So, I've started a Craftsy class on Free Motion Quilting (FMQ) -
Free Motion Quilting Essentials with Christina Cameli. I like her, but let me tell you, it's hard! When I started quilting I took a class because I wanted to know how to do everything 'right'. The way my brain works, I need to understand a process, and then I can start playing with it. So, I learned about 1/4" seam allowance, and how to square up a block, how to follow patterns, and how to draft blocks. Since that class, the only patterns I've followed have been for the Fat Quarter Shop, and one test quilt. Turns out I don't like patterns, but since I learned how to draft my own and make my vision a reality on the first try, I don't have to follow them. And I'm good at making up my own designs. By good, I mean I like my own aesthetic, and I feel satisfied when I complete a quilt top.
And then comes the quilting. I thought the design part of quilting would be the hard part. Turns out it's the quilting. I've gotten better at straight line quilting. Part of that was getting a new machine that is better at keeping even stitches. But now I'm trying to FMQ. I like a good even stitch length. And it's so hard to maintain! Even when I make straight lines with my FMQ foot they're all over the place. So. What to do? I just keep practicing. I'm using unloved cuts of fabric basted right sides together so I can see the quilting a little better.
I'll start with what I'm 'good' at. Loops and the back and forth zig zag.
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| Some figure 8 loops. The stitches still get so small in the loop! |
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| Nice back and forth. The row above it, kind of wonky. |
As you can see above, I struggled with the ribbon candy. But, want to know what I'm absolutely terrible at? The good old standby for many a quilter: the stiple!
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| Colors edited to see the quilting lines better. |
I quilt myself into 'corners', I can't keep it smooth. Sometimes I go fast, sometimes I go slow! EWWW!!! Must. Practice. More.
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| Yucky stiple, nice back and forth. (also edited to see the 'quilting' better) |
So, while I have been complaining for most of this post, I must admit I am very happy with my machine. So far (this represents a few hours of practice over a few days) I have not experienced any broken threads, nor have I experienced tension issues. Which means it's all on me! My machine doesn't have a stitch regulator, so I need to learn how to move my hands and the presser foot in unison. Yikes. Well, wish me luck! And if anyone has tips for a newbie, please pass them on!
You're doing well!!! :D A few tips that help me: don't wear shoes, you can get finer control of the pedal this way. Try changing how you face the machine -- I usually have mine at about a 45 degree from the edge of the table. Also, try changing which direction you quilt in. For some designs, I can't do them side to side at all, but up and down I have no trouble. And don't worry so much about the stitch length. If you spend some time looking at really detailed shots, you can see even the best quilters have variation. Also, doodle your designs -- a lot. It really helps with the backing into corners thing because your brain will already have a map of how to get out of it. But most of all -- keep having fun!!!
ReplyDeleteYes! Pencil and paper are my best FMQing tools!
DeleteWell done!! If it makes you feel any better, I cannot stipple to save my life. I've doodled, I've had many people try to explain it different ways and I just cannot get it to look decent. So I don't stipple ;) As for getting consistent stitches, it will come with practice and your stitches look pretty darn good already!! And I agree with Sarah, doodling is essential. Muscle memory is definitely something that will work in your favor no matter what design you want to quilt. And keep stitching, you will be amazed at how quickly you improve. If you get frustrated, walk away for a bit and come back. As Sarah said, most of all, keep having fun! :)
ReplyDeleteI absolutely hated stipple as a motif when I started FMQing, too. I can now do a better job. I decided to focus on designs that flowed better for me in the beginning, because success kept me going back for more. Now that I have a lot more practice, it is easier to pick up "new" designs that used to feel hard for me.
ReplyDeleteIt is funny how some patterns come so naturally and others are so much of a struggle. I know an absolutely wonderful longarm quilter than can do the most wonderful swirls, mctavishing, and the most complicated designs but has trouble with a stipple. She says her mind just does not work that way. I can stipple and do paisley shapes but for the longest time swirls were beyond me. Then someone showed me how to morph my paisley shape into a swirl and it finally clicked for me. Your free motion work looks great.
ReplyDeleteAs another beginner taking the same class as you I'd like to say I love your quilting. I also struggle with stitch length and I stippling is quite difficult for me as well.
ReplyDelete