Anyone can can learn how to assemble a quilt top batting and backing with a little bit of instruction. In this article, we will walk you through the process step-by-step so that you can have your quilt put together in no time! All you need is your finished quilt top, batting, backing and some basic tools. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
The Layers of A Quilt
A quilt is made up of three layers: the top, the batting and the backing.
Quilt Top
A quilt top is the layers of fabric that make up the front of a quilt. The layers are held together by stitching, which can be done by hand or machine. The quilt top is the showpiece of the quilt, so it is important to choose fabrics that complement each other and create a cohesive design. To learn more about quilts, make sure to see our tutorial on types of quilts.
In some cases, when making a Patchwork quilt top it will also include a layer of batting or wadding, which helps to add warmth and insulation. The quilt top is typically stitched to the backing fabric, which is usually a solid piece of fabric that provides stability and support. Once the three layers are stitched together, the quilt can then be finished with a binding.
Batting
In quilting, batting is the layers of material in between the top and bottom layers of the quilt. The batting adds warmth, loft, and softness to the finished quilt. It can be made from a variety of materials, including cotton, wool, polyester, or bamboo.
The type of batting you choose will depend on your personal preferences and the intended use of the quilt. For example, if you are making a quilt for a baby, you might want to choose a softer batting such as cotton or bamboo.
If you are making a quilt for a colder climate, you might want to choose a thicker batting such as wool or polyester. Whatever material you choose, be sure to test it out first to make sure it meets your needs.
Backing
The backing is the layer that provides stability and structure. It is usually made from a sturdy fabric such as cotton or linen. The backing is also the largest of the three layers, and it is typically pieced together from multiple pieces of fabric.
The purpose of the backing is to support the other layers and to keep the quilt from stretching or sagging over time. It is important to select a fabric for the backing that will hold up well to washing and wear. When piecing the backing, it is important to use a wide seam allowance so that the seams will not pull apart over time.
Supplies Needed
Now that you understand the basic layers of a quilt, let’s talk about the supplies you will need to assemble your quilt top.
First, you will need your quilt top, batting and backing. You will also need a few basic tools, including a rotary cutter, mat and ruler. If you are piecing the backing, you will also need a sewing machine and thread.
If you are new to quilting, you may opt to start with a beginner quilt kit. This will include all of the supplies you need to get started, as well as detailed instructions.
Assembling the Quilt Top
Now that you have all of your supplies, it’s time to start assembling your quilt top!
If you are just starting your quilt top, see our guide on how to make a patchwork quilt to learn the basics of piecing a quilt top.
Once you have your quilt top pieced together, it’s time to start layering the batting and backing.
Video Tutorial on How to Add Quilt Batting and Backing Layers
The video below will show you how to add the batting and backing layers to your quilt top. For this demonstration, we will be using a cotton batting and a linen backing.
What Is Quilt Batting?
Quilt batting is a layer of insulation placed between the quilt top and backing. It provides warmth and padding, and helps to prevent the quilt from shifting or creasing. There are many types of quilt batting available, made from a variety of materials including cotton, wool, polyester, and bamboo.
Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it is important to choose the right batting for your project. For instance, cotton batting is very breathable and easy to work with, but it may not last as long as other types of batting. Polyester batting is more durable and holds its shape well, but it can be less comfortable to sleep under.
Ultimately, the best batting for your quilt will depend on your personal preferences and the intended use of the quilt.
How To Put Batting In A Quilt
Once you’ve selected the batting, you’ll need to prepare it for use. If you’re using a natural fiber batting, you’ll need to prewash it to shrink it and prevent it from stretching during quilting. Synthetic battings don’t need to be prewashed, but they should be trimmed to size so they’ll fit easily inside the quilt sandwich.
Now that the batting is ready, it’s time to start quilting! The simplest way to do this is to machine-quilt the layers together. However, if you’re hand-quilting, you’ll need to baste the layers together first. This can be done by pinning the layers together or by using a spray-on adhesive. Once the layers are secure, you can start quilting in any pattern you like. When you’re finished, simply trim away any excess batting and backing fabric.
