quilting in that space... OR would it be ok to quilt that last border after binding the quilt? Please remember... even though I've been (trying to be) a quilter for years, I still consider myself a beginner!! Help, please??? THANK YOU!!

I wouldn't bind it first, because you won't be able to smooth away any puffiness in the fabric. I would center it the best I could, quilt it then bind.

Good luck!

Janet

I agree with Hinterland. Quilt first then bind. It will lay a lot nicer that way.

Yes... that's what I thought... I'm thinking I should re-baste the edge of the quilt to the backing... (there are 3-4" of backing beyond the front of the quilt) to stabilize before quilting? I'm also understanding the "half hoop" for quilting the borders, and wishing I had one!!

Any suggestions will be MOST welcome!!! And thank you, all, for your help!!

remember, though, that the outermost 1/4" will be in the binding, so center it with that not included.

I would certainly quilt before binding as well and definitely take into consideration the 1/4" seam allowance for the binding when centering your quilting motif. You may/may not need to re-baste. Do it if it makes you more comfortable. I only use my round hoop even when quilting edges. Granted, need to move it more frequently but that doesn't bother me.

you can always make your round hoop to work as a half hoop by adding fabric to your border to make it fit the round one. then move the fabric down and re-pin to border as you go. good luck.

I love you guys!!! I might have (eventually) figured that out... but I KNEW there would be great advice here!!!
THANK YOU!!!!!

I have basted... it really did need it... well, maybe since I'm not as experienced... but I do feel better about it..
Again... thank you everyone for the advice!! Keep it coming :-D