Are you a wannabe machine quilter? I am. I want to do my own quilting, but I rarely do. I love to stipple, and I can do a mean stitch-in-the-ditch. I can do some very basic loops and stars, but mostly I just stipple. I’m ready to expand my stippling skills. Aren’t you?
Author Eva Larkin is breathing new life into the good ol’ stipple stitch in her new book, Easy and Fun Free-Motion Quilting. She makes me want to grab my sewing machine and start stitching, right NOW!
What’s that? You think you don’t stipple well? No worries. Eva starts off with several tips to improve your stippling. I’ve been machine quilting for years and never heard of some of these great ideas, like breaking down a stipple design into a series of “wiggles,” and how to draw paths to follow so you don’t get stitched into a corner. She also provides excellent basics on general machine quilting and thread/machine troubleshooting. I especially like the exercise for testing thread tension, giving quilters four simple steps to ensure proper tension before you start working on your quilt.
Now, on to the easy free-motion quilting designs. Oh my gosh, I never dreamed simple stippling could look so dramatic and fresh. There are literally hundreds of ideas here! Best of all, Eva spends time explaining and demonstrating the mechanics of design to help you decide what works best for your quilt. Every design starts with super simple lines to create interesting spaces for fillers. Here are just a few examples, from basic to slightly more complex.
Four Corners Frame
Half Corners Frame and Open Square Filler
Inside Border Frame
Curved Outline Stitching
Eva is an amazing teacher. Her instructions make it easy to achieve the goal, step by step. She’s organized her new book in a way that allows you to focus on one block at a time instead of an entire quilt, which can be overwhelming. In addition, Eva includes:
- Choices! Use each frame design on its own, enhance it with filler designs, or outline the frame or filler with stitching. There are literally hundreds of design options.
- Six different frame styles that can be stitched in any quilt-block size without tracing or resizing.
- A sequence of clear illustrations for each design, showing the order to stitch for both outlining and filling. These illustrations are particularly helpful for those new to machine quilting.
If you’ve seen Eva’s first book, Free-Motion Quilting Made Easy: 186 Designs from 8 Simple Shapes, you know she is the best at teaching you to use simple shapes to create dramatic free-motion quilting designs for machine quilting. In her new book, she even has a section on how to combine the stippling fillers with the simple shapes to make even more dramatic designs.
Ready to start stippling? I am!
What kind of machine quilter are you? Are you talented, capable, or eternally grateful to your local machine quilter? Tell us your machine-quilting story in the comments and you could win a copy of the Easy and Fun Free-Motion Quilting eBook! We’ll choose a winner one week from today and let you know by email if you’ve won. (You can also purchase Eva’s book here, and if you do, you can download the eBook for free right away.) Good luck!
Comments are closed for this post.
Thanks to all who entered the drawing! The randomly chosen winner is Linda, who said:
“I am tired of stippling but I seem to fall back on it regularly. This looks like a fresh approach to stippling and just reading your post makes me excited about stippling again!”
Linda, we’ll email you each a special coupon code for your free eBook. Congratulations!
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I was not impressed with my ability to FMQ on my domestic sewing machine. I didn’t have good control over stitch length and my shapes weren’t as smooth as I wanted them. I purchased a short arm system last November. I am loving what I’m able to do now, and I’m hoping to buy a longarm in the semi-near future. I’m always trying to improve my skills. This book looks great, I’d love to get my hands on it.
—Barbie on August 14, 2012I have a terrible time stippling..hard for me to make it look even or uniform. I guess I need more practice. I like to do leaves, ivy, simple stars etc. Sometimes stitching in the ditch can be difficult when a larger size quilt creates drag…so you need to stitch in reverse. Has anyone really had good luck with quilting in sections. I have a fear of cutting batting into pieces.. sew Peacefully.
—Deb Mack on August 14, 2012I dream of different ideas for machine quilting, but then when faced with quilt at the sewing machine, usually chicken out and do something generic. This book sounds like a good one for inspiration for methods that aren’t toooo intimidating.
