lilpoohbearie

Ok I will admit that I have been quilting for many, many years and the only machine quilting I have done is stitching in the ditch I am terrified of doing anything more elaborate. I make quilts for my nonprofit and yesterday a wonderful lady called me up and gave me 3 large boxes of quilting goodies from her estate sale (stuff that I have needed and wanted but could not afford. God really came through for me here!) I am the proud owner of at least 15 half finished quilts that have some nice machine quilting. I also have managed to avoid appliqués and well there are some quilts that need me to finish the work and I am scared of ruining them. I am not sure where to start and (sorry get the tissue out or play the small violin for me) I have a back injury which really limits my ability to drive or even sit through a class. So what I am asking is if anyone knows of a site that might have free machine quilting videos and maybe some confidence boosting stories of others who have been through this also. This site has really been a blessing to me I am amazed at all of the amazing work everyone has done! Thank you in advance for your help! :roll:

nursie76

I learned a lot by going to YouTube and typing in how to quilt or machine quilting.
Another great resource for quilting is quilterstv.com.
Not sure how much on there is machine quilting, but that is a place to start. Also try googling machine quilting videos. I did a while ago and there were a nice number.

KonaLinda

Take a look at this website for some great ideas.
[http://daystyledesigns.com/365project5.htm]

katier825

Start small. Do up a few practice blocks to experiment with the machine applique. You can try out different stitches, adjust the width of them if you need to. It will build your confidenct to tackle the quilts. You will have better luck if you use a stabilizer under the block. I use a tear away, but there are other kinds. It reduces the puckering you get with the fancy stitches and looks much better when done.

YouTube is a great source for demos!

SuziC

I agree with the others. UTube is a great palce to check out.
Thanks for sharing your great luck in getting all that stuff! How wonderful!!!

CarrieAnne

I would agree with you tube, you canfind so much there!

DebbyT

WOW! I checked out this site. Beyond my imagination.

amandasgramma

I agree, that site is awesome. BUT, don't let it overwhelm you! I've been quilting for 2 yrs now, and I still do the freemotion quilting. I just do what my hands lead me to do. i don't try for specific patterns (other than trying to NOT do so many loops). The idea is to RELAX and ENJOY!

Holice

i find the best way to practice is to do loops, meandering, straight and curved lines and points. You need a lot of practice to do free motion successfully. Go as slow as you need to in order to make even stitches. Work until you find a good balance between the speed of the motor and the movement of your hands and.....never, NEVER take your hands off the fabric. if you need to stop then stop with needle down and reposition your hands for better grip or to turn the work for better visual. Then do a small practice piece each time before you do work on your quilt. You need to get into the rhythm of the quilting.

GrammaNan

Thanks for this link.