Thanks so much everyone! The FMQ freehand, no marking BUT lots of practice with paper and pencil first (then a bit on practice sandwiches as well of course but not as much as you'd think!) I am always doodling quilting designs on scraps of paper, waiting for the kettle to boil, waiting at school for the kids, etc, etc. I even trace designs on my knee with my finger sometimes if I am out somewhere and don't have pen and paper. There's no magic to it or even innate talent (I think) just PRACTICE! Also I've read widely books and online and taken on board tips and hints. The main one I think when sewing is that you must not watch the needle. I kind of 'imagine' the line I'm about to draw on the fabric with the thread and that's where look. Have faith in your own abilities. Here endeth the lesson! Sorry to ramble on!
Bindings, this is always a double fold 2 1/4", strips joined on the bias to make enough then the ends joined on the bias too, the same way as the tute on here - hang on I'll find it...
http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-51632-1.htm much the same as this only I don't pin anywhere, I cut the overlap an 1/8" LESS than the width otherwise I find it pleats a little at the end, and I don't mark the sewing line - just eyeball. If you look at the exact point where you want to end up, (NOT at the needle), you'll end up there. This works if you're cutting a large piece of fabric with scissors as well - look at your end point all the time you're cutting and the scissors will get there in a straight line. And yes Pat, I always hand sew the binding to the back and I always mitre the corners. I'm meticulous - I refuse to call it OCD! :mrgreen: :lol: