3 Essential Free Motion Quilting Designs on a Sewing Machine: Best Tips for Beginners in 2021

[@vickiemarie5314]

I’m a 65-year-old grandma. I’ve listened to a lot of sewing teachers. You’re one of the best and I don’t say that lightly. I have subscribed and liked your videos. You’re doing an excellent job explaining everything. Thank you.

[@thegovandynasty4641]

"If someone points out those little three lines of stitching...their not a good friend." 🤣😂🥰

[@elaineadair]

I "practiced" for about one year, that means 2-3 small quilts, and my friends thought I had purchased a long arm - nope, now 20 years later, I am STILL using my DSM, (domestic sewing machine) and have made and quilted over 200 quilts up to Queen Size. YOu CAN do it, just keep practicing! thank you Tiny Orchard Quilts - this is a nice clear and encouraging video.

[@thegovandynasty4641]

Amazing! Thanks for the encouragement.

[@nanaquirk]

I have watched 100s of videos on how to free motion quilt. I have to say that your videos are the best that I have come across. There's no waffling, no going off onto something else. I dont feel that you are talking down to me. Your videos are amazing and precise. You have given me the confidence to just get on and do it. Thank you so much.

[@shivsnorman]

When I started free motion quilting I told myself that any that didn't work out as well as I hoped would be given to my dogs as bedding. My dogs are now very comfortable indeed 😮😂

[@elizabethjacobs3359]

Thank you SO much for this tutorial and after many, many years of making quilts at 80 I’m going to quilt my very first project instead of having someone else do it. Wish me luck 😊😂😂

[@Gogas54]

I am just beginning to venture out from straight line quilting. I have only been quilting for about four years now. I have been watching videos like yours but this video gives more confidence to try and that I CAN free motion quilt with practice. I'm always afraid I'll ruin my quilt! I like how you describe the steps and explain the techniques in detail. It is extremely helpful to a newbie. Thank you so much for sharing your expertise!

[@annalisa40oztofree85]

"Early quilting me! I'm so proud of her!" 😂 Love this. Such a great attitude. Keeping this in my soul. Thank you so much for this video. So helpful.

[@wantitorganized6730]

Of all the people I have watched in order to learn to quilt, YOU ROCKED IT! I'm no longer intimidated and can't wait to begin. Thanks so much!!!!!!!

[@patricianolin3164]

If i could give you many stars, you would not have enough room. God bless you. Thank you so very much.

[@Silva007ish]

Thank you for an awesome video! I have been a machine quilter for many years and it was nice to have such a thorough refresher! I am 66 years of age and one thing I want to encourage folks to do is GET UP AND STRETCH! I do shoulder shrugs and arm raises. People have no clue that this is such a strenuous thing, but it is because we are using muscles we don’t normally use. Practice practice is the key and your skill will improve. I love looking back on the stuff I did 25 years ago because I see how much skill I have gained. We need to give ourselves permission to play and those little sample /practice pieces end up being mug rugs! You are so bright and cheery and I truly enjoyed your video and will certainly checkout your other ones! Happy Quilting!

[@StitchWitchMama]

1:30 minutes in and I finally get the answer I have been trying to get for the last year or two. I do need to drop my presser foot. Thank you!!!

[@dianebrougham8494]

That was what I kneeded to know as well.

[@carlabattle7014]

I love the fact that you take your time and explain the techniques.

[@michellejaggard9657]

I don't free motion quilt very often. When I do I have to practice for a while just like you said. I use 10 inch squares and I make pot holders! Then nothing is wasted. I do just like you said. Such good advice. When done I bind them and by Christmas or birthdays I have stacks of these, doll blankets or pot holders.

[@lawsonbrinton682]

Hi Michelle, how's your day going with you?

[@SuperJules444]

I made a practice piece and gave it to a friend for her dolls' house. She was thrilled so I made her matching pillows which are 1" long so very fiddly.

[@nursekate6772]

I do this too, but if they turn out nice, I set them aside and use as Quilt As You Go blocks

[@jenmckitrick]

This is the best free motion quilting video I've ever watched, and I've watched a lot! Thanks!

