Free motion quilting
 

I am a very newbie to quilting and would like to try some free motion quilting, HOWEVER, I have been told that my machine must have a single hole throat plate which mine does not. I have checked with the manufacturer of the machine and they advise that they do not make a single hole. Any tips on what I might be able to do myself to alter this dilemna. This board has such expert quilters that I am hoping someone will be able to help. Thanks and I just love this board and all the knowledgeable quilters.

You do not HAVE to have the single hole plate to fmq. In fact, the only thing the single hole plate helps me with is to stop your machine from chewing up the beginning edge of the fabric when piecing.

I don't use my single hole plate for FMQ, either, just when I'm having trouble with my machine wanting to eat the corners of some fabrics.

all you have to be able to do is drop or cover your feed dogs to free motion

I FMQ on a dinky Brother mechanical machine. Of course it doesn't look like the work done on a long arm or like work done by a real expert, but, it is very doable and I am usually pleased with the imperfect results. It doesn't have a single hole plate and the feed dogs don't drop. I just set the stitch length to zero. I used to cover the feed dogs with a supreme slider but, forgot a few times and never missed it. It really boils down to practice, practice, practice and what works for you.

Boy, this is so true! Don't sweat the single hole plate -- I've never even heard that recommendation.

Good luck, and just have fun!

My Juki came with single hole plate and I've never had a problem with needles breaking because of it nor ever had a timing issue. I have other machines that don't have that plate and I fmq on those also. I only break needles when I sew over pins (I know, bad bad girl! Just a habit I acquired in 7th grade home ec that I can't seem to shake :(). I think the problem with breaking needles on the plate when fmq is because you are pulling the fabric too fast.

my machine didn't come with a single hole throat plate. i've done fine without it.

This is a fantastic way to learn FMQ: http://www.craftsy.com/class/Beyond-...ne-Quilting/52
and it's on sale for $19.95. One of the great things about these classes is that they are yours forever. Go thru the lessons as many times as you want. This is also has you make a wall hanging as you learn the skills.