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luvspaper 04-05-2017 11:09 AM

meander was my go to when I first started, and then I added feathers. Practice drawing on paper and try not to have your meanders too close to each other. If you are working on a domestic sewing machine though, straight lines might be easier and would look good on this one -- but not much will show with the fabrics unless you use a color of thread that majorly stands out (like black) and I wouldnt' do that on my first quilt LOL!

beckyboo1 04-05-2017 11:14 AM


Originally Posted by MadQuilter (Post 7798736)
Your fabrics are all in a similar value and quite busy so the quilting won't show much. I would recommend loops. If you feel daring you could add shapes along the path such as hearts, or leaves, or stars, using a neutral (beige/tan/taupe) thread.

Hadn't thought of it, but you're right, it's a "busy" quilt so it's probably a good one for me to try first since glaring errors won't be as noticeable. Thanks!

Tartan 04-05-2017 02:21 PM

A smooth meander was difficult for me when I first started. I did better on loop de loops because it gave me a spot to stop and reposition my hands. Machinger gloves really help to move the sandwich.

copycat 04-06-2017 02:41 AM

Pretty quilt top! Pick a design you are most comfortable doing. On print fabrics, the free-motion designs will not stand out as much depending on the color thread you use. On my first try at f-m quilting I did edge to edge loops. You may find it helpful to warm up on a practice sandwhich made from scraps or similar fabrics to audition your thread and design. Have fun!

toverly 04-06-2017 04:24 AM

I agree with Tartan, a loop de loop is so much easier than a meander. You can't stitch yourself into a corner if the threads cross over each other. How big or small you want to make the loop de loops is up to you. Larger will be softer in the end.

AZ Jane 04-06-2017 05:56 AM

I have always heard, for a very angular design, use a curvy design, for a curvy design, use a very angular design. Not sure that helps LOL

Jennifer23 04-06-2017 06:05 AM

Like Tartan, my meandering looked awful when I started (stills does!). I would suggest figure 8s. http://truebluequilts.com/free-motio...ilting-design/

I found Angela Walters' books really useful when I was starting to fmq.

beckyboo1 04-06-2017 03:51 PM


Originally Posted by AZ Jane (Post 7799207)
I have always heard, for a very angular design, use a curvy design, for a curvy design, use a very angular design. Not sure that helps LOL

Actually, it does help. I kind of wondered if that was a way to figure it out, thanks!

Jingle 04-06-2017 05:10 PM

I just do an all over meandering design. I don't care for all the designs some quilts have. If you tense up it will show in your quilting. So relax and just do what feels natural. Washing and drying the quilt after it is completely finished helps too.

It is a very pretty quilt.

AVFD215 04-06-2017 05:50 PM

I have FMQ'd 8 or 9 myself. I used just a meander pattern.
I suggest you have a mentor. They can keep you out of trouble, show you cool techniques, and the fellowship is great.
Whatever you choose to do, enjoy.


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