[@Liguorienne]

Oh i do think like you 😁 She’s very professional but also very easy to fallow I just love her videos Gréât thanks to her 🌹🌹

[@maryskoskie4257]

You are a great instructor! One of the best fmq videos that I’ve seen. You’ve given me so much confidence to just go for it! Thank you for sharing your gift with others. Bless you.

[@ritasokol646]

Excellent instruction. I like that it is done in an orderly fashion. I’m so happy to have found a new free motion quilting instructor who is fabulous! Thank you!

[@TinyOrchardQuilts]

Aww, thank you! I’m just glad I could help :)

[@cherylhowes9496]

By far the best free motion quilting lesson I have ever seen!! I look forward to seeing more. Thank you very much.

[@jessicapoemape3067]

Those messy pebbles are so fun!

[@jojorey6886]

I meander all the time. I start in the center because I don’t want folds to happen underneath. I stick to meandering because I make bed size quilts and it’s a lot. I start at the center and then I go around clockwise from block to block, I look at it as rounds. I’d like to do other patterns but with all that fabric under my machine I feel it’s easier to deal with meandering and I can keep track of where I am. I began on a Bernina 770QE with a stitch regulator, now I use a Juki J-150 (no stitch regulator) easier and faster. I want to do a feather stitch on a quilt I’m going to make that has vertical rows. I’m glad you said it’s ok to do rows, I’m not keen on drawing lines though but we’ll see:)

[@kellygraeber6286]

Your videos are so helpful. Your attitude is lovely and encouraging. Thanks!

[@christinegrossi4430]

Wow! What a great tutorial. I am a beginning quilter, having pieced a lot without major issues, but really struggling with the quilting. I don’t love it the way I enjoy piecing, but want to finish my quilts! Thank you so much for your clear explanations and thoroughness.

[@JulieMeer-fs1xl]

I think you are just lovely to listen to. Kind. Thank you. Often I fast forward through videos to get to the place I want. But with your videos, I am patient, because I enjoy you so much.

[@MartaRodriguez-km8rk]

Thank you, this has given me the confidence to start free motion quilting.

[@sharonfox107]

THANK YOU! I'm definitely a beginner on FMQ and this is the best explained and helpful video I've watched! ❤

[@BonnieJHP]

This is without a doubt the best explanation of tension I have found. A few weeks ago I was having tension problems. I searched on internet for anything that would help explain my stitches. You explain it so well. Thanks so much. Glad I found your channel.

[@donnastjules8157]

I am loving this series! lots of great information and delivered in simple easy to follow chunks. you are a very good teacher and I really enjoy your channel

[@revaarcher1092]

Thank you for some great tips. I was originally looking for some help using the curve master presser foot. Then I watched the basic free motion quilting tips. Thank you.

[@KimtheElder]

What an intelligent, comprehensive, and positive tutorial! Thank you so much

[@elizabethviator3677]

Thank you! I’m just learning to machine quilt and I think you’re an amazing teacher!!!🤗🤗❤️

[@riccihershey5192]

You are an excellent teacher! I’m looking forward to trying your lessons. Thank you! 😊

[@kathleenmahan462]

I love listening to you. Your speech is measured without the ubiquitous “Ummm” or “Ahhh” that can be so annoying. Thank you for sharing your expertise. 😊

[@lawsonbrinton682]

Hi Kathleen, how's your day going with you?

[@nicolebrunzel6608]

The pepple design looks like something I might actually be able to do. Or try. I'm going to do it tonight and then come back and tell how it went. Thanks so much for this detailed tutorial.

[@sandyswanson2246]

Just caught your channel bc I am new to free motion quilting. I SUBSCRIBED! I found your info valuable, Also, your personality and voice are friendly and pleasant. I used to hv KZbin channels too - it’s a lot of work! Thx for sharing your knowledge; I’ll be watching and learning. 👍

[@jeannegennaro4482]

This was my first time seeing you & your explanations . Great job, you're easy to listen to, and even tho I've watched many people & videos and, and, and.... 😉 I got good information here too! Thank you for sharing! ✌

[@lawsonbrinton682]

Hi Jeanne, how's your day going with you?

[@katoz97]

You're back! I hope your family is all recovering well :-) I don't FMQ much but you make it seem so easy! I may have to stretch my comfort bubble a bit.