—Susie Hamilton on August 14, 2012I am pretty good at stitch near/in the ditch with my Janome 6500. I don’t do much free-motion unless I use Golden Threads paper and have traced someone else’s design onto it. I have done only done 6 quilts on my machine by myself. I have made many more quilt tops. I have also made 8 tops that I have helped the long-arm quilter choose the designs and placement for those tops. I love using other peoples ideas and adapting them to my vision. I try to keep records and mention where each idea came from. It keeps getting harder as I do more and as more ideas are published! I keep building my knowledge by reading and skill by applying all the great ideas people share! I have a large collection of books and patterns for quilting! I am still very scared of stippling. I have only tried it on practice sandwiches, and get stuck needing to cross a line to get a section I missed. Oh well practice makes skill eventually!
—Kathleen Chaney on August 14, 2012I really don’t have much of a machine quilting story, just that I want to be one! I feel a little paralyzed by the whole aspect of machine quilting. I know that I just need to jump in, and do it!
—Carmen Ostrander on August 14, 2012I guess you would say I am capable. I quilt my own quilts, which have all been no bigger than twin size. The only queen size quilt I hand quilted, but I have 2 tops to quilt and I am going to try to machine quilt them myself. I could use all of the inspiration I can find. Thanks for the chance to win this book.
—Cecilia on August 14, 2012I’m a wanna be machine quilter. I’ve free-motioned quilted on a longarm and am seriously considering purchasing a longarm. But I’ve not been able to master quilting anything bigger than a large table topper on my sit down machine. I’d love to be able to do that!
PS — am I really the first to comment? I’ve never been the first to comment!! 😉
—Amy Roth (IL) on August 14, 2012I’m definitely a wanna-be. I am very jerky with my free motion. I know it takes practice and practice and more practice, but I like to spend my time quilting, not practicing. I usually bring my quilts to a longarm quilter, which gets costly. I would love to be able to do my own, as I have many quilt tops just waiting to be made into a beautiful piece of art.
—Wanda Heath on August 14, 2012I am in the beginner stage of practicing FMQ……….but hoping to improve. This book would be great!
—Pam on August 14, 2012I’m somewhat of a fearful machine quilter. I do geometric turns, cross-hatching, stitch-in-the-ditch. It’s time to break free and do some curves!
—Sylvia Youngblut on August 14, 2012Wow! Who knew you could do so much with a stipple?
—Sue on August 14, 2012OK, couldn’t edit my comment. I think I fall into the capable arena – and I think this book just might be what I need to ‘glitz up’ my quilting.
—Sue on August 14, 2012I am a timid machine quilter who would like to gain confidence!
—Deborah on August 14, 2012I am stuck in the beginner class of FMQ, even though I try to improve. I love Eva Larkin’s idea for stippling. What a nice idea to pattern the design.
—Joanna on August 14, 2012I don;t feel like I am a good quilter. I have a lot of tops done and am afraid of ruining them by quilting them! I do try and have made a promise to get some of them quilted. I should have them done by a longarmer but that gets pretty expensive, and I feel like it’s not really mine if I have someone else finish it. I like the tip about just looking at one block instead of the whole quilt.
—Louise on August 14, 2012I am really chicken when it comes to free motion quilting. I usually end up with stitch in the ditch.
—Colleen Bartell on August 14, 2012I’m not a confident machine quilter. I can manage smaller items but hesitate to attempt a larger sized quilt.
—lindawwww on August 14, 2012I am a machine quilting drop out. After getting annoyed and frustrated with my lack of ability I just went back to stitching in the ditch. Trouble with getting the tension to behave on my machine as well
—Joni Sonmor on August 14, 2012I would call myself a "capable" domestic machine quilter. That said, the largest quilt I have done on my machine has only been twin size. One of the lessons I have been trying to learn is that machine quilting is not time warp fast quilting. Slowing down and getting a good rhythm going is the hardest part, at least for me. Would love to get Eva’s book and learn some of her hints and designs.
—Nancy (Cat Lady) on August 14, 2012The only choice I have is to do it myself on my home machine or take it to a long arm quilter because I don’t have room in my home for anything else. I hate to take things that I make to someone else to finish but, between work and all of the other things in life, practice just doesn’t seem to happen. I know I need to do it. I know I have to do it. I just tend to freeze up when I get something to the machine! I guess I just have to buckle down and do it.
—Sheila Craft on August 14, 2012I do some machine quilting, though it’s not great. Would sure love to win this book and learn much much more. When i can, I use straight lines in "X" form or grid form, too. thank you.
