A number of you have asked for the pattern I used on my recent Split 9-Patch, quilting on a DSM (domestic sewing machine). This is about as easy as it gets!
Note the starting point (lower left), and I left the curves 'open' on purpose, in this case. Most of them have 3 curves back and forth and then I would go off in the most open space to make the next curve. Sometimes I ended up in a space where I didn't want to be, so I made 4 curves to go in a different direction. (My real quilting lines are nicer than marker lines!) And sometimes I just had to do some curves back and forth to get out of a space, but always tried to copy the look of the curve. (In other words, not skinny curves in some places, and fat ones in other places.) They all have about the same curve (called a teardrop), even though some are small, others large and some are just back and forth, to fill a space. And sometimes you end up inside everything else, and have to stop and restart.
I usually make one unit of 3-4 back and forth movements, then STOP and see where I'm going next. And I don't go fast.
OK class, let's see your samples! 8-))) Remember, your goal is to add texture, NOT to see your thread, even though you'll see it. After it's washed, it should be much less noticeable! Also, your eyes and nose will be right there within inches of your stitching, seeing every stitch - do not get upset if your stitches aren't quite right! You'll get better and probably those stitches will not be noticed when it's done! Ya gotta practice with anything that's new to you!
I am a quilter - a retired widow living in the Nebraska Panhandle. I am surrounded by beautiful semi-arid ranch country, and treeless hills and fields under incredibly wide blue skies, located far from the upheaval found often in large towns or cities. I am blessed to have delicious time to quilt and to appreciate my peaceful moments in an unpeaceful world.
Thanks for posting this Elaine - I'm going to try it when I get this current top basted. blessings, marlene
ReplyDeleteI like this one. I'm trying to move beyond meanders and loops and this looks like a good next step...
ReplyDeleteThanks for this --- I've been drawing feathers all over everything, so will not start doing teardrops.
ReplyDeleteThanks. I'll do some more practicing on this (I did to practice sandwiches already) before I decide to do it on my GD's quilt. I hope I will feel comfortable with it.
ReplyDeleteThanks for posting the design you used. Will have to give it a try.
ReplyDeleteAfter machine quilting for 5+ years you'd think I could do more than straight lines, stipple and pebble quilt. These are impressive curves.
ReplyDeleteOh...Oh....thank you Elaine...I am going to go try this RIGHT NOW!!!
ReplyDeleteNo really.....I am!!!