[@joycedietzel7503]

Thank you for your KZbin on machine quilting, I have done most of my quilting by hand, but I now have arthritis in my hands so I need to learn how to do it by machine. Your tutorial was very informative and encouraging! I have done a few smaller quilts on my sewing machine, mostly quilting by the piece, but have never been happy with the results. I now want to practice and learn how to create a beautiful machine quilted quilt! Thanks for sharing your expertise and techniques!

[@lauraromero834]

Both free motion quilting videos are very comprehensive and you answered so many questions. Thank you!

[@Str8eeth]

I just received a new Bernina sewing machine with a quilting hoop because my husband was tired of me paying for my quilts to be quilted. I appreciate this video because I think maybe I can DO IT!!! Thank you for being so encouraging, you are just so cute!

[@GypsyWomanWindy]

I love using black fabric with white thread , It's like doodling on a chalkboard. And you end up with something pretty cool. I doodle , shapes and words. Hope you and your family are getting better!

[@loriclark3755]

This has been the most FABULOUS video!! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! This is just the instruction and explanation I have been hoping for!!!

[@joanneyaddow8442]

Excellent videos - concise, thorough, encouraging, honest and informative! I am so excited to start!

[@QQuintessentiallyQ]

So my question is, what do we set the stitch length to? I've been told to do a zig zag setting instead of a straight stitch when free motion quilting which makes no sense to me? You went over the setup and tension but didn't talk about what the stitch settings or the length and width should be.

[@benandneen]

Yes!! Thank you! Because of your amazing video I have gotten rid of my eyelashes (before today I didn’t know they were eyelashes 😂). A whole new world of quilting has opened up for me!

[@connietosti9185]

I love how you speak to us and teach us all these techniques. You’re so kind, I wish I lived by you so you could teach me in person.

[@NoFences]

Finally! Someone who answered every question I had about FMQ on a standard home sewing machine!! Your 2 videos about beginning FMQing are fantastic! I am in the process of making a memory quilt for a dear friend who lost her brother and her horse within a couple months of each other. I had learned about quilting from my grandmother - back when treadle machines were still common. Did I mention that I’m 75 yrs old? 😂 This is the first real quilt I’ve made all by myself, and my sewing experience has been limited to mending & replacing zippers. Because my quilt incorporates a panel with a mountain scene in the middle with photos of my friend and her brother and horse (that I printed on fabric) going around the edges of the panel, I especially want to do FMQ in the large panel rather than making blocks with vertical & horizontal lines. Your clear instructions, and tips will save me hours, and my sanity! Thank you sooooo much!

[@Christie7777]

I've watched probably 1000 videos, and you are a wonderful teacher. Thank you so much 💓

[@LizzaLee]

I have never done any free motion quilting, but I'm interested in trying it. Back when I did cake decorating, I used a tiny stipple sometimes to fill spaces and make a cake look more "fancy". Your video today has made me even more eager to get the right foot for my machine and get started! I hope you're recovering. My daughter started having symptoms on Christmas Day, but she is much better now.

[@brendaseverns9704]

I've JUST started trying fmq and I'm SO HAPPY that I found this video! You have a great way about you and are an excellent teacher. I really appreciate the detailed information that I couldn't find before now. I love the messy pebbles! Thx so much! Brenda

[@TinyOrchardQuilts]

Thank you so much! I love fmq so I’m always glad to hear when I helped someone out :)

[@deniserobinson5413]

You are an excellent communicator. Thank you.

[@dedyrae]

I like the visual effect of your off centered pebbles/circles👌

[@MariaHarris-d6b]

You are a wonderful teacher. Clear speech, knowledgeable, yet "approachable" language. I'm interested in free-form stitching to make little art pieces for fun. So helpful!!

[@alanahope2502]

One of the best tutorials on KZbin!

[@peggymcatee4950]

I love your teaching style. You make things so clear! I recently started practicing FMQ and need to work on smooth, even stitching. I'm looking forward to trying the messy pebbles. Take care of yourself! Looking forward to your next videos when you are better.

[@elainewightman8276]

This is a wonderful video on free motion quilting, absolutely the best!!

[@lawsonbrinton682]

Hi Elaine, how's your day going with you?

[@jennilesniak6681]

As a new quilter, your video tutorials have become my go to. Thank you for all the information you provide!!

