I did all my practicing on Linus quilts. The stitching wasn't that bad and the little ones sure don't care.

Pot holders are great to practice on because no matter what you end up with, it still is useful

I practice before every quilting session. Have some scraps all made into sandwiches in a pile. Then I make potholders out of them. I find that quilting just a minute or so gets me into the "swing" of things, and my quilting looks so much better.

If you need the manual, it's often available online at the Brothers' site.

If you plan to do a lot of free motion quilting, there are a couple of handy items out there you might like to know about. One is the quilt halo, which really helps you move the fabric about without tiring yourself as much. The other is a plastic type sheet that goes under the fabric and doesn't grab the fabric so much, it is very slippery and I found that the two items work really well. If you are not able to drop the feed dogs on your machine, you may be able to get a feed dog cover plate for your machine. You didn't mention how old or new it is. A lot of the newer machines come with a quilting foot which is a round "foot" like a donut, and doesnt impede the moving about of the fabric. :D

I buy inexpensive fabric and make throws or lap quilt size. When finished I bind and use to cuddle up with on cold winter evenings and or we camp so I have several to take camping.

Check on e-bay quite a few dealers out there with tons of different sewing feet they also state the different machines the feet are for. Best find out the model if it is a low or high shank. Also check on the site Brother Machines you may also be able to find an inst. manual.

Many years ago, I had a box of fabric given to me. Much of it is only good for practicing on. I made a twin-sized quilt, using 2 of those pukey-looking fabrics for the top and backing (+ a new batting). It gives me a lot of "quilt" to practice on and, for me, it's better than using a bunch of scrap pieces.

Have you seen this blog?

http://freemotionquilting.blogspot.com/

She shows a different free motion design each day. When you look at her blog, go to her posting of July 8th. She has different designs on different colored blocks, I think it would make a great wall hanging.

Recently I discovered 'Zentangles' and I've been doing them in thread on fabric for fabric postcards....it is great practice.

I've become addicted to making them. Now I need to move to a larger block size

warm quilt hugs, sue in CA

Hi

I make little cosmetic purses from the practice bits. They make lovely little pressies!