I've finished my first huge quilt (king size) that I can't possibly quilt myself and do it justice. I've given myself a crash course in pantograms vs. free quilting on a long arm. I know that at least generally speaking a simple pantogram design should be cheaper to quilt than a customized job that quilts different designs according to the various shapes found in the blocks and borders and sashing. I also know better than to just say do whatever you think would look best. Can some one give me a general idea of ballpark quilt charges? I plan to go to a local quilt shop and get some names of people they trust. I also know that cheapest is not always the best in the long run. I'm just trying to brace myself for the prices. Are they usually priced per block, per inch, or what? All advice appreciated.

They are priced per inch and yes, custom is much more expensive. You also have to figure the cost for the backing & batting if you aren't supplying it and since it's king size--plan on $200+ for pantograph up to $400 and up for custom. The reputation, ribbons, and demand will play a major factor in the prices. Mailing it off to a more competitive area might be your best bet. Check out the longarmers on this board in the classified section.

what's a ribbon - showing my ignorance here.

PM stewyscrewy and give him your quilt size and ask him for a price, his work is beautiful and he's priced very reasonably.

A good la quilter in my area charges for a king are $70 pantograph; $86 meander. Add 15% for varigated thread. Not sure about custom. This doesn't include batting or backing. Additional charge for prep work (pressing, etc.) I think she's reasonable and always busy. Usually 4-6 week wait.

Do most people want the quilt top already "assembled" onto the backing and batting or can I just hand over the backing, the batting, and the quilt top? It seems like if I were the one doing it, I'd rather set the 3 up like I wanted them and not have to undo what another person had done if they had not done it 'my' particular way.

I asked a local lady here in VA. and it is 1 cent per square inch.

Awards they have won (ribbons).

Where in VA? I'm in richmond/.

Different longarmers prefer it done different ways but no, they don't want it assembled because of the way they attach the top, batting and backing to their frame. The main differences you'll find among longarmers besides the prices & skill; is how they prefer the backings to be pieced--seams parallel to the frame, how much extra backing they want and whether or not you can supply your own batting or thread.