"Floating Tops"

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04-23-2011, 09:16 AM

#21

AliKat

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Join Date: Apr 2007

Location: Phoenix, AZ

Posts: 2,943

Quote:

Originally Posted by Debbie Ness

How many of you ladies with long arm machines, 'float' the tops (and/or batting) on your machines? I took lessons on an HQ16 and we only attached the backing to the leaders. Who else does this and can it be done on other brands of machines. Thanks so much for your input.
Deb

Yes. In fact it was a Statler Stitcher owner who taught me this method. Though I do attach the bottom of the top with the QuiltTak gun to its leader.

ali

04-23-2011, 09:57 AM

#22

Sadiemae

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Join Date: Oct 2009

Location: Idaho

Posts: 11,375

I float mine.

04-23-2011, 09:58 AM

#23

Sadiemae

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Join Date: Oct 2009

Location: Idaho

Posts: 11,375

Quote:

Originally Posted by rb.

For those who float, do you still apply tension at the sides? I'm assuming you would have to.

Most of the videos I have seen show you to baste the sides and then put your clamps on the backing at the sides.

04-23-2011, 10:08 AM

#24

hperttula123

Super Member

Join Date: Aug 2010

Location: Northern Wisconsin

Posts: 7,991

I do not float quilts, but if I am just quilting fabric to cut into something else, I sure do.

04-23-2011, 10:26 AM

#25

Rose L

Super Member

Join Date: Jan 2011

Location: Nebraska..The Good Life

Posts: 2,102

I have a Bailey and I float my quilt tops. I use four paint stirring sticks on the sides, placing one on top and one underneath each edge (on each side), then I snap my clamps onto the paint stirrers instead of onto the fabric. It keeps the sides level with the rest of the quilt top and it doesn't stretch and distort the fabrics at all.