Introduction
Quilting is an ancient art form practiced by generations of expert quilters. It brings together pieces of fabric, designs, colors, and patterns to create a unique piece of artwork. Quilting is often time-consuming, but there are certain quilting methods that are faster and use less manual labor. Quilting with a sewing machine can save time and create perfect lines with even stitches. It can also be helpful in creating a consistent pattern when quilting a large quilt. In this article, we’ll discuss how to quilt a quilt with a sewing machine, as well as how to care and maintain the quilt afterward.
Materials Needed
Before you get started, it’s important to assess the materials you’ll need for quilting a quilt with a sewing machine. First, you will need a sewing machine of the correct size for your quilt project. Second, you’ll need suitable fabrics for quilting, such as quilting cotton, muslin, flannel, or batting. Third, thread is essential, and you should choose a thread that is suited to the fabrics you are working with. Finally, you’ll need a rotary cutter and mat, as well as a pair of scissors, a quilting hoop, as well as pins, marking instruments and strips of cloth. Now you’re ready to start!
Choose a Quilting Pattern and Layout
To start, it’s important to choose the right quilting pattern and quilt layout. Consider the design, shape, and size of the quilt and the fabric you are using. Once you’ve decided on the pattern, it’s time to lay out the quilt. Following the pattern, place and pin the pieces of cloth to the quilt’s backing and baste them together. Make sure the pattern is accurately placed and the pieces are firmly basted.
Set Up the Sewing Machine
Once the quilt is ready for sewing, it is time to set up the machine. Ensure that the feed dogs on the machine are lowered and the presser foot is raised. Attach the desired presser foot and pick the right stitch length. Depending on the fabric you are stitching with, you can select a suitable stitch length and tension. With some fabrics, it is important to use a low tension so that the stitches will not break.
Begin Quilting the Quilt
When starting to quilt, it is important to begin at the center of the quilt and to always move outwards. Starting at the center will keep the quilt correctly centered and consistent. Sew the quilt with a walking foot, following the fabric pattern and working one small section at a time. When you get to the end, turn the fabric around and quilt the other direction.
Finish the Project
When you’ve finished quilting the quilt, it’s important to secure the threads. To do this, knot off the starting point of the quilt and secure it with your fingers. Then, tie off the thread at the end of the quilt, being sure to tuck the ends of the thread into the quilt so they don’t show. Once the threads are secure, it’s time to lightly press the quilt and trim off any excess fabric or batting.
Care and Maintenance
When finished, the quilt needs to be properly cared for so that it lasts. It’s important to gently machine wash it, using a mild detergent and cold water. Make sure to use a cool spin cycle so that the quilt is not overly wet when finished. It should be dried in a cool dryer with an occasional checking for over-drying. If you prefer to hand wash the quilt, keep it in cold water and use a gentle detergent. Lay the quilt out flat to dry and when it’s dry, press it lightly with an iron set to a very low heat.
Determining the Quilt Size
When quilting a quilt, it is important to determine the size of the quilt before beginning. To do this, measure both the length and width of the quilt in inches and add four inches to each number. This will be the finished quilt size. For example, if the original length is 34 inches and the original width is 42 inches, your finished quilt size will be 38 inches by 46 inches.
Machine Stitches to Avoid
When quilting a quilt with a sewing machine, certain stitches should be avoided. These include zigzag, blanket, and heirloom stitches, as these can cause puckering to the quilt. Additionally, decorative and over-stitching should also be avoided, as these can create a bulky feel to the quilt. Shielded and thread-free stitches can also cause irregularities and distortion to the quilt.
Backing Materials
When quilting a quilt with a sewing machine, it is important to think carefully when selecting a backing material. In general, two layers of the same fabric are used, one on the bottom and one on the top. The backing should be cut larger than the top so that it fully covers the quilt. Additionally, pieces should be cut on the bias, and the pattern of the fabric should be present when quilting.
Quilting Tools
When quilting a quilt with a sewing machine, it is important to think carefully about the tools you use. Quilting rulers, paper piecing papers, and quilting gloves are all important tools for accurate and safe quilting. Quilting rulers are ideal for determining the size of quilting patterns, and the paper piecing papers help mark the measurements for the quilting lines. Additionally, quilting gloves protect your hands from needle pricks.
Quilting Machines
When quilting a quilt with a sewing machine, it is important to choose the right machine as well as the correct types of needles. Domestic machines are ideal for small quilting projects, whereas industrial machines are better suited to larger projects. Industrial machines are more powerful and offer more stitch options. Additionally, it is important to use high-quality needles that are the right size for the thickness of fabric being used.
Quilting Fabric
When it comes to quilting fabric, there are several factors to consider. The fabric should be of good quality and the right size. Additionally, it should be pre-washed and pressed before being used. Once the fabric is selected, carefully measure and cut it to the appropriate size for the quilt top. Before beginning the quilt project, it is important to examine the fabric to make sure that it is free from defects such as holes or fraying edges.
Basting and Pinning
When quilting a quilt with a sewing machine, basting and pinning are important steps. When basting, it is important to spread out the quilt top, backing, and batting and baste the edges. This will prevent the fabric from shifting or sliding when being quilted. Once the basting is done, it is important to use pins to secure the edges of the quilt. The pins should be placed at least an inch apart to ensure that the quilt stays secure when being quilted.
Conclusion
Quilting a quilt with a sewing machine can be a great way to save time and create beautiful quilting patterns with even stitches. In this article, we’ve discussed how to quilt a quilt with a sewing machine, as well as how to care for the quilt afterward. We’ve discussed the materials needed, the quilting pattern and layout, setting up the machine, as well as determining the quilt size, machine stitches to avoid, backing materials, and quilting tools. Additionally, we’ve discussed quilting machines, fabric, basting, and pinning. We hope that this article has been helpful in learning more about how to quilt a quilt with a sewing machine.
