Beginner Free Motion Quilting Tutorial | FMQ on a Domestic Sewing Machine

[@gmasue]

This is the best domestic machine quilting tutorial I have ever watched, and I've watched ALOT. You walked through every practice step with great detail, and what really amazed me was that you showed yourself quilting the actual quilt and not just the practice piece as most do. It was very encouraging to watch you maneuver all that fabric underneath a small throat space and come away with a beautifully stitched quilt. I'm so glad I found your channel and I look forward to learning more!

[@StitchObsessed]

Yay! This makes me so happy! I know exactly what you mean with trying to find details tutorials for FMQ, and that’s why I wanted to do a series on quilting on actual quilts. Now I gotta make a bunch more quilts to have material to record! 😂 thank you so much for watching and for this comment! It made my day 💖

[@angiec2509]

This tutorial actually gives me the confidence to finally do this! Thank you for showing how from start to finish!

[@StitchObsessed]

Oh yay, I'm SO glad!

[@Marla.22]

I quilt my own work, sending quilts out to a longarm is too expensive and I feel its not all my work if someone else is quilting it. thanks for this video

[@StitchObsessed]

I totally agree! 💖

[@TeresaBallard-r5o]

I think this is a fabulous tutorial. You showed us how to measure, set the stitch length, start stitching to hide stitches, etc. I have never seen anyone do these steps. Your explanation is very, very helpful. Thank you

[@StitchObsessed]

Thank you so much 💖💖💖

[@MsWashins]

OMG! I did it!! Terrified even on my practice cloth et al but I was able to do it!!

[@StitchObsessed]

Yay!!!! 🥳🥳🥳 that is awesome!!!👏🏻

[@thoughtsofjoyk]

You did a fabulous job with this tutorial! I have only done stitch in the ditch quilting, because I’m worried I’ll ruin my quilt top. This tutorial has given me hope and encouragement. Thank you so much! 😊 Oh yes … and thank you for the pattern. It’s lovely.

[@StitchObsessed]

I’m so glad! Thank you for watching 💖

[@donnaforeman2880]

This is the best free motion quilting tutorial I have seen. Thank you

[@StitchObsessed]

Wow, thank you so much! 💖

[@lindablack8852]

WOW! Thank you so much for SHOWING each step. I've tried on practice pieces and have been so discouraged. I've saved this tutorial to watch again and again so that I can build my confidence in FMQ. Looking forward to watching many more of your tutorials. BTW I live in Missouri, too.

[@StitchObsessed]

You got this! I'm so glad this tutorial can help you build confidence. 💖 Hi, neighbor!

[@wmarks34]

The idea to take the thread out and practice with the machine on is a great idea! Thank you!!! This is a great tutorial on free motion quilting especially for a newbie like me😁

[@StitchObsessed]

Yay! I’m so glad you enjoyed it! 💖

[@nikkimoshier2492]

Great tutorial. You explained everything so well. I am looking forward to trying it!

[@StitchObsessed]

Yay! Thank you for watching! 💖

[@anndalynnketellapper8296]

Thanks for the video and the free pattern! Sew easy to do!! I’ve been told, that depending on the quilt pattern, your quilting needs to be closer and the more quilting, the better. I noticed your quilting, was quite far apart. Is that ok? I am more comfortable doing straight line quilting, but now may start practicing the loops!!

[@StitchObsessed]

Hmm, I haven't heard that specific "rule" before, but I like to say you can quilt your quilt however you want to! One thing to keep in mind is you do need to follow the instructions on the batting that you use. For example, most 100% cotton battings recommend not having quilting farther than 6"-8" apart. If you have the quilting too far apart, it can cause the quilt top to wrinkle and warp. The quilting I did on this quilt is perfectly fine and has held up over several washes already! I hope that helps! Let me know if you have other questions!

