bearisgray

depends on a lot of things - how thick your batting is one of the big factors -

I think most people say that (more or less) even stitches is a higher priority than tiny stitches.

Maybe start with something like a pillow top or wall hanging - like less than 15 inches square?

bearisgray

Something for the design? A stencil or template - some people use 1/4 inch masking tape for guidelines.

kwhite

yes I agree. Start small and with thin batting. Just like with piecing, consistency is the most important thing. Small stitches will come in time.

momto4

I saw someone that just used a lid as their pattern i thought that I would try that... if you think that would be a good first starter.

momto4

Ok. :) I will practice and get my stitching down! Thanks for all of the super wonderful tips and ideas! :)

kwhite

Straight lines would be easiest, but learning to go in all directions is good too.

momto4

Ok would be it be better to just quilt the straight line along my squares or triangles then?

kwhite

You can look at my 9 patch that I finished last week. I quilted an "X" across each block. that may be an idea.

ctquilter

You should start with straight lines, then move on to curves, then circles.

Boston1954

Many times, I have thought of machine quilting, but I know I would do a rotten job, and I cannot afford to have a professional do it, so I started to do the quilting myself by hand. Now, I would not have it any other way. When I am gone, my family with have quilts made with love, completely by ME.