Learning Lessons

I am documenting some lessons learned from my foray into free motion quilting.  My vast experience includes multiple practice squares, a child sized charity quilt and as of tonight a 60 inch by 72 inch Log Cabin.  I am committed to becoming proficient in free motion quilting on my Juki.

• Set up a work area with plenty of space for moving your quilt around and ensure decent light.
• Block out some time so you do not feel pressured or rushed.  Make sure your husband, dogs and rabbit will not need you for next hour or so.
• Fill at least four bobbins and check your threading and tension settings.
• Get a drink and use the restroom prior to sitting down to quilt.

• Do a few practice runs on scraps to make sure your tension is okay, and stitches look even.
• Take your shoes off and put ball of foot on top of pedal for better control.
• Put a piece of butterscotch or cherry lifesaver in your mouth.  Important, this helps but I do not know why.
• Scope out where your quilting needs to travel and a path for your stitching.
• Do not critique your work while quilting.  This is about the overall look of the quilt not a micro-inspection of each square inch.
• Try to achieve smooth flowing movement, think of a river.  Below you can see the effects of a small moment of distraction and a jerky movement.

• Try to move your hands at a rate that matches how quickly your machine is moving.  Pressing the foot pedal to the degree that is comfortable.
• Below, the result of moving my hands too fast and feet too slow while going through the loop.  You can see the top thread pulled tight and the loops below are visible.
• Remember, the weight of a large quilt will impede the smooth loops you are trying to make.  As it hangs off the table or into your lap it becomes difficult to move it fluidly under the needle.

I agree with everyone who speaks of how cumbersome it is to free motion quilt a large quilt on a domestic machine.  It is difficult but doable.  I am glad to have done it but will spend some time on smaller projects and continue to perfect my meandering, then swirls.  Stitch on friends.