Free-motion quilting—that’s a technique that most beginner quilters wouldn’t consider learning. Not so according to Sewing With Nancy guest, Molly Hanson, who taught herself free-motion quilting early in her sewing career. Molly’s goal is to instill confidence in new quilters.
Free-Motion Quilting for Beginners is this week’s online Sewing With Nancy feature. Watching Molly free-motion quilt is the best way to learn her techniques. Watch online, on Public TV, or on DVD.
Stippling
The most common free-motion quilting technique is stippling. Its versatility, light texture, and ability to blend and not compete with the piecing make it a favorite among quilters. If you’ve been hesitant to learn this technique, fear not! Learn and use Molly’s muscle memory technique to master this first of many free-motion quilting options.
Loop de Loops and Handwriting
What free-motion design should I stitch first? Where should I start? These are questions that you might ask. Molly’s answer is, “Start by stitching your name or a favorite word!” The basic loop de loop design—just like cursive—allows you the freedom to incorporate words into free-motion quilting designs.
Pebbles and Chains
Pebbles and Chains consist of a space filled with as many touching circles as possible. Pebbles can fit just about anywhere. Even a single row of pebbles, called a chain of pearls, can be beautiful in small spaces.
10 Free-Motion Quilting Techniques, Plus 15 Projects
In Molly’s book, Free-Motion Quilting for Beginners, learn how to:
- Set up your machine for free-motion quilting, no technique is left out
- Begin by learning how to quilt your name, because soon you’ll be signing unique works of art
- Master all the fundamentals of free-motion quilting by working on manageable fat-quarter-sized fabric pieces
- Confidently stitch 10 different quilting designs, including stippling variations, pebbles, square meander, swirls, and woodgrain
- Take your skill to new heights as you quilt 15 practical projects to enhance your daily life, such as a table-top organizer, table runner, tote bag, weekender bag, and laptop sleeve
For a chance to win a copy of Free-Motion Quilting for Beginners, let us know which free-motion style is your favorite. A random winner will be announced on January 1.
The random winner of The Absolute Easiest Way to Sew is Clara who said, At one time I made all my clothes and did not have to alter the pattern. It has been a few years since I have sewn apparel. Now that my body has changed I find that using the pattern without altering is not possible and is a problem for me. So, an easy pattern altering and fitting would be extremely helpful. Thank you for all you do for us.
Watch Free-Motion Quilting for Beginners (Part One and Part Two) on Sewing With Nancy online.
Bye for now,
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I think the stippling would be the best to start out with.
I have been a bit of a chicken about machine quilting…I still hand quilt, but my hands are now giving me a bit of pain. It looks like I’m going to have to learn machine quilting if I’m going to continue make quilts.
Thank you Nancy for teaching me so much.
I bought the book and when it came I immediately sat down and read it all the way through (I’m a retired librarian, among other things) but haven’t found the time to begin practicing. I have done the loop de loops on my earlier quilting, but incorporating words into it is fantastic! That’s what I’m starting my practicing on. Thanks, Nancy and Molly!
I have done many quilts using stitch in the ditch or a grid pattern using my walking foot. I like doing the Loop de Loops and I am getting better at stippling but I just need more practice and I have to make myself slow down. I seem to want to go too fast and then loose control.
I love the idea of handwriting within loop de loops. What’s sweeter than secret messages in a quilt you’re gifting to a loved one? I haven’t quite braved my way past stitching in the ditch though. Who knew crafting could inspire so much anxiety?
I love the loop de loops and pebbles.
I am going to try pebbles and likely stipple again now that I know you dont need to go fast for even stitching. I loved watching these segments as they gave me the sense I could do them with practice.
Loop d loops is my comfort zone, I anchor with stitch in the ditch-I really want to master feathers, and well everything! My son gifted me with some leftover leather squares he purchased from work. I really want to try wood grain on it, just not sure what to make with them…would love to win the book. And Nancy you’re coming to Quilt Expo in Florida – Can’t wait!
My favorite is stippling. I love that design and what to learn it!
Too new to quilting to have a favorite yet.
I like all of them, but the stippling with names is very nice. Also the woodgrain look
I love the look of stippling — so randomly uncomplicated (looking!)
I am new to FMQ, so I’ve only tried the stipple technique. Need to broaden my horizons for 2015! Thanks for the chance to win! jacklynnsteven at netzero dot com
I enjoy doing ribbon quilting and loop quilting.
I love the Loop de Loops and Handwriting!
I think wood grain sounds awesome!
Stipple quilting is still my all time favorite!
I mostly do swirls since I am still learning.
I am trying out pebbles. I haven’t tried writing but have done loops
I love the swirls! But frankly the F-word (free -motion) literally gives me a stomach ache. I can’t stand the thought of irregular and uneven stitches. . .
