This is the way we learn. Personally, I had rather do my own quilting, even with the mistakes, than to send it out. I like the whole process of quilting...like to be in control. (or sometimes it seems to control me;)

I would also unthread the machine, make sure my pressure foot is up, and rethread.

That's exactly what I have started to do a couple of days ago: trying to learn FMQ on a real quilt. my right thumb does not want me to handquilt anymore so I have no choice but to jump right in learning FMQ. I agree with you that we have to start somewhere loll

Yes, we all start somewhere, and it is at the beginning! I am so happy to hear your quilting is therapy for you. Hope everything else gets better real soon! I have been having a rough patch myself since my Mom passed away in April and my quilting has been a Godsend for me during those really tearful times.

Michelle, so sorry about your loss. Glad your finding some comfort in your sewing room. The best to you and your family.

What machine do you quilt on?

i put off fmqing as long as i could. i was terrified of it! i had promised my ddil that i would finish the baby quilt for the baby who was turning 1. then my son said, "in 3 weeks i'm leaving for london for 2 years!" omgoodness, i needed to make him a warm hug from home! and i knew i had to do the baby quilt first or i would never hear the end of it!! so, i sat down with a small glass of mine, and humming yankee doodle,( because he went to london), and started and it was FUN! and liberating! move over, charisma, and all you wonderfully skilled and artistic quilters! in 20 yrs i may be where you are, but for now? i'm having a blast!! who knew this could be fun?//!!! so rock on, steph!