Pages

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Free Motion Quilting on your home machine - a tip for less friction!

Tried and true, this is just the best!


I've read a lot about ways to make FMQ on ones home machine easier and the use of silicone on the sewing machine bed, or tools like the Supreme Slider. Despite really wanting to try the Supreme Slider, I didn't feel I could justify the purchase of something so expensive right now that I didn't know if it'd actually make a big difference for me or not. So I decided to try and find silicone spray that was safe for use on fabric instead. Just to see if it would make a difference - no luck. This is Malta and no one had heard of such a thing and looked at me like I was crazy when I asked around XD

So while ironing down some appliqué shapes, I realized I had a Teflon sheet in my hand and yes, it was super slippery of course! The light went on and I decided to try and use it to make my own Teflon slider! I just made a small hole for the needle with my paper scissors and taped it down with some painters tape (leaves no residue, really easy to lift to change bobbin and cheap) and I gave it a go. Really wish I'd known what a difference it would make from day one! It sooo much easier to FMQ when the quilt doesn't drag or snag! I've used this sheet for my last two quilts and I'll never FMQ without it again that's for sure!


So I really recommend trying this if you FMQ on your home machine, it really made a world of difference, not just in result, but also in how tired my arms, neck and back got. When I get a chance I'll probably buy a supreme slider but for now, this sheet is my best friend! =D

49 comments:

  1. Vilket kanontips!!!! det ska provas..........

    ReplyDelete
  2. Det verkar ju KANONBRA! Måste testas!
    Betyder det att du vill bakplåtspapper i julklapp?*fniss*
    Kramisar

    ReplyDelete
  3. Det är verkligen fantastiskt vilken skillnad det gör! Lite drygt att hålla på och tejpa men det är det lätt värt! =)

    ReplyDelete
  4. Oh, what a great idea! Thanks because I could not afford a Slider either!! I am so glad that you commented today so that I could come visit. There is no way that I could visit everyone that has found me since the hop right away.

    You are absolutely beautiful by the way and I cannot wait to get to know you. I will start by looking through your blog this evening (later after the little guy goes to bed.)

    ReplyDelete
  5. What a great idea, will have to try it next time I do some quilting. Thanks for the tip.

    ReplyDelete
  6. Great idea, and it can still be used for appliques, if you don't want to buy a new one. Thanks! This will be helpful with the free motion challenge. Coming from longarming, I need every tip I can find!

    ReplyDelete
  7. Hi Maria: I've never tried FMQ and am afraid to try? Can you tell me if the clear plexi plateform around your sewing machine came with the machine, or is it something you purchased later? Can you tell me the name? My machine sits on a desk, and so doesn't have a flat surface around it. Also, I haven't done any applique...can you tell me about the teflon sheet you used, is there a brand name?
    Sorry for all the questions! I find you blog so informative. Thanks for your help!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Maria, I would like to know same things please :)

      Delete
    2. This comment has been removed by the author.

      Delete
    3. As you're a no reply blogger I can't reply to you in an email so I'll reply here and hope you'll see it =)

      The "extension table" (plastic platform) came included with my Janome Horizon, however, you can buy them as an accessory for most modern machines. I'd say it's quite important to have either that or a table which you can lower your machine into for a bigger surface if you want to try FMQ.
      The Teflon sheet is just a normal teflon baking sheet you use between the appliqué and your iron for ironing down appliqués without fear of getting glue on your iron. I also use this sheet for FMQ quilting as explained here: http://www.notonlyquilts.com/2011/12/free-motion-quilting-on-your-home.html

      Best of luck with the FMQ, it's a bit tricky to begin with but so much fun!! You'll never want to do anything else once you start =)

      Delete
  8. Thanks for the tip! I'm going to try this! :)

    ReplyDelete
  9. That is a super idea! Thanks for thinking of it! I will be trying this for sure. Thanks so much!

    ReplyDelete
  10. My feed dogs don't drop on my machine.. do you think this could work as a way to cover them so I CAN FMQ on my machine?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I saw where you put stitch length to 0 to account for feed dogs not dropping. I assume that might work and is worth trying

      Delete
  11. Is it teflon sheet for bakery? I can't understand, sorry..

    ReplyDelete
  12. My feed dogs don't drop either, but my machine (Brother XN1700) came with a clip-on plastic cover that hides them. Check your accessories!
    I just ordered a sheet of teflon (which is listed as 'heavy duty teflon sheet' and is produced to lay in the bottom of your oven to keep it clean.) The Slider I was looking at was £55. I got mine on eBay - 30cm x 50cm, 3 sheets - £7!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. My machine does lower the feed dogs, however, it runs better and more evenly with them up =)

      Oh that's such a great idea, I'll look for one myself now as I've gone through quite a few of these thinner sheets, thank you! =D

      Delete
  13. I live in Western Australia out in the country and would love to try the baking sheet made from teflon. Where would one buy one? Cannot justify the Supreme Slider prices and if this really works ..... well my dreams would be answered.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oz Quilts in Australia have June Tailor Teflon Pressing Sheet 18" x 18" for around $20, they also carry a cheaper alternative to Supreme Slider called SewSlip II for free motion quilting 12" x 18". Hope that helps

      Delete
  14. Hi Jane, you where unfortunately a "no-reply comment blogger" so I couldn't email you an answer. In Sweden I find them both in the hardware store ironically enough, and sometimes also in the baking ile I'm a bigger supermarket. hope this helps!