Hi there Ladies Happy New Year. Right now I tend to stipple everything but I am just beginning to learn FMQ. Thank you for the videos they are great.
I love a good stipple, and I’m practicing doing feathers. Thanks for the info on the book.
It depends on the quilt. Sometimes I like to do stippling and usually end up writing in the quilting also, I want to try the pebbles, it looks neat.
I like pebbles, but am not very good at them yet.
I love the movement of stippling, but have never been able to master free motion quilting.
I love the look of the paisley quilting – I also like circles. Now the easiest for me is to have my quilts done by a longarmer!
I would really like to experience free motion quilting in the proper way to do it. I have a darning foot and have spent several hours over this past year trying to ‘get the hang’ of it. It is these trying times that I want to give up. However, I do know that at my age of 67 and just a beginner, I need to get this down, so that I can make some pretty quilts…as I will be having my first g’child in March. I feel that a quilt is something that this baby can carry down to the future generations.
Thank you for this opportunity to submit.
I’m in awe with the way these are done. I’m not even a beginner yet, I’m one of those “wanna be beginners”. I’m now ready to run to town and grab me a sketch pad and start getting the feel of it. I love the stippling you have done as well as the loop de loop and chain and pebbles. So much too learn. It would be such a blessing to get this book to learn different techniques and ways to dress your quilt up. Thanks for sharing your techniques with us.
I very much want to try FMQ but am nervous to start.
I’d love to learn the pebbles and chains one!
The Pebbles and Chains looks like it would be fun. I’ve yet to try anything ‘cept “stitch in the ditch”.
I love the look of the Pebbles and Chains. It is definitely a technique I need to practice.My circles currently look more like ovals.
I am just beginning, so I don’t have a favorite yet. Thanks for the giveaway.
Loop De Loops and Handwriting! It could be so personalized:)
I would really like to learn the correct way to quilt. I’m self taught and I’m sure I could do better. My favorite quilting motif is a leaf.
I love doing stippling, but really want the courage to venture out and try some of these new techniques! Merry Christmas Nancy!
I like the feathers! I would really like to explore machine
quilting more…I’m tired of stitching in the ditch!
Thanks for hosting and teaching your skills.
Feathers are my favorite, but I have only taught myself stippling at this point.
I love the Pebbles and Chains. I must learn this one.
Please enter me in the drawing. I would love to have this book. One can never get to much information. Thanks.
I’ve only ever tried stippling, and only because it seemed random enough that I couldn’t mess it up. But it’s a technique that I’d love to know better.
I would love to have the book to learn more about using all of the different techniques. I do FMQ on my quilts, but find myself feeling stuck deciding what to use.
I only ever do straight line quilting, but I love the look of pebbles.
I’ve only ever done stippling. I need to branch out. Lol
I can stipple or do straight line quilting. Thanks.
Either stippling or loops. I just finished a large quilt mostly with loops and it looks really neat. I’d like to get the hang of pebbles.
The pebbles are a fun design especially for small spaces. My goal this year is to learn FMQ. The episode of beginning FMQ with Molly was great. Thank you for sharing your knowledge!
Swirls, swirls and more swirls, with an occasional stipple to fill in the spaces.
I love matchstick quilting.
Pebbles and Chains, but that won’t stop me. I love spirals too but have yet to try FMQ. Thank you Nancy for the giveaway, it’s so generous
I think the pebbles are easier for me. I need this book. I really must get better!
I practiced the pebbles and it looked so good i cut up the finished piece and made coasters, i needed extra ones for company coming over Christmas. Thanks for the tip.
Janice
I have done some stippling, but I would love to try the Pebbles and Chains. Thank you for the chance to win.
I’m a quilting newbie, so I haven’t tried any fmq techniques yet, though I am dying to learn! (A friend just recently enlightened me as to what fmq stood for, lol!) I really like the look of the pebbles. I like the handwriting also.
Stippling is usally what I use unless it’s stitch in the ditch. :Love to get this book to help me learn other quilting patterns.
ncjeepster@aol.com
Stippling, as it is controlled chaos.
My favorite is stipple stutch! I really like the look of the pebble and chain! I will have to try that. I’d love to win this book for my friend who is a brand new quilter, making her very first quilt!
My favorite is stippling but ive never tried the pebbles and chains!! Id love to try that one.
I do stitch in the ditch and sometimes embroidery for quilting!! Id love to win this book for a frien who is a BRAND NEW QUILTER!! She is making her very first quilt now!!
My favorite is stippling but ive never tried the pebbles and chains!! Id love to try that one.
