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Arranging the Quilt Layers
 There are three quilt layers in a quilt: the quilt top, the batting (filling), and the backing. We already have our quilt top. Now we need to cut our batting and backing layers. The batting and backing layers shrink during quilting, so we must cut them larger than the quilt top. See directions below.
Step 1 First, measure the length and width of your quilt top. Be sure to measure from the center points.
Step 2 Let's say your quilt measures 23" x 31". Add 4 inches to both numbers like this: 23" + 4"= 27" 31" + 4" = 35" This gives us a measurement of 27" x 35" Cut your batting and backing pieces to this size. Step 3 We want smooth and wrinkle-free quilt layers. So, let's press our quilt top and backing fabric. Step 4 Place backing fabric (wrong side up) onto a flat surface, such as a table. Avoid using a carpeted floor. I tried this once, and I accidentally pinned my quilt layers to the carpet. Smooth wrinkles toward outer edges.
Step 5 Use small (1" or 2") pieces of masking tape to secure top edge of backing. Step 6 Gently smooth backing downward, so it's taut, but not stretched.
Step 7 Tape across bottom edge.
Step 8 Repeat for remaining sides, keeping fabric taut.
Step 9 Center batting on top of backing.
Step 10 Gently smooth out batting, starting from the center and moving in an outward direction. Be careful not to stretch or tear it.
If you take the time to do this, you won't have any lumps or bumps in your quilt layers. Step 11 Center quilt top, right side up, on top of batting. Gently smooth out wrinkles. Keep quilt taped into place.
Now that our quilt layers are aligned, it's time to baste them together. You'll learn how to do this in the next lesson.
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