Originally Posted by
Belfrybat
I have a question about using a pantograph for FMQ. I'm a newbie at FMQ, and so far only stipple and do loops. But how do you use a pantograph with FMQ? Our local long armer uses pantographs by following the design with a laser. But I can't figure out how you do it with FMQ which is done by moving the fabric through the machine rather than LA which is moving the machine over the fabric?
I disagree with your definition of free motion quilting. What the longarmer is doing is also free motion quilting. Just as your stitching isn't guided by feed dogs or an embroidery machine, a longarmer doing a pantograph is doing free motion quilting because, when working this way, the longarm sewing machine is not computer guided; it moves in free motion where the longarmer takes it.
Pantographs aren't designed for use with domestic machines, because like you said- they are meant to be followed with a laser guide.
A few ways to use them.
1) create a stencil of the panto and mark the quilt with the design.
2) Trace the panto onto thin or water soluble paper and quilt over it, then tear or wash away the paper.
3) Use a pen and trace the panto many times to get an idea of the lines to follow, then attempt to make the design on your own without using it as a guide.