luvspaper

meander was my go to when I first started, and then I added feathers. Practice drawing on paper and try not to have your meanders too close to each other. If you are working on a domestic sewing machine though, straight lines might be easier and would look good on this one -- but not much will show with the fabrics unless you use a color of thread that majorly stands out (like black) and I wouldnt' do that on my first quilt LOL!

beckyboo1

Hadn't thought of it, but you're right, it's a "busy" quilt so it's probably a good one for me to try first since glaring errors won't be as noticeable. Thanks!

Tartan

A smooth meander was difficult for me when I first started. I did better on loop de loops because it gave me a spot to stop and reposition my hands. Machinger gloves really help to move the sandwich.

copycat

Pretty quilt top! Pick a design you are most comfortable doing. On print fabrics, the free-motion designs will not stand out as much depending on the color thread you use. On my first try at f-m quilting I did edge to edge loops. You may find it helpful to warm up on a practice sandwhich made from scraps or similar fabrics to audition your thread and design. Have fun!

toverly

I agree with Tartan, a loop de loop is so much easier than a meander. You can't stitch yourself into a corner if the threads cross over each other. How big or small you want to make the loop de loops is up to you. Larger will be softer in the end.

AZ Jane

I have always heard, for a very angular design, use a curvy design, for a curvy design, use a very angular design. Not sure that helps LOL

Jennifer23

Like Tartan, my meandering looked awful when I started (stills does!). I would suggest figure 8s. http://truebluequilts.com/free-motio...ilting-design/

I found Angela Walters' books really useful when I was starting to fmq.

beckyboo1

Actually, it does help. I kind of wondered if that was a way to figure it out, thanks!

Jingle

I just do an all over meandering design. I don't care for all the designs some quilts have. If you tense up it will show in your quilting. So relax and just do what feels natural. Washing and drying the quilt after it is completely finished helps too.

It is a very pretty quilt.

AVFD215

I have FMQ'd 8 or 9 myself. I used just a meander pattern.
I suggest you have a mentor. They can keep you out of trouble, show you cool techniques, and the fellowship is great.
Whatever you choose to do, enjoy.