—Donna on August 14, 2012I desperately want to learn FMQ and this book looks like it’s a great place to start!
—Carol on August 14, 2012I’m NOT a FMQ. I can SID, outline, crosshatch, but when it comes to curves, I’m a disaster. Machine speed and hand speed just don’t match up. I know I need lots of practice, but there are too many quilts I want to make to spend the time practicing the way I know I should. I have one quilt for Christmas and a Blocks, Borders, Quilts I’m doing with my daughter to finish and then I’d really like to get some sandwiches together and practice FMQ…unless, of course, I find another quilt I HAVE to make. LOL
—Joanne Scott on August 14, 2012I’m a capable machine quilter. I don’t do it often enough to keep my skills fresh, but I do have at least 5 quilts to quilt right now. If I do one after the other, I might get good! Thank you for the giveaway!
—Paula on August 14, 2012I keep trying new ideas, I am a very new to quilting, have attempted feathers and tear drops but struggle trying to decide how to quilt something, would love to have this book to help me. Linda
—Sunnybec on August 14, 2012I need help to learn. I’ve tried and gotten frustrated so many times. My stitches are terrible!
—Christi on August 14, 2012i do straight lines, and can get fancy with wavy lines and a fancy stitch. have read and followed along some very nice tutes, but may need a book like this to help me to the next step: fmq! thanx for the opportunity to the ebook!
—ritainalaska on August 14, 2012I can quilt up most quilt tops without much problem. I, however, seem to be stuck in a rut falling back to my ‘tried and true’ patterns. I really, really need this book to help push me out of my comfort level and get some new, fresh quilting ideas. I need to add to my ‘boring’ same old leaves, meandering, spirals, etc. that I tend to do. I need something to help boost my confidence and start giving my quilts more personality.
—Cindy R. on August 14, 2012I keep trying and am gradually improving. I’m okay when following a line and I enjoy choosing suitable designs. But I’m not good at stippling. I would love to win this book and get lots of tips.
—Maureen on August 14, 2012I guess I’d fit into the category of slightly rusty capable quilter…. I used to do it a lot more than now and need all the help I can get from books and other sources.
—Linda E in AZ on August 14, 2012thanks!
I can stipple, so I am excited to try these techniques. It never occurred to me to do stippling in a "frame". Fantastic idea! I hope I win a copy of this book.
—Bonnie on August 14, 2012I’m a pretty good machine quilter who is in something of a rut. Once I master something I want to use it over and over rather than struggling to learn something new, since that takes time. Maybe the ideas in this book would inspire to get out of my comfort zone!
—Lisa Marie on August 14, 2012I machine quilt twin size and smaller on my domestic machine, but mainly simple stippling and meandering with words stitched in once in awhile. I never imagined doing stippling in a pattern – love the idea and want to try it.
—Carol on August 14, 2012Have tried some machine quilting but need to do a lot more practicing to have it look the way I would like!
—Ruth on August 14, 2012I’m learning but still have a long way to go, haven’t done much more than FM stippling and not that great at it. Yet! But I wish I could email each of thos who have any doubts about their ability and tell them to start small and with a charity quilt or some item that no one is going to judge how well you’ve done the work. And I can tell that I am so excited about learning more and if I don’t win this book, I will definitely be buying it. Its amazing, the more you do the FM, you begin to recognzie the mistakes and how you made them. And then the FM begins to get better but you have to start somewhere and with practice, that means several quilts; you will begin to see an improvement. I was not a believer in this comment but I am now!
—Chris on August 14, 2012I am not a successful machine quilter. I try though and have done some stippling whenever someone points out that I have crossed my lines my immediate response is I meant to do that!!! Someday I’ll get better you know what they say "practice makes perfect" one of these days or years I’ll be done practicing!
—Linda on August 14, 2012I am a very beginning machine quilter. I’ve done some of it but not often enough to develop any skill. I’d like to do more but I lack confidence and would welcome any help that’s out there.
—Ellie on August 14, 2012I’m barely capable at machine quilting. I use not-so-free motion quilting with my walking foot. It gets the job done, but I long for the day when I can elevate my work and stipple like Eva.
