How to Baste a Quilt Using Pool Noodles
This Popular Method Produces Great Results!
Layering and basting a quilt presents several challenges and can be quite tedious. Many quilters dread this step but fortunately, there’s a simple method that makes the process go more quickly and smoothly.
The secret is pool noodles. They help immensely to keep the backing smooth and the top straight. Plus, you can pin baste or even easier, spray baste your quilt layers together. And, for smaller quilts, you can do it all on a table instead of the floor (you may still need to use the floor for large quilts unless you have a long table).
While standard pool noodles work nicely with smaller quilts, you can connect two for use with large quilts using PVC connectors from the hardware store. Just be sure to get the correct diameter to fit your pool noodles.
American Patchwork and Quilting created an excellent tutorial and companion video demonstrating this popular layering method.