[@Akbashlover]

Thank you for your tutorials, I’ve learned so many new techniques from you.❤

[@StitchObsessed]

I’m so glad! 💖

[@karin0963]

Great tutorial. Thank you. I loved your dog at the end, wagging its tail. 😊

[@StitchObsessed]

Thank you! She’s my baby girl! 💖🥰

[@patlytle1128]

Thank you! I've only stitched in the ditch because free motion quilting terrifies Me. You're videos are Great!!

[@StitchObsessed]

I’m so glad you like them! I totally understand being intimidated by the free motion quilting! Practice practice practice! 👏🏻 you can do it!!!

[@cindynewcomb7139]

Thank you very much! Easy to understand and not too fast.

[@StitchObsessed]

I'm so glad you enjoyed the video! Thank you for watching!

[@peggysanders487]

GREAT tutorial!!!! You went step by step slow enough to get it with lots of helpful hints!° THANK YOU!!!

[@StitchObsessed]

You are very welcome! I’m glad you liked it! 💖

[@daisythompson5205]

I am so glad that I found your channel and FMQ tutorial! Your tutorial was very informative and your demonstrations were very easy to follow. It clicked! Thank you so much for making this tutorial and I will most definitely be following your channel.

[@StitchObsessed]

Yay! I’m so glad it “clicked” for you! FMQ is so much fun, and it’s my mission to help as many quilters as possible learn they CAN do it! Thank you so much for watching! You’ve got this! 💖

[@sallynorsen4018]

This has to be my favorite tutorial on beginner free motion. You were very thorough going step by step. So glad I found your page. Thank you.

[@StitchObsessed]

Thank you so much! So glad you found it helpful! 💖

[@patromero4776]

So happy i found you! Learning is great!

[@StitchObsessed]

Yeah! That’s one of the reasons I love quilting so much! You are constantly learning and growing! 👏🏻💖

[@Brandi62]

I love this! It looks doable.

[@debbiebraatz1919]

Thanks for your tutorial . Can’t wait to use all the tips and tricks ❤ looking forward to more learning from you

[@StitchObsessed]

Thank you so much for watching!

[@colleencasaul8590]

Brilliant idea to practice stitching with no thread!!! ❤ i think it can give you a real feel to get the stitch uniformity, and the movement of the fabric... THANK YOU!!!❤

[@StitchObsessed]

Yes! It helps so much! Thank you for watching 💖🤗

[@Carriequilts]

Quilting is my favorite part also.

[@helenwilliams7112]

Loved Obi & the quilting pattern you created! It's a beautiful quilt too! Thanks for sharing your ideas! Love the backstitching in the ditch!

[@StitchObsessed]

Yay! Thank you so much!

[@jan9601]

Thank you for sharing your quilt pattern and your tips. You have a wonderful way of presenting information!

[@StitchObsessed]

Thank you so much!!! 💖

[@joannestoddart3918]

Brilliant video. I love all your step by step instructions and explanations..

[@StitchObsessed]

Thank you so much!💖

[@luannkralovetz1095]

So happy i found your channel. ❤

[@StitchObsessed]

Yay! I’m so glad!! 💖 thank you so much for watching!

[@lorrainecunningham593]

I have watched many tutorials for beginning free motion quilting and this one by far is the best. I feel like I can attempt to do this now. Thank you! I have subscribed to your channel and look forward to learning more from you.

[@StitchObsessed]

Wow! What a wonderful compliment! thank you so much 💖 I’m so glad you found the video helpful! You can do it!!!👏🏻

[@rhondaoyler2305]

Love your video , your teaching and a lefty is a bonus for me 😊 Love Riley Blake!

[@StitchObsessed]

Yay another leftie!!! 👏🏻💖

[@bobkaren5974]

I like these tutorials!

[@StitchObsessed]

Yay! 👏🏻💖

[@lindaricher5359]

This is something I have always wanted to learn so thank you I have so many tops only

[@StitchObsessed]

Yay! I’m so glad! 💖

[@ssmith2141]

Wow love it I’m new to quilting. I like taking the thread out n seeing the whole from needle I can use that as a guide . I will practice the template 5-10 times to get a feel for it . Thanks

[@StitchObsessed]

You are very welcome! Good luck and have fun! 💖

[@mechellewinslow65]

I have a Tl15 and im trying to learn the FMQ. It’s kind of scary lol. I would like to do my own quilts without just doing straight lines all the time (boring). So far i am really trying but im afraid to do it on my actual quilts! Maybe soon. I love your tutorial!