—Joan Rodriguez on August 14, 2012I am a wannabe machine quilter. I am practicing more and more on my home machine. I am feeling better about my work but I definitely still need lots of practice.
—Carrie P. on August 14, 2012Oh my, I think I can do it, I think I can do it! I have many quilts pieced and waiting in the wings to be quilted by a long-armer, but finances are tough. I’ve self quilted a few small items but have not tackled a larger piece. I would love to be able to quilt my larger quilts myself and it sure looks doable with Eva Larkin’s book. I would so love to win her book!
—Jane Knoll-Tenney on August 14, 2012i’d say i live in fear of FMQ, but also in fear of the fear. i think i need inspiration and this book may provide just that. can you imagine me winning? wouldn’t that be cool?
—michele on August 14, 2012I am a somewhat capable machine quilter although I get stuck with design ideas. Either I can’t come up with an effective quilting design or I don’t have the skills to stitch what I’d like. I really should practice more. The designs in this book look great!!
—Susan C on August 14, 2012I have been able to quilt all the quilts I make, but it becomes difficult with my domestic machine. I also have creator’s block, it is hard to come up with designs that are easier to do on a domestic machine. I love the longarm machines out there, but they are so expensive. I am trying to save up to get one though. The designs in the book look like they would be great to follow along with and give new ideas to me. They also look like they would be easier to do on a domestic machine too. Thank you for a chance to win a copy.
—Laurie P on August 14, 2012I have been quilting for awhile now but am new to FMQ. I need to practice and relax! Would love this book:)
—Heather H on August 14, 2012My machine quilting consists of stitching in the ditch and 1/4 inch out. I just need some time to sit and try to do some free motion quilting. I love the look of stippling.
—Christine M on August 14, 2012My very first quilt was in the ditch. The next, designs that were programmed into the machine, the third was free motion which needs to be improved. What a great teacher (via the book) to have.
—Mary on August 14, 2012I am definitely a tentative quilter. I get a top done then sort of freeze trying to figure out how to quilt the quilt and if I will be able to do so without it looking like a bunched up rag. Stippling usually doesn’t seem to be a big problem for me but anything else just doesn’t come easy. I really like the stippling designs in this book. What a great way to quilt a single fabric block to make it look fabulous!
—Karen L. on August 14, 2012I am teaching myself to FMQ, still have a long way to go, but at least my tension is usually pretty good!
—Rachelle on August 14, 2012I wouldn’t say I’m a complete beginner — but not far past! I can do a passable stipple, a passable stitch in the ditch and I even got brave and did a fluttering oak leaf pattern once (some of the leaves were a little windblown but that’s OK). I am a little stubborn in that I don’t thik I’d feel my quilt was completely "mine" if I didn’t do the quilting myself and so I’m trying to improve my own quilting skills. I’d love, love, love a copy of this book.
—Carol Vickers on August 14, 2012I dabble at fmq. I truly enjoy it and would like to learn more. I do not do such intricate detail such as this. I could never send out my quilts. I like to start them and see them to the finish. I do not like the templates I have seen out there on blogs that have become so popular. I love free style and for quilts to have a more artsy style. This book looks very intriguing.
—Shellie L on August 14, 2012I love to freemotion quilt and I’m always looking for new freemotion quilting designs and ideas. Thanks for the opportunity to win.
—Sandy N on August 14, 2012I am an amateur when it comes to any kind of quilting on my sewing machine. I have no control on the stich length and either go too fast or too slow. I am in desperate need of help, on both the design and the mechanics of just plain doing it. These designs look fabulous and should be easy, right?
—Susan on August 14, 2012I am a new FMQ’r and have only done a few small quilts. I am learning to do more and bigger things, but any and all help is appreciated. Thanks for the giveaway.
—Janet P on August 14, 2012I am tired of stippling but I seem to fall back on it regularly,this looks like a fresh approach to stippling and just reading your post makes me excited about stippling again!
—Linda M on August 14, 2012I do my own quilts, some I do with free motion and the smaller ones, I hand stitch. I would love to learn how to improve my free motion, I have a few quilts that need quilting and that is the step I always procrastinate on.
Debbie
—Debbie St.Germain on August 14, 2012Wannabee machine quilter…that would be me!! I’ve done a few, results were fair. Sure could use some spicing up! Eva’s new book looks inspiring!!
