Machine Quilting Stitches
One of the biggest challenges in creating a beautiful quilt is the quilting part.
Early on, quilters finished their quilts using hand quilting stitches. Machine quilting was reserved for industrial use – and commercially produced quilts.
Then some quilters got the idea that they could machine quilt on their home sewing machine.
When I first started machine quilting on my home sewing machine, I got puckers on the back, the stitches were uneven, and I was embarrassed by the results.
After making a few simple changes, like getting a walking foot, my stitches were better, but I could still only stitch in straight lines.
A few years ago, I did an interview with a friend who has become an expert in machine quilting on her home sewing machine – Pam Bauer.
Pam divulged all of her secrets for beautiful machine quilting, and – with some practice – my machine quilting became much better.
The following articles include tips from Pam as well as techniques from other quilters and examples I have created as my machine quilting has improved.
These are yours to enjoy and use with your quilting group, quilt guild, newsletter and others. Just please let them know where you got it:
Setting the Tension on Your Sewing Machine
Ricky Tims Machine Quilting Secret
Setting up your Machine Quilting Area
An Extension Table for your Sewing Machine – this makes it easier to machine quilt
Securing Your Machine Quilting Stitches – how to start and stop your stitching
April 8, 2011 at 17:42
I need help doing a picture memory quilt. I have never did a quilt and my brother-in-law has requested me to do a memory quilt for his daughter who will be gratuating this June. My niece’s mother died when she was 2 years old, so I just could not say no. I sure would like someone to help me. You have been the 6th person I have asked for help. No one has come forward to give me any info. I sure hope you can give me some help.
Thanks,
Carol
April 8, 2011 at 20:09
Hi Carol, You’ve come to the right place! I’m assuming you want to make the memory quilt yourself, and not have someone else make it for your niece. If you’ve never quilted before, you should learn the basics and make a practice quilt or two to make sure your “memory” fabrics, photos transferred to fabric, and other memorabilia don’t become part of an “oops.” To help you learn as quickly and efficiently as possible, I offer a very popular and successful “Beginner’s Guide to Quilting,” available by electronic download or printed book (your choice). Your purchase includes tons of free bonus information that you will find very helpful. You can find all the info on this resource by visiting: http://www.how-to-quilt.com/beginners.php .
Then, you’ll want to learn about creating memory quilts by transferring photos to fabric: http://www.how-to-quilt.com/photofabricquilts.php?af=517350
Please keep me posted on how things are going and you can certainly ask questions by sending them to info@how-to-quilt.com.
Have fun and Happy Quilting!
Penny
November 22, 2011 at 23:07
I need a new sewing machine. Which should I buy for rag quilting? Also to hem blue jeans? thank you
November 23, 2011 at 08:54
I like my little Janome. It’s not the top of the line, but it is a little workhorse and does free motion machine quilting, too.
Good luck!