• Square Your Quilt Top: Ensure your quilt top is as square as possible. Wavy or irregular borders make it difficult to load the quilt properly and may cause it to not lay flat during quilting.

• Stitch a Victory Lap: Sew a basting stitch 1/8” from the edge around all four sides of your quilt top. This helps secure seams, reduces stretching or warping, and ensures stability when loading. These stitches will be hidden once the binding is added.

• Trim All Loose Threads: Carefully trim excess threads, especially when using light-colored fabrics, as loose threads may show through the fabric after quilting.

• Press Your Quilt Top: Press and starch your quilt top thoroughly, ensuring all seams are flat and any wrinkles are removed. This results in a smooth, professional finish once quilted