—Lorraine on August 14, 2012I’m a pretty capable straight line quilter, but a timid free motion one. I don’t really want to start ‘quilting by chequebook’ as I’d like to be capable in all aspects of quilting. Also, I’d rather spend the money on more fabric and patterns! This book looks awesome and I hope I win it, thanks for the opportunity!
—susan on August 14, 2012I had never done any serious Quilting on my old Husquarna, although I’ve made lite baby and children quilts for friends and family quilting by hand. But my local sewing machine dealer had a freemotion foot that we managed to adapt to my machine and I was very exited to get started. I didn’t want to "waste time" practicing so I quilted leaves on the border of a panel with paperpieced cups that I gave to my mum for her birthday. Being mum of course she praised my work, but for the next project I decided it was worth practising, I don’t have a stichregulator on my old machine, and I must say that practising and buying a stick-on gliding mat made a lot of difference, and the next panel received an all-over quilting treatment with a design that reflected the piecing and the appliqué on it. I would say I’m on the right way now…
—Inger Martinson, Italy on August 14, 2012I am a beginner. I am trying to learn free motion quilting, but usually don’t try and revert to a stitch in the ditch design.
—Nancy Bennett on August 14, 2012I do my own machine quilting and if I can draw it, I can quilt it. But, my projects are getting bigger and bigger, and that is presenting a problem. If I could afford a longarm quilter, I’m not sure I could tell her what I want, or (heaven forbid) leave it up to them. I am getting a little envious of the smooth and flat product they return. Always room to grow.
—Claudia on August 14, 2012I am trying to get started on a quilting project and I have quilters block. I always enjoy the process once i get into it but it is very hard to choose a design and get the process flowing. I would definitely like to read Eva’s book.
—Diane on August 14, 2012I’m fairly new to longarm and am getting the hang of it but wish I could get the block out of my head about how to quilt my quilt. I’m sure practice will help and ideas will start to flow. Inspiration is much needed though.
—Wendy on August 14, 2012If it can be done with a walking foot, I am okay. I am not happy with my free motion experiences in quilting. My lines are never smooth, more like a herby jerky zig zag with uneven stitch lengths. I surely wish I were much smoother! I have done large lap robe and it was okay but I did it using the walking foot on my machine. I am impressed with this stippling technique!
—Carol C on August 14, 2012Is advanced beginner a legal thing to say? I have a mid arm machine for quilting, I also love to hand quilt, but I have not quilted anything other than simple straight lines on my piecing machine. My mid-arm work is mostly meander, with some 5-point stars, hearts, and the names of the quilt recipient stitched, but that is beginning to get rather boring, so getting this book would help me overcome my fear of the unknown. Thanks for the chance.
—Ele Willard on August 14, 2012Sadly, I don’t have a free-motion story to tell. I don’t do it! I’m too scared to try in case I mess up my quilt, so always take them to a long-arm quilter, or I just stitch-in-the-ditch. Winning a copy of Eva’s book would be so so fabulous. Keeping my fingers (and toes crossed).
—Joy Vale on August 14, 2012I can straightline (somewhat) machine quilt small quilts using my sewing machine. Otherwise I’ve handquilted which is very tiring for me. I want to learn to FMQ – just stippling would be great. Now, does this book’s techniques apply to machine quilting bed sized quilts on a home sewing machine too? Thanks for the chance.
—MarciaW on August 14, 2012I’ve FMQd a few baby quilts, but really struggle with anything larger, unless it’s straight lines with my walking foot! I’d love to get more creative, so this book has me quite intrigued!
—Eileen Kelly-Meyer on August 14, 2012Free motion scares me! I can’t make myself even try. I know I can’t adjust and keep stitches even. I know the back will have those eye lashes and worse. I don’t jump off diving boards either. So I have way too many UFO’s. I don’t have a longarm quilter. Tis sad. I watched numerous FMQ’s and it looks so interesting and even relaxing until it is MY TURN!
—carol on August 14, 2012I’m just learning to FMQ! I need lots of practice, but would like to do some small items. I have one quilt top ready to go!
