Synchronized Sewing Machines: Minky Quilting Techniques

As I receive a lot questions on this subject, I thought I would share my process for backing and quilting Minky. I am not an expert, but I have found out what works for me. I will only quilt them myself if they are smaller than a throw. If I am feeling brave, I may even attempt a twin.

As I mentioned in my Look In post I buy most of my Minky backings at my local Joanns. I also purchase them from online (the cuddledot is SO soft!) and when they are on sale. (Usually around $7-$8 a yard) Some of the backings are 64″ wide. (Check the listing before buying) I usually only need 2 to 2.5 yards. (Throw size or less). I do not pre-wash the Minky backs.

Add batting if you want a heavier quilt, especially if it will be used on a bed. I don’t use batting if I need a lightweight quilt to carry around or put on the couch. Double-sided Minky Fleece has always been my go-to when I want to skip the batting. It’s thicker/fluffier, but that doesn’t really matter. If your top is predominantly white, you can use flannel instead of batting.

When I use Minky, I go all out. First I spray heavily with basting spray, and then I pin it every 6-8″ Although it’s a bit excessive, it does work. When I baste, I tape the backing to the floor. Be careful not to stretch the fabric. You can remove the wrinkles by gently rubbing them out.

After basting, I used a large stitch length around the edges to hold everything in place. After you start quilting, the quilt will shift and the edges can become stretched out. I feel that this helps me to free-motion quilt around the edges so everything is nice and square.

Try using a thinner needle if you see the back of the stitch pulling through. I use a 90/10 needle (usually). When I quilt, I use a size 90/10 needle…once I changed to a smaller one it stopped.

A large quilting pattern will prevent your quilt from becoming too stiff. It will also make it drape like a soft fleece throw. This will prevent the use of swear words. 🙂

Once I have machine stitched the binding, it is ready to be used, loved and fought about relentlessly!

The picture above is the before-washing photo. After washing, the quilt looked almost the same but with slightly more “crinkle”. If you use batting you will get a nice crinkly quilt top but it is much stiffer.

Please feel free to add any additional tips to the comments section. I’m sure that we would all be interested in reading them.

As I receive a lot questions on this subject, I thought I would share my process for backing and quilting Minky. I am not an expert, but I have found out what works for me. I will only quilt them myself if they are smaller than a throw. If I am feeling brave, I may even attempt a…

As I receive a lot questions on this subject, I thought I would share my process for backing and quilting Minky. I am not an expert, but I have found out what works for me. I will only quilt them myself if they are smaller than a throw. If I am feeling brave, I may even attempt a…