QUILT PREPARTIONS and SHIPPING CHECK LIST:
 

1. Do not baste or pin your quilt top to the backing.
2. Identify the top of your quilt top and backing top with a safety pin.
3. Press the top and backing before folding it. Please add any embellishments such as buttons and charms when the quilting is finished.
4. Check all seams for seam breakage, and removed any loose threads from the top and backing.
5. Make sure the backing is pressed and a minimum of 4-inches larger on all four sides. For example, if you're quilt is 80x80, then your quilt back needs to be 88x88. Please, no sheets as backings because they are difficult to quilt. Batting if you provide it also must be 4 inches on all sides.
6. Be sure the quilt top and back are square and without selvages. Flared borders and puckered piecing can not be "corrected" with quilting. Measure the center of the quilt top vertically. Then measure the outside edges vertically. If there is more than 1 ½ difference, it is possible that your top will have tucks when quilted. Do the same measurements horizontally. The most common reasons for measurement differences are stretched bias edges and mitered corners that leave extra fabric on one or both sides of the miter. Too much easement when piecing blocks can result in small tents or puckers, which will cause tucks when the quilt is quilted.
7. I suggest stay stitch the border edge ¼" with a straight stitch all the way around to quilt top, especially for bias borders, or to reinforce borders with many seams at the edges.
8. Fold the quilt parts individually, and if shipping, please secure both in a plastic bag to protect them in a box large enough to return the finished quilt in. Also enclose a sheet of paper with both your address and that of Real-Quilts, and be sure it is visible through the plastic bag.
9. Complete an order form (click here). Please do not mark, "Quilt as you see fit", as one person's tastes in quilting styles may be totally different from another person's. If you are unsure in the quilt design, then be very specific in what YOU DO NOT WANT included on your quilt.
10. The United Parcel Service (UPS), has very fast service. Pack your quilt in a sturdy box large enough for the finish quilt. I will insure it for $300 for $15.00. I have no control once it has been delivered to the postal service. If you would like another service, please let me know. I would be glad to accommodate you.
11. Please send me an email (d.rolek@mchsi.com), phone-515-222-1463 or cell 515-238-9916 or fax 515-226-1448 to let me know when the quilt it on its way. I will let you know when it arrives and when I ship it back.
12. Full payment is required in my studio before your quilt is returned. If by chance it is forgotten or not paid for, Real-Quilts will donate it to a charity of my choice after 6 months from the first notice given.