    ReplyDelete
  15. When you think of home improvement tips you are usually bsmith about ways to add more space or do a repair or two. Sometimes the best home...

    ReplyDelete
  16. The most natural and healthful way to make sure our bodies are getting all of the nutrients we need, is to enjoy a mostly raw food diet. Our bodies were built to convert fresh, natural foods into energy with ease. healthy smoothie recipes for weight loss

    ReplyDelete
  17. This blog is so nice to me. I will keep on coming here again and again. Visit my link as well.. dịch vụ sửa nhà

    ReplyDelete
  18. I am very enjoyed for this blog. Its an informative topic. It help me very much to solve some problems. Its opportunity are so fantastic and working style so speedy. best trim paint brand

    ReplyDelete
  19. If you are looking for more information about flat rate locksmith Las Vegas check that right away. Maid Service

    ReplyDelete
  20. I haven’t any word to appreciate this post.....Really i am impressed from this post....the person who create this post it was a great human..thanks for shared this with us. medical marijuana oklahoma

    ReplyDelete
  21. Hello, I have browsed most of your posts. This post is probably where I got the most useful information for my research. Thanks for posting, maybe we can see more on this. Are you aware of any other websites on this subject. painting company New lenox

    ReplyDelete
  22. Space monkey meds Hey what a brilliant post I have come across and believe me I have been searching out for this similar kind of post for past a week and hardly came across this. Thank you very much and will look for more postings from you.

    ReplyDelete
  23. Cool stuff you have got and you keep update all of us. roofing contractors Dallas Texas

    ReplyDelete
  24. I’m going to read this. I’ll be sure to come back. thanks for sharing. and also This article gives the light in which we can observe the reality. this is very nice one and gives indepth information. thanks for this nice article... villa in el gouna

    ReplyDelete
  25. The human need for textiles and continued economic gain ensures that the sewing machine will continue to evolve. basic sewing machine

    ReplyDelete
  26. I wanted to thank you for this great read!! I definitely enjoying every little bit of it I have you bookmarked to check out new stuff you post. canopies

    ReplyDelete
  27. Great job for publishing such a beneficial web site. Your web log isn’t only useful but it is additionally really creative too. utica locksmith

    ReplyDelete
  28. Thanks for your tips for the teflon barrier for free motion quilting. I just ordered the heavy duty oven liners which along with some creative taping will make my free motion quilting work better. My next quest is to find the gloves which will be the grippers. What is your recommendation

    ReplyDelete
  29. Great article Lot's of information to Read...Great Man Keep Posting and update to People..Thanks we buy houses florida

    ReplyDelete
  30. Our unbiased reviews on Tools related to Woodworking, Automotives & Blacksmithing will help you choose the best products that fit your needs https://musthavesguide.com/best-contour-gauge/

    ReplyDelete
  31. Very intresting, thanks for sharing such amazing information with us. Visit Ogen Infosystem for creative Web Designing Company in Delhi and Digital Marketing Company in Delhi, India.
    Web Designing Company in Delhi

    ReplyDelete
  32. I'm glad I found this web site, I couldn't find any knowledge on this matter prior to.Also operate a site and if you are ever interested in doing some visitor writing for me if possible feel free to let me know, im always look for people to check out my web site.
    Engineering Consultants in Dubai / construction companies in Dubai

    ReplyDelete
  33. Great Information sharing .. I am very happy to read this article .. thanks for giving us go through info. Fantastic. I appreciate this post.
    DM approval AND ADCD Approval

    ReplyDelete
  34. Thank you for posting. great information.
    We Buy Houses Texas

    ReplyDelete
  35. Thank you for providing us unbelievable data on this theme. Recently I bought a house and also contracted commercial painters Covington. I am exceptionally happy with their job really. Much obliged to pelican paint.

    ReplyDelete
  36. That's a fantastic idea! Thank you for considering it! This is something I will definitely attempt. Thank you very much.Tenant Problems Baton Rouge

    ReplyDelete
  37. I've never tried FMQ on home machines and this is a great idea! Thanks for sharing this idea and website. Keep up the good work! Sell The House Fast

    ReplyDelete
  38. Overall, Modeditor games offer players a high level of customization and creative freedom, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of user-generated content and extending the lifespan and appeal of the game long beyond its initial release.

    ReplyDelete
  39. Hoga Toga's revenue comes from multiple streams, including advertising, subscriptions, and sales of branded merchandise.

    ReplyDelete

  40. Think like a Giant: Free Motion Quilting Tip for Less Friction

    For smoother free motion quilting on your home machine, try using a Teflon or silicone sheet under your quilt. This will reduce friction, allowing your fabric to glide effortlessly and giving you better control. Embrace this simple trick to enhance your quilting experience and unleash your creativity! Happy quilting!

    ReplyDelete
  41. Caden crain, known for his engaging presence, is a young talent who has captured the attention of many. As of 2024, he is just 15 years old, making waves in various creative endeavors.

    For those interested in free motion quilting on your home machine, here’s a helpful tip: consider using a silk or Teflon press cloth when quilting. This reduces friction between the fabric and the machine's surface, allowing for smoother movement and better control over your stitches, ultimately enhancing your quilting experience.

    ReplyDelete

Comments really make my day, thank you for taking the time! <3