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I did use some poly batting I got on sale. I'll switch to the better quality and see what happens. Thanks!
Originally Posted by ShirlinAZ
I did really well with stitch in the ditch on my first few quilts. Then I did one that puckered everywhere. It doesn't sound like you're doing anything wrong. What kind of batting are you using? Poly batting is quite slippery and can be a real pucker pain! I find I'm doing better now with all cotton batting (warm & natural or warm & white). The fabric and batting tend to stay in place better. I still pin a lot.
FMQ can help reduce puckers because you are kind of easing any fullness in as you go, instead of having it build up to the end of a line of stitching. You'll get it, just keep trying until you find what works for you. |
Thanks for the advice. I don't mind spending the same on charity and non-charity quilts. I just can't afford to pay anyone to quilt any of my quilts! LOL
Originally Posted by Rettie V.Grama
Guess I'm really the far out quilter. I, too had problems with tucks when I first started quilting on my machine. Now. I use cotton crochet thread and baste. Use a large curved needle. Start in the middle and go to one side with inch long stitches. Turn and do the same thing from the middle again. I stay on one side of the quilt until it has been basted. When that side is basted, rows about 4 inches apart, I go to the other side and use the same method..If there is a tuck, cut the basting and remove a couple inches, spread the tuck and then use a small amount of thread to hold in place.
Bind before removing basting stitching. I have some small tucks, but nothing that doesn't disappear when washed. Yes, It's a lot of work, but if it works and you don't want to spend the money on charity quilt, it is worth it. |
I'll check that out! Thanks!
Originally Posted by Homespun
I don't think the problem is the pinning. It is the pressure on the presser foot. There is a small knob or some type of screw thing you can adjust to make the foot not push down do hard on the layers of fabric.
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Do you have a walking foot for your machine? That would help and they are reasonable on ebay.
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And I thought taping the backing to the surface underneath would solve all problems! Of course, pinning, also.
I am anxious to see what answers the group comes up with! |
I found a new tutorial last night. It suggested adding a 18" x 20" acrylic extender to the machine. My machine does sit on a table. Does anyone else use one of these extenders?
Originally Posted by scrapykate
I tried not using the spray basting but the end result was not as good as with. Spray basting washes out the first wash as well as all the sizing in the fabric(I don't prewash). Also make sure your machine is set for Heavy material. Another thing to keep the quilt from pulling is to have something to have the rest of the quilt rest on while quilting. I don't have a large sewing table so I adjust my ironing board and use that.
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Schoolmarm,
I really like this tutorial for hand basting that might address your concerns. I've bookmarked it myself; haven't tried it, but will be using this method when I next sandwich and baste. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bhwNylePFAA |
Make a small quilt first...top...batting...backing...maybe 12" inches square...practice with adjusting tention until you get a perfect stitch on each side...it could be the thickness ... a walking foot would help.
I also make lap quilts and I start my quilting in the center and work outward that helps with keeping it straight without puckering too. I use a walking foot and it works for me. |
There are a number of good books on machine quilting. Harriet Hargrave's is really good, and I have another "Bible" called Quilting in Sections. Hargrave says to use masking tape all around your backing.
With your Trip around the World quilt, I think going diagonally is best. Use the walking foot and don't pull or push. Just let the machine move on its own while you hold the quilt flat. Start at one corner and work your way to the other. You may need to put up with a few puckers at first. After the quilt is washed, they may not show anyway. Are you using cotton batting with cotton back? Some people swear you need to use cotton thread, too, but some don't. It takes practice. Don't be too critical - you will get the hang of it after a while. |
I HEARD YOU CAN GET FUSABLE BATTING IN CONNECTING TREADS. HOW ABOUT TRYING THAT. I HAVEN'T USED IT OR SEEN IT YET.
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