I cannot FMQ very good!
#41
I graduated with the Fall 2020 cohort. Was best FMQ instruction I have experienced. Love the feedback and encouragement from all the Academy members, like you I am just a participant with no other affiliation. You go Rockstar.
#42
Power Poster
Join Date: Feb 2009
Location: Northern Michigan
Posts: 12,861
It takes lots of practice. I used to always have a practice sandwich put together. Every day I would work a little bit on a practice quilt. I did practice quilts for years- and now that 20+ years have gone by I still every now & them put one together to try new free motion designs on.
#43
For me, the thing that helped me learn meander was when someone told me to form balloon letter H's and E's when I got stuck. For some reason this was a real lightbulb for me.
In other news, I have started FMQ-ing on a long arm and I suck. Very frustrating after I was doing well on my mid arm/domestic machines and now I'm back to (literally), square one. I will keep practicing and sacrificing fabric, until I get a bit better.
Watson
In other news, I have started FMQ-ing on a long arm and I suck. Very frustrating after I was doing well on my mid arm/domestic machines and now I'm back to (literally), square one. I will keep practicing and sacrificing fabric, until I get a bit better.
Watson
#44
Member
Join Date: Dec 2020
Posts: 34
Amen to the quilt by check! The people who have invested in the equipment and have invested their time and talent have my admiration and my business. I might try to FMQ a pot holder, but anything larger has to go to a local long armer--So far the work she has done really suits my fancy!
#46
FMQ takes awhile to master. How long have you been practicing. It took me 4years to finally have it down. The best way to get better is to get a sketch book and doodle quilt designs constantly once you are comfortable on paper make small square sandwiches and practice the same designs. You also have to get comfortable at managing speed of hands. Its worth it once you get the hang. I recommend renae Merrill free motion mastery book you need at least 15 minutes a day drawing of practicing on machine
#47
Member
Join Date: Jul 2018
Posts: 77
Please do not give up. As has been said, practice is the answer. Doodle on paper and make up some some quilt sandwiches to practice on your machine. The concept of moving the sandwich and keeping the needle in one place is in opposition to how we draw or write which is to keep the paper still and move the pencil. Once you think about that as you are quilting (with some nice music on to relax you), I think you'll find satisfaction in what you are doing.
#49
Member
Join Date: Apr 2021
Posts: 2
I am new to quilting and love piecing but am totally intimidated by quilting. However, today I decided to approach it like learning to play the piano and make myself do at least 15 minutes of "scales" every day - only it will be FMQ. I sure hope that works! Do you think it would be easier for me to try using a Super Slider?
#50
I am new to quilting and love piecing but am totally intimidated by quilting. However, today I decided to approach it like learning to play the piano and make myself do at least 15 minutes of "scales" every day - only it will be FMQ. I sure hope that works! Do you think it would be easier for me to try using a Super Slider?