BASTING Basting holds the three layers together to prevent shifting while quilting. For hand quilting, baste using a long needle threaded with as long a length of sewing thread as can be used without tangling. Insert needle through all layers in center of quilt and baste layers together with a long running stitch. For the first line of basting, stitch up and down the vertical center of the quilt. Next, baste across the horizontal center of the quilt. Working toward the edges and creating a grid, continue basting to completely stabilize the layers. For machine quilting, pin-baste using nickel-plated safety pins, instead of needle and thread. Begin in the center of the quilt and work outward to the edges, placing safety pins approximately every 4". BATTING Standard pre-cut batting sizes are: Crib ............... 45" x 60" Twin .............. 72" x 90" Double ........... 81" x 96" Queen ............ 90" x 108" King .............. 120" x 120" Consider several factors when choosing batting. How do you want the quilt to look? How close will the quilting stitches be? Are you hand or machine quilting? How will the quilt be used? Batting is made from different fibers (not all fibers are available in all sizes). If you prefer an old-fashioned looking quilt, consider using a mostly cotton batting. The newer cotton battings are bonded and do not require the close quilting that old-fashioned cotton battings once did. If you don't want to do a lot of quilting, use a regular or low-loft polyester batting. If you like "puffy" quilts, use a high-loft polyester batting. Wool battings are also available. If you are not sure which batting is right for your project, consult the professionals at your local quilt shop.