newbee3

what kind of batting did you use and how far apart does it recommend for quilting. I think I would quilt it as recommended for your batting you would not have to quilt right up to the binding I really don't think it will bunch up on you. Your quilt is really cute.

Prism99

The batting you are using will determine how close together the ties need to be. If the batting requires quilting lines 4" apart, you actually want to have ties closer than that in all directions (because ties do not secure the layers as much as quilting lines do).

leoniet

Ah, you see I didn't know to check on the batting when I bought it. It was just from a generic extra-wide roll in the fabric shop! I'm almost certain it's standard polyester so I think I'll go closer with the ties than not, to be on the safe side. Thank you everyone!

bearisgray

You could center a knot in the center of every hexagon - or tie a knot at every intersection -

I think a knot at every intersection might be a bit harder to tie - but I also think it would be easier on the fabric - more layers, so less stress on any layer.

leoniet

That makes sense bearisgray - thanks. Would you use a particular kind of needle? I was just looking into it and have come across the concept of Betweens but can you just use a standard embroidery needle for tying?

QuiltnLady1

I agree -- tie at the intersections. If the batting is polyester it can probably be tied further apart, but since it will probably get washed a lot, I would tie more rather than less.

Beautiful top!!

Prism99

If you can, make up a sample from scraps to experiment with ties. The needle you use will depend largely on what you decide to use for the tie -- embroidery floss, yarn, crochet cotton, etc. Be aware that choosing something like yarn can mean you need to use a needle with a very large eye which, in turn, can be very difficult to work through the layers.

Betweens are probably neither long enough or strong enough for most ties. Usually you want a fairly long needle to tie.

Also be sure to check out tying techniques on the internet. When I started, I thought you would put a tie in, cut the thread, then tie the knot. However, there are ways of doing it so that you tie knots continuously and cut the thread only after a whole section of knots has already been tied. You also need to understand how to tie so the knots don't come out.

A practice swatch is good because you can make sure that your choices are going to work efficiently for you.

leoniet

Thanks everyone! And Prism 99 - good idea on the sample piece. Thanks. I'm going to try Pearl Cotton Embroidery Thread first as I have some lying around and we'll see! This is so kind of you all. So glad I get to finish this project properly.

Tartan

To tie or machine tack would probably be your best bet. If you try to do straight line quilting you would probably end up with some puckers on the back and might need to re-bind.

SewExtremeSeams

Looks like your baby thinks it looks terrific!

I agree, I would triple tie it.