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A Beginner's Guide to the Intermediate Guide to Free Motion Quilting

Shaun Nelson

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Published in Free Motion Quilting: Beginner + Intermediate Guide To Free Motion Quilting: 2 In 1 FMQ Bundle

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Free-Motion Quilting: Beginner + Intermediate Guide to Free-Motion Quilting: 2-in-1 FMQ Bundle

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Language	:	English
File size	:	46271 KB
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Print length	:	240 pages
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Free motion quilting is a beautiful and rewarding way to add a personal touch to your quilts. It is a technique that allows you to create freehand designs on your quilt top using a sewing machine. Free motion quilting can be used to create a variety of effects, from simple stippling to complex motifs. In this article, we will provide a beginner's guide to the intermediate guide to free motion quilting, covering everything from choosing the right supplies to mastering the basic techniques.

Choosing the Right Supplies

The first step to free motion quilting is choosing the right supplies. You will need a sewing machine that is capable of free motion quilting. This means that the machine must have a drop-feed mechanism, which allows you to lower the feed dogs so that the fabric can move freely under the needle. You will also need a free motion quilting foot, which is a special foot that helps to keep the fabric flat and prevents it from puckering.

In addition to your sewing machine and foot, you will also need a variety of other supplies, including:

Quilting thread: Use a high-quality quilting thread that is designed for free motion quilting. This will help to prevent the thread from breaking or fraying.
Quilting needles: Use a sharp quilting needle that is the right size for your fabric and thread. A size 10 or 11 needle is a good starting point.
Quilt sandwich: The quilt sandwich is made up of the quilt top, batting, and backing. Make sure that the quilt sandwich is properly prepared before you begin quilting.
Quilting gloves: Quilting gloves can help to protect your hands from the needle and thread.

Mastering the Basic Techniques

Once you have chosen the right supplies, you can begin to master the basic techniques of free motion quilting. The following steps will help you get started:

Load your sewing machine with thread and a quilting needle. Set the stitch length to 2.5mm or 3mm.
Lower the feed dogs on your sewing machine. This will allow the fabric to move freely under the needle.
Attach the free motion quilting foot to your sewing machine.
Place the quilt sandwich under the needle. Make sure that the quilt top is facing up.
Hold the quilt sandwich in place with your hands. Start by quilting slowly and evenly. As you gain confidence, you can increase your speed.
Use a variety of stitching techniques to create different effects. Some of the most popular techniques include stippling, meandering, and echo quilting.

Tips for Free Motion Quilting

Here are a few tips to help you get started with free motion quilting:

Practice on a scrap piece of fabric before you start quilting your actual quilt.
Start with simple designs and gradually work your way up to more complex motifs.
Be patient and don't be afraid to make mistakes. Free motion quilting takes practice.
Use a variety of stitching techniques to create different effects.
Have fun! Free motion quilting is a great way to express your creativity.

Free motion quilting is beautiful and versatile. With a little practice, you can master the basic technique and create stunning quilts that are truly unique.

[Image of a free motion quilted quilt]

We hope this beginner's guide to the intermediate guide to free motion quilting has been helpful. With a little practice, you can master the basics of free motion quilting and create stunning quilts that are truly unique. So what are you waiting for? Get started today!