Thread: Computer quilting

A strange thing happened at the last quilt show I went to. I saw some great quilts and when I went closer to look at the quilting, I could immediately tell that the were computer quilted. Now don't get me wrong the quilting patterns were great and they exactly fit into the quilt pattern but I dismissed them and moved to the next quilt.
I wanted to see quilts and patterns that I could actually attempt not patterns that only a computer could do. What are your thoughts of quilts quilted by computer programmed patterns?

I feel it is cheating no skill or love. Quilting should be like a finger print every one should differ even sightly if is the same pattern, that is what makes it individual and special . Hugs Stella

There is a lot of skill that goes into applying a computerized design. It is not as easy as you think. By the way there is also just as much love that goes into it. It is just a different process.

The only FMQ I've done is quit primitive (and only a few items) because I haven't had any training or instruction as to what I need to do, how to set up my machine to do it, the necessary tools, etc. My dream is to one day own a LA machine with computerized quilting capabilities. I agree with dclutter. From everything I've read, seen or heard, it is quite a job to learn how, gain the experience and confidence and to stretch your imagination, just like it would be quite a job to learn how to do free motion. I also agree with MaryStoaks, I'm green with envy because I'd love to learn DSM quilting, LA quilting AND computerized quilting!!

I own a computerized quilting machine. There are so many different patterns you can buy or you can digititize your own. I do both. I also use it free hand. It takes just as much artistic talent to apply a computerized quilt design on a custom quilt as anything else. By the way it is a lot of work also. Digitizing a design can take days or weeks to do. Applying it on the quilt takes a lot of time to set up.

Many computerized designs were adapted from other non computerized designs. You can always take the concept or a part of the design you see and adapt it to your needs. That is what I did when I machine quilted on my domestic.

I think a lot depends on what you are interested in at the time. One day it isn't of interest and another day it will be. That happens to me a lot! Just depends on where you are in your learning cycle.

I know it takes tremendous computer skills to customize the designs but they are way beyond me. My hat is off for all those who know how to digitize and design computer patterns. Luckily there is room for all forms of quilting in our craft.