You might find it helpful to go to LeahDay.com and look at her info on setting up your machine for free motion. She has lots of free information on her website and also lots of youtube videos. There are many videos of quilting motifs, but just keep looking and you'll find the basics of setting up your machine. She is very clear and easy to understand. She does recommend using the slider and I do use it. She even shows how to modify your darning foot for free motion, if you need to.