Mrstamper

Hey all. With 2013 starting, I want to learn to FMQ on my home sewing machine but need some help. Does anyone know of patterns or templates you can lay down on your quilt top and mark it? I know I have heard about golden threads paper and all but surely there must be acrylic or reusable templates and patterns out there. Does anyone have any resources to get me started beyond stipling or meandering? Thanks

QuiltnNan

The Stencil Company is a great source http://quiltingstencils.com/

EllieGirl

I've watched videos from Leah Day about FMQ. I practiced and practiced before stating an actual quilt. I don't use any type of template. I follow what I learned from Leah Day called stippling. It's just a meandering pattern you create as you go.

Furball

In addition to stencils I use pantographs for edge to edge designs. I trace a section of the pantograph onto golden threads paper. Then I needle punch the design on the machine. Finally I use iron off chalk and pounce the design onto my quilt. If the chalk won't show up, i use a light box to trace the pantograph onto the quilt top with a frixion pen.This sounds like a lot of work but it really isn't as bad as it sounds and it allows me a wide variety of designs. I'm just not comfortable with freehand FMQ.

ArtsyOne

I know that both JoAnn's and Michaels have inexpensive stencils, and I'm sure other fabric stores do as well.

Pinkiris

You might try Google-ing "Continuous line quilting patterns". I know I got some ideas from there and some good info as to how to connect designs.

sewplease

Here's an idea - look at some simple pantographs that aren't too wide. You can get some great ideas for FMQ, or purchase a couple, and trace onto a light weight paper that you can stitch over on your quilt.