What to Include With Your Mailed Quilt
Mailing your quilt top to me is a big step toward that beautifully longarm-quilted finish you've dreamed of, but getting it here safely matters just as...
Maynard Longarm Quilting — Mail-In Process
What to Include With Your Mailed Quilt
Mailing your quilt top to me is a big trust—you want it to arrive safe, sound, and ready for quilting magic. Skip the right prep, and it could arrive wrinkled, damaged by water, or even lost if labels fail. Done right, your quilt lands here pristine, with all details clear for a perfect finish. Ive handled thousands of these mail-ins over decades, so heres exactly what to pack inside—no guesswork.
Photo by MADEINEGYPT.CA on PexelsStep by Step
Quilt Label
Sew or pin a clear label on the back with your full name, address, phone, email, and quilt title. Include any special notes like batting preference or quilting style wishes. Make it removable if needed, but secure so it stays put in transit.
Intake Form
Print and fill out my Quilt Intake Form—download from the site. Note dimensions, fabric details, and quilting requests. Sign it; this is our agreement on thread, tension, everything.
Contact Card
Tuck in an extra card with your shipping info and return instructions. Laminate or tape it inside a plastic sleeve. If the outer label rubs off, this saves the day.
Payment Info
Include check, credit card details on secure form, or note your online payment confirmation. Specify deposit amount if discussed. No cash, please—too risky.
Batting Selection
Send your chosen batting if specified, or note Ill supply it. Label it clearly to match your top. Hobby Lobby or JoAnns shippers, wrap it tight.
Fabric Backing
If sending backing, ensure its 4-6 wider than top on all sides. Fold neatly, label, and note piecing instructions if any. Test for bleed first.
Special Requests
Add a note for custom thread colors, pantos, or edge finishes. Photos of inspiration quilts help immensely. Be specific—I aim to nail your vision.
Return Packing Slip
Include prepaid return label or UPS/FedEx account number. Note any special return packaging needs. Speeds things up on my end.
Photo by Arturo Añez. on Pexels
Photo by Ekaterina Belinskaya on PexelsShipping Specifics
For USPS Priority Mail to my Denver PA 17517 studio, expect 2-3 days from East Coast, 3-5 from Midwest, 4-6 from West Coast—insure up to $5,000 easily, add Signature Confirmation. UPS Ground takes 2-4 days East/Midwest, 5-7 West, with $100 free insurance (buy more to $10k). FedEx Home Delivery mirrors UPS at 2-5 days most spots, strong for heavy quilts, insurance to $25k. All track well; declare as linens or textiles, never quilt. Sturdy box, heavy tape, full value insured—peace of mind.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting intake form—delays quilting start while I hunt contact info.
- Underinsuring package—quilt value often exceeds basic coverage; declare full appraised worth.
- No inner label—lost outer label means lost quilt.
- Sending cash—gets stolen or misplaced; use check or online pay.
- Wrong batting size—too small wastes time rematching.
- Bleeding backing fabric—test wash it first or it ruins your top.
- Skimping on box tape—boxes pop open in sorting machines.
- Declaring contents as quilt—invites theft; say linens.
Tips From Carol & Leo & Leo & Leo
- After 20+ years and thousands of quilts, inner labels have saved me chasing owners more times than I can count—always double up.
- I once got a soaked top because no plastic wrap; now I insist on it for every mail-in.
- Folks from California send via USPS Priority—arrives in 3-4 days, cheapest option.
- Bubble wrap over peanuts; those styro bits stick to everything and drive me nuts unpacking.
- Pin a luggage tag to the back—easy, visible, and pro exhibitor trick Ive adopted.
- Test your fabrics for color run before shipping; Ive seen reds bleed onto whites mid-quilting—heartbreaking.
- Include a thank-you note; makes my day amid the rush!
- Roll on a pool noodle if large—keeps it flat and wrinkle-free.
What NOT to Do
- Dont use packing peanuts—messy nightmare to clean from quilt fibers.
- Never write Quilt on the box—targets thieves.
- Avoid folding small quilts flat—roll to prevent creases.
- No loose items rattling inside—tape or bag everything.
- Skip cheap tape—use 2 reinforced packing tape.
- Dont skimp insurance—value your heirloom at true replacement cost.
- No cash or valuables—digital or check only.
- Avoid international without my pre-approval—customs hassles galore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to send batting?
Only if you want a specific type; otherwise, I supply quality options matched to your top. Label it clearly if sending your own. Saves shipping weight too. Ill confirm via email.
Whats the best way to protect from water?
Boxes get wet; this keeps your top dry. Ive seen unprotected ones arrive ruined—dont risk it.
How much insurance?
Insure for full appraised or replacement value, minimum $1,000. USPS up to $5k easy, UPS/FedEx higher. Better safe; claims are rare but quilts are precious.
Can I send backing fabric?
Yes, if 4-6 wider all sides. Fold neatly, label, test for colorfastness. Or I source it here. Note preferences on intake form.
What if I forget the intake form?
Quilting pauses till I reach you—adds weeks. Download, fill, include always. Its our roadmap to your dream finish.
Return shipping—how?
Prepay label or give carrier account. Ill pack secure, same way it came. Note any address changes. Aims for 2-5 days back home.
Box size tips?
Fit snug with bubble wrap filler—no shift. Sturdy double-wall best. Tape seams and edges heavy-duty.
From overseas?
Possible but complex—email first for customs forms, duties. US domestic far simpler, highly recommend.
Ready to Send Your Quilt?
Free online quote in under a minute. Choose your batting, thread, and pantograph design — we'll confirm pricing and walk you through the mail-in process.
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