newbie1001

Hi, I'm still fairly new to quilting, and a while ago I wrote here about what a hard time I had learning to FMQ. Since I had such trouble maneuvering the quilt in my throat space, I got the idea to turn the machine by 90 degrees so the space left and right of the needle would be completely free to move the quilt. In addition to that, I made a construction out of foamboard to bring the area around the machine up to the same height. The block is covered with a transparent laminate which makes the fabric glide really easy. I'm telling you, I've been quilting happily ever since! Here are some pictures

quiltsRfun

That looks like it would be much easier. Thanks for sharing.

Quiltgranny

Thank you for posting these pictures of your new set up. I've heard some positive things from other quilters who have done the same thing. I would love to see a picture of you actually using your machine this way. Would you consider posting such a picture?

How far from the edge of your new surface is the needle of the machine? Are you sitting or perhaps standing to quilt now? Sorry, but I'm having a hard time visualizing just how this works for you. The edge of the needle looks pretty far away to me, although it may not be. Would love to hear more about how this is done. Are you quilting from one long side to the other and then unrolling the bulk, or??

Thanks so much,

Candace

Quilters are so smart:>

newbie1001

I just went downstairs to measure the space from needle to edge of foam block, it's 12 inches. I can still see well this way. Can't take a picture of myself right now, have to wait for my husband. So far I've only been making baby quilts up to 42 inches square. What I usually do, I start somewhere close to the middle and quilt from left to right and back to left etc. Every couple of inches I roll up the quilt more. I hadn't yet gotten into the habit of quilting the traditional way, so for me it was easy to take on this method, it may not be so for someone who's been quilting the other way for years. But I encourage everyone to give it a try. No more cramped up right shoulder and arm for me!

newbie1001

Oh, and I sit while quilting, I just put a cushion on my chair to raise my height.

KittyGram

What a great idea! I'm going to try it.

Kellie G

What a great idea. Glad you are happier.

MaryStoaks

Sounds like you have come up with a novel new method that works! Congratulations!

sewnsewer2

Hummm, I never would have thought to do it this way. Good idea!