The first one I did, I FMQ on a tablerunner. The front looks pretty decent, but the back, OH MY!!! That's okay tho, I'll still use it! After all, it's just a table runner and the back doesn't show unless I turn it over!

it's important to TRY! remember you can't drive the Indy 500 with a learner's permit. Most of us just have learner's permits when we start out with machine quilting. It's the practice that gives you the skill. That's 90% of the learning curve. I think some quilters have a natural gift for the artistic taste and style that goes into FM, but other than that, it's practice. What you lack in artistry can be learned these days. We have so many wonderful templates, dvd's, videos, and on-line sites to help us!

Grammyj,
Quilting is supposed to be fun!! Relax and have fun. It doesn't have to be perfect. You could turn your practice pieces into dog blankets for the local dog shelter.
Sharon W.

I agree! I like to make a quilt start to finish! I do my best and the recipient knows that every stitch has lots of love in it. Not to mention a few cuss words once in awhile, but NOT OFTEN.
:D :D :D

interesting thought, I just tossed a baby quilt that I finished FMQ every inch of it for practice. I thought it was too messy for even a baby changing pad but maybe a puppy would like it!

Slow down. Move the fabric slower and make the needle move at a moderate speed. It really helps with the control.

I'm told that it is better if you sew faster. I'm willing to try anything. thanks

I am trying free motion quilting, and was told to remember to breath...often! My mentor told me it is easy to get tense and hold our breath...I agree. I have also learned on this site, that is perfectly OK to rip out whatever stitching we don't like, so I am trying to get brave.