Beginner's Guide to Quilting - UK (2020-02)

Hand wheel
Use this to move the
needle up and down
manually. It’s
essential for
controlling the sewing
line in tight spots
and corners. To avoid
your thread getting
caught or tangled,
make sure you always
turn the wheel
towards you

BAckstitching
Most machines have a
button or switch that
enables you to sew in
the reverse direction.
It’s the best way to
start and finish your
line of stitching –
just stitch forwards
and backwards for a
few stitches to secure
your thread

Stitch selector

The method used to change the type of stitch varies

between machines, but the principle is the same.

For a basic quilting project you’ll probably find that

straight stitch is all you need

Stitch length

This allows you to

change the stitch length. For standard seams, aim for a

setting of 2 or 2. 5. A longer stitch length

is useful for quick tacking lines

MACHINE FEET

With these five feet in your collection

you can tackle most sewing projects.

(^12)
3
4
5
1 Standard
2 Zip
3 ¼ inch
4 Free-motion
5 Walking/quilting

ELECTRONIC

As you’d expect, electronic machines

are powered by an electric motor that

moves the needle and bobbin (and

powers a light). Electronic machines are

ideal for beginner sewists – they can be

packed with features, but are generally

easy to use.

COMPUTERISED

Computerised machines are suited to

more experienced seamstresses or

professionals – they have lots of clever

stitch functions and a computerised

screen, and some give you the option to

input your own designs.

OVERLOCKERS

Overlockers finish seams by

overstitching the edge and trimming

away excess fabric in one go. These are

a great investment, but a machine

zigzag (or even pinking shears!) will also

do the job just fine for beginners.

MACHINE TYPES

There’s a machine option for every skill

level, from beginner to seasoned pro.