When I declare a quilt finished, it’s often not really completely finished. I will work to the point where I can take photos to submit an entry, then move onto the next project.
This means the facings are just pinned to the back of the quilt, and there is no sleeve or label. Last week, I took inventory and found I had six(!) not-quite-finished quilts. Some of them have been accepted for exhibitions and will need to be shipped soon, so I need to completely finish them before starting my next project.
Facings – First, I fused the facings to the back of each quilt. I usually fuse the facings using 1/2″ wide strips of fusible web, rather than hand-sewing the facings to the back of the quilt.
Sleeves – Then I made sleeves for them. I use these instructions How to make a hanging sleeve (aka rod pocket) by Sarah Anne Smith. SAQA has recently changed their policy to allow 4-inch sleeves, but I generally make mine about 4.5-inches. Some exhibits have specific requirements for sleeve width and placement, and I always read those carefully to make sure my entry complies with the requirements. I do hand-sew my sleeves in place.
Labels – The last step is to make a label for each quilt. I like to design my labels in Microsoft Excel and print them on prepared fabric. See more details here in this tutorial I wrote. I used to fuse my labels to the back of the quilts, but many shows and exhibits require the label to be sewn on. So my new technique is to both fuse and hand-sew the labels.
I print the labels, then machine stitch them to a piece of fabric that coordinates with the back of the quilt.
I turn under the edges of the fabric, then apply some fusible web to the back. Then I fuse the label to the back of the quilt, and then hand-sew around the edge.
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Thanks for stopping by. Today, I’m linking up with these blogs – click on the links below, where you’ll find many other creative and inspirational projects.
- Nina-Marie’s Off the Wall Friday
- Can I get a Whoop Whoop? by Confessions of a Fabric Addict
- Love Laugh Quilt Monday Making
- WIP Wednesday @ The Needle & Thread Network
Interesting way to finish off your facings. Are these quilts ever washed? I’ve found that fusible isn’t forever without thread keeping it there, even on items that were never washed but were folded. I hate hand work, so I may need to explore facings and fusing them down!!
My art quilts are never washed, so fusing works well. I wouldn’t fuse without stitching on a quilt that would be washed.
Thanks for sharing the sleeve tutorial. I wasn’t aware of the need (or benefit of) that additional pocket on a large quilt!