Originally Posted by ckcowl
you need to put together a number of little (sandwiches) and start practicing ,... alot...before trying to work on your finished quilt! it takes alot of practice to free-motion quilt...best to start with maybe pot-holder size sandwiches, then placemats, then table runner, ect...and work your way up to the size of your quilt so you learn to manuver the sandwich through the machine. EVERYONE HAS TO PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE.
I agree with sandwiches, you can even write notes on them for tension settings, type of thread and needle for future reference. You should start in the middle and work your way out. You can either roll or accordion fold the side of the quilt that goes in the harp area of the machine.
A sandwich is just two pieces of fabric with a piece of batting in between. 12-16" square is a good starting size - but the size doesn't have to be perfect, just something you can use now and refer to later.
You are very smart to ask questions! :thumbup: