This proves you are not a quitter. Yes, taking out can be calming if you don't pick a hole in something.

Jan, you are always so helpful. I learn something from your posts every time. Tools, tools, tools--that is the key.

After all these years, I finally got one of those last month.

Don't be too hard on yourself if you are new to quilting. Practice helps and it has taken trial and error for each of us to get where we are today and where we will be tomorrow When quilting a sandwiched quilt a walking foot makes a world of difference. When stitching straight lines I use a piece of copy paper cut to the width I need and then place one edge against the seam and stitch along the other edge. I also use this method when stitching across a block and move it from from to block across the quilt. If I stitch into the paper I just through it away and cut a new piece of paper. Now that there are rulers for quilting you could use a ruler edge and do the same thing.

I wasn't expecting ideas....just was venting. You guys are the best!

Blue painters tape is great for marking straight lines.

Did you use a walking foot or does this machine have a built in one. I usually use a Clover Hera marker
http://www.joann.com/clover-hera-marker/9620873.html
and than I can follow the line. It is a process for each quilter to find what works best for them.

I have to remind myself not to watch the needle. That almost always gets me in trouble. You have to keep your eye on the edge of the presser foot, or the marking on the metal plate, or some other place, just not the needle.

I use blue painter's tape too. Couldn't quilt without it! :) (I put it on the fabric and sew along the edge of the tape. It is the only way I can do straight lines, unless I am doing SID.)

Dina

Nana - that's why I use curvy, wavy lines! They look interesting and don't have to be straight!

Jan - so that's how you keep the notepad on!! Makes more sense now!