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Free motion quilting - Sewing sideways!

(10 Posts)
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Crafting Wed 04-Oct-17 16:01:18

I've been having a frustrating afternoon trying some new free motion quilting techniques with a circular template. I have a short arm machine and no matter where I positioned my hands I couldn't keep hold of the template all the way round (I have arthritis in my wrists which makes it more difficult) and in moving position I kept going off course.

I suddenly thought, what if I sit at the end of my machine instead of face on so I am not restricted by the arm. It works! Feels a bit odd to begin with but much more comfortable on my wrists. Anyone else tried this or have any other suggestions.

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rubysong Wed 04-Oct-17 16:12:51

What a good idea. I shall give it a try. Are you using some bits of rubbery shelf liner to get a good grip as you move the fabric around?

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Crafting Wed 04-Oct-17 16:16:29

I'm actually using a couple of bits of foam I cut off froam a pan scourer. Not thought of shelf liner but will try anything grin. I have got a slider mat underneath which helps.

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Lisalou Wed 04-Oct-17 21:10:32

I had never thought of that and it is a brilliant idea! Thanks crafting, will try that when fmq!

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RosieLeah Sun 17-Dec-17 16:33:28

I have watched Debbie Shore doing her 'drawing with a sewing machine', but don't seem to be able to get the hang of it. Sitting at the end sounds a good idea. Must try it.

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CelticRose Sun 31-Dec-17 17:45:14

Duh! What a brilliant idea! Good post, Crafting.

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Bathsheba Sun 31-Dec-17 23:04:34

Wow, that's a brilliant idea! Free motion embroidery is something I've been promising myself I'll try sometime soon, and this technique could certainly help!

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GrannyA11i Mon 01-Jan-18 10:40:28

Brilliant idea! I wear shower gloves to do it which helps with grip but sitting at the end is genius!

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rockgran Thu 04-Jan-18 15:40:43

I use thin gardening gloves (new ones obviously) that have rubbery bits on the palms. Will try the end on method!

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miamellor2 Tue 27-Feb-18 15:28:23

Hi everyone! I am running a survey to collect information on fabric buying patterns for my final year university project. If you have a spare 2 minutes, please could you fill in our questionnaire! Many thanks smile nbsnu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eUM42gi54rvKzuR

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