When free-motion quilting, where do you start? We all learned to sew with the fabric bulk on our laps and sew away from ourselves. This is also how I was free-motion quilting and it was always difficult to look behind the needle and see where I'd been and where I needed to go. THEN THE LIGHTBULB WENT OFF!!!!!! taadaaahhh!!

Now the unquilted bulk of a project is behind the needle. I start quilting at what would be the bottom edge and pull or move the project toward myself. I can see where I've already quilted and can see where I need to go next, east and west and forward. It is much easier this way for me.

So, which direction do you work? Just wondering.

Suzanne

I just finish a fairly large wall hanging quilt and free formed all over the place, learning a great deal in the process. Start at one side and work over to the other, but don't leave anything to go back to in the middle. (that was my mistake) Or, start in the center and work your way out. Don't work from the outsides in, as the fabric will bunch up and you won't be able to get it flattened out as you quilt.

M

I usually start in a corner on a small quilt, and in the center on a large quilt.

Personally, I think free motion is easier than stitching in the ditch. You don't have to be so exact to make the stitching exactly in the right place and it is very mindless. Take a scrap of fabric and some batting and give it a go. It really is a lot of fun!!!

M