Happy Happy Joy Joy!

[Meli]

Over the weekend, I realized I couldn't really do any FMQ unless I had the proper foot for my machine. A quick internet search found a darning foot for my Singer 6215C. It arrived today. Of course, I had to try it out on my practice quilting blocks. I had also grabbed a feed dog cover (since mine don't drop). WOW!!! What a difference the right equipment makes! I absolutely cannot wait to get back to the Polka Dot Block Swap quilt so I can play with my "new toy". And later this week I should be getting one of those teflon mat things, the name of which just flitted right out of my head. Sadly, it'll be a few days before I can get there, since I'm currently back at work making blocks for the Colores Quilt for my heart-sister's 20th wedding anniversary. Which was in April. My goal is to have it done in time -- and have it look good enough -- to enter it in the State Fair. Entries are usually taken around Labor Day, so I've got my work cut out for me.

Hugs to all!

[pcbatiks]

Hi Meli, I'm just starting out on the FMQ also.....only practiced a little so far. I just got my extension table yesterday, already had the darning foot and trying to decide if I need the teflon mat.
Here is the name of one of the mats: Supreme Slider LaPeirre Studio Supreme Slider Free Motion Machine Quilting Mat. I just got an email from Amazon the other day with this mentioned. Leah Day also has one on her website. If you decide to get one, let me know how it works for you. Have fun with the FMQ

[auntiemern]

So happy that it is all working out. It really does make a difference having the proper equipment. Have fun with it as soon as you get a chance.

[Winniesfriend]

Yay, glad it is all working out for you, I have a supreme slider but due to a shoulder injury have not attempted any FMQ since I bought it, might have to give it a try and see how the shoulder is holding up.

[jingleme]

Yay Meli! You are SO right about the right equipment!!
I have one of those supreme sliders too. But.....if you don't tape it or nail it down to your machine, your needle will go through it like a hot knife thru butter. Ask me how I know that. It takes a while to unsew your quilt from your slider. aargh!

[Granny Judy]

I use a fabric softener sheet (unused) over the top of my sewing area.. My quilts slide easily around and thru with it.. Just helps make the job less strenuous. I have the slider sheet, but it never stays in place for me no matter how much I stick it down.

Fabric Softener Sheet is just a cheap suggestion for you to try..

[Deneldac00p]

I.m going to try that!
Dena

[Claire Hallman]

I bought a yard of heavy plastic sheet at J and used it once so far. I think it made things slide easily and I am not afraid to spray it with silicone spray like I would be to spray my machine. It got caught once but I realized it immediately and was able to unsew it quickly then I taped it more securely. I plan on using it again today since I have not done any FMQ lately but am going to do some experimenting today.
I had what I hope is a bright idea. I bought some patterned paper which I am going to pin to my quilt then follow the stars pattern with my FMQ then tear away the paper. It is wrapping paper and I think it will work but we shall see.

edit: I cut a hole in the plastic fairly near one side for the needle to pass through.