owlvamp

I have been making quilts for sometime now. I usally sew blocks together and and a few long lengths. But none of them look like your quilts. I love the designs sewn into the quilts. How would you start that and also do have to have a quilting frame? I usally use a flat sheet for the backing . I just put mine all on the floor and use cans to hold it in place. Then I pin it together. I know it doesn't get tight enough but it works and looks nice when I am done. But still nothing like all your quilts. I really love the looks and need help doing one. What all do I need to do this? Thank for all the help.

mogirl1

To do quilting patterns there are stencils you could purchase that you could trace with chalk or a washable fabric pencil. Hobby and fabric stores usually carry them for a few dollars each. Or draw your own pattern! Squiggly never ending lines are good too. As for making the backing tight, use painters tape or masking tape to tape the backing down, smoothing all the wrinkles out as you tape it down. Then place the batting and then the top and safety pin about every 6 to 8 inches apart. Then trim evenly all the way around. Then stencil the pattern you desire and free motion quilt starting from the middle of the quilt out, removing pins as you complete the quilting. If you roll up the ends it helps. It sounds hard but don't rush yourself and take you time. Have fun!

RST

I think you are talking about free motion quilting patterns. All you really need to do that is a sewing machine on which you can drop the feed dogs. Then you have the control of the movement of the machine, and can go in any direction. The length of your stitch will be determined by how quickly you move the fabric around, and how smoothly you are able to manipulate it.

You could watch some of the videos on youtube, particularly Leah Day's 365 Free motion Quilt designs.

Then start with a small project, and realize that it takes a lot of practice, and just keep practicing, daily if you can.

RST

owlvamp

Thank you I will try that.

owlvamp

Thank you for the great advice. I'm going to try this. Thanks