I’d like to learn the pebbles & chains
Learning FMQ is one of my goals for 2015. I just bought a used Baby Lock Quest, to replace my 1955 Elna. I love the look of stippling. I am anxious to learn it all. thx
My favorite is the pebbles look. I would love to learn and try out these techniques. I love the versatility of free motion quilting!
I’d like to try the pebbles and chains
I really like the pebbles.
I’m a beginning free-motion quilter and meandering is the easiest method for me. I know practice makes perfect so it’s just a matter of time until I feel confident enough to work on a larger project.
I have tried meander and loops and hearts and several others…not confident yet, I nees to practice so the stitches are more even!
I have just started trying to free-motion quilt—-I so need this book—thanks for the chance to win…………….
I’ve always wanted to try free motion quilting and love the loop de loop with words incorporated! That really looks like fun.
I love the beautiful feathers, but I have yet to try any FMQ except attempting stitch in the ditch. I would love to learn and I know it just takes a lot of practice. Hopefully this coming year I will attempt it.
I have always loved the stipple look! It makes any quilt look like an heirloom!
Loop de loops! Still working on my quilting signature. LOL I need all the help I can get. Hope to win. Thanks for the chance!
My favorite is the loop de loops with handwriting. Oh, how I’d love to master that and make incredible quilting!
I’m still a beginner so haven’t tried any FMQ yet. I do like that pebble design!
I like the look of stippling. I am new to quilting and I haven’t actually been brave enough to try the quilting process, I have just been making the blocks. I would really enjoy this book. Have a great day!
I am new to sewing and quilting and I would like to learn to do both. I would like to win cause these books would teach me a lot. I would like to learn how to do the feathers and the pebbles. Thank you and have a wonderful and blessed day. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
Like the pebbles and the chain of pearls for the modern look. The round quilting looks nice against all the straight lines of the fabric blocks.
I am JUST learning to do Stippling…no fave way yet…shaky & sloooow here still. lol Would loooove to have this book!! KNOW it would sure Help me!
MERRY CHRISTMAS BLESSINGS!!
I would be happy if I could just learn to stipple. So far I have only stitched in the ditch or did hand quilting that takes forever. I really do love the freehand quilting where you did all the loops & spelled love………
Wasn’t interested in quilting until I saw the pebbling technique, my favorite. Also looking forward to seeing the wood grain technique.
I’m working hard at quilting feathers, and trying to learn McTavishing as well.
Feathers!!!
Feathers!!!! I love the way they look and would love to learn how to do them!!!
I like the pebbles and chains – it’s great for using in landscape quilting designs.
I am just learning how to free motion, I am anxious to learn feathering. it looks so beautiful, but guess I have to learn loop the loops first. love your show.
I am new at FMQ but like loop de loop !
I usually revert back to writing e’s and o’s. It takes practice!!!
I love to do make random loop de loops. I’ve also done some echo quilting but that is just too planned for me. I’d love to do more and this book sounds like just the ticket!!
Although I am a new quilter I realize that the quilting is what really makes everything look its best. I love stippling because it looks great on many different projects but I am also crazy for pebbles! Molly’s book looks like it would be just the thing to help me finish my holiday wallhangings!
I haven’t tried FMQ yet, but I saw a really nice (& different) one the other day that looked like Fleur-de-Lis inside an inverted scalloped border on each square.
just learned feathers and I’m having fun trying to mastering them.. practice is the key to all free motion
I like them all but find loop de loops the fastest. I’d love this book to encourage me.
I am truly a beginner so I don’t have a favorite. I’m not actually good at anything yet. I just keep practicing. Would love to win this book.
Stippling is my go to since I’ve finally mastered it but I’m working on feathers and paisley’s currently.
I love the look of the wood grain. I think it would be a way to frame the small pieces. I also love the loop de loop and would use it to do my logo and initials that go on all my artwork. I have yet to take up quilting but have wanted to try it for a while now. I love watching Sewing With Nancy to get inspiration! I really loved the Nancy’s Corner this week. I hope to start an art school soon and that would be a great project for the kids.
loop de loop is my favorite–nothing has to be precise
i enjoy stippling. I want to learn the feathers and pebbles & chains.
the loop de loop design with added handwriting. I have been saving crayon drawings from my grandchildren to create into individual quilts, how else to quilt but with ‘their own words’. Guess I need to get learning. Thanks for the inspiration and the gentle push.
I like it all, but I think the loop de loop with wording is unique and whimsical. Just trying to learn this special skill. Thanks for sharing and inspiring!
I can’t decide if I like the doodles with words or the feathers. They both are very striking. I have just started pushing the limits in adding more and more dimention with free motion.
