Originally Posted by kiffie2413
Good for you!! I know how you feel with trying to get fmq down...I have found that the gloves are great, and yes, I would say that needle down is almost a necessity...that's why I sold a machine I had barely unpacked from the box, as it did not have needled down option. I also made sure it had the knee lift for the presser foot. I had always thought that was a luxury, but it makes a big difference, too. But, if I had to choose, needle down is what I would make sure and have!!
Good luck to you,
Kif
PS I also am a hand quilter...when my nanny (grandma) taught me to quilt, we did it all by hand. I only have been using a machine for the last 2-3 years.. I like both, for different reasons...
I am a hand quilter as well. I still prefer hand quilting. I just wanted to try this on for size. We are doing a panel contest at my LQS. I thought, well I never win anything anyway. So why not just give it a try for something different. I am stitching around the flower in the middle of the panel. I will stitch in the ditch for the borders. There is another wide border with sunflowers in it. I think I will try some stipling in that border. I will post when I am finished. Stitches are exactly even but that is okay for now.