Frequently Asked Questions
Location and Product Questions
Where is Village Stitchery located?
Village Stitchery is based in Sanbornton, New Hampshire which is located in the heart of the Lakes Region in central NH. We operate primarily online and also offer quilting services for customers who want help finishing their quilts.
Is Village Stitchery a physical store or online only?
Village Stitchery is an online fabric shop, with additional quilting services available. This allows us to focus on both sourcing beautiful fabrics and helping bring finished quilts to life. You may order from anywhere in the United States.
What other types of products do you offer?
We offer a selection of products that support quilting, including batting, notions, quilt patterns, thread, books related to quilting, and other complementary items alongside our curated fabric collections. You can find it all in our shop.
What services does Village Stitchery offer?
In addition to fabric sales, Village Stitchery offers longarm quilting services with education and consultaions. We work with quilters to help finish their projects with care, attention to detail, and respect for each quilt’s unique style. For more detail, visit our services and resources pages.
What makes Village Stitchery different?
Village Stitchery blends thoughtfully curated fabrics with quilting services, offering both the materials and the finishing touches in one place. Our focus is on quality, coordination, and helping quilters feel confident in their creative choices.
How can I stay updated on new products and specials?
The best way is to join our mailing list. You’ll be the first to know about new arrivals, restocks, and exclusive offers.
Can I order a finished quilt quilt from Village Stitchery?
Yes you can. We have some completed ones on our website or you can special order one to your specifications. Visit our Quilts for Sale or place an order for a custom quilt by contacting us directly.
Longarm Quilting Questions
What is longarm quilting and how does it work?
Longarm quilting is a professional way of stitching together the three layers of a quilt—top, batting, and backing—using a large machine on a frame. The machine moves over the quilt to create even, decorative stitching. Once your quilt top and backing are prepared, they are loaded onto the frame and stitched with a chosen design, from simple patterns to custom work.
How long does quilting take?
Turnaround time varies depending on workload and quilt complexity, but we always provide an estimated completion window when your project is accepted.
Fabric Questions
What types of fabric do you carry?
We specialize in quilt shop quality quilting cottons, along with unique textures and blenders that add depth and interest to your quilts and sewing projects.
Do you offer curated fabric bundles or collections?
Yes! Many of our fabrics are selected with coordination in mind, making it easy to mix and match or build a cohesive quilt without second-guessing your choices. You will find that we carry collections from many of the best designers and manufacturers in the quilting industry. Simply click here and filter/sort by collections.
How often do you add new fabrics?
We regularly update the shop with new arrivals and fresh finds. Joining our newsletter is the best way to stay informed about new products and special offerings.
What is the best fabric for a beginner quilter to use?
We recommend 100% quilting cotton for it's stability, wear, and ease of use. Fabrics that stretch can be used but tend to be challenging to work with.
What are pre-cut fabrics?
Precut fabrics are pre-cut bundles of coordinated quilting fabric (usually all from the same collection) , often sold in sizes like charm packs (5"x5"), 2 1/2" strip rolls (sometimes called jelly rolls), 10"x10" squares (sometimes called layer cakes), and fat quarters (1/4 yard of fabric approximately 22"x18"). They are designed to make quilting faster, easier, and more cost effective by removing the need to cut large yardage yourself.
Do I need to pre-wash my fabric or quilt top?
Pre-washing is optional. Many quilters skip it for convenience and consistency, especially when using high-quality quilting cotton. However, pre-washing is recommended if you are concerned about shrinkage or potential color bleeding. It is not recommended for pre-cuts as they tend to fray and may shrink at different rates resulting in inconsistently sized pre-cut pieces.
Can you help me choose fabrics or finishes for my quilt?
Absolutely. We’re happy to share what’s worked well, offer guidance on fabric choices, and help you think through finishing options that complement your quilt.
Batting Questions
What is quilt batting?
Batting is the middle layer of a quilt that provides warmth, loft, and structure. It sits between the quilt top and backing.
What types of batting do you offer or recommend?
We primarily carry two major high quality brands--Quilter's Dream and The Warm Company. Our selections range from 100% cotton to cotton/poly blends, wool, polyester, bamboo and environmentally friendly recycled plastics. Choices are based on the loft, look and feel desired for the finished quilt. We are happy to recommend options based on your project. You can also go to our batting comparison chart for all the Quilter's Dream options.
Does batting shrink?
Some natural fiber battings, like cotton, may shrink slightly after washing, creating a softer, crinkled texture. Synthetic blends generally shrink less.
Thread Questions
What type of thread do you use?
We use high-quality quilting threads designed for strength, durability, and smooth stitch formation on longarm machines.
Can I request a specific thread color?
Yes. We can match or contrast thread colors based on your preference and quilt design.
Will the thread show on my quilt?
It depends on color choice and quilting density. We help you choose thread that either blends in or stands out intentionally for decorative effect.
Needle Questions
What type of needles should I use to piece my quilt?
Generally, if using a 50wt. cotton thread like Aurifil, a size 12 needle is usually appropriate. You may want to check with your dealer to see if your particular machine prefers a particular brand of needle. If you do any topstitching, you may want to go up to a size 14. Check out our blog and needle guide for more information.
How often do needles need to be changed?
We have found that changing the needle after each project is a good place to start. They may need to be changed more often if you start to notice skipped stitches or thread shredding.
Do needles affect stitch quality?
Yes. The correct needle size and type are critical for smooth stitching, balanced tension, and overall quilt quality.
Shipping Questions
Do you ship orders?
Yes, we ship all orders within the United States. Each order is carefully packaged so it arrives in beautiful condition and ready to use. You're welcome to check out our shipping and handling policy.
I am not local to Sanbornton, can I ship my quilt to you for quilting?
Yes, we ship anywhere in the United States.
Do you offer free shipping?
Yes on orders of $75 or more.