I cannot FMQ. I can't and no amount of practice has helped me--I feel really stupid. I draw whatever shapes or designs I want to quilt on my quilt top then use just straight stitching and follow the lines. I've done hearts, circles, holly & berries, you name it--it can be done. Whenever a book comes out called FMQ for Dummies my picture will be on the cover!! Try drawing and stitching on your lines. Hopefully you'll do better with FMQ than I ever have. Good luck!!