Free motion quilting on a sewing machine is a popular technique that allows you to create intricate and artistic designs on fabric. The process involves moving the fabric freely under the needle while the sewing machine stitches, giving you control over the pattern. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started with free motion quilting:
1. Prepare Your Sewing Machine
– Install a Darning Foot (Free Motion Foot): This foot is essential for free motion quilting. It has an open-toe design, allowing you to see your stitches clearly as you quilt.
– Lower the Feed Dogs: The feed dogs are the teeth beneath the sewing plate that normally help move the fabric through the machine. For free motion quilting, they need to be lowered so the fabric can move freely in any direction.
– On most machines, you can lower the feed dogs using a lever or switch located near the sewing plate or in the settings menu.
– Set the Machine to Straight Stitch: Free motion quilting is usually done with a straight stitch, although you can also use other stitches depending on the design. Set your stitch length to zero or a very short stitch length for more control.
2. Prepare the Quilt Sandwich
– Quilt Top: This is the decorative part of the quilt, which can be pieced or appliquéd fabric.
– Batting: The batting provides the loft or padding for the quilt and is placed between the quilt top and backing.
– Backing Fabric: This is the fabric that forms the back of your quilt.
– Baste the Layers Together: You can use safety pins, spray adhesive, or hand-basting stitches to hold the quilt sandwich layers together.
3. Threading the Machine
– Use a quilting thread that is appropriate for your fabric and machine. For most quilts, cotton or polyester threads work well.
– Wind a bobbin with the same thread or a coordinating color to match the top thread.
4. Position the Quilt
– Lower the needle into the quilt sandwich to start your quilting. Hold the quilt gently with both hands and keep the fabric taut, but not too tight. This ensures smooth movement as you quilt.
– It’s helpful to start quilting in the center of your quilt and work your way out to avoid puckering.
5. Quilt the Design
– Move the Fabric Freely: Unlike traditional quilting where you guide the fabric in straight lines, free motion quilting involves guiding the fabric in any direction. You can make loops, swirls, flowers, feathers, or any other design you like.
– Start Slowly: If you’re new to free motion quilting, start with slow, controlled movements to get comfortable with the technique. Once you gain confidence, you can increase speed.
– Control the Stitching: Keep a steady speed and focus on making smooth, fluid movements. Don’t pull the fabric, but guide it gently with both hands, allowing it to move under the needle.
6. Finish the Quilt
– Stop and Secure the Threads: When you reach the end of a quilting line or design, stop stitching and lift the foot. You can backstitch or tie off the threads to secure them.
– Trim the Threads: Cut any excess thread at the start and end of your quilting lines.
– Press the Quilt: Once you’ve finished quilting the entire quilt, press the quilt top and seams to help set the stitches and smooth out any wrinkles.
7. Practice
– Free motion quilting can be tricky at first, but it gets easier with practice. Before starting on your actual quilt, try practicing on scrap fabric to build your confidence and get a feel for the machine’s movement.
Tips for Better Free Motion Quilting:
– Use a Supreme Slider or Teflon Sheet: These products help reduce friction between the quilt and the sewing machine bed, making it easier to move the fabric smoothly.
– Maintain Even Tension: Adjust the tension settings on your sewing machine if necessary, ensuring the top and bottom threads are balanced.
– Use a Larger Needle: A size 90/14 or 100/16 quilting needle is generally best for free motion quilting, as it can handle thicker quilting threads.
With time and practice, you’ll be able to create beautiful free motion quilt designs and personalize your quilts with creative patterns.
