sewplease

I'm lucky to have a quilting table with a set in area for the machine, but where the plastic insert sits around the machine there's a little bump that can cause the fabric to drag.

I went to Joann's today to pick up some clear vinyl to place in the needle area of my machine for FMQ. The cutting table area was packed so I decided not to wait for the vinyl. On my way out I found a 2 pack of 11"x15" "Flexible Cutting Mats" for $2.50 where they have all the bargain stuff. They're like two very thin placemats. Used a coupon so it cost $1.25. I cut out a piece for the feed dogs, taped them together from the back, and then taped the front and back edges to the table.

I've done very little FMQ, but I think this really helped.

OCquilter

I have also used the thin cutting mats for templates and stencils for hand quilting. It is so easy to mark and cut.

QuiltnNan

are these the same cutting mats one uses in the kitchen?

sewplease

Yes, it said they were for kitchen use.

QuiltnNan

thanks !

inspectorcmm

is the table your machine sits on adjusted to the right height. I know I had to change mine

spokanequilter

Wow - who knew?? Thanks for the great tip. I have way too many of those cutting mats in the kitchen, so I think I'll move a couple to my sewing room...

sewplease

I think it's OK. It's an older Koala quilt table - maybe about 10 years old. The plastic insert has to have an edge on the table top. No problem with piecing, but there's a little drag with FMQing.

BTW, Iowa (Davenport and Ames) is home for me although we've been in Texas 20 years. :-)