Tools and Materials
To quilt a large quilt on a sewing machine you will need to have your standard quilting materials, such as fabric, batting, thread and needles. Additionally, you will require a sturdy machine and walking foot, with a darning or quilting needle foot attachment. To ensure accuracy when joining pieces, it is also beneficial to have a rotary cutter and a quilting ruler. Make sure you have plenty of thread on hand, as it is best to change your needle and thread regularly.
Press Fabric and Assemble Quilt Blocks
In preparation for quilting, you need to press all your fabric pieces. This not only gives you beautifully flat fabric, but it also helps the seams to stay in place. Once your fabric is pressed, it is time to begin assembling the quilt blocks. If you are using a traditional block pattern, then you need to carefully match up your seams and press them into place. It is important to ensure that the quilt blocks are laid out correctly before you move onto the next step.
Pin and Sew Fabric Pieces Together
Once you have laid out your quilt blocks, it is time to pin and sew the fabric pieces together. Start at one corner of the quilt and pin the edges of your fabric together. You can use safety pins or basting clips to hold the fabric in place. There are a few different ways to sew the pieces together. You can use a walking foot attachment to quilt directly in the ditch of your seams. Alternatively, you can use a quilting or darning foot to sew along your seam lines.
Layer and Baste Fabric
Once you have sewn your fabric together to form your quilt top, you will then need to layer and baste the fabric. Start by laying the quilt top on your working surface, right side up. Place the batting on top and gently position it in place. Lay the backing fabric on top and baste the layers together using safety pins or basting threads. It is important to take your time to baste the layers together in order to prevent any shifting.
Set Up Your Sewing Machine
Now that the layers of your quilt are in place, it is time to set up your sewing machine. Begin by selecting a quilting or darning foot attachment for your machine and make sure it is threaded with a suitable quilting thread. For larger quilts, it is recommended that you use a walking foot attachment. This helps to keep the fabric in place as you sew, ensuring that you get a clean, even quilt.
Choose Your Quilting Pattern
Your quilting pattern will depend on the overall design of your quilt and the type of machine you are using. There are a variety of quilting patterns that can be used to fill in the space between the quilt blocks. Beginners can start with a simple stippling pattern, which is a series of looped lines. You can then experiment with more complex patterns such as swirls, stars and swirls, spirals and more.
Quilt Your Quilt
When you are ready to quilt, begin in one corner and work your way across the quilt. Follow your quilting pattern and keep the stitching consistent. When you reach the end of a line, carefully pivot the quilt and start again. It is important to leave a few inches between each stitch in order to ensure that the quilting does not become too dense. As you quilt the fabric, it may become stretched in some areas. To fix this, simply spray the fabric with water or steam and gently press it back into place.
Binding the Quilt
Once you have finished quilting your quilt, you need to bind the edges. Begin by trimming away any excess batting or backing fabric, taking care to use a rotary cutter or scissors to create a neat, finished edge. Then, cut your binding strips and attach them to the edges of your quilt using either a sewing machine or hand sewing. Finally, press your binding with an iron, fold it over the edge of the quilt, and stitch in place.
Finishing Touches
To finish off your quilt, use a lint roller to remove any loose threads. You can also use a seam roller to press the seams and create a beautiful, finished quilt. If you want to add a personal touch to your quilt, you can stitch your name or a message onto the quilt. This will add a special touch and will provide a lasting memory of the time and effort you put into creating your quilt.
Safety Considerations
Sewing a large quilt can be time consuming and requires precision and patience. It is important to take safety precautions and pay special attention to the equipment, fabrics and threads you are using. Before using a sewing machine, make sure to read the instruction manual to ensure the correct operation. Additionally, it is important to wear protective equipment while quilting, such as goggles and gloves.
Maintenance
To keep your sewing machine in good condition and prevent any repairs, it is important to follow a regular maintenance schedule. Make sure to clean the machine and oil any necessary parts. Additionally, check your machine for any loose screws or threads that may need to be tightened. Go through the instructions for proper threading and check for any tangled threads. Replace any worn out needles or presser feet to ensure that your machine is running smoothly.
Storing the Quilt
When it comes to storing your quilt, make sure to keep it in a warm, dry, and dark place. Ensure that it is not exposed to direct sunlight or any other light as this can cause fading. It is also important to keep the quilt away from any open windows as this can cause draftiness and ruin your quilt. Additionally, make sure that the quilt is placed in a dustfree environment.
Conclusion
Quilting a large quilt on a sewing machine is not an easy task, but it can be done with patience and accuracy. To quilt a large quilt on a sewing machine, you will need a range of tools and materials. Start by pressing the fabric and assembling the quilt blocks. Once your pieces are in place, pin and sew them together. Layer and baste the fabric and set up your sewing machine. Choose your quilting pattern and stitch it into place. Finish the quilt with a binding and add any final touches. Make sure to follow safe quilting practices and store the quilt in a safe place. With proper care and attention, you will have a beautiful quilt that you can cherish for years to come.
