How To Spray Baste A Quilt

ByMadeleine

Spray basting is a popular method for securing the layers of a quilt—top, batting, and backing—together before quilting. It uses a temporary adhesive spray to hold the layers in place, making the quilting process smoother and more accurate. In this blog post, we’ll explore why you might choose spray basting and provide step-by-step instructions to help you achieve the best results.

Why Use Spray Basting?

1. Time-Saving: Spray basting is faster than traditional pin basting. You can secure the layers in minutes, reducing preparation time.

2. Improved Accuracy: The adhesive spray holds the fabric layers firmly in place, preventing shifting and puckering during quilting. This ensures more accurate stitching.

3. Ease of Quilting: With the layers secured, you can quilt more easily without having to stop frequently to adjust pins or remove safety pins.

4. Even Distribution: Spray basting distributes the adhesive evenly, preventing the fabric from bunching up or shifting as you work.

What You Need

  • Quilt Top: The completed top layer of your quilt.
  • Batting: The middle layer, providing warmth and loft.
  • Backing Fabric: The bottom layer of your quilt.
  • Temporary Spray Adhesive: Specifically designed for quilting.
  • Large, Flat Surface: Such as a clean floor, large table, or clean tarp.
  • Painter’s Tape: To secure the quilt backing in place.
  • Scissors: For trimming excess fabric.

Step-by-Step Guide to Spray Basting

1. Prepare Your Workspace

  1. Clean Area: Ensure your workspace is clean and free of debris. Lay down a protective sheet or old cloth to catch any overspray. At School of Quilting we have specific tarps that are just for spray basting.
  2. Ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling adhesive fumes. Work outside for this step if that is possible, this is another reason why we use tarps.

2. Secure the Backing Fabric

  1. Lay Out the Backing: Spread the backing fabric right side down on the flat surface. Smooth out any wrinkles. I like to use my fence if the quilt is small enough or a wall so I can stand up for this step.
  2. Tape Down Edges: Use painter’s tape to secure the edges of the backing fabric to the surface. Stretch the fabric taut but not overly tight to avoid distortion.

3. Spray the Batting

  1. Lay Out the Batting: Spread the batting down on a clean work surface with good ventilation. Make sure the surfaces will to be damaged if it is sprayed with the adhesive.
  2. Apply Adhesive: Shake the spray adhesive can well. Hold it about 12 inches from the batting and spray a light, even coat over the batting.

4. Position the Batting

  1. Lay the Batting: Starting at the top, smooth the batting on top of the backing fabric.
  2. Press Down: Gently press the sprayed batting onto the backing fabric, smoothing out any wrinkles. Take your time and lift and reposition as needed.
  3. Trim Excess: Trim any excess batting that extends beyond the backing fabric edges.

5. Spray the Quilt Top

  1. Lay Out the Quilt Top Spread the quilt top with the back side facing up on a clean work surface in an area with good ventilation.
  2. Apply Adhesive: Shake the spray adhesive can well. Hold it about 12 inches from the quilt top and spray a light, even coat over the back of the quilt top.

6. Add the Quilt Top

  1. Position the Quilt Top: Lay the quilt top right side up on the batting, aligning it with the edges of the backing fabric.
  2. Spray Adhesive: Spray a light, even coat of adhesive on half of the quilt top.
  3. Press Down: Gently press the quilt top onto the batting, smoothing out any wrinkles.
  4. Repeat: Spray the remaining half of the quilt top and press it down onto the batting.

6. Final Adjustments

  1. Check Layers: Ensure all layers are smooth and free of wrinkles. Adjust as needed before the adhesive sets.
  2. Trim Excess: Trim any excess backing and batting that extend beyond the quilt top edges.

Tips for Successful Spray Basting

  • Light Coats: Apply the adhesive in light, even coats to avoid buildup and ensure even distribution.
  • Test Adhesive: Test the spray adhesive on a small fabric scrap to ensure it doesn’t stain or leave a residue.
  • Repositioning: If needed, you can lift and reposition the fabric layers before the adhesive fully sets.
  • Washable Adhesive: Use a washable adhesive to ensure any residue washes out during the first quilt wash.

Conclusion

Spray basting is an efficient and effective method for securing quilt layers before quilting. It saves time, improves accuracy, and makes the quilting process easier. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided, you can achieve beautifully basted quilts ready for quilting. Give spray basting a try on your next project and enjoy the benefits it brings to your quilting process.

Feel free to share your experiences and any additional tips for spray basting in the comments below! Happy quilting!

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