take reference photos to use when quilting

Take a whole scene and several close ups for details that will be added in the quilting.

This image was all completed to this point on location.

Back in the studio

Remove pins one at a time and turn them so they go through the fabric layers, but not into the board. When you can carefully lift the image off the board, move it to the sewing machine and begin sewing the raw edges to secure them, making a solid piece of fabric.

Layer your picture (top) with batting and backing and quilt.

Here I have begun the quilting process. The sky and water are quilted. Remember to stop and hang your piece up so you get a long view of it before moving onto each section so you can plan your quilting pattern.

Decide what type of border if any you want to use and how you will finish the piece: mount it on a board, mat it and frame it under glass, make soft borders and add a hanging sleeve, or incorporate it into a larger quilt.