I like it all, but I think the loop de loops with words included are unique. Brand new to this skill and trying to learn. Thanks for sharing and inspiring.
Stippling is my favorite free-motion quilting technique. It’s versatile and looks great on almost any quilting project. I am now looking forward to learning and mastering pebbles.
i really haven’t made it past stitch in the ditch! i have been “topping: for 15 years. most of my early quilts are tied but now i have several that i want to quilt. i can’t afford to “quilt by check” very often and REALLY need to learn this!
Do you ever feature techniques or projects without referencing
a product sold by Sewing With Nancy or is the main purpose
advertising. I am a recent subscriber:
Thanks.
I love to do feathers whenever I get a chance too. It’s my all time favorite.
I would love to do free motion quilting. I always seem to get jerky when I’ve tried. Relaxation is a problem for me.
The loop de loop and handwriting are my favorite so far; that I have seen but not tried .It would be nice to learn how to free motion quilt. Thank you for the chance to win …
I am relatively new to free-motion quilting and am still trying to perfect my stippling design. This book would help me expand my skills and learn new techniques. Thanks for the great giveaway!
I have just begun free motion quilting. I can do random squiggly lines but still working on keeping stitches semi even lol…. Sure could use the help!!!!!
Since I am new to quilting, I would be thrilled to be able to do any of the free motion techniques. Like the majority I think the loop de loops and handwriting would bring a special touch to any quilting project.
I like pebbles although I’m still not very good at it or any FMQ techniques yet. Still learning!
Would love to learn free-motion quilting. Modern type, straight line quilting has been my quick, go-to-quilting lately.
I have not gotten past the –start stitching- stage…I would love to learn how to do letter stitching…….
I want to try the loop d loop and handwriting. Maybe my seeing will be more legible than my real handwriting too
This book seems to be just what I need. I am so intimidated by free-motion quilting. I have tried a few practice pieces and like the e’s and l’s design. I didn’t do them very well though. Thanks for this opportunity. Merry Christmas.
My Favorite is Stipple.
Merry Christmas Nancy! Been watching for more than 25 years, learned so much from your shows and books. Thank you.
I’d first like to learn to free-motion Stipple as I find this to be the most universal pattern. But, then I would like to move on to Pebbles and Chains as I just plain like this technique.
I have a quilt ready to be quilted and have been putting off starting. Molly makes it look so easy so I think I need to start with the relaxing technique first then try the stippling then on to the loop de loops and incorporate love into my granddaughter’s quilt. Nancy, thank you for all the help and this book would be a great help.
I really like the handwriting but it scares me. It would look worse than a child learning to write. I think this is a neat way to put a special message(s) into a quilt. An added bonus to the receiver
I like the handwriting but it scares me. What a neat way to put a special message(s) into a quilt.
I have not done free motion quiliting, but I would love to try it. Stippling looks so pretty.
It takes practice, practice, practice to do good free motion.
I love the loops and handwriting. I think it would add a personal touch to a baby quilt to put the little ones name on it. I’ve only been brave enough to do stitch in the ditch. This book would be great to teach a step by step person like me
I like the stippling, but have not yet tried.
I am a beginner at quilting but the pebbles is an interesting look that would be fun to know how to do.
I really like the look of pebbles to fill in spaces, but you can’t beat stippling for an all over design.
I prefer to make traditional quilt patterns in traditional calicos. I always use low-loft cotton batting and prefer the small stippling. It settles down into the quilt and brings the quilt pattern and fabric to the forefront. However I would like to maybe learn a new method for use in a modern quilt.
Loop De loops and handwriting
I started with stitch and the ditch and worked up to stippling. Now I try to do a little more creative stuff but usually copy the pattern to wash away stabilizer, pin to the top of the quilt and free motion quilt as best as I can. Some are more successful than others. Don’t think I’ll ever be able to just sit down and make it up on the fly. Thank you.
I love the pebbles and chains style.
I would love to know how to do some of the patterns. I like the pebbles & chain. I love the things you do, and you are so helpful & full of info.
I love the writing in with the free motion designs, like the word love. Cool!
I would love to learn how to stitch feathers. They are so beautiful on the fabric.
I love the texture of the pebbles.
i like the pebbles.
It depends on the quilt but I sort of like loopy flowers.
I like them all, but am not a master of any. Still struggling to be consistent with my stitches and learn moderation in movement. Thank you for continuing to encourage us with sewing garments, gifts and quilting.
Stippling is easiest but I like other styles better.
Stippling is easiest, but I like feathers.
This looks like so much fun. I’ve tried the stippling before but never thought of posture and the need to relax while doing it. The pebbles are a nifty idea and I’m anxious to try this on my next quilt.
Mary Ellen Kalb
I like the meander, but I am just learning, so I do not have much else that I do.