Assembling The Quilt Sandwich
The quilt sandwich is made up of the quilt top, batting, and backing. In some cases, a layer of wadding or interfacing may be used in place of the batting. The quilt sandwich is held together by stitching, which can be done by hand or machine.
The first step in assembling the quilt sandwich is to lay out the backing fabric wrong-side up on a flat surface. If you’re using a pieced backing, be sure to smooth out any wrinkles or lumps with your quilting iron. Next, lay out the batting on top of the backing. If you’re using a natural fiber batting, you may want to mist it with water to prevent it from shifting during quilting.
Now, lay out the quilt top right-side up on top of the batting. Once all three layers are in place, you’re ready to start stitching them together.
If you’re machine-quilting, you can simply stitch through all three layers using a walking foot. For hand quilting, you’ll need to baste the layers together first. This can be done by pinning the layers together or by using a spray-on adhesive. Once the layers are secure, you can start quilting in any pattern you like.
When you’re finished quilting, simply trim away any excess batting and backing fabric. You can now bind the quilt using bias tape, fabric strips, or your preferred method.
How To Bind A Quilt With the Backing
Quilt binding is a fabric strip that is used to finish the edges of a quilt. It can be made from a variety of materials, including cotton, polyester, and bias tape.
Binding a quilt is a simple process that involves sewing the binding strips to the quilt top and backing, then folding them over the edges and stitching them in place.
There are many different ways to bind a quilt, so it’s important to choose the method that best suits your project. For instance, if you’re binding a quilt that will be used primarily for decoration, you may want to use a decorative binding such as bias tape.
If you’re binding a quilt that will be used for sleeping or another function, you’ll want to choose a binding that is both comfortable and durable. Polyester binding is a good option for quilts that will see heavy use, as it won’t stretch or tear like cotton binding can.
Ultimately, the best binding for your quilt will depend on your personal preferences and the intended use of the quilt.
Fabric for Quilt Backing
Quilters have a lot of options when it comes to choosing fabric for their quilt backs. The most important factor to consider is the size of the quilt. A queen-sized quilt, for example, will require approximately twice as much fabric as a twin-sized quilt.
Other factors to keep in mind include the type of fabric (cotton or polyester), the weight of the fabric (lightweight or heavyweight), and the pattern (solid or print).
Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you can start shopping around for the perfect fabrics for your quilt back.
Check out your local fabric store or browse online retailers to find a wide selection of fabrics that meet your needs. With so many options available, you’re sure to find the perfect fabric for your next quilt!
Sewing Stitch To Use for Assembling the Quilt Backing
When it comes to sewing, there are a variety of different sewing stitches that can be used for a variety of different purposes. However, when it comes to assembling the quilt backing, there is only one stitch that is truly up to the task: the straight stitch.
This versatile stitch can be used to pieced together a variety of fabrics, and it is strong enough to withstand the rigors of quilting. In addition, the straight stitch is relatively easy to sew, making it ideal for those who are new to quilting. As a result, the straight stitch is the perfect choice for assembling the quilt backing.
Sewing Machine vs Hand Stitch for Assembling the Quilt Backing
There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to sewing the quilt backing together by hand or by machine quilted. Ultimately, it is a matter of personal preference.
That said, there are a few things to keep in mind if you’re trying to decide which method to use. For instance, sewing the quilt backing together by hand will require more time and effort than sewing it by a sewing machine.
On the other hand, sewing the quilt backing by machine will result in a neater and more consistent finished product. In the end, it is up to you to decide which method is best for your needs.
Finishing Your Quilt
Now that you’ve pieced together the quilt top and batting, it’s time to finish your quilt. This can be done by hand or by machine, depending on your preference.
If you’re finishing your quilt by hand, you’ll need to gather a few supplies, including thread, needle, and scissors. Start by threading the needle and tying a knot at the end of the thread.
