Originally Posted by retrogirl02
It all depends on what you'd like to learn. Some people start out hand quilting, some tie, some machine a simple stitch (like stitch in the ditch or straight lines), some make a top and have someone else quilt it and a few people do the quilt as you go.
I have a domestic machine but rarely use it to quilt....I only piece on it. Do whatever works for you. I'd start with a table runner or something small like a crib quilt just to be sure you have the hang of it before tackling a larger project---but that's just me.
There are a lot of resources between the forum, youtube & blogs for online advice. If you choose the quilt as you go method, be sure to check out your local library for some reference books. Georgia Bonesteel books are of that method and have been out long enough that libraries generally have them.
Best Wishes!
I agree, only I'd make 2 table runners . One using each technique and see what you like. I have found a way that allows me to quilt kings size quilts on my domestic sewing machine, it involves cutting your batting away from about a third of you quilt (so there is less to go under the arm of your machine) then you quilt the entire middle section, whip stitch the batting back together and stitch the outer third. It sounds complicated but it's not. There is a tutorial either on this site or you tube. There are also books on this topic. I was really hesitant about trying this, but sending the quilt out to be quilted was not in the budget at the time! Having said that, I will be the first to admit that my free motion quilting is not nearly as good as what I see on this site! You guys are great. But I love my quilt, quirky stitching and all!