Once you’ve finished your quilt top, you have another decision to make; do you have your quilt custom quilted or do you have it quilted in an all over design? Understanding the differences between custom longarm quilting and all over (also called edge-to-edge pantograph) quilting will help you decide which option is best for your project. Read through our guide to help you decide.
Custom Quilting
What is custom longarm quilting?
Custom longarm quilting is highly personalized where the longarmer creates designs tailored to each section of your quilt. For example, custom quilting might use feathers in the borders, linework, in the sashing, and stitch in the ditch in the blocks.
When to Choose Custom Quilting for Your Quilt
Sometimes a quilt walks in to Bits ‘n Pieces, so to speak, and it needs custom quilting. For example, if you’ve been working on a new heirloom meant to be treasured for generations, custom quilting really shows off all the work you’ve put in. Custom quilting on complex tops or for competition quilts really makes the design pop. And if you want a personalized touch, then custom quilting is the way to go.
All Over Quilting
What is edge-to-edge or pantograph quilting?
All over, edge-to-edge, or pantograph quilting, involves using a continuous, repeating pattern across the entire quilt. The design goes over any piecing or border without thread changes, changes in scale, or any other change. You can do edge-to-edge quilting freehand, following a pantograph stencil, or by using a computerized longarm machine like a ProStitcher.
When to Choose Edge-to-Edge Quilting
We love taking the time to add custom quilting to a quilt project, but not every quilt needs to be custom quilted. For everyday quilts that are used and loved daily or for simple quilts with large blocks, edge-to-edge quilting is what we pick. Pantograph quilting is also typically more affordable than custom quilting. It’s also faster than custom quilting, so if you’re in a time crunch, pick edge-to-edge quilting.
So which type of quilting is right for my project?
The decision between custom and edge-to-edge quilting depends on your quilt’s purpose, your budget, and the level of customization you’re looking for. If you have a special, intricate project, take a look at custom quilting. Edge-to-edge quilting, on the other hand, is ideal for everyday quilts or projects where you want a beautiful design without the added cost or time.
At Bits ‘n Pieces, we offer both custom and edge-to-edge longarm quilting services to help you finish your quilts exactly how you dreamed. Stop by the shop or visit us online to learn more!