Pros & Cons of floating a top!
 

I started out pinning the back and rolling it , adding the batting and then pinning the top and rolling it. Later I saw someone floating the top, I did it and liked it better.

I told the person that taught me that I now float my tops and she was in disbelieve that I would do that. Some times I find that it is easier to work in a top that is not too square... What do you LAers do??

Could you please explain the floating process? Anything that could make life easier with a domestic machine is welcome!

i always liked floating my tops. sometimes, though, they can go crooked, so that needs to be watched

I like floating my tops and have found the clips (got mine from Jamie Wallen) keep the top snug when extra tension is needed.

Does this technique only apply to long arm quilting?

I think so

Yes, this is a frame quilting technique. No way to float a top with a domestic machine, I'm afraid!

I tried floating, but found I get better results the traditional way -- keeps everything square and even.

I've always floated my tops, and use a longarm tape to keep them from going crooked. It works like a charm! Wouldn't be without it. I align the markers along each edge and every sash. Really keeps things square.
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Here's a picture of it "in action":
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MFord, "floating" is when only the top edge of the quilt is attached to the frame, and the rest just hangs over the bar. I float my top and batting, but attach the backing to keep it taut, since it's harder to see. I used to float it all, but when I ended up with a fold in my backing that I didn't catch until later, I started rolling my backing again. Here's a quilt floated:
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Cindi... thanks ever so much for posting that! I saw it in a picture here once [may have been on your setup] and thought that I really need to get myself one of those!!!