[@StitchObsessed]

You can do it!!! 👏🏻💖 it takes some practice, but once you get that muscle memory figured out, you’ll be quilting beautifully!

[@sarabirch661]

Excellent video!

[@mcdowell1953]

You ve very helpful with details. I ve been quilting for 10 years but haven t had much detail in practicing quilting and free motion. Thank you

[@StitchObsessed]

Yay! Yes, I’m trying to fill that void because when I was trying to learn all I could about quilting, it was hard to find anyone who did detailed tutorials for the true beginner. 💖

[@jannie690]

Excellent. Thanks. I enjoy your teaching style.

[@StitchObsessed]

I’m so glad! Thank you for watching! 💖

[@rorocyk]

Thank you I learned a lot. I'm looking forward to your other videos.

[@StitchObsessed]

I’m so glad! Thank you for stopping by! 💖

[@lfuentes8891]

So glad I found you. This helped so much!. Question, I see pins so did you glue baste this one also?

[@StitchObsessed]

Yeah sometimes I like to pin baste too. There’s no secret reason why, it’s just what I felt like doing that day I guess 😂🫣

[@teresacesario6247]

Perfect tutorial. Thank you!

[@StitchObsessed]

So glad you liked it! 💖

[@rosangelaoliveira627]

Amei a técnica e a colcha. Mas amei demais o seu pet. Fofura. Abraços do Brasil. Gratidão

[@StitchObsessed]

Thank you so much 💖

[@IanScott-m1x]

I love your videos! I am just wondering why, when you have glue basted your quilt that you have some safety pins attached?

[@StitchObsessed]

I tried for a few projects to combine glue and pin basting, but now I just use glue for most projects!

[@gigi2fun]

Thank you for this video!! I’m planning to free motion quilting on a quilt I just made!

[@StitchObsessed]

You are so welcome! Yay!! Good luck and have fun! 💖

[@jacquelinecoyne1041]

Great tutorial….do you have a pattern for the first quilt you had hanging? I’ve tried free motion quilting in the past but now will try again

[@quiltingforthesoul]

Thank you for sharing. I’m new to your channel. I love your videos keep up the good work. God bless you and your family.

[@StitchObsessed]

Thank you so much!💖

[@moniquemartel1]

Bonjour je suis tellement contente de t’avoir connue 😂😂 ta simplicité fait en sorte que ma peur disparaît Merci!!!!!!

[@StitchObsessed]

I’m so glad! Thank you! 💖

[@szelop]

Great videos! Thanks?

[@chickad5820]

You can practice going the upside down space to help bring the quilting closer together. I just found you a couple videos back with your glue basting a quilt to the sandwich. If course I subscribed with the very first you've suggestion for your video. Thank you, this takes the scary out of quilting a quilt with something besides fancy stitches down the seams. Priceless

[@StitchObsessed]

Yay! I’m so glad you like it! And thank you so much for subscribing!

[@sisiepuntil-wilcek8871]

Thanks - great information and thanks for the pattern

[@StitchObsessed]

You are very welcome! Enjoy! 💖

[@daleodberg6714]

Very interesting, thank you. 🌸

[@StitchObsessed]

Thanks for watching! 💖

[@m.coline]

Hi Miriam, new subscriber here.How do you keep the stitches the same size and not too long when you go slow! Do you turn the stitch size to zero?

[@StitchObsessed]

Hello and welcome! Yes, I always turn my stitch length to zero when free motion quilting. You're in control of how fast or slow the needle is going. The stitch length is going to depend on how fast the needle is going and how fast you move the fabric under the needle. It definitely takes some practice to get even stitches, so I definitely recommend doing a practice quilt sandwich to get the hang of it. I hope that helps! Let me know if you have other questions!

