Custom vs Edge to Edge

Decisions, Decisions....

Its always tough to decide whether to select custom quilting or and edge to edge design.

Custom does take longer because I have to design the quilting which will ultimately enhance the quilt blocks. Edge to edge is an all over design which is great if you don't want the quilting to take over.

When it comes to deciding between custom quilting or edge-to-edge quilting, they different in appraoch, complexity and cost. Lets break it down...

Custom Quilting

Custom quilting refers to a highly personalized, intricate quilting design that is tailored specifically to the quilt top. Each section of the quilt can be quilted differently depending on the fabric, the design of the quilt, and the desired effect. It allows for a lot of creative expression and flexibility in design. You will be part of the design process and have ultimate say in what you like or don't like.

Key Characteristics:

• Custom Design: We'll create unique 'pattern' for each section of the quilt (e.g., borders, blocks, sashing, etc.).

• Intricate Stitching: Custom quilting often uses a variety of stitch patterns, including decorative stitches, motifs, ruler work and free-motion quilting.

• Time-Consuming: Because it involves designing and stitching different patterns for each section, it takes more time and effort than edge-to-edge quilting.

• Higher Cost: Due to the labor-intensive nature and detailed work, custom quilting is typically more expensive.

• Personalized Touch: This style allows for a high degree of personalization, and quilters often choose this method for special quilts, such as heirlooms or gifts.

Ideal For:

• Quilts with complex or one-of-a-kind designs.

• Projects that require intricate patterns, such as art quilts, memory quilts, or heirloom quilts.

• People looking for a unique, detailed finish that complements the specific design of the quilt top.

Edge-to-Edge Quilting

Edge-to-edge quilting, often called all-over quilting, refers to a simpler, uniform quilting design that covers the entire quilt in one continuous pattern. The same design is used throughout the quilt, with no variation between different sections of the quilt top.

Key Characteristics:

• One Continuous Design: A single quilting pattern is stitched over the entire quilt top. This design might be something like a meander, swirls, loops, or geometric patterns.

• Faster Process: Since the pattern is the same for the whole quilt, the process is quicker than custom quilting, making it less time-consuming.

• Lower Cost: Edge-to-edge quilting generally costs less because it requires less time and fewer design decisions.

• Uniformity: The quilting pattern is the same throughout the quilt, offering a uniform, cohesive look.

Ideal For:

• Quilts where the primary focus is on the fabric or piecing rather than intricate quilting designs.

• Quilts for everyday use or for those who want a quicker turnaround time.

• Budget-conscious quilters or those who want to finish a quilt without the higher costs associated with custom quilting.

Comparison Summary:

Aspect	Custom Quilting	Edge-to-Edge Quilting
Design	Unique, tailored to quilt sections	One continuous design across entire quilt
Complexity	Intricate, detailed, with multiple patterns	Simple and consistent throughout the quilt
Time	More time-consuming	Faster process
Cost	Higher due to the amount of work involved	Lower due to the simplicity and speed
Ideal Use	Special or heirloom quilts, intricate designs	Everyday quilts, simple or modern designs

If you want a quilt that is highly personalized and showcases a variety of intricate designs, custom quilting is the way to go. However, if you need a faster, more budget-friendly option and don’t mind a uniform quilting pattern, edge-to-edge quilting is a great choice. The right method really depends on your budget, timeline, and how you envision the finished quilt!

Lets work together to design and finish your beautiful quilt