Ask a Quilting Expert Archives | National Quilters Circle

My Batting Won’t Stop Slipping!

January 10, 2020 By Editor & filed under Ask a Quilting Expert, Blog.

My batting is always slipping and stretching when I use my regular sewing machine. I've tried a walking foot and even lowered my dogs, and still the batting squishes out. I'm only using 2 - 3 layers of fabric. HELP PLEASE! What am I doing wrong? Read More

How Do I Use Lutradur For Photo Printing?

September 28, 2018 By Editor & filed under Ask a Quilting Expert, Blog.

I am very interested in using Lutrador for printing photos on a quilt. Can the printed photos be stitched to the fabric and then quilted lightly? Will it last if stitched onto the quilt fabric or will it eventually deteriorate? Can it be washed? I can’t find this information. I Googled “Lutrador” and found various places to purchase it, but not explanation of details for its use. Read More

Should I Start Prewashing My Fabric?

September 28, 2018 By Editor & filed under Ask a Quilting Expert, Blog.

I have figured out that quilters seem to have strong opinions about prewashing or not. It just made me wonder, if you always feel the need to prewash, does that mean you never use precuts? If you do use them without problems, then doesn't that negate the reason for prewash. I don't prewash, but have never used a dark color I thought might bleed. I'm just trying to figure out if I need to start prewashing. Read More

Wash Appliquéd Quilt Top?

January 8, 2018 By Editor & filed under Ask a Quilting Expert, Blog.

I have spent a year and a half on very densely appliquéd quilt top and I would like to know if it would be acceptable to wash it with Synthrapol before putting the batting and backing on it. Read More

Can I Free Motion Quilt on a Regular Sewing Machine?

April 4, 2017 By Editor & filed under Ask a Quilting Expert.

Hello! I would really like to take the class, Fabulous Free Motion Quilting, but I have a question. I have a quilting machine, but it’s really more like a regular sewing machine. Would I still be able to do this? Also, is free motion quilting okay to try as a beginner? Read More

How to Repair Holes and Tears in Quilt Tops

January 24, 2017 By Editor & filed under Ask a Quilting Expert, Blog.

Hi there, I’m hoping you can help me. I have a newly finished quilt that got a small hole in the top from my cat’s claws. What’s the best way to repair this so that my quilt still looks okay? Read More

What to Include on Quilt Labels

December 26, 2016 By Editor & filed under Ask a Quilting Expert, Blog.

When making a quilt label, is it appropriate to include the name of the person who designed the pattern? And is it necessary to contact the designer of a quilt pattern to receive permission to enter a quilt (made using that pattern)… Read More

Can I Mix Old and New Fabrics?

October 25, 2016 By Editor & filed under Ask a Quilting Expert, Blog.

I have inherited some hand piecing work from my mom. They were probably pieced during the 1920s or 30s. I’m thinking of making borders from new fabric (with an older, heirloom look), but I am a little concerned about incorporating old and… Read More

Where Should I Place My Ruler?

September 14, 2016 By Editor & filed under Ask a Quilting Expert.

In terms of measuring, I have often wondered whether the line on a ruler should sit ON the edge or BESIDE the edge of the fabric? I know it might only be a whisker difference but should I only see fabric beneath the measurement line? Submitted by Denise… Read More

Quilting in Sections

August 17, 2016 By Editor & filed under Ask a Quilting Expert.

Would you advise quilting in sections on a single bed quilt with border for a beginner with an old sewing machine? Read More