[@m.coline]

You seem to be going very slow, are your stitches long?

[@StitchObsessed]

@@m.coline they are not long. I went slow for the tutorial, but I usually stitch a bit quicker. You are in control of how fast or slow you go, so as long as you find a good cadence for moving the fabric under the needle, your stitches should be a good length.

[@bobnjuliejohnston8327]

Thank you this was awesome...sew clear instructions

[@StitchObsessed]

I’m “sew” glad you liked it! 💖

[@Loriann3616]

Excellent tutorial ❤

[@SharonBradley-f2v]

You did a wonderful video. Your quilt is gorgeous. Can I please get your pattern? I feel like I can understand your instructions

[@StitchObsessed]

Thank you so much! 💖 you can download the Cottage Twirl quilt pattern by clicking the link under “Free Resources” in the description box of this video!

[@CarolYuhas]

While doing the glue basting if it comes through the fabric will it make a washable pen disappear

[@StitchObsessed]

Oh that’s a really interesting question! I’m not sure 🤔

[@NeldaIsom]

@@StitchObsessedi put my design on the back with a pantograph pattern using wash out markers, then I glue baste it. It all washes out in cold water, no soap or fabric softener

[@marq9955]

I can only get 1 treat at a time for “E8”…got the most basic program w the instructions manual..I am NOT into computer stuff…should I practice w what I got or am I making my journey harder by not getting all the related tools first? I have hated computers since they came into my life in the 1980s, I want to design my own sampler’s blocks, can’t do the same 16xs…..

[@StitchObsessed]

So you already have EQ8? If you have that and the beginners manual, I think you’re set! It does take some practice and time just playing around with the software to get to know it. I’m planning on doing more videos on the software to help out others who want to make their own designs. I’m almost wondering if I should create an online course to help beginners specifically with the software 🤔 that might be better than a basic KZbin video.

[@lindaricher5359]

Do you ever use pounce powder for marking?

[@StitchObsessed]

Oh great question! I actually recently got a pounce pad and will be testing out on the quilt I’m working on now 👏🏻💖

[@jacquelineshewring503]

Hi could you please tell me what stitch length you are using in your quilting? Great tutorial many thanks. Will definitely down load your free pdf pattern .

[@StitchObsessed]

When doing Free Motion Quilting, you need to set your stitch length to "0". This gives you complete control over the stitch length. If you are doing Straight Line Quilting, I suggest doing a stitch length of "3". I hope that helps!

[@belfastbunny]

The 10 inch grid you used on the practice feels bigger than the width that you needed to use on the quilt. I think this would make it more difficult to complete the practice than the finished item. I love that you showed the practice in different ways as it builds muscle memory. Fortunately you are able to stitch without thread but worth noting that this is not the case on all machines, some computerised machines have sensors on the thread so that step won’t work for them. Mine would beep repeatedly at me if I tried!! It is a relatively simple but effective design and a lovely looking quilt design 😊

[@StitchObsessed]

I agree, the 10” is a bit larger, but it was just for practice to get that movement down. And I didn’t know computerized machines wouldn’t let you stitch without thread! Thanks for the heads up. I wonder if there is a way to turn that feature off? 🤔 thanks for watching!!!💖

[@TrishaLediard]

I noticed you have pins in your quilt. I thought you did Elmer’s glue technique. Do you do both?

[@StitchObsessed]

I do! Just depends on what I wanna do haha I like both methods, but glue basting is my preferred method.

[@cyn4rest]

I’m curious…. If you’re basting with Elmers Glue, why the pins? Extra security like insurance? Nice quilt top. Great colors.

[@StitchObsessed]

I’m just so used to pin basting, but you can definitely JUST use glue.

[@cyn4rest]

@@StitchObsessed Okey doke. Thanks

[@sharronrussell487]

I want thicker batting, is it to difficult to quilt?

[@StitchObsessed]

I don’t have a lot of experience with a thicker batting like wool or polyester, but many quilters used them and quilt successfully!

