Practicing FMQ
05-09-2020, 03:58 AM
#31
Junior Member
Join Date: Mar 2016
Location: Springfield, IL
Posts: 226
These are all good answers for my FMQ quandary. I learned stitch in the ditch, then hatching using painters tape. I took a rulers class and played around a bit. It is difficult for me to "practice" on pieces of fabric because I do not have a stash, so the thrift store suggestions are super. As soon as they open up again, I will have a new isle to explore while looking for larger quilts and quilt tops to practice FMQ. THANKS!
05-09-2020, 05:26 AM
#32
Super Member
Join Date: Jul 2010
Posts: 1,789
Originally Posted by rryder
Also, you don't have to take the time to make quilt sandwiches if that is something holding you up. Get a big package of regular 9" x 12" craft felt from the craft store (or online from Amazon). Pin two pieces together to make a "sandwich" and go for it. That gives you really quick materials to work with and they're not precious, so you can concentrate on "playing" with your FMQ. It's a quick and easy way to get better fast and to build some muscle memory for various motifs and patterns you might want to use.
Rob
Rob
05-09-2020, 05:54 AM
#33
Super Member
Join Date: Aug 2016
Location: Kansas
Posts: 4,433
I haven't tried it myself, but I've heard of people who tape a pen to their sewing machine, by the needle, and practice doodling FMQ on paper. That way you get the muscle memory of a stationary needle/pen and moving the quilt/paper. It's worth a try. And wouldn't use use precious stash fabric!
05-09-2020, 08:08 AM
#34
Super Member
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: lexington ky
Posts: 1,418
Originally Posted by joe'smom
I found that practice on smaller pieces wasn't much help to me because real quilting includes the challenge of maneuvering the heavy quilt. I decided the only way to really improve was to quilt quilts. I practice the chosen design for a short time on a practice piece, and then take the plunge on the actual quilt. On one youtube video I watched, the teacher said you have to expect to make some ugly quilts. So start with the ones you're less emotionally attached to, and give yourself permission to 'ruin' some quilts. You'll find that after they're washed, they will look just fine.
05-09-2020, 11:17 AM
#35
Senior Member
Join Date: Apr 2019
Location: USA
Posts: 751
Originally Posted by NZquilter
I haven't tried it myself, but I've heard of people who tape a pen to their sewing machine, by the needle, and practice doodling FMQ on paper. That way you get the muscle memory of a stationary needle/pen and moving the quilt/paper. It's worth a try. And wouldn't use use precious stash fabric!