—Elaine Morgan on August 14, 2012I have just this year learned how to use a longarm machine but I am a long way from feeling confident. I have little talent using my home machine, an old Viking, for machine quilting without puckers all over the back no matter how hard I try or what techniques I use in making the "sandwich". I need a lot of help since I am really tired of large meandering on the many quilts I donate. HELP! And Thank You for all your great books.
—Dianne Deaver on August 14, 2012I’m a stitch in the ditch straight line quilter. I want to branch out more but I think fear stands in my way. I’m not sure why, it’s only fabric.
—Ginger on August 14, 2012I’m not a brave quilter that’s for sure! Even though I’ve been quilting for nearly 2 years I’ve only tried variations on straight line quilting. Free motion quilting terrifies me but I’d love to learn how to stipple & more. Thanks for the chance to win.
—Fran on August 14, 2012I’m a novice quilter, my first quilt I quilted myself on my regular machine. It’s not that beautiful, but it is functional (LOL), and my daughter loves it! I’ve finished my second quilt top, I think I did a really good job, good enough that I want it quilted by someone who knows what they are doing.
Thank you for the chance to win this book, I have so much to learn and this book would be so valuable to me!
—Karen on August 14, 2012I so want this book! I am a horrible machine quilter! I can’t seem to get my bobbin tension right. Even with straight line quilting I have a hard time. This looks so neat, I’d love to be able to do it!
—Sandy A in St. Louis on August 14, 2012The stippling looks beautiful. Thanks for the opportunity to win this beautiful book.
—pat on August 14, 2012I am self taught FMQ’r. I don’t like to overpower the quilt pattern with too much FMQ. However, I try to FMQ based on the quilt pattern, the fabric design, and quilt theme. Thank you for the chance to win.
—Julie on August 14, 2012This is a wonderful new book on free-motion quilting. SewCalGal definitely views it is a "must have" quilting book for anyone interested in learning/improving their free-motion quilting skills.
SewCalGal
—SewCalGal on August 14, 2012http://www.sewcalgal.blogspot.com
I am still just "practicing" when it comes to quilting with my sewing machine. I can do straight lines. My machine has a stippling stitch,
but I am just nervous!! Would really love this book! Thanks for the
chance to win!
wigglyup2(at)yahoo(dot)com
—Rhonda Desgranges on August 14, 2012I really need this book and I hope I win, thanks for the opportunity!
—Susan on August 14, 2012I have tons of tops waiting to be quilted. I’ve taken a few classes & read some books, but I’m so afraid of ruining my quilts, that I can’t make myself plunge in. I also don’t want to turn my quilts over to someone else to quilt, so I REALLY need to learn this skill!
—Judy Forkner on August 14, 2012I am a beginner with FMQ and I really need the help! This book would do that for me as I currently don’t have one, only a small booklet that came with my Janome quilter. I used to hand quilt but I don’t have the time for that anymore and need to get 7 quilts quilted for Christmas
This book looks absolutely wonderful and the stippling is an awesome design!
—Nancy White on August 15, 2012I’m an FMQ chicken, but looking at this and her approach makes me think I could master this with practice. The quilting I’ve done is to buy a backing with a print I like and follow the design on it. Nothing fancy – just does the job – sort of like a panto, but on the fabric.
—Lynn D in NC on August 15, 2012This book I’m sure would help me venture forward with my FMQ! So would love to win so that I could get more confidence to move ahead!!
—Shirley in Canada on August 15, 2012I am a "beginner" machine quilter and am always on the lookout for new ideas. Thanks for the give away!
—Linda on August 15, 2012Hi
I’m a relatively new fmqer. I started in February, using designs from Leah Day and would love to win a copy of this book. I’m trying to improve my Fmq skills every day, although dh complains that he is a quilt widower. Thanks for the chance to win.
—Elvispeth on August 15, 2012My first attempt at free motion quilting was an absolute disaster. I had purchased a video on how to do it. The video showed the quilter whipping out these wonderful designs but did not include any technical information such as needle size, thread type, tension settings, etc. I sat down at my machine and tried to duplicate what I saw on the video. It was a mess. I was so discouraged I stuck to hand quilting for 2 years. I’m ready to try again. Since this book includes the basics on general machine quilting and thread/machine troubleshooting; it may be what I need to succeed at machine quilting.
