Machine Quilting Question

[BibleJournalLove]

I have not quilted for 25 years. All my quilts were machine pieced but hand quilted.

Now I have a few weeks to finish three lap quilts. What is the best method for a machine quilting newbie?

I began by making a 9 patch with "Quilt as You Go" method but I'm seeing the sashing will take quite a bit of time.

I'm thinking I would be better off stich in the ditch or straight row quilting the next two?? I ordered a walking foot (hoping its fairly easy to do)

Any help appreciated.

[EllieGraceBaby]

Hi robin, many people tell new quilters to stitch in the ditch, however, unless you sew a very straight stitch, or your thread blends in REALLY well, I would avoid it. An easy method is to outliine quilt 1/4" away from your seams on either 1 or both sides. You will need to make sure you test your tension and thread on a sample because it will be very visible, but it is easier to follow in a straight line, and causes the seam to pucker, which looks beautiful on quilts. When you stitch in the ditch, there is very little leeway. If you veer off just a little, it stands out like a sore thumb.

I have found that on my walking foot, if I move my needle over to the right position, it is exactly 1/4 from the edge of the foot, so I can easily follow a seam.

I use this on my strip quilts, and on some applique, you can see it here:

https://www.etsy.com/listing/175953979/baby-quilt-woodland-animals-deer-and?


let me know if you have any more questions. I'm glad to help!

[Former_Member]

In the interest of time, I'm wondering if you have a local longarm machine quilter who could quilt the tops for you as you get them completed. Then you just need to put the binding on. If they are twin size or so, you should be able to get them quilted for $80-100 apiece. My local person always asks when I need the quilt by, and tries to work with me on a quick delivery if needed.

I know you want to do it all yourself, but just a thought if that isn't possible!

PS Check out YouTube for great machine quilting demos & ideas. Look up Leah Day, she has a series of free-motion machine quilting ideas & demos. Also check out Eleanor Burns, if she can make a "Quilt In A Day" she should have some lightning fast quilting demos on YouTube!

[BWKeepsakes]

I love quilting small quilts on my Bernina. I have done a queen size quilt on it but then got a long arm. I have practiced , practiced and practiced on all sorts of designs, quilt in the ditch, following panto-graphs, free style, etc. Practice makes perfect. I am gradually finding my style and have only found that through my practicing, looking at other quilters designs and watching YouTube videos. Don'ts be afraid to try different things and be persistent. Keep it up you'll get the hang of it!