I have hand quilted projects for years, but I have always been hesitant to try to free motion machine quilting. Being a teacher, I am fascinated in being able to put words into my quilting. I would love to learn how to do this technique. Thank you for the opportunity to win this book!
I don’t have a favorite kind of FMQ I have just started moving beyond straight line quilting doing my first stipple quilt for my granddaughter and it was a challenge for me but I will continue to practice this looks like something i could really use thanks for the opportunity.
free form flowers……..because any “not perfect” is just a floral variation…………..
I enjoy feathers and trying new designs. I am a beginner at free motion quilting and I am hooked! I have trouble figuring out a design to quilt.
I would love to learn free motion quilting. I have been wanting to try it, but so far I haven’t gotten the confidence. Maybe this would be just what I need.
I haven’t moved past straight lines, primarily because I haven’t been able to find an open foot for my old Kenmore. I now have my Dad’s machine, so will see what I can do with it to practice stippling and loop de loops. It’s scary sometimes, but fun!
I haven’t moved past straight lines at this point, mostly because I still haven’t found a foot for my Kenmore. I now have my Dad’s machine and will try working with that to begin practicing stippling and loop de loop.
I haven’t had the nerve to get past rudimentary stippling!
My favorite free-motion styles are pebbles and cursive writing.
I’ve done a little free-motion quilting, but it’s been a while. I didn’t get very good at it. Would very much like tips to make it easier, especially stippling. My goal is to get back to more sewing next year, and free-motion quilting will likely be a part of that. Thanks for the giveaway!
Stippling, I think.
I am just beginning to try my hand at free-motion quilting. I find the coordination of my hands and my foot on the peddle are very hard. Yet, the challenge is a lot of fun. Molly Hansen sounds like just the mentor I need.
I try all kinds of FMQing on my Viking abd I love it! Feathers are my new challenge and my new favorite!
My favorite is stippling/vermicelli. It looks both modern and old fashioned to me. Precise and random at the same time. I have not mastered it myself :/ but will continue to practice !
I love the stippling effect. It reminds me of the old quilts at Granny’s house. I would really like to learn the loop de loops — looks interesting and challenging.
I would love to learn how to free motion quilt. Anything would be appreciated providing I can control my jerking motions. Feathers would be an extremely high fete. Thanks for the chance to win.
I feel inspired to try writing names in the quilting. How nice it would be to make a family quilt and incorporate the names of each. Fortunately, none of my family members have any of those tough letters “t i or j”.
I have tried, but am completely intimidated by all machine quilting. I think this book is just what I need.
I rely on stipling but would like to have more designs to choose from. I love the texture pebbles added to the featured project.
I have quilts sandwiched together, ready to quilt but I am frozen in fear that they will be ruined. The loops and words are most interesting to me. Now if I could only do it!
Stippling would be the first thing I would like to master, then I think I would like to move on to some of the other techniques. This book looks like it will be very helpful. Thank you.
Love the pebbles! I would love to learn how to do this.
A few years ago I bought I new sewingmachine, because I wanted to learn free-motion quilting. But the machine made so many troubles. I try and tried. Sometimes it works. Most of the time it do’nt. The machine cost me so much extra money.
Anyway, I will try to learn on my old machine. I like it so much. Thank you for the change to win this book.
HI Liane, Talk to your sewing machine dealer for assistance with your new machine. Or talk to Nancy’s Notions Sewing Advisors at 800-595-6878 during business hours. Are you remembering to lower the feed dogs?
Stippling is my favorite since that’s the only one I can do.
Loop de Loops is my favorite design. Love seeing the video part 1 and all the tips from it.
Beginning quilter and now think I will try free motion. Loops will be my first try.
I do not have a favorite as I have not learned how to free motion quilt. I have been reading about various techniques and would love a chance to study this one.
Pebbles and chains look great. I would love to win. Thank you for the opportunity.
I’m a beginner at free-motion quilting and so far I enjoy stippling the most.
I love the idea of quilting in words! That technique makes sense to me…very helpful!
Picking a favorite is hard………….today it’s pebbles!
Enjoy all the emails with the great new ideas. Please keep them coming. As Grandparents we will pass them on. Thanks Nancy and staff!
I have been dabblin in free motion for a few years but only feel comfortable with the stipple stitch! Had a claas once to learn different techniques which was a disaster! Would love to learn these simple techniques.
I am brand new to free motion quilting and definitely have a learning curve to conquer. Right now I have the most success with stippling but I would love to expand my skills!
Keep encouraging the seniors. You do such a great job and we will teach the next generation of grandkids. Thanks Nancy! I love all the emails and new ways to do projects.
Stippling is my favorite.