—Elizabeth P. on August 15, 2012I learned to machine quilt before it was popular. As an OC quilter, I was surprised to find that I loved stipple quilting. This book looks like it had great ideas to incorporate my favorite stippling and not have to stipple the whole quilt.
—Judy Morin on August 15, 2012I think that I fall into the category of "capable" when it comes to machine quilting. I’m definitely not past the meandering phase, as I have only rarely done any designs. And when I have done designs, you don’t want to look at the back! ;> So, I could use some help, and the part about tension adjustments definitely caught my eye!
—Barb Johnson on August 15, 2012I’m still fairly new to quilting and would love to improve my skills. Thanks for a chance to win this book.
—Terry on August 15, 2012I’m a straight line quilter, but would LOVE to learn free motion!
—Melanie C on August 15, 2012Free Motion Stippling was my introduction to quilting. At the time I was sewing garments only and really had no interest in quilting. I had purchased a reversible quilted coat pattern and the fabrics were to be quilted before cutting out the pattern pieces. Reading the pattern instructions I saw ‘Layer the top and backing fabrics with the flannel batting and stipple quilt before cutting the pattern pieces’. Oh my, what was this stipple thing? Off to the fabric store I went to look for any information on stipple and found a Singer ‘How to Quilt’ book with a 2 page description of stipple quilting. So I was off to the races – with only a few pictures to guide me. Well, many complements on the coat later, which I still wear after 11 or 12 years, I can look back on my introduction to quilting and thank that coat pattern. Unfortunately my garment sewing has mostly been replaced with quilt making and fortunately my stippling has improved somewhat – at least I now know what it is and how fulfilling it is to ‘do it yourself’.
—Pat Allen on August 15, 2012I’m a SCARED machine quilter! I’ve got the the appropriate foot for my machine, good lighting, the gloves, the wide flat surface to support the quilt… and a lot of anxiety! I’ve practiced on quilt sandwiches, but need more practice. I’ve just finished a puzzle-piece quilt top that would be perfect for different designs in each puzzle piece, and that’s my plan. So now I’ve got a plan… but still the anxiety!
—Kathy Schmitz on August 15, 2012I am learning to quilt. I just finished a quilt that is both applique and paper pieced. It has outdoor scenes. I quilted each block by outlining everything with stitch-in-ditch, but thought it needed more. I then stippled several blocks but quilted little, sort-of hidden objects in the stippling. For instance, in the block with the waders, basket, vest, etc. I quilted little "fishies" in the stippling. On the cabin’s front porch, I quilted a rocking chairI put movement in the water,birds in the air, and leaves on the trees! I had so much fun, it was hard to stop. This is the first quilt I have done on my machine and by myself! This book would really help give me ideas to put into my quilts!
—Kim on August 15, 2012I really like stitching in the ditch. I do not like stippling. Maybe tiny movement would make it better, but do it with longarm machine and you will wear out. I like using tools and marking and planning out my quilt. With all this said, I still read what others do and try to see if it will improve my work.
—Linda C on August 15, 2012I love making pictures with my sewing machine. I call it Thread Painting. Way back when I saw a lady who had done an Indian headress (sp)at a mall. When she talked about it she said she had to wear glasses when she worked on it because she used straight stitching back and forth and she broke many needles. Well, I went home and said to myself, I could do it with zigzag and thus began my love of thread painting,(no needle breaking). I took a beautiful rose picture in 4 stages of it’s developing sequence. I did it with zigzag, red thread and it was beautiful. The picture was 16/20. My mother loves roses and I gave it to her as a gift and it hung in her house until she passed away. Now it hangs in my living room. It reminds me of happy times. I am always eager to learn new tips and methods of thread painting. I think the stippling is just so beautiful that is seen here on this website. I wish you all well as you work with your sewing machines. Enjoy.
—Judy Benton on August 15, 2012I’m a wannabe machine quilter. I can follow a pattern, stich in the ditch, straight lines – I’m not good at stippling and anyting fancy, forget it. It just doesn’t happen. I need help!!!
—Sharon A on August 15, 2012I have recently started doing free motion quilting and would love to learn how to branch out and do other designs to "widen my horizon"! Thank you for the opportunity to win this book by Eva Larkin.
—Carolyn on August 15, 2012I