Beginner's Guide To Quilting - UK (2020-04)

Essential Techniques

26 Beginner’s Guide to Quilting

H

and quilting is a centuries-old tradition, but the

modern convenience of a sewing machine is hard to

deny. If you’re thinking of embarking on a quilting

project of any size, a sewing machine can not only speed up

your progress, but also ensure that all your stitches are

straight and even. And if you want to try more freeform

quilting, then the simple substitution of a free motion foot can

transform your sewing machine into a textile sketchpad!

Even the most basic sewing machine will be able to handle

beginner-level quilting projects, so if you already own a

machine then you can get started today. But for the best

results you’ll need to invest in a ‘walking foot’ to replace the

standard presser foot on your machine, so that you can quilt

without the fabric rucking up under the needle.

If you’re looking to buy a sewing machine then think about

all the different things you might want to use it for, and

whether it’s suitable for a range of crafts. But if your intention

is to do plenty of quilting then make sure the feet can be

changed easily, and look at whether extras such as an

extension table are available. The more options available, the

more creative you can be with your patchwork and quilting!

Get to know your

SEWING MACHINE

NEEDLE

Most machines come with a needle in

place. Your manual will show how to

change it. Standard needles are UK size

75 or 80 (there’s also a US system) while

quilting needles are around size 130. The

larger the number, the larger the needle

and the thicker fabric it’s designed to

sew. Use a standard needle for piecing

and a quilting needle for quilting, and

replace needles regularly.

NEEDLEPLATE

This sits under the needle and houses the bobbin

and feed dogs. Load the bobbin with the

thread of your choice – the bobbin and needle

threads meet to form each stitch. Feed dogs are

ridges that grip the fabric’s underside.

PRESSER FOOT

This is the metal attachment that

sits beneath the needle and

holds fabric in place. There’s a

lever to move it up and down.

Raise it when positioning fabric.

We talk you through the parts of your sewing

machine to speed up your quilting and open

up speedy new stitching possibilities!

Thanks to Janome for the images. Models shown are the 525S (manual) and XL601 (computerised). Find out more at

http://www.janome.co.uk

.