I'm sorry you had all these problems, and am really glad you posted about it. It is even better that you have figured out a way to turn her lemons into lemonade as Irma Bombeck would say.

I have learned so much from all the answers and solutions offered. I had never really thought about what to do if there was a lot of slack in a quilt top. I don't pre-wash my fabrics, so am now going to be looking for one of those hand held steamers, just to have on hand. And, I like your minimal free motion quilting. It greatly enhances without making it look like it is too heavy. Great job.

That looks great! Nice save :)

Wow! Impressive solution! There's nothin' a bunch of quilters can't do when they put their collective experiences to work, is there! You people are the best!!!!!!! I say requirements for the next president of the United States should include being or becoming a quilter. Who else has such productive problem solving skills, now I just ask you :thumbup:

If anyone is interested in the end result, here's a picture of the finished quilt. I'm really pleased with how it came out - not perfect, but I didn't expect that given the starting point. I sure hope she's happy with it.

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Beautiful job! I really hope she appreciates the miracle you've performed.

Cari

One would never know that you had to work in all that puffiness.
The quilting is lovely.

Wow, that looks great!!! You did an amazing job. I thought it was a lost cause, based on your first picture.

Dina

that does look great! I agree - was really concerned w/ your first picture.

That looks amazing. Well done!

I think you've done a marvellous job. Simple, but beautiful.