Learning Free Motion Quilting
09-03-2011, 03:47 PM
#41
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2011
Location: Saskatchewan
Posts: 572
The best class I ever took was a serging class where we made a booklet that we could use in the future. We made notes on the settings, feet and type of thread we were to use. We ended up with a sample and everything we needed was there when we went back to it in the future. I have used this booklet many many times.
I have taken classes where I could do it in the class but by time I went back to try I couldn't remember anything.
Quilterfay In Saskatchewan
I have taken classes where I could do it in the class but by time I went back to try I couldn't remember anything.
Quilterfay In Saskatchewan
09-03-2011, 04:13 PM
#42
Junior Member
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: Richland, MS
Posts: 163
I have an old New Home machine and I just finished a baby quilt. This was my first FMQ. I read alot of posts from this quilt site. The one that helped me the most was from Colleen53. She and her husband purchased a "plug in" dimmer switch that would allow her to go at her own speed. I don't have a speed control on my machine. I bought a table lamp dimmer switch that is on page 5 & 6 of the following post:
http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-142428-1.htm
Some said they wouldn't use it on a computerized machine. But it worked great for me and you may want to check it out.
http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-142428-1.htm
Some said they wouldn't use it on a computerized machine. But it worked great for me and you may want to check it out.
09-03-2011, 04:18 PM
#43
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Location: Brick, NJ
Posts: 819
One of the most valuable things I learned in a FMQ class was how to clean your machine (we were all advised to bring pipecleaners, Q-tips and sewing machine oil [the oil is used on the Q-tip to make the dust cling to it]).
The importance of comfort (pillow on your seat, partly to elevate you and partly to cushion you), and relaxation -- recommended glass of wine (preferably white), music (to help establish a rhythm).
The importance of comfort (pillow on your seat, partly to elevate you and partly to cushion you), and relaxation -- recommended glass of wine (preferably white), music (to help establish a rhythm).
09-03-2011, 04:46 PM
#44
Super Member
Join Date: Jul 2010
Posts: 1,789
Originally Posted by schaffers
I think one of the most important things for someone to learn is to "Just Do It" Too many people are afraid that their work won't be perfect that they are afraid to try. I think this board shows that we all have to start somewhere. Most people that don't quilt won't know what it "should" look like. They simply appreciate your work. Just Quilt!
09-03-2011, 04:58 PM
#45
Super Member
Join Date: Jun 2010
Location: Flemington, NJ
Posts: 1,167
I do not know you - so I feel safe mentioning this one point that irks me time after time. Every now and then I take a class and occasionally I am amazed and annoyed that the instructor seems to favor just a few students. Everyone pays for the class and should get the same attention as those favored students. This is my pet peeve.
09-03-2011, 05:18 PM
#46
Super Member
Join Date: Feb 2011
Location: Rochester, Minnesota
Posts: 1,795
This may be imposible to teach, but just thought I'd get your thoughts - - - I'd like to know how to come up with designs to best fill the quilt. I like to do more than meander, it does have it's place, and very important to learn, but when you want to go beyond the basic, where / how does one come up with the designs to fill a quilt?
09-03-2011, 05:28 PM
#47
Super Member
Join Date: Jun 2010
Location: 53 degrees North
Posts: 1,679
Some people find loops easier than others. I was advised to start fmq with lelelele loops, but it did not suit me and I was always disappointed. I like the 'r' curves better. Some people like meandering better. In a class, I would like a choice of patterns to start with, not just one.
Would definitely like some ergonomics as well, because I tense up so much. The basics on seat vs table height, supporting quilt weight, etc, plus specifics on stretches that help ease shoulders and hands- that would be a nice 'waker upper' to intersperse through the class.
Also, as someone already said, tips on removing basting pins- I often feel I take too many out too soon, but I hate having them in my way too!
Finally, tips on how the fmq pattern should (or need not) fit with the piecing- how to deal with areas with lots of seams, should an angular pattern have curvy quilting? What areas of the top need denser quilting? Etc
Good luck with the class.
Would definitely like some ergonomics as well, because I tense up so much. The basics on seat vs table height, supporting quilt weight, etc, plus specifics on stretches that help ease shoulders and hands- that would be a nice 'waker upper' to intersperse through the class.
Also, as someone already said, tips on removing basting pins- I often feel I take too many out too soon, but I hate having them in my way too!
Finally, tips on how the fmq pattern should (or need not) fit with the piecing- how to deal with areas with lots of seams, should an angular pattern have curvy quilting? What areas of the top need denser quilting? Etc
Good luck with the class.
09-03-2011, 06:21 PM
#48
Super Member
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: leavenworth, ks
Posts: 3,093
Originally Posted by BuzzinBumble
These suggestions have helped me even though I cannot take your class - thanks for asking the QB!
I have been practicing FMQ on quilt sandwiches made from old, orphaned pillowcases and contrasting thread. It's cheaper than muslim. When I run out, I plan to get more at Goodwill. Now if I could just find something less expensive than using up all this batting...
I have been practicing FMQ on quilt sandwiches made from old, orphaned pillowcases and contrasting thread. It's cheaper than muslim. When I run out, I plan to get more at Goodwill. Now if I could just find something less expensive than using up all this batting...
09-03-2011, 06:52 PM
#50
Super Member
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Central Willamette Valley, Oregon, USA
Posts: 7,695
I posted the link below, a while back, and I wonder if it would give you any ideas? She is a well known teacher, and may have thought of things you haven't, or vice versa. Let me know if you have any other helpful gems of wisdom that will help me on my first attempt next week? I have no way to take a real class, so I am always grateful for any and all help.
http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-149201-1.htm
http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-149201-1.htm
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