I have always been afraid of free motion quilting and usually stick to straight lines. I would love to learn the loop de loop and the ability to incorporate words into the quilting pattern. Maybe that will be my New Year’s sewing resolution to learn!
I have been sewing for many years, and am currently trying to overcome the perfectionism that I have acquired in the process. It seems like anything that’s called ‘free motion’ would be a great place to start! I love the look of it and really look forward to mastering this process! Many thanks.
Wow hard to choose a favorite. I would have to say Pebbles and Chains. I’ve stippled before but feel I need more practice. This series is a great one to watch more than once. What a fabulous learning tool!
I have done a lot of stippling and I’m ready to get out of my comfort zone.
Love to stipple ,from Canada
i have done stitch in the ditch and a small try at stippling, but mostly I have done free motion with my finger in the air. If anyone saw me they might think I’m trying to direct a choir. I need to get over my fear of messing things up and this book sounds like it might get me started!
I have tried stippling and loved it! I would love to try some of the other stitches in this book.
I like to make Reproduction quilts, so tiny stippling all over is my favorite. But I really like the look of pebble quilting on the more modern projects I see. This looks like a great book!
The loop de loops with writing are my favorite, but I want to master them all. I’m new to machine quilting and want to thank you for these inspiring videos! I feel like even I can learn these techniques!
FMQ has opened a whole new world of quilting for me and I love it. I can’t think of just one techique that is my favorite. Always looking for something new to try. Eventhough I have been quilting many years FMQ is fairly new to me….was really getting bored with just stitch in the ditch.
Tks for the opportunity for this book.
Love stippling as I am a beginner quilter.
I have difficulty with stippling…all different sizes. I love doing McTavishing. I am hoping to learn more about stippling. Thank you for this resource!
Diana
I would love to learn to do pebbles!
I like the look of curves, so some type of loops in varying sizes and shapes. I have also gotten into FMQ straight line and really like that look also.
I haven’t done any free motion quilting, but I love the way the stippling looks after the quilt is washed. I would really like to learn to do stippling. I like all the other designs too so it would be fun to learn them all.
I’m working on making consistent loops but my real goal is to learn how to make beautiful feathers. This style of quilting really appeals to me.
I’m in the process of learning how to make consistent loops, however if I ever master this then I really want to make beautiful feathers. This style of quilting seem to speak to me, even in my dreams.
I seem to naturally start free-motion quilting with – loops. As soon as I (if ever) master this technique then I want to learn how to do beautiful feathers, and then go on from there.
The loops combined with handwriting looks the most intriguing to me. It all looks so smooth and natural while when I’ve tried it I ended up with a jerky mess. I hope this information will result in a more satisfying result.
I would love to learn each of these, but I really like the “pebbles and chains”. I can think of a few things this would look great on.
I so enjoyed this video of machine quilting, so informative. If I have to choose one it would be the name writing, that could be so useful, but just loved to learn all about machine quilting. Your shows are so inspiring to me, Thank you, Blessings, Cecilia
I would love to master all of the free motion techniques and patterns. I have tried free motion quilting in the past but wasn’t satisfied with the results. This book sounds like just what I need to break through to successful quilting.
I love stippling but always end up caught in a corner. I would love to win this book to help me improve my technique and lose my fear of free motion!
Thanks Nancy and staff for providing another topic that I find of great interest.
free motion is my favorite, there’s no mistakes with it.
I love the idea of “hiding” words in your loop-de-loops!
I love the look of the string of pearls and other small motifs confined within small segments like in the small case above.
I would love to learn how to free motion quilt. I think the handwriting technique is my favorite. Such a beautiful touch to a project.
I really like the way you did “love” in the handwriting one. It inspires me to try it. I usually just “stitch-in-the-ditch” because I am afraid of messing up a quilt top that I have worked hard on. This book would definitely help me to quilt with more confidence. I hope I win.
I love them all and want to learn them all but if I have to pick I like the name writing incorporated in with loop de loop and I bet you can try it with any of the designs once your confidence level gets up there.
The loops and writing ix duch a clever way to hide a message in quilting – that’s my favorite.
I would love to learn feathers and stippling. I have quilted for years, but mainly do stitch in the ditch. I need the nerve to start doing free motion machine quilting. The beautiful part of sewing-learning something new!
I find the easiest shape to make is loops. The circular motion is easier to control than zig-zag type shapes.
I love, love love stippling.
THankyou for this brilliant programme. I am going to try free motion quilting now havig been wary so far. Glad we have the internet so we can watch programmes like this.
I love the pebbles and chains. I have to admit I didn’t realize you could do this with a regular sewing machine. That’s great news. Also. that was a very interesting Nancy’s corner project – very creative and such interesting results. Thanks for sharing.
