1. Choose a back that is about the same color as the top. Professional quilters usually use the same color thread in the top as in the bobbin.
2. Choose a back with a busy print.
3. A busy print on the back hides the starts and stops.
4. The backing and batting should be at least 4" and no more than 8" larger than the top on all sides.
5. Backing should be seamed and "squared up" as much as possible.
6. Loose threads on the top should be clipped.
7. Check for unsewn or frayed seams and repair them.
8. Make sure the top and back are neatly pressed.
9. Using a hanger to drape the top and back on keeps them neat until ready to be quilted.

After the body of the quilt has been pieced, gently press before adding borders. The logical place to measure the finished top is along its outside edges, and this is a useful measurement. However, measurements should be taken across the center in two or three places for both the width and length. If these measurements are different from that of the outer edge, accidental stretching has occurred. To keep the finished quilt as straight and square as possible, you must measure the centers.

Determine the length of the quilt border by averaging the distance of two or three center measurements. Cut two borders that length and pin them to opposite sides of the quilt matching ends and centers and easing in the fullness. Sew and press.

Determine the width of the quilt border by averaging the distance of two or three center measurements. Cut these borders that length and pin. Again match the ends and centers easing in the fullness. Sew and press.

To make mitered corners, consult a quilting book that contains instructions for finishing a quilt.