Machine Quilting

[lsb142]

I just machine quilted my first quilt and find I don't like doing it. Does it get better? I don't like the look of my quilting. Apparently I don't sew straight. My stitching in the ditch doesn't always end up in the ditch. Anyone have tips on machine quilting?

Linda

[ginampls]

Re: Machine Quilting

i too am just learning... i found that stitch in the ditch is my best... go slow... i had a friend who is a quilter. tell me slow and steady... as for meandering it does get better. i still need more practice.. sewing with nacy says to use yur machine unthreadded nd a plain piece of paper so needle pokes holes... also Laura here said to try using coloring books. simple image like bear, ducky , flower... to practice... i took a class... but i think i wouild like to take another one...

[JVO]

Re: Machine Quilting

Using coloring books, what a good idea to practice machine quilting. My problem is I do not bad on a small item, but then get a bigger item and it is like learning all over again to move the material thru the machine! Not sure if I will ever get very good at it!

[lhayes1976]

Re: Machine Quilting

I started out stitching in the ditch and I just couldn't stay in the ditch. I now quilt a 1/4 inch away on both sides of my seams now when the pattern allows. I really like it, it seems to look more like "hand quilting " to me. Some patterns though, just have to be SITD. I have stippled a few quilts, but no quilts that are to be given away as gifts. I just not that good at it.

[Loonwatcher]

Re: Machine Quilting

Wow! I seriously need help with FMQing. Love the remove the thread and practice on paper and/or coloring books tip. Thank you all!

[mollycaff]

Re: Machine Quilting

... also Laura here said to try using coloring books. simple image like bear, ducky , flower... to practice... i took a class... but i think i wouild like to take another one...

What a great idea! I've only recently joined the forum, I've just finished piecing together a small "test run" which is going to be table mat size and am very nervous about quilting it. I'm definitely going to use this tip to practice some FMQ. Thanks

[gloria]

Re: Machine Quilting

Re machine quilting

I just finished a large log cabin pattern that I quilted in the ditch. I found that if I move my needle position as close to the pressure foot as possible it helps to glide the material straighter so I can follow in the ditch. Hope you find this helps.

[suzette58]

Re: Machine Quilting

Just keep working with it. I have been quilting about 4 or 5 years now and still have those projects that it doesn't seem right.

[Sandy Navas]

Re: Machine Quilting

Just keep working with it. I have been quilting about 4 or 5 years now and still have those projects that it doesn't seem right.

SUZETTE - there are NO quilting police. What may not seem right to YOU will seem absolutely PERFECT to anyone who doesn't quilt - and those who quilt won't see the 'errors' as you see them!!!!

I did a block today and sent a picture to my sister. She is a 'master quilter' and I am definitely NOT. She raved about it. I, pointed out all my mistakes . . .

Art is in the eye of the beholder . . . don't behold anything YOU do . . . I can't, either.

[Marebear]

Re: Machine Quilting

I am new too, and one thing I have done on smaller projects is to use "invisible" clear thread, then the errors aren't so glaring.

But I do agree with Sandy - just do it and have fun - who cares if it is not perfectly in the ditch! Practice and slow sewing help.

I did my first free motion quilting and just meandered. It was fun and I gave it away as a gift and they loved it. It was far from perfect, but it was made with love. I also think washing your project when it is done makes everything look better Have fun!

[SuzyQue]

Re: Machine Quilting

I use to put such stock in piecing and quilting to be like the original quilters of long ago.....until someone pointed out how many old, antique quilts are wonky, crooked stitching, imperfect. I think your quilt should be pretty to look at, but then someone will love it and some won't. I absolutely think the most important thing your quilt has to have is love. If you love doing it, if you love having it, if you love giving it, if you stitched love, prayers, and blessings into it as you went along......then the quilt is perfect! SuzyQue
PS---my perfectionistic side still makes me rip occasionally...but not as often as I could.

[twnkeyes]

Re: Machine Quilting

I admire those of you who actually quilt your own quilts. I, on the other hand, have no desire to do the actual quilting, I always send my quilt tops to a local quilter. The way I look at it is the cost is worth not having the frustration (for me) of trying to quilt.

[goobster]

Re: Machine Quilting

I am a newbie but have just finished a quilted pillow with stitch in the ditch. As long as I stayed slow, it was fine. The moment I tried to speed up -- oops!

[pamstone]

Re: Machine Quilting

i am in a beginner class......this week we learn how to put the batting and backing on and i guess quilt it ! the quilt top turned out larger than i thought it would be (couldn't stop with the borders...just love the piano keys border) and now i am dreading quilting it. she says we can NOT send out to a quilter....

i also made several smaller pieces (table runners and a few dresden plates with christmas fabric for giftable wall hangings)....i think i will start "quilting" those first. and sneak the large one to a pro !! i can't see myself making large quilts in the future...i am a slam bang kind of gal....small projects are good enough for me, at least that's my opinion now.

how do you post a pix here? i was able to attach pix on another thread....but in quick reply it only has a url or link feature that i can see.

[pamstone]

Re: Machine Quilting

i think i figured it out...had to go to "advanced" reply

this is my first dresden plate...used the easy ruler by darleen zimmerman.....love it