I mostly do straight line quilting. To be able to effectively free motion quilt would be a great accomplishment.
I have many quilt tops both large and small that are not quilted because I can’t afford to have someone else quilt them and because I don’t have the confidence to do them myself. I am very much looking forward to watching this tutorial to get the confidence I need, so I can get my projects out in the open to be seen and used! A book would be wonderful, so I can refer to it right by my machine. Thank you.
I used to do free motion embroidery and I look forward to doing it again. I would like to learn the handwriting as you could add it to so many things I make.
I would love to be able to do those awesome pebbles. Thank you for the opportunity.
Love the pebbles and loop de loops. Free motion has eluded me for years. Hopefully with this book, I can be successful in my free motion quilting attempts.
I love all of these free-motion quilting methods. I have finished a project with stippling before, but I am sure I could improve on my technique with your tips! I really would like to try the feathers some time, and the word writing would be so fun on the right project!
I’ve been trying my hand at stippling and, while at first it seemed impossible, it is becoming easier as I gain confidence wiwth it. I’m going to practice with my name, though, that sounds like fun! Thanks for the giveaway!
Cursive writing is so appealing; all the little love notes and messages you can play “hide and seek” with in the quilt!
The handwriting is my favorite. I would like to learn more and Molly Hanson’s Free Motion Quilting For Beginners is intriguing. Learning from an expert makes it so much easier and is a great confidence builder to continue on with other projects.
I love the loop de loop style. It looks fairly simple and simple is what I need.
I just quilted my first project with stippling. It was fun and easier than I thought it would be. I would really like to learn more. The handwriting is the technique I would like to try next.
I just quilted my first project with stripping. It was fun and easier than I thought it would be. I would really like to learn more. The handwriting is the technique I would like to try next.
I find the handwriting and loop-de-loop method to be the most intriguing. What fun it would be to announce that there is a hidden message written in the quilt they receive. Or the name of the new baby in an heirloom quilt. Or when you have guests stay with you, tell them there is a hidden message in the quilt on their bed and gift them with it when they leave. The possibilities are endless…
I like the writing in the stippling. I too have wanted to try Free Motion. I have classes on my computer, but I am afraid to try it!
Stitch in the ditch is the one I use cause I am afraid of all the others. The book could definitely help me.
I have not done the pebbles yet but after seeing it on the travel case It makes me want to make one and quilt it like that.
I love the look of the pebbles! Free motion quilting has always been intimidating to me and I really want to learn it!
I cannot get the look of the puzzle pieces right, so I would love to try the loops and pebbles. I also like to make baby quilts so the looping with words is very appealing to me. I can see lullabies or nursery rhymes as being the perfect finishing touch for a baby quilt.
I love the word writing with stitches. I have wanted to try to free motion quilt but haven’t the courage yet. I need to just sit down and go for it!
Stippling, stippling, love the tiny quilting designs. Looks complex to be so easy for those using this techinique
Putting words into your quilting is a wonderful idea.
I love the loop de loops.
I know very little about quilting. I would love to try quilting anything, but just feel overwhelmed by everything quilting. It seems like learning some free motion techniques would eleviate my frustrations. Definitely going to try it!
A friend, who did absolutely fantastic free motion, tried to teach me but as good as she was, that is how bad I was. However, I haven’t given up and would still love to learn this technique.
Stippling has been my go to for quilting. I would like to learn how to incorporate words with the loopy quilting and the pebbles look awesome.
I like handwriting and loop de loop. I’ve never done free motion quilting but this video gives me the incentive to try. Thanks for the demonstration and tips.
recently I began sewing again, FMQ looks very fascinating, and would like to learn stippling. Could be applied on sew many things. thank you for the chance to win this book
I have done stippling, but I would love to learn to do the pebbles.
I would really like to learn all of the techniques, however at this time I have never learned any. I think I would want to learn stippling because it seems to be the most versatile.
I have a Bernina Quilters Addition and have tried free motion several times, but have problems controlling the motion. Would like to try again with some new advice.
I’ve tried stippling but would love to move to loops de loops and handwriting! The sample looked really neat.
I would LOVE to be able to stipple.
Would love to learn how to do this!
Love all the free motion quilting but I can’t do it. Would love to learn.
I like the handwriting!
I am repairing three large special quilts from a family member and need to know how to free motion quilt to save them. The quilts are damaged in areas where sewing would not cover or camouflage. I have made many quilts, but no free motion yet as it scares me. Thank you for all your help Nancy.
Elizabeth
I constantly practice my FMQ by making small projects like purses, cosmetic bags and placemats…quilting small “quilts” and making the project out of them. I’ll move up to quilt in the future. I love loopy flowers and am going to try your loop-de-loops with handwriting…love it!
