Is one method preferable? I never tied a quilt but this one might look nice tied.

I have never tied before either. Personally I don't like the tied look.

Pictures? That would help me give an opinion. I generally machine quilt, but I like tied quilts in some cases. My feeling is that a tied quilt will not hold up to as much hard wear and tear, but it takes less time -- so it's a trade off.

RST

I found a shop that does mendering (think that is how its spelled) for 35.00 for each of my quilts. I pick them up on Saturday....for that price I said Why not...can't wait to see what they look like.

Wow, that's great!

Have done both, whatever works best for you :)

I find that machine quilting wears much better than tying. The first quilts I made were tied and with repeated washing, the ties eventually pulled out and in some cases ripped the fabric. I used yarn for my ties and I know this is not as much a problem with floss or crochet cotton. I also find that I can machine quilt as fast or faster than tying. Many of today's batting will let you machine quilt up to 8" -10" apart so I can quilt a full sized quilt in an evening. Either method will work so choose what works for you.

I have always felt that a quilt should be quilted not tied. I'm very tactile....I like the feel of the quilting...especially after it's been laundered a few times. I also feel it holds up better.

Thanks. This is a quilt for a foster child so I will machine quilt. It should be durable.

I perfer the quilting however I am the quilt I am almost finished with is going to be tied. I think it would look better tied to make the appearance more "puffier".