After watching a bit of my PatsyThompsonDesigns.com DVD early this morning, I couldn't resist practice stitching. THAT's what I like about her DVDs -- they inspire me.I started with swirls/circles but got bored and went into my own version of 'whatever they are'. This 'whatever they are' design fills the area easily, travel lines blend well, and I like the curves. Again, you can't make them huge on a DSM, but in reality, they look better on a smaller scale.
For those gals who are reticent about machine quilting on their domestic sewing machine -- YOU CAN DO THIS! You just have to try! One more thing? stop reading all the do's and don't, thread info, etc. Just sit down and DO IT! Then, if you run into problems, start reading the do's and don'ts. We are bombarded with so much information, it becomes tooooooo much and scares a lot of us into paralysis!
My thread was a nice variegated cotton on top, and the bottom is regular bobbin thread. My machine (so far) takes anything I give it! I hardly EVER change any tension, top or bottom (knock on wood!).
Hey Elaine,
ReplyDeleteYou have inspired me to give free motion quilting a try....one of these days! :) I think I'll start with pot holders and NICU blankets.
One question though ~ what kind of machine do you have? Just curious.
Wow -- I am impressed. Really impressed. I keep thinking I'll try but, just as you said, am paralyzed by all the information and do's and don'ts.
ReplyDeleteI'm curious about what kind of machine you have as well.
Very nice. What kind of machine are you using? I need to try some of these ideas on my frame.
ReplyDeleteWow Elaine, you are an inspiration to me. After my first attempt, I have a little more confidence, but it was pretty primitive. I have ordered one of her tapes, and I hope that I get inspired like you do. I don't expect to do so well, as I know that you have practiced and I am a beginner, but you give me hope that I can do something eventually that I will be proud of.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing with such a helpful encouraging attitude.
Your quilting looks fabulous!
ReplyDeleteNow, if only....
Laughed about the leg, though I am sure it would have not been funny to the poor legless one!
About the binding- yes stick to what works for you!
I need to sit down and practice FMQ after I get Auntie's blouses done. That is the major ingredient in my ALQS2 quilt.
ReplyDeleteI agree, you just need to DO IT. Too many people are saying they are tired of meandering but it is a great practice for the beginners to work their way up to nice designs like you are doing. No one should be afraid to make up their own designs. THERE ARE NO QUILT POLICE, just outspoken "friends".
ReplyDeleteThat is a really nice pattern --done really well!
ReplyDeleteElaine, I loved your quilting. It looks very similar to McTavishing. Very pretty indeed.
ReplyDeleteAnita
Just like many things in life, we need to stop studying how and JUST DO IT! I'll try to sit down at the sewing machine this week.
ReplyDeleteAs always your posts are so encouraging. I completely agree that we should just "do it." I am already seeing some improvement in my attempts at quilting with my ancient Bernina. Good quality thread does seem to help but like most things "practice" seems to be the biggest factor!
ReplyDeleteThanks for your encouraging voice for others. I also quilt all of my own, exclusively with DSM.
ReplyDeleteI have made the switch tho to turning my machine to be perpendicular to me tho, it's made a world of difference.
You just need to be brave. Remember when we were young, we tried everything at least once.
The quilting looks great. But instead of wondering about the type of machine you're using, I'm more interested in what type of cabinet or table it is set up in or on. Mine just sits on a desk, which I know is not ideal, because I don't have a nice flat surface extending out from the needle area.
ReplyDeleteI'd also love to know what kind of machine you have! The machine quilting is beautiful.
ReplyDeleteAndrea
Well its beautiful and artistic. It encourages me to go beyond stipple stitch.
ReplyDeleteI have been wanting to expand from SID and meandering to something more. After reading your post, I will just have to DO IT and play. Thanks for the encouragement!
ReplyDeleteThis is gorgeous quilting - one of the designs on Patsy's DVD I haven't had a chance to try yet. Just waiting for the right top to come along ....
ReplyDeleteWOWWEEE!! That is gorgeous. I got a machine, I have lots of fabric, I need to try it. I think you are right, I need to stop reading all the do's and don't's and JUST DO IT! Wondering though if you are marking these designs or if it is all just in your head??
ReplyDelete