Originally Posted by
cannyquilter
Thanks so much for the advice. I don't stretch the fabric at all when basting just smooth it over. There are no creases when it's done, it's definitely when I'm stitching. I think I will pin as well as spray basting and also look at how I support the quilt when I'm stitching, I like the idea of basting with water soluble thread, I'll have a look for some. I am wanting to have some form of suspension for the quilt. I don't think you can buy anything here in the UK and neither I nor my husband are particularly handy but I've bought some bungee ropes and clips and just need some hooks to go in the ceiling so I'll try that. Thanks for the links. I've unpicked the worst of the tucks and will stitch them tomorrow morning, I've been looking after my two young grandchildren today and then had to call on a friend this evening so don't want to attempt any sewing when I feel tired. Hopefully I will be more successful. Thanks again for the sharing of knowledge.
Cannyquilter: Check out my thread here:
http://www.quiltingboard.com/picture...t-t276062.html for my do-it-yourself suspension system. All you need are the bungee straps, ratchet clamps and utility handles for the ceiling. Holes need to be drilled in one side of the handles, but the rest is installation. My DH did it, but I could have done it myself in a pinch. Since you have a DM, you will have to experiment with the best position for you, but my clamps are about 20" on either side of the machine and even with the front and back of the table. The only spot you could have drag is what sits in your lap, but that is easily controlled. Have you thought about repositioning your machine so the needle faces you like a longarm if you are only using the FMQ foot and not a walking foot? This set-up has helped tremendously in making FMQing a pleasure, rather than a chore, not to mention saving my shoulders, neck and back. Good luck.