Lap Quilting Instructions
- Look through any fabric you may already have, including scraps. Eliminate any fabrics that are very sheer and heavy fabrics such as corduroy, velvet and polyester. Knit fabrics should not be used either. Any fabric that is all-cotton, cotton blend or muslin is suitable for lap quilting projects. If you don't have scraps, or if you just love buying fabric, take a trip to the nearest quilt shop or fabric store and stock up.
Once you have gathered your fabric, pre-shrink it by machine washing in warm water. Use the normal cycle with a small amount of soap. Partially dry the fabric and steam press. - Which quilt block you decide to use for your project depends upon such factors as what you are creating, why you are creating it, what fabric you will be using and the level of your expertise. There are hundreds of quilt block designs you can use in lap quilting. Find them in books, magazines and online, or design your own block by diagramming it on paper.
- Once you have chosen your fabric, and your design, create templates for your blocks and transfer the pattern onto the cloth in preparation for cutting it out. Cut in layers to expedite the process. Sew each block together with your sewing machine, but do not open the seams. If possible, crease and press any seams toward darker fabric patches to keep seam allowances from showing.
- Transfer stencils to the quilt blocks. These will create the pattern for cutting the batting and backing. Cut out the batting and backing, then match up a quilt block consisting of a layer of backing with a layer of batting on top, followed by a quilt block top. Baste first, then connect the three layers with tiny hand stitches. This is where the portability of lap quilting comes in handy, as you can take your blocks with you to work on without the inconvenience of an entire quilt. Use a round hoop or square frame if you prefer, or just hold the piece in your hand.
- Once all your blocks have been quilted, lay them out to decide how best to arrange them. When you are satisfied, assemble the horizontal rows first, then sew the rows together. Finish the edges of the quilt if necessary.