Originally Posted by
quiltingshorttimer
Donna--get some cheap fabric and contrasting cones of thread (I like Superior's SoFine best, but also use Permacore, Glide and King Tut--my machine is not very fond of YLI but others like it) and just start quilting--figure out the tension, try pantos, rulers, etc--load that practice piece with lots of thread! And have fun! I've been quilting for about 3 years now--I think it took me about 18 months before I really started feeling confident and just today my DH made the comment "you've gotten so much better!" so don't be discouraged if you aren't immediately liking your work--it will come with practice.
You are so kind to offer the words of encouragement!!! I know from FMQ on my regular machine that there is a huge learning curve, and practice helps a lot! I just can't wait to get started on this! I won't give up..I know that my first attempts will be not my best work..but I have been FMQ-ing on my regular machine, and know I'm ready for this step...I was always taught not to wish your life away...but summer is my worst season to dive into this...I have a huge organic garden and grow most of my own food, so I mainly piece or cut in the summer, then give it heck all winter...just can't wait till I can give this my all! I have been waiting and wanting and researching machines for years...this is just too good !!!