[@amaria2943]

So glad I found your channel!

[@justineromrell6836]

Can you share what machine(s) you use? Would love to see how you have your sewing area set up and what made you decide to use what you use. Keep the videos coming, love them!

[@pattyminnich2725]

Awesome video. Bought a long arm off a neighbor & haven’t had courage to try it. You give me inspiration. Thank you!!!

[@SammiJarrad]

I enjoyed your tips in this video. I hope you’re feeling better. 💜

[@gladysa1723]

Thank you. Fabulous and informative tutorial. Can't wait to start.

[@anneka1729]

Vielen, vielen Dank für dieses tolle Video. Ich beginne gerade mit dem freien Quilten und habe hier so tolle Tipps gehört, ich bin begeistert. Vor allem, dass du auch Fehler und Probleme zeigst und wie man sie vermeiden bzw. beheben kann, das ist wirklich eine tolle Hilfe. Vielen Dank dafür !!! 👍🌺

[@leanneblake5773]

Thanks Megan for another great video. I spent hours the other day, adjusting tension on my domestic machine but couldn’t get rid of the nasty snarls on the back. Then the penny dropped that I had forgotten to pull up the bobbin thread, exactly as you said. I’m keen to give it another go now. 🤣

[@kbs1324]

You are a very wise and charming person….and a GREAT teacher! Thank you very much

[@annezimmerman4262]

This is such a good tutorial! Thanks for making it; I'm going to put on the big girl panties and start practicing in the morning!!! :). I love your tutorials- this is my favorite quilting site; you really do cover the content really well!

[@kathleenfoster7972]

You are a very good Instructor, thank you.

[@deenaromanelli3009]

You are an excellent teacher and you have a beautiful face! I just bought a darning foot for my machine and have been watching FMQing videos for 2 days now. Your video is the best one yet! I love how clearly you have explained things and you’ve solved quite a few of the problems I was having. I’m totally pumped up now and ready to practice! Thank you so much! I’m a total fan of your videos and will be watching every single one you have. 🙂

[@nicolebrunzel6608]

Well, yes, I did it - and it worked! Thank you so, so much! I finally was brave enough to try - and it turned out beautiful!

[@deborahvanneschi8780]

Thank you for this video. You gave us so many tips! I am still at the early stage of fmq trying to understand what I like most and/or find easier. I really like pebbles, in theory! In practice I found them stressing. I already experienced that circling 2 or 3 times is more relaxing, but never thought about doing it more, like your messy pebbles! I really like them! So much texture! I will give it a try. At the end it's all about finding a fun and pleasant way to finish a quilt! Have a nice day. Bye from Italy! 🌸🌸

[@sallyhepworth1466]

Oh my goodness. What a great video! I will get caught up to your current videos. Learned a lot and keep up the excellent work!

[@lawsonbrinton682]

Hi Sally, how's your day going with you?

[@leavesongrass]

I really liked how slow you went-I didn’t know that was possible! I think I could do that!

[@carolg.6838]

Bring your thread to the top of the fabric....wow. I had thread nests in paper piecing when I didn't hold the top and bobbin threads away from me. I will try this. I only watched 8 minutes so far. I never got past a couple of free motion tries and angle motions when striving for loops.. Thanks and I hope your family feels better soon. Get rest.

[@lawsonbrinton682]

Hi Carol, how's your day going with you?

[@sadiejosiemom]

Thanks for the great tips! Hope you and family are well soon!

[@karin0963]

You are giving me inspiration. I've been wanting to quilt and always thought I needed a long arm. I love you bubbly personality. You have beautiful quilts.

[@TwistedArtdesigns]

You are such a great teacher. I have learned a lot. Thank you

[@maplecountry4230]

This is the BEST discussion of stippling that I have ever found. Thank you!!😊

[@nancyandrichannis2257]

thank you so much for these tutorials. you are a fabulous teacher and I am so happy I found your channel

[@goldwillow12]

That was really helpful, thank you. :-) motion free is something I really want to learn to do, and its nice to see how to do relatively easy patterns from the beginning. I really like the pebbling one, thats something that really appeals to me, for ease and uniformity. Usually I hand quilt or straight line ditch quilt on the machine, but pebbling looks like something I could manage . Thank you :-)

[@cathybroadwood6938]

This is a really useful lesson for me, never having done any FMQ. Thanks for unpacking it so clearly! The day when I actually try some is fast approaching...

