Instructions for making a quilt sleeve for the back of your quilt

As many of you are aware, all quilts entered in the DMAQG Quilt Show must have a sleeve attached to the back of the quilt. There are many methods to achieve this requirement. There are products that can be purchased that are ready to sew onto the back of your quilt, or you can make a sleeve using fabric that matches your quilt backing. These options are up to you. All that we require is a 4" finished sleeve that is attached securely to the top back of your entered quilt. The following instructions describe one easy way to put a continuous sleeve on the back of your quilt. See the option below for a split sleeve application. Either is acceptable, but the split sleeve is suggested for use with the new hanging system.

1. Cut a strip of fabric 8 1/2" x width of your quilt, seaming lengths together as needed.

2. Hem the ends by folding in 1/2" on each side once, and then again. Stitch this hem by hand or machine.

3. Fold the sleeve right sides together, lengthwise. Stitch a 1/4" seam allowance.

4. Turn the sleeve right side out and press in half, using the seam as one edge.

5. Stitch to the back of the quilt using an applique stitch. You may baste the sleeve to the back of the quilt if you wish to remove it later, as long as it is very secure. You must attach both lengthwise edges of the sleeve. When you are stitching it to the back use special care to have your stitches only in the backing and batting and not clear through to the quilt top.

6. Other options: In lieu of the continuous sleeve, use a split sleeve as shown in the diagram below. The two outside sleeves should be approximately 6" long. Leave approximately a 1" gap between the middle and outer sleeves to allow easier attachment of

the hook used to hang the quilt.