Need help to get past just stitching in the ditch!
#31
I am like you, but the other night I got brave and I am not sure what it is called, shadow quilting? But anyhow, I top stitched 1/4" away from the seam line, I actually really really like this, until I get braver....
#32
I was too afraid to 'ruin' my tops with bad quilting, when a friend asked me to assist her with charity quilts. She was really 'forcing' me to practice,practice,practice. I am now fairly good at it (and still learning). You have to either find charity quilts to practice on, or do small bags and pot holders etc until you become acceptable. It doesn't take long once you get the hang of it, and all your fears go away. My moment came when people started to ask me how much I would charge if I would quilt their creations for them. However, the best (for me) was when a lady, whom I consider to be a very good piecer, asked me to quilt her quilt for her...Have courage and I think you will surprise yourself as to how good you can become.
#33
Member
Join Date: Oct 2010
Posts: 33
I have taken two different classes in machine quilting under two different instructors. The tip that worked for me was this: Leave the feed dogs up instead of putting them down. This way, the "teeth" of the feed dogs help to guide you somethat during free motion and makes your stitches more the same size. You still use a free motion foot.
#34
Originally Posted by Ritacarl
I'm also new to quilting and get lost with some words. What is Ditch quilting? What does SID stand for? I think I have figured out the rest.
#35
Originally Posted by Ritacarl
I'm also new to quilting and get lost with some words. What is Ditch quilting? What does SID stand for? I think I have figured out the rest.
I was told to slightly pull sideways with each hand (I wear garden gloves, less expensive than quilting gloves, but still have "grip") where 2 fabrics have been joined as the fabric "feeds" under the needle to place your quilting stitches between the rows, aka in the ditch. Then the stitches are barely visible when finished.
I hope my explanation makes sense.
#36
Originally Posted by milikaa1
I am like you, but the other night I got brave and I am not sure what it is called, shadow quilting? But anyhow, I top stitched 1/4" away from the seam line, I actually really really like this, until I get braver....
#37
Thanks to everyone who has offered suggestions - I will begin with scrap pieces and maybe a pot holder or two, plus like the idea of doodling on paper as well. When I finally FMQ on something larger, I'll let the world know!!
#39
Super Member
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Newberg, OR
Posts: 1,911
It just takes practice. Check out Leah Day's website and just do the ones you think you can do. You'll be surprised that it's easier than you think it is. I've practiced on Downy quilts. I have a hard time just practicing on scraps and I don't want to wreck my quilts. The Downy kids won't care, and I've never ruined one. It gives me a chance to practice while making something useful. I've done different designs in every square.
#40
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2010
Location: Texas
Posts: 395
Everyone says practice, practice, practice. I say that you have to learn patience along with the practice. I still do not like my stippling and/or meandering, but it looks OK. I'm satisfied enough with it to keep trying. - Cynthia
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
AngelinaMaria
Main
26
12-06-2012 12:02 PM
J Miller
For Vintage & Antique Machine Enthusiasts
4
06-16-2012 04:44 PM