Then, begin stitching the binding to the quilt top and batting, using a running stitch. When you reach the corner of the quilt, make a 90-degree turn and continue stitching along the next edge.
Repeat this process until you’ve stitched all four sides of the quilt. Finally, cut the thread and tie a knot to secure the binding in place.
If you’re finishing your quilt by machine, you’ll need to gather a few supplies, including thread, sewing machine needle, and scissors. Start by threading the needle and tying a knot at the end of the thread.
Then, begin stitching the binding to the quilt top and batting, using a straight stitch. When you reach the corner of the quilt, make a 90-degree turn and continue stitching along the next edge.
Repeat this process until you’ve stitched all four sides of the quilt. Finally, cut the thread and tie a knot to secure the binding in place.
Benefits of Learning How to Assemble Quilts
Assembling quilts is a rewarding experience that comes with a number of benefits. Perhaps the most obvious benefit is the satisfaction that comes from creating a unique and beautiful quilt.
In addition, assembling quilts can be a great way to save money. Rather than purchasing a ready-made quilt, you can pieced one together yourself using fabric scraps or leftover material from other projects.
Assembling quilts can also be a great way to use up fabric that you no longer need or want. Rather than letting it go to waste, you can put it to good use by piecing it into a quilt top.
Finally, assembling quilts is a great way to spend time with family and friends. Even your kids can get in on the fun with a childrens sewing machine. Quilting is a social activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re piecing together a quilt top or working on a quilt binding, assembling quilts is a great way to connect with those you care about.
So what are you waiting for? Get started on your next quilt today!
Wrapping Up
Assembling quilt top batting and backings is a simple process that anyone can do. Just gather your materials, follow these simple steps, and you’ll have your quilt top assembled in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you assemble a layer quilt?
Layer quilts are composed of three layers: the top, the batting layer, and the backing. The three layers are held together by a process called quilting and create a quilt sandwich. It is called a quilt sandwich because it is similar to how a sandwich is made with two slices of bread and filling in the middle. In order to make a quilt sandwich, you will need to gather your materials, which include the quilt top, batting, backing, and thread.
To assemble a quilt sandwich, start by placing the quilt top (top layers) on a flat surface. Then, add the batting layer on top of the quilt top. The batting should be smooth and even. Finally, add the backing fabric layer on top of the batting. Again, make sure the backing is smooth and even.
Once all the layers are in place, it’s time to quilt the layers together. This can be done by hand or by machine. If you are quilting by machine, set your machine to a straight stitch and sew along the edge of each layer. If you are quilting by hand, use a running stitch along the edge of each layer.
Once you’ve finished quilting, trim the excess fabric from the edges of the quilt sandwich. Now you’re ready to bind the quilt!
What is the difference between a layer quilt and a pieced quilt?
Layer quilts are much easier to make because they only require one layer of fabric. Pieced quilts, on the other hand, have multiple layers of fabric that are sewn together. Assembling a pieced quilt can be a bit more challenging, but it’s still a relatively easy process.
Can you quilt just the top and batting?
Yes, you can quilt just the top and batting without adding a backing. This is known as “quilt-as-you-go” and is a popular method for those who want to save time. Keep in mind that quilting just the top and batting will result in a lighter quilt that may not be as durable as one with a backing.
If you’re using this method, you’ll need to add a binding around the edges of the quilt to finish it off. You can either stitch the binding by hand or machine, depending on your preference.
To stitch the binding by hand, you’ll need to gather a few supplies, including thread, needle, and scissors. Start by threading the needle and tying a knot at the end of the thread.
Then, begin stitching the binding to the quilt top and batting, using a running stitch. When you reach the corner of the quilt, make a 90-degree turn and continue stitching along the next edge.
How do you attach quilting to backing?
The first step is to baste the quilt top, batting, and backing together. This can be done by hand or by machine, but it’s important to make sure that all three layers are securely attached before you begin quilting.
Once the quilt is basted, you can start the quilt backing layer Quilting can be done by hand or by machine, and there are a variety of quilting stitches that you can use.