On this quilt there was one spot where the quilting tension was awful. The stitching had to be pulled out. But the quilt was off the frame by the time I noticed it. Since the area was close to the edge of the quilt, that's where the quilt label went. (I've used a quilt label to hide puckers in the backing in the past as well...don't tell.)
I always wash quilts after they are finished. I want to ensure that there is nothing awry. Sometimes some quilting comes out. Guess I didn't secure the stitching on that row very well. At other times it's a seam in the top that gives way. Probably that fabric that wasn't the greatest quality and it frayed. Or maybe my 1/4" seam...wasn't a 1/4". What ever the reason for the problem, a wash and dry brings issues to light prior to the quilt being gifted.
On this quilt it was the binding. It looked just fine at first glance. But a closer look led me to believe that the edge of the top might start to fray and pull out from under the binding. So a decorative machine stitch was added all the way around to hold everything down properly.
Not so long ago a member of the quilt police reprimanded me for machine stitching the binding on a quilt. I was informed that in all cases, the proper way is to hand stitch. (If this particular quilter washed her quilts prior to giving them away, she would change her tune.)
Because I wanted to feel good about my quilting I e-mailed several of the on line groups that I belong to. And these quilters came through. They machine stitch binding and use decorative stitches to secure "ify" seams. They also use labels to cover up problem areas. Add appliqué to hide points that don't match. You name it, these quilters have done it. And they made me feel great about the things I do so I can enjoy the final product. A finished quilt! Thank you....and your secrets are safe with me! The quilt police don't know my pass words.
