I do both kinds of quilting, fmq and straightline (cross hatching and SITD). I personally think that each quilt I make will tell me what type it needs, but I also take into consideration what the recipient will like. If it is going to a man/boy, then straightline quilting seems more appropriate. But if going to a woman/girl, then the curvy type of quilting seems more desired. Quilting is an art all in its own and can be as simple or intricate as desired.

I agree with Buckeye Rose and let the quilt tell me how to quilt it. I, too, love straight-line quilting but I keep working on FMQ improving a little with each one I do. Do whatever style quilting works for you. Although if I had to hand quilt (as beautiful as it is), I would never make a quilt. Ha! My fingers just can't take it.

I have never gotten the hang of FMQ so only quilt with my walking foot. I do straight lines 1" or 2" apart (not SID) or genial curves in an S pattern vertically down the quilt. Edge to edge, no threads to bury either!!

Molly,
Twenty plus years ago, Lee Cleland wrote a book called Quilting Makes the Quilt with many examples of straight line quilting (and free motion quilting). There are wonderful photo closeups and all over photos of how a quilt would look with each individual pattern.

This book set me free from the 'necessity' of doing FMQ in patterns that make me crazy!

There are many used copies available on Amazon right now for less than $2!! Get one for some of the best straight line quilting ideas you will find. :thumbup:

Jan in VA


http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_no...y++Lee+Cleland

I can't do free motion quilting to save my life and I have been quilting for over 10 years. Quite frankly my New Year's resolution this year was to never do free motion quilting again and enjoy the sewing machine that I have and use all the design stitches that are on there. If you go on my profile and look at some of my pictures of my quilts you'll see what I mean.

enjoy sewing the way you want to - not how everybody else thinks it should look

Thanks for all your comments. I do feel much encouraged!

Thanks Jan for the link. I just ordered the book on Amazon. looking forward to getting it!

Thanks Jan, I also ordered one!

I hate SITD because it is impossible to stay right on the seam line. I much prefer a good serpentine stitch. If you are off a tad, it isn't noticeable and I like the undulating lines better. If your machine has that capability, try it on a scrap and see what you think.

I like doing FMQ and feel I've done it enough for it to look reasonably good but like with many things it's not for everyone. We all have our "things" we are better at. I did learn a lot about techniques after I took a couple of craftsy classes. I do not like putting the three layers together though getting it ready for FMQ.