Per Square Inch Pricing
Square inches are calculated by multiplying the width by the height of the quilt top. I charge $0.02 per square inch for a loose, meandering edge-to-edge design that adds a nice texture to your quilt. If you prefer denser quilting with minimal backtracking, I charge $0.025 per square inch. For very fancy or very dense designs with backtracking, I charge $0.03 per square inch. Occasionally, a client has a quilt with borders and asks for a design in the center of the quilt, as well as a border design around the quilt. I handle these requests on a case-by-case basis, but generally, I charge between $0.35 and $0.40 per square inch. I am always happy to talk to clients to find out what they would like on their quilt. Sometimes, a client will say something like, "I want a basic design; you choose," and I will select one or two options in the lower price range for them to pick from. This should be exciting and fun; I want to make you happy!
Batting
I use and stock my favorite Quilters Dream batting in the 80/20 cotton/poly blend. I have limited quantities of wool batting in stock, please ask for availability.
Batting is a separate charge and is NOT included in the square inch price.
I charge for batting by the linear inch from a queen roll of batting except in the case of special orders. I will use only what is needed for your quilt (smallest side + a 4" margin) and charge per inch.
Thread
I stock Omni polyester and some So Fine (#50) threads. I charge by the bobbin for thread I have a large bobbin in my machine, and I have found it is the easiest way to gauge exactly how much thread I have used in your quilt and I charge my cost for it.
My personal style attempts to match or blend thread color with the lighter areas of your quilt. But this is YOUR quilt! Let me know if you have a preference on thread color.
Shipping
Shipping your top and backing to me: I live in southern Illinois, USA, and would be happy to receive your top and backing by mail. I'd recommend sending your materials enclosed in some kind of sack or bag to protect against possible moisture in transit and then placed in a hard-sided cardboard box. Make sure the box is securely taped and labeled clearly.
Return shipping: I will send your quilt back to you in the manner described above via USPS Priority mail (using flat rate when possible/economical). Priority mail comes with $50 of insurance and a tracking number but please indicate on your intake form if you would like me to buy any additional insurance on your behalf. It's a great idea to insure your valuables against loss or damage while with the Postal Service, but I don't require it.
Other Costs
As mentioned above, batting is not included in the square inch price. I'm required by the State of Illinois to collect a 7% sales tax on the quilting service portion of an invoice. Batting, shipping, and any design/pantograph fees are not subject to sales tax if outside the state of Illinois.