I am not an expert by any means but you need to find the best speed for how fast you move the fabric. I just put on Pandora radio on my computer and go to town. The more you practice the easier it gets.

Practice....lots of it. The faster speed I use, the better looking my stitches are.

have fun practice, practice,practice

I took a class to learn FMQ, I was told to run the sewing machine fast, and move my hands slow. It's a matter of getting the timing right. Move your hands to slow and you get small stitches, to fast and your stitches are to big. Put together some practice peices and practice. Muslin is a cheap way to make your practice peices.

PRACTICE!!! you need to learn to slow down for loop-de-loops where we tend to 'swoop' faster than just going along...I have a stitch regulater which i NEVER USE! it drives me crazy...but i am a firm believer you have to learn to drive before you get to use the 'cruise-control' I think everyone should have good consistant control on their own before every trying a stitch regulater. it takes practice AND LOTS OF IT. just like driving...

I found that doing the pedal to the metal wasn't going to work for me, makes me extremely nervous and anxious. I have a 6600 and can adjust the speed on it. I do more toward the middle setting of the speed and then go with the flow. Its helped cure the eyelashes on the back also.

I also have the speed control, in addition to that,I have the stop start button. I unplug my foot cord to the machine, and with the speed setting, I have consistant speed. Not having to worry about my foot, I can concentrate on my hand motion. I have found that my FMQ is much more even this way.....and yes, it did take some practice....

lots and lots of practice. Also remember to breath. I catch myself holding my breath. So just relax and enjoy. And did I mention lots of practice :lol:

Thanks for the responses and encouragement. I discovered that my Viking D1 will allow me to remove the foot petal connection and set the speed with the start-stop button!!! I would Never have thought the sewing machine would work unless the foot control was pressed. That knowledge is worth the price of my internet service this month and then some!!!
Hugs to all for your input

unfortunately it seems to be practice and more practice.