I make quilts for foster children – over 200 so far – and have been embroidering them with loving words. I really like the looping meander with “love” in it and will try that out today!
Leaves and hearts are my favorite “go to” machine quilting designs, but I am still very “green” in them. I love machine quilting and wish I had more time and techniques to increase my skill level.
I don’t have a favorite. I want to learn how to do all of them using my machine. Thank you for the opportunity to win this book.
I love the look of stippling and would love to master the technique!
I like to FMQ using a series of cursive c’s. I like the idea of using words and maybe cursive capital L’s. I look forward to trying some of the techniques taught in the book.
I would love to be able to free motion. My top stitching starts to look OK, but I have trouble with the back looking good.
I am looking for lots of tips.
I really need help with all designs but would love to make various beautiful feathers.
I need a sweatband at the mere thought of free-motion quilting!! I’d dearly love to learn. I’m a new quilter and am totally inspired by your videos/instructions. Thanks!!
Stippling
I really like the pebbles and wish I could do them.
I have done free motion quilting on fabric panels following the design and have attempted some stippling but failed. I would love to win this book to learn the techniques to help me achieve better results.
I want to learn it all so I can begin to Match styles for each project. Learning to be more accurate with free motion quilting and will allow my projects to look more professional and cleaner.
I really like the pebbles and wish I were able to do them.
I really like the loop de loops and hand writing. That could be used in so many seasonal projects, baby quilts. It’s uses are unlimited.
Just starting with echoing and some stipling.
Just staying with echoing and some stipling.
I don’t have a favorite — just want to learn how to do a better job than what I do now.
Stippling.
Love this, thanks so much for sharing this awesome info. I like the hand writing quilting style.
I have completed a couple of quilts and small projects doing a simple stipple or meandering with a few loops. I consider myself a beginners, but have totally enjoyed learning to quilt. I have not been brave enough to do feathers or other what look to me to be more complicated quilting techniques. Our local PBS station does not run Sewing With Nancy series
My favorite is paisley. I’ve been working on free-motion quilting but have a long way to go!
Stippling is my favorite look! I would love to learn how to free motion quilt all those UFO’s waiting for me to have the courage to free motion quilt them! : )
this would be wonderful. I tried and failed at stippling , however I think the pebbles may be achievable and after watching your segment I will try the stipple again.
I would love to do the pebbles then the feathers. I am working at it, but instruction would be wonderful!
I would love to win this book, My favorite type of free motion though I just cant grasp it is feathers and pepples. I always end up doing stipple which is fine but feathers are better. Merry Christmas Nancy to you and your staff! Hopefully one day I will have the honor of meeting you!
Hi Constance, You can watch my speaking schedule by clicking on Events at my blog page. It will soon be updated.
I’m new to quiting. Would love to learn this. I like the loop de loops pattern.
I have just started quilting and have been doing Stich in the ditch to quilt. I really need to learn free-motion.
I love the look of pebble but I would like to learn all of these. I have been wanting to try machine quilting.
I like the pebbles and chains. It looks very classy.
I love the pebbles and chains. It looks so classy.
Experienced at sewing but new to quilting. Would love some guided practice help. Thanks for the chance to win!
Oh! I would love to win this. I have a new mid-arm quilting machine, and this would make learning FMQ easier. I need some ideas for designs, and this would be perfect. Probably basic stippling is my favorite at this point, but feathers is something I would love to learn.
Any of the techniques would be wonderful to learn as I am new to free motion quilting.
I use the stippling design. Also plain old outline and Echoing.
I’m fairly new at free motion. I find it very relaxing, but am always looking for more ideas to keep it looking different.
I love the pebbles they fill the area and make it look textures, love the look
I would like to learn all of the techniques, especially the loop-de-loops and signatures. Thank you for the opportunity.
I am okay at stipple but would like to do feathers sometime soon. I have never tried them.
I’ve always loved the look of stippling but I’ve never tried it because I’m afraid it would look terrible if I tried
I love doing the stippling pattern but would like to learn how to do the Pebble and the Pebbles with Chains as well as feathers. I want to add more detail work to my quilts and I think this would be a great book to learn from.
Tom C
The first technique I would like to master is the Pebbles and Chains. I really like the finished look. I’ve tried a couple of times but can’t quite get the hang of it. I’m a fairly new quilter and keep trying to work up the courage to actually free motion quilt one of my own. I would like to have this book to help with that.
Oh my. I’m such a quilting beginner that I have no idea which technique is my favorite. But I think I will try starting with the loop the loops and writing names and favorite words as suggested. This promises to be a very helpful book!