[@JulieBrucki]

Wow, You are a great instructor! I have been quilting for a few years but other than straight line stitching have never FMQ my own quilts. Your explanations on how to set up my machine and how to trouble shoot problems has given me the confidence to try.

[@helenmigliacci4710]

I can tell that you are one fine person! Thank you for all the hints.

[@lawsonbrinton682]

Hi Helen, how's your day going with you?

[@SC-hj3hr]

I just love all yr tutorials. I resonate with yr logic, voice, methods etc. and learn so much. Thank you..

[@SusanSmith-hl3iv]

❤ Love the idea of adding extra on the top so you can practice FMQ and test tension. Love testing the tension with that fabric too. Such a simple idea, but one I had not thought of. Both tips are BRILLIANT! ❤

[@kellielarsen7756]

I quite enjoy how you explain everything. Thank you for taking the time to make this video lesson.

[@annedakin8935]

Thank you so much. A very helpful video for an absolute beginner.

[@lawsonbrinton682]

Hi Anne, how's your day going with you?

[@9001012]

Thank you, Very easy to understand. You are so pleasant and forgiving. I need to learn because having someone quilt my pieces has become very expensive.

[@mariannedal9068]

Best video o free motion quilting I have seen for now

[@LizStevens-o6v]

Very positive & informative demo for a beginner. Thank you.

[@rosemcdeavitt4746]

Thank you for these helpful videos! Now that I am nearing retirement, this is what I have been wanting to do for a long time and will soon have the time to pursue. The knowledge I am gaining from watching these will give me a great foundation!

[@jenniferayre3869]

I love your tutorials you explain and support as you speak and what a lovely voice to listen to ...I spend long times in bed and inside as I have lupus and annumber of other health problems so quilting when well gives me something to look forward to ...I also suffer from depression but listening to you talk about your seasonal depression helped me through a bad day .. I tried FM but gave up but I now am feeling confident enough to give it another go ..thankyou thankyou ...keep being a wonderful person and I love how you talk about not giving in when quilting sort of like life .

[@theresawinter8380]

New subscriber. Best tutorial by far. I'm going to try, woohoo! Thanks

[@GlendaNorris-qx3in]

You are an awesome teacher. Thank you

[@lindajones3056]

I learned SOOO much from this. Now, to take a deep breathe and get started. Thank you for the encouragement. 💕

[@rosaleeb2910]

You have the VERY BEST presentations because you are concise and clear without repetition and without showing things that are basic. Lots of new techniques and tips.

[@barbarabenzaia1318]

This is a fantastic tutorial video. Thank you so much!!

[@sammichellewidger3436]

Thanks so much! I enjoyed your style of teaching and learned a lot. I love the sloppy circles design.

[@vikkirountoit497]

Thank you:) Finally starting my journey into FMQ on my little pfaff- came here because you're a great teacher - totally loving it!

[@rutheglin-pugh2320]

I've been avoiding launching into this skill for years. Your very informative talking..no wasted words but the why's given succinctly.....and sensible reassurances have persuaded me to have a go. You're an excellent on-line teacher!!! The demos go at a pace a scared beginner can identify with and really help. So glad I was offered your site via the magic of youtube. You are a real teacher, not a deminstrator nor just trainer.....there's a big difference. Thank you.

[@lawsonbrinton682]

Hi Ruth, how's your day going with you?

[@irmabigler3516]

I sure enjoy your teaching style, you are very pleasant to watch.

[@kimbaker5905]

So helpful . Love your KZbin your so good at explaining .Thankyou

[@cindysmyth9276]

Thanks for your instructions. You are clear and to the point. I’ve learned a lot and appreciate your honesty to the beginner in me. You give us beginners permission to go slow and practice. Thank you. Be well. Stay well.

[@TinyOrchardQuilts]

Thank you so much for the kind comment! I really want to be as encouraging as possible. I remember being a beginner and I want everything to be as accessible as possible :)

[@lawsonbrinton682]

Hi Cindy, how's your day going with you?