When and How to Quilt an Edge-to-Edge Pantograph Pattern

Edge-to-edge (E2E) pantograph quilting is one of the easiest and most effective ways to finish a quilt with a professional look. Whether you’re quilting for yourself or customers, a pantograph design can add beautiful texture without the complexity of custom quilting. Let’s go over when to use a pantograph and how to quilt one successfully.

“Easy” is a matter of experience. When I start quilting a pantograph, my first few rows don’t look as polished as the later ones because, like anything, it takes practice. Kathy, on the other hand, makes it look effortless because she has incredible control over her machine. If you want to skip the long learning curve, automation is the way to go. That’s why we sell QCT6 (QuiltMotion), which is now Kathy’s go-to setup. Since she quilts for customers, she needs efficiency—she loads the quilt, picks the perfect design, stitches down the edges so the hopping foot doesn’t catch, and lets her Q’nique 21X Elite handle the rest. With QCT6 Pro’s Power Panto mode, the entire process is automated! This frees Kathy up to do custom free-motion quilting on her Gammill Classic, allowing her to finish twice as many quilts. When you’re busy, every minute counts!

When to Use a Pantograph Design

A pantograph is a continuous line design that spans the entire quilt, from edge to edge, repeating across the entire surface. Here’s when it’s a great choice:

• Busy Fabric or Scrappy Quilts – A pantograph blends well and adds texture without overpowering the piecing.

• Fast and Efficient Quilting – If you need to finish a quilt quickly, an edge-to-edge design is much faster than custom quilting.

• For Beginners – Learning to quilt a pantograph is a great way to build confidence with your longarm. If you’re a beginner or trying a new design, I highly recommend practicing on a practice quilt first. Muscle memory is key—the more you practice, the smoother and more accurate your quilting will be. Taking the time to warm up will help your finished quilt match the pantograph design much more closely.

• All-Over Texture – When you want an even, consistent quilted look, pantographs provide a great balance.

What You Will Need

1. Rear handles for your long-arm machine – When using a pantograph pattern, it typically rests on the tabletop surface of your quilting frame. To keep it flat and prevent it from rolling up, try placing a sheet of clear vinyl plastic (available at craft stores) over the pattern. If your design has an offset pattern—where every other row shifts—you’ll need to use the registration marks to align each row correctly. Having rear handles on your machine is a game-changer, allowing you to stand at the back of the frame and smoothly guide the laser dot along the design. Rear handles are also handy when loading your quilt, making it easier to stitch down the batting and quilt top to the backing before you start quilting.

2. Laser for following the pantograph pattern (edge to edge design) – A laser guide is a must-have for quilting pantograph patterns. The Q’nique Laser easily plugs into the rear handles of all Q’nique and Block RockiT longarm machines, giving you precise control as you follow the design. It also comes with multiple lenses to adjust the size of the red dot on your pantograph, making it easier to see and trace. Following a pattern can feel tricky at first, which is why practice is so important— the more you use it, the smoother your quilting will become!

3. Pantograph Design – You can find pantograph designs at some quilt shops, but shopping online usually offers more variety. When buying a design, check if a digital version is included. Many quilters who start by following the red laser dot eventually upgrade to QCT6 automation, and having a digital copy means you won’t have to repurchase the same design for your computerized system later. It’s a smart way to future-proof your quilting!

How to Quilt a Pantograph Step-by-Step

1. Choose the Right Pantograph Design

Pick a design that matches the quilt’s style. Simple loops, swirls, and meanders work great for modern and playful quilts, while feathers or florals add elegance to traditional quilts.

2. Set Up Your Quilt on the Frame

Load your quilt backing, batting, and quilt top onto the longarm frame. Make sure it is taut but not overstretched.

3. Align Your Pantograph

Place the pantograph design on the back table of your longarm quilting machine. Use a laser pointer or stylus to follow the design.

4. Start Quilting

Begin at the edge of the quilt and follow the pantograph pattern with smooth, steady movements. Keep an even pace to maintain consistent stitch length.

5. Advance the Quilt

After finishing a row, roll the quilt forward and reposition your machine to continue the next pass of the pantograph. Make sure each row aligns properly to avoid gaps or overlaps.

6. Finish and Trim

Once the entire quilt is quilted, remove it from the frame, trim the edges, and bind it as usual.

Pro Tips for Success

• Practice First – If you’re new to pantographs, practice on scrap fabric before quilting your actual quilt.

• Use the Right Needle and Thread – A strong polyester (long-arm machine quilting thread is our recommendation) or cotton thread works well for pantographs, and a size 18 needle is a good choice for most longarms.

• Keep Your Hand Movements Steady – Smooth, even motion is key to preventing jagged lines or inconsistent stitching.

Pantographs are an excellent way to finish quilts efficiently while creating a beautiful, uniform design. With a little practice, you’ll be quilting stunning edge-to-edge patterns in no time!

Would you like help choosing a pantograph design or learning more about using your longarm? Let’s talk in the comments below!