Do you think quilting is all about stitching? If you think so, then there’s a lot more you need to know. There is one important thing you must keep in mind while learning quilting. As you learn to quilt, you need to learn how to baste a quilt.
And 505 basting sprays work the best. Basting spray keeps the layers of a quilt together. They do it temporarily until you can quilt them together permanently with your sewing machine. It is one of the fastest and easiest ways to baste. The glue washes out after the quilt is finished.
Things needed to baste a quilt.
So, the things needed to baste a quilt are:
- A spray bottle of 505 glue (or other basting glue).
- Fabric for the quilt.
- Spray adhesive for your fabric.
There are some steps you must follow to use 505 sprays for a basting quilt.
Below are the steps mentioned :
i. Get batting wrinkle-free.
- First, you need to find a suitable fabric. It has to be medium weight, without too much stretch. A polyester or cotton fabric is best, and it should be a quilting weight.
- Second, cut the fabric into two equal pieces that are each a little longer than the width of the quilt. You will then need to fold them in half lengthwise and iron them flat before using.
- Third, lay down one piece on top of the other, right sides together. You will then need to stitch along one edge of both pieces with a 1/2″ seam allowance.
- Fourth, turn both pieces to the right side. Do this while pulling on the edge of one piece that was sewn to prevent it from getting pulled through the other stitches.
- Fifth, press both pieces well before putting them aside for now.
- Sixth, place batting over each piece of fabric. It is done so that it covers about an inch all around it on both sides. And also covers about an inch all around it at the bottom as well.
- Seventh, lay your quilt top over the batting so that there is another layer of batting covering the quilt top. And then put your basting spray over this layer as well. This will create temporary stitching.
ii. Tape your backing to the floor
If you are using a fabric that is not self-basting, such as foam or paper, this will help keep the spray from soaking through to the front of the quilt.
iii. Batting & Quilt Top is laid
First, lay the batting and quilt top on the quilt backing. It will be easier to work with if you have a large enough spray bottle for spraying over an area of about 2-4 square feet.
Next, spray one side of the quilt top and then use a cloth or brush to spread it across the back of the quilt top, coating both surfaces well. If needed, re-spray again until you have covered both surfaces.
Then use your fingers or a small brush to smooth out any bubbles in the batting or fabric areas. Also, any places where there may be unevenness in coverage and not enough adhesive on one side of the quilt.
If needed, re-spray again until you are happy with how it looks; it is better to do this step several times than not enough!
Finally, baste around each corner of the quilt top and then baste around each edge. This will ensure that your layers are securely attached together so that they don’t shift during sewing.
iv. Spray the Batting to the Quilt Top
- Spray the batting to the quilt top.
- Press down on the quilt top to ensure a good seal.
- Let it dry for 15 minutes before moving on to step 2.
- Apply to spray about every 5 inches on each side of the quilt (2X2 grid).
- Allow it to dry for at least 10 minutes before continuing with step 3.
v. Add pins for extra security
Pinning your quilt is one of the most important steps. You need to make sure you pin your layers securely but not so tightly that the quilt won’t lie flat. You also want to make sure you’re putting pins in at the corners of your quilt, as these are where you’ll be basting those layers together.
vi. Time to QUILT
First, you should start by preparing the quilt for basting. You should wash it in cold water and use a mild detergent.
Baste the quilt in sections. This helps to keep each part of the quilt from moving during the basting process. It also helps to speed up the drying time for each section of quilt that you baste.
Apply your 505 sprays on one side of the quilt, and then spray on the other side of the quilt with a dryer sheet or cotton fabric cloth. Place a large piece of cardboard between each sprayed side of the quilt so that both sides can dry evenly.
Wet a sponge, wring out excess liquid, and apply it to both sides of the QUILT before moving onto step 2.
After applying your 505 sprays to both sides, move onto step two. Lay your raw edges on top of one another and pin them together at this point with pins or string (string works better). Use your fingers to stretch out all four corners and sew them together by hand (a sewing machine will make this process quicker).
Basting with Spray Adhesive: the Good and the Bad
Spray adhesives are the easiest and fastest way to baste a quilt. It is the safest, most convenient way to baste a quilt.
The downside of using spray adhesives is that they may not be as durable as you would prefer when it comes to quilting. You have to use an adhesive that is compatible with your sewing machine and fabric. If a spray adhesive does not work for your machine or fabric, it can be difficult to baste with it.
It is important to test out different sprays before you start on your project so that you know how long they last on your project. It’s also important to ensure that the spray will not cause any damage if it gets onto the wrong part of your project. There are different types of sprays, ones that can wash out in one washing or take much longer than others.
Conclusion
No matter what your quilting project is, a spray adhesive is an essential tool for every quilter. It helps you get the batting and your quilt top together quickly, safely, and easily. It also gives you a quilt that has a more finished look after you finish quilting.
No matter what your quilting project is, a spray adhesive is an essential tool for every quilter. It helps you get the batting and your quilt top together quickly, safely, and easily. It also gives you a quilt that has a more finished look after you finish quilting.
