Parts and Process
For those who are just starting out, free motion quilting on a Brother Sewing Machine can seem intimidating. In actuality, it takes only a few steps to get started. The first step to take is to obtain the right parts for the machine. A two thread overlock foot and the free motion quilting foot will be the two most important components. Both of these components should be compatible with the particular model of the Brother Sewing Machine.
Once the parts have been acquired, free motion quilting is fairly straightforward. The first step is to lower the feed dogs. This will allow the fabric to be moved freely when free motion quilting. It is important to also lower the tension for better results. After setting up the machine, it is time to place the fabric in place. The fabric should be placed a few feet away from the machine and the bobbin wound with thread.
The fabric should be basted before beginning the quilting process. Basting is a sewing technique where the quilt’s three layers are held together through stitches placed in the quilt sandwich. A quarter-inch seam allowance should be used when basting the quilt top, batting and backing. Once basted, it is ready for free motion quilting.
Stitching Process
When free motion quilting, it is important to keep the stitches small and tight. Over time, the quilting will help to bond the layers of the quilt together and create a strong, quilted piece. To begin stitching, the presser foot should be engaged and the machine set to a slow speed. Turning on the feed button and using a basic model stitching motion will help create a looped quilting stitch.
When stitching the quilt, the key is to keep the stitch size consistent. A long, straight seam should be used to contain the quilting area. The quilting should be completed without pausing or lifting the presser foot. This will ensure that there are no gaps or holes in the quilt. It also helps to place a quilting glove on the hand that is guiding the quilt.
When moving from one area to the other, the free motion quilting foot should be lifted slightly to move the quilt. After moving the quilt, the presser foot should be re-engaged and the machine reset to the slow speed. This will help to create a consistent stitch.
Additional Tips
The free motion quilting process should move forward in one continuous motion. It is important to remember to keep the stitches small and tight. When the quilting is finished it is important to inspect the stitches carefully. This will ensure that all of the quilting is consistent and even.
It is also important to use the right kind of thread when doing free motion quilting. Cotton thread is suggested if a finer stitch is desired. Synthetic or specialty threads can cause problems with the machine and should be avoided. For the bottom thread, a quality bobbin thread should be used to ensure consistent stitches.
Finally, it is important to remember to not force the machine. If the machine is having difficulty it is essential to unplug it and inspect it. This can help catch problems before they become larger issues. By following these simple steps, free motion quilting on a Brother Sewing Machine will become much easier.
Practice
Free motion quilting can be mastered with practice. It is important to work slowly to ensure that stitches are uniform and consistent. Working on small pieces of fabric before moving on to larger quilts will help in getting the proper stitching that is desired. Removing a basting stitch after five or six stitches will also help keep the quilting consistent.
Gaining confidence with the sewing machine will also help when free motion quilting. The key is to practice and become comfortable with the process before moving onto larger quilts. It will also help to experiment with different ways of using the quilting foot. By practicing these techniques, the quilting process will become more efficient and of better quality.
Conclusion
Free motion quilting on a Brother Sewing Machine is a surprisingly straightforward process with great results. With the right parts, a little preparation and some practice, anyone can make sure their pieces will stand the test of time. Being mindful of the machine’s capabilities and understanding the process will make sure even the most intricate quilts come out perfect every single time.
Walking Foot Quilting
For those just starting out, free motion quilting can be a bit intimidating, but there’s an alternative. Walking foot quilting is the easiest way to finish a quilt and it can be done on any Brother Sewing Machine. Unlike free motion quilting, Walking Foot Quilting requires very few additional components. All that is required is the walking foot and a sharp sewing machine needle.
The process is similar to that of free motion quilting, but without the need to lower the feed dogs or adjust the tension. Placing the fabric under the walking foot, and using the same basic model stitching motion, will help create a looped quilting stitch. When moving from one area to another, the foot should be lifted and reengaged to keep the stitches consistent.
There are some areas where free motion quilting cannot be achieved. In such cases, Walking Foot Quilting should be used in place of free motion. When using straight lines, spiral quilts, square designs, and any kind of echo quilting, Walking Foot Quilting will give a beautiful finished product.
Manual or Computer Control
Manual quilting or machine quilting is primarily done by hand, using a steady, consistent motion to create the pattern. This method is best suited for larger quilts that require a great deal of detail and repetition. This method is less accurate than computer quilting but is significantly more affordable.
Computer quilting is a more advanced method, and it requires a dedicated Brother Sewing Machine with an embroidery attachment. The quilt designs can be programmed directly into the machine and the machine will move the patterns to the fabric. It may take a bit longer to prepare the design, but the results will be a lot more detailed and accurate.
Most quilters prefer one method over the other, but it is important to remember that both methods can result in a beautiful quilt. The best option is to use a combination of both manual and computer quilting, depending on the intensity and size of the design.
Where to Find Designs
When it comes to finding quilting designs, there are many options. There are hundreds of quilting designs available online, while others prefer to draw or create their own designs. There are also many books available that provide step-by-step instructions on how to create or customize quilting patterns.
Another great option is to attend local quilting classes or workshops. These classes offer a great opportunity to gain the experience and knowledge needed to become a skilled quilter. A variety of tips, tricks, and techniques can be learned in these classes and this can be invaluable when embarking on free motion quilting.
Finally, quilting can also be done in groups. Quilting groups offer a great way to learn from more experienced quilters and to use the knowledge gained to create beautiful quilts. Group quilting activities also provide a great way to build relationships and foster camaraderie between quilters.
