rvsfan

I want to echo lots of HST and Squares . I think I could do this using a straight stitch rather than FMQ . Do I need to STID these first , then echo ? Or can I skip the STID and just echo?

Tartan

If it is a small project where I could rotate the work, I would straight stitch. If it is a large quilt where rotating it would be too much work, I would FMQ with my ruler foot and ruler. I would stitch the shape and then echo.

dunster

You don't have to SITD, but it really adds a nice definition to the patchwork that you won't get if you skip that step.

I agree with Tartan. If doing the quilting on you DSM, rotating a large quilt can become a big effort. If you're comfortable with using a ruler, that would be the best way to go.

Mkotch

If you feel SITD would help to anchor your quilting but you don't want it in the final quilt, try using wash-away thread. I have done that and it works really well.

klswift

You do not have to do STID. In fact, I rarely use that at all because, if seams have been pressed open, what are you stitching on? I often use an echo stitch and I have a favorite presser foot that has very good markings for the width and for where to pivot (I like a slight bit less than 1/4"). If you are doing every HST and Square, you will have a lot of quilting. You may want to think about which ones to do to keep within your 5" or 6" requirement and have a nice pattern on the back without doing every single one.

Klermont

OK, I'm stupid

what is STID and DSM

Kit-Kat

You are never stupid for asking a question! STID = stitch in the ditch and DSM = domestic sewing machine.

tuckyquilter

[QUOTE=rvsfan;8301695]I want to echo lots of HST and Squares . I think I could do this using a straight stitch rather than FMQ . Do I need to STID these first , then echo ? Or can I skip the STID and just echo?[/QUOTE

I use a Walking Foot for SITD and the line guide to make sure they are all the same distance away from each other.