Is your FMF a darning foot ? I guess I dont have a FMF. I always practice before I start on a quilt. I have put together some placemats and practice by doing one every time I haven't done and FM for a bit. My practice makes for give aways when I get a set. I find that it is small enough to move around comfortably and I can get into a rythm by the time I have done one.