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All About Laser Kits
Selecting the right fabrics is one of the most exciting—and sometimes overwhelming—parts of quilting. Whether you’re wondering how to coordinate colors, how much fabric to buy, or whether premium materials are worth the investment, this guide brings together the most common questions quilters ask. Explore expert tips, practical advice, and helpful insights to make confident, creative decisions for every project.
What is a laser-cut quilt kit and how does it differ from regular kits?
A laser-cut quilt kit includes fabric pieces that have been precisely cut with a laser machine, following the exact shapes required for the pattern. Unlike regular quilt kits—where you cut all pieces yourself—a laser kit arrives ready to assemble. All shapes are pre-cut and pre-fused, edges are crisp, and complex appliqué motifs are already perfectly trimmed, eliminating hours of prep work.
Do laser-cut pieces really save time for beginners?
Yes. Laser-cut pieces dramatically reduce prep time, especially for those new to appliqué. Beginners don’t need to measure, trace, or cut intricate shapes, allowing them to focus on learning assembly and stitching techniques instead of worrying about accuracy.
How accurate are the cuts in a laser kit?
Laser-cut pieces are highly accurate—typically more precise than hand-cut or rotary-cut shapes. The laser ensures clean edges, consistent sizing, and perfect curves, which helps seams align easily and reduces frustration during assembly. However, due to variations in fabric print repeats, dye lots, and our efforts to keep laser kits affordable, there is no guarantee that the fabric in your kit will exactly match what is in the quilt image, or would match your preference.
What skill level is recommended for using laser-cut kits?
Laser-cut kits are suitable for all skill levels. Beginners appreciate the simplified prep work, while experienced quilters enjoy the time savings and accuracy. More complex designs may still require intermediate appliqué skills, but the cutting portion is already done for you.
Are laser kits pre-fused or do I need to add fusible web?
McKenna’s laser-cut kits always come pre-fused, meaning the fusible web is already applied to the back of each appliqué shape. You simply peel the paper backing and iron the pieces into place. However, not all brands include fusible—always check the product description for details.
Can I mix laser-cut pieces with traditional fabric pieces?
Absolutely. Laser-cut appliqués and hand-cut pieces can be used together in the same project. This is especially common when only the appliqué shapes are laser cut, while the quilter chooses and cuts their own background fabrics.
Do laser kits come with full patterns included?
McKenna’s laser kits will always include the pattern, layout guide, and assembly instructions. Some, especially add-on or expansion kits, may only include the pre-cut shapes. However, not all brands include the pattern. Always check the product description for details and review the listing to confirm what’s included.
What tools do I need when working with laser-cut appliqué?
Basic tools include:
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An iron (for pre-fused pieces)
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Pressing sheet or parchment paper
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Small appliqué scissors for minor trimming
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Tweezers for tiny shapes
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Pencil or writing tool
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A non-stick pressing surface
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Sewing machine or hand-stitching supplies
No specialised cutting tools are required.
Can I reorder individual laser-cut pieces if I lose or damage them?
Some manufacturers allow you to reorder individual pieces or replacement sets, while others do not. It depends on the brand and licensing agreements for the pattern. Contact customer support with your kit name and piece number for options.
What is included in a laser cut kit?
Most laser kits include:
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Pre-cut and pre-fused appliqué pieces
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Pattern or layout guide
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Background Fabric
Some may also include borders, binding, backing or embellishments —but not all kits do. Check the description to see what’s included.
Can I do needle turn on one of McKenna’s laser kits?
McKenna Ryan’s laser-cut kits are pre-cut and pre-fused, which means they are designed for raw edge appliqué—not needle-turn. Since the appliques are already pre-cut and fused, there is no way to add on the extra seam allowance required to do a traditional needle-turn technique.
Why are small pieces connected to each other?
Tiny shapes are often grouped together to prevent them from getting lost in packaging. They may share small connecting threads of fabric that you can separate easily before placement.
How do I handle larger applique pieces that are folded?
Large laser-cut shapes are sometimes folded to fit into packaging. Gently unfold them and use a dry iron on a low heat setting to relax the creases. Avoid tugging or stretching the fabric.
Do laser kits include background fabric?
Some do, some don’t. Many laser kits focus on the appliqué pieces, leaving background selection up to the quilter. Always review the “included materials” section to see whether the background fabric is provided.
How should I store my laser kit if I don't want to assemble it right away?
Store the kit flat in a cool, dry place. Keep pre-fused pieces in their original sheets to prevent curling or premature adhesion. Avoid humidity and high heat, which can weaken fusible paper.
How do I label the laser cut pieces?
Most kits print labels directly onto the fusible paper or include a placement sheet identifying each shape. To identify each piece, lay them fusible side up onto their corresponding shape on the cutting guide, and write the label in pencil on the paper backing of the fusible. If no cutting guide is provided, keep pieces grouped by color or section in small zip bags and mark them with sticky notes that correspond to the pattern’s numbering system.
How do I determine what each laser cut piece is?
Use the enclosed cutting guide or layout sheet. Position pieces over the diagram to match shapes by size, color, and orientation. Some patterns also include numbered templates or color-coded diagrams for easy identification.
What do I do if my kit is missing a piece?
Contact the seller or manufacturer with your kit name, purchase date, and the piece number or description. Most companies will replace missing pieces quickly, especially if the kit is from a recent print run.
Can I buy a laser cut kit without the pattern if I already own it?
Typically, McKenna does not sell a laser kit without the pattern. However, some other manufacturers might. Some designers and shops offer “laser-cut only” kits intended for customers who already purchased the pattern separately. Check the product listing or reach out to confirm availability.