grammy17

My one success was by using an embroidery hoop. Had to move it often but it helped me have more control.

grammy17

Of course now my machine wont stitch at all trying to FM!!

purplefiend

Have you threatened to replace it with a more co-operative machine? :lol:

bjnicholson

I'm taking notes here! I have to sew 7 strips together and 2 borders then I'm ready to sandwich and quilt. Can't say I can't wait, but I do have to get it done!!

watterstide

This one of my favorite FMQ videos for the beginner:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39I5A...os=81riuZPj3q8

Put some music on,relax,Breathe!

dusty222

On the designer 1, you have to select the "V" stitch menu and the straight stitch in there before you free motion quilt. However, I believe your problem is that you need to slow down the speed of the machine and the speed of your movement of the fabric. We tend to try and keep up with the sound of the machine and high speed sounds fast. Also, practice, practice, practice. No one starts to FMQ like an expert. It takes time.

KookNKwilt

I have a Viking, also, and only recently begun FMQ. You are doing everything right, except you need to slow the speed to the lowest setting. I stenciled a large meander on my first project and followed it at slow speed. I looks pretty awful if you get up close and really look. The second project I turned the speed up one notch and just went at it. It's much easier to just meander without following a line. By the time I was done with the second project I was free-motioning holly leaves and holly berries!!! You can do it!!

colwoods

On the Designer 1 after you decrease your speed setting, use the stop/start button. That gives you a continous consistent speed and you don't have to use the foot pedal. You can consentrate on your design and move smoothly.

illinois

I'm really not one to ask for advice as I don't have the hang for this either but I've been told to start on a practice piece to get the rhythm of it. One of my friends--a seasoned quilter--said she had more control of stitch length and liked her finished product better if she did not drop the feed dogs.

scrapykate

I have a saphire and put the speed to the lowest, use the start/stop button(you can stop it by putting your foot on the peddle). I found it easier that way so I didn't have to think about what my foot was doing and what my hands were doing. this really helped but then I'm one of those that can't pat her head and rub her stomach at the same time. practice practice helps as well. good luck.