[@vangiebrake2295]

Great video Miriam. I am going to try this. How did you quilt the border or is that another video?

[@StitchObsessed]

Thank you! I actually decided not to quilt the border. I just made sure when I was adding the binding that the border was laying flat so I didn't get any puckering near the binding. A small continuous loop or straight lines for the border would look great with this FMQ design. I definitely should do a video all about FMQ borders. Thank you for watching!

[@diannplatt-roberts8692]

Great teaching!

[@StitchObsessed]

@@diannplatt-roberts8692 Thank you!

[@suepuckett5088]

Have you made a video showing how you quilt sandwich?

[@StitchObsessed]

I have! You can watch it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/b3PVk62qfdybY6M

[@crystalbartley9447]

Not a quilting question, did you finish the book The Radium Girls that was behind you in this video? Do you recommend the book?

[@StitchObsessed]

Wow! Good eye! I haven't finished it yet. My younger sister recommended it to me, and she said it's a great book, just very sad. That's why I've kind of put off reading it haha! Those girls went through SO MUCH, and the company did nothing to help. Crazy

[@crystalbartley9447]

@@StitchObsessed thanks I may check it out!

[@carolg.6838]

Please advise.: I have a quilt sandwich made from square in a square: blocks blocks. There are 2 blocks repeated---white print bordered by blue, and blue print bordered by yellow. There is red sashing throughout.. Can I just quilt using using a walking foot and sitch in ditch on each edge of the sashing (about 2" wide. That way I can use all red thread. It has a heavy 80/20 batting. I just ripped out all the quilting. I was advised to sew top to bottom using blue thread, skipping the yellow borders and go back with yellow thread akipping the blue squares. And end each color with the lock stitch. I soon had enough of that so broke the rules and kept turning the quilt to go around a whole square at a time with one color. It puckered all over because of the turning and for those blocks where I had to finish because of skipping colors, the stitching lines didn't the stitched didn't meet. was to be a 2022 Christmas gift so I need to finish it. The alternative would be to tie it with a tie ue in each square and the corners on the sashing. I could use several colors of floss so it won't be so obvious.. I do not have much free motion skill.

[@StitchObsessed]

You certainly can stitch in the ditch with your walking foot. Just make sure your quilt is very secure to your batting to ensure it won’t shift and give you those pesty puckers. How did you baste your quilt?

[@carolg.6838]

@@StitchObsessed Thanks so much for answering. Glad I found your channel and subscribed. I spray basted for the first time. Used 505 indoors and am very sensitive to chemicals and did not have a problem. (But it took a long time to make sure all was smooth and even as the long sides of the conference room table were curved. The sashing is only 2 inches wide so I wondered if stitching that close would pucker. But most of the way through the initial quilting someone showed me how to place my hands to ensure smoothness and use a longer stitch length. It is about 53 x 93 and the batting is a heavier weight Warm and Natural. Years ago I made many quilts but this seemed complicated to quilt. I didn't like to cross the colors with one color thread. I suppose I could do each side of the sashing which would give a double grid look. If the squares need quilting, I could tie the middle in a matching color.

[@StitchObsessed]

@@carolg.6838 that’s very true! And tying a quilt is quite fun! I’m glad the 505 didn’t affect you in any way! I can’t use that stuff unfortunately. I use Elmers school glue for all my basting lol

[@adoral.libertucci2647]

The biggest issue I run into is the strong vibration when I use the FMQ foot on my Juki 2010 TL. It makes creating even stitches and nice curves very difficult.

[@StitchObsessed]

Oh really? So your machine is vibrating too much? Do you have it set on a sturdy table? I've never had this issue, so that is a big bummer! I have seen where you can use a rubber mat under the sewing machine to cut down on vibration. That might be worth trying!

[@kristenlehna2108]

Question ❓ my feed dogs don't drop to do the free motion quilting. You said something about tape the feed dogs . Could you use some one older sewing machine and show how you would do that to make it work ?

[@StitchObsessed]

I don’t think tape would work to cover the feed dogs. I mentioned that some machines come with a little plastic cover that snaps over the feed dogs. What machine do you have? I have a Singer Patchwork which came with a plastic feed dogs cover.

[@glyndameyerholtz6827]

You can tape a business card over the feed dogs, with a hole for the needle.@@StitchObsessed

[@mariannemay4760]

If you're a beginner FMQ. Start with less quilting per square inch. You can always add more if desired. But quilting is slow and repetitive and if it's also dense it can take FOREVER to finish the quilt.

[@StitchObsessed]

Great tip!

[@myawdrey]

Very good tutorial however, I wish you would’ve used darker thread when you were quilting it’s really hard to see with the light thread

[@StitchObsessed]

Thank you for your input! That’s a great point/ idea. I’ll keep this in mind in my future quilting tutorials. Thank you for watching! 💖

[@joycerideout6311]

What happened to your glue basting

[@StitchObsessed]

lol sometimes I like to pin baste!

[@gbyrd1970]

How do I avoid eyelashes on the back??

[@StitchObsessed]

Eyelashes are caused by either tension issues (most common) or you may be moving your quilt too fast under your needle.

[@gbyrd1970]

@@StitchObsessed that's what I figured. I can't seem to find that groove where I'm pushing the foot pedal far enough and moving my hands at the right speed. Any tips?

[@StitchObsessed]

@@gbyrd1970 unfortunately the best tip I can give is to practice practice practice! It helps if you have a machine that allows you to set the speed of your needle, but if you have to rely solely on the pressure you put on the foot pedal, then you can still do it! It just takes time to find that “sweet spot”.

[@gbyrd1970]

@@StitchObsessed well I guess I better practice!! Lol

[@marypank3105]

I loved this tutorial. The only thing that is a little confusing is when you are saying UP the lines you are drawing are actually going DOWN from the perspective of the viewer. The same is true when you are saying UP but it looks like you are moving DOWN to the person watching the video.

[@StitchObsessed]

Oh no! I hadn’t even thought about that could be confusing! So sorry about that! I guess I was explaining it from my perspective.

[@normhowes2975]

I like it however I don't think mine would be as nice as yours on my 100 dollar Brother machine.

[@StitchObsessed]

You never know until you try! You would be surprised what a little practice can do. I used to do all my quilting on a small Singer machine, and I quilted up to a queen size quilt with that machine. You can do it!!!

[@normhowes2975]

@@StitchObsessed I'm going to practice as I did get the free motion foot. However as I am 1 quilt from a freebie at my long arm place I won't be trying anything big too soon.

[@StitchObsessed]

@@normhowes2975 sounds like a plan! 🤓

[@suedavis1835]

At some point in one of your future videos, can you address the look of the stitching on the back of the quilt? I have pretty much given up trying FMQ as the back has severe eyelashing and uneven loops. I have tried different threads, needles, etc. but my frustration continues. Thank you!

[@StitchObsessed]

@@suedavis1835 yes! Excellent suggestion!

[@cheryloverbay3779]

👏❤️

[@joyskibo856]

Wouldn’t gloves help?

[@StitchObsessed]

They certainly can! I’ve used them, and they do help. I just prefer not wearing them. Quilter’s choice! 💖 thank you for watching!

[@BrendaStephens-v8g]

Davis Edward Brown Jason Garcia Kevin

[@Mickey-jn8hz]

I would sew right through my finger….I am going to try this on a mug rug….before I even attempt a quilt…..

[@StitchObsessed]

Speaking from experience, I do not recommend seeing through the finger 😂 gotta pay attention while free motion quilting!

[@phyllisdippert2216]

This is a beginner video. You didnt say what thread or needle you use. Or tension settings

[@StitchObsessed]

That is correct! This beginner tutorial focuses more on the FMQ design aspect. I will make a video specifically for all the things a beginner quilter should know about like needles, thread, tension, etc. thank you for the suggestion! 💖

[@theresacarmen9847]

"MUSCLE memory" would help your brain learn the design.

[@cynthiabaker2794]

Just d