tool advice for machine quilting

[StacyLSS]

I want to start machine quilting (soon, before Christmas!?). Where can I get a table extender for my machine (Bernette 50 for Bernina), and what type of sewing foot do you all like the best? (open toe, darning, free motion, what's the difference??). Only answers to these two questions, please, and thank you!!

[Rhonda K]

Re: tool advice for machine quilting

I have one of these extension tables for my serger. You select the correct one by make and model.

https://www.sewsteady.com/

I use the walking foot for quilting as it moves all the fabrics together which = less puckers.

[JCY]

Re: tool advice for machine quilting

The walking foot is not for FMQ -- you need a darning foot. It's your choice if you get open toed or not. I started out with a generic plastic foot (closed) with which to practice (I broke 2 of them), but at least I learned the movements. Then I bought an open toed metal foot made specifically for my machine. Look up the model no. of the specific presser foot you need for your mach. Chances are you can get it much cheaper on Amazon.

The Sew Steady table extensions are custom made to fit specific machines. I ordered mine through my LQS, but you can order your own directly. The FMQ will be much easier if you use the Supreme Slider. You'll need some top stitch 90-14 quilting needles, too. For the ext. table, be sure to wax it with Turtle Wax (paste) prior to FMQ; your sandwich will slide much easier.

If you don't already have a white board, I strongly suggest it to practice the FMQ pattern to build muscle memory. It really helps.
I wish you well.

[grammaterry]

Re: tool advice for machine quilting

I use an open toe spring action foot. I ordered mine on ebay for half of the mfg price. You need to knw if your machine has a long or short shank before ordering.
I have a sew steady table and have seen them at a wide range of prices. seems like connecting threads had a good deal on them one time.

[KPH]

Re: tool advice for machine quilting

I'm the lucky girl, DH made my extension table with acrylic sheets from Lowes and some dowels cut to size. I love it!

[DramaMama]

Re: tool advice for machine quilting

I have a metal open toe FMQ foot purchased from SewingPartsOnline.com

Great customer service via email as well as phone to help me select the correct item for my machine.

[StacyLSS]

Re: tool advice for machine quilting

long or short shank? What is that?

[StacyLSS]

Re: tool advice for machine quilting

searched for LQS but nothing relevant turned up. What is that?

[Star lover]

Re: tool advice for machine quilting

Long...short...shanks are talking about the length of the shaft that your feet attached to. Hope the following pic helps....

[Vonnie]

Re: tool advice for machine quilting

searched for LQS but nothing relevant turned up. What is that?

Local Quilt Store.

[StacyLSS]

Re: tool advice for machine quilting

thanks everyone for all the helpful info!!

[Snip Snip]

Re: tool advice for machine quilting

StacyLSS, your machine may have come with a darning foot. Lots of them do, even older machines.

[Georgie Girl]

Re: tool advice for machine quilting

StacyLSS, your machine may have come with a darning foot. Lots of them do, even older machines.

Yes check what came with your machine. I just discovered I had a free motion foot and have had my machine forever. Didn't realize the foot called darning foot was the free motion foot. Thought darning was for like darning holes. Yes LOL go ahead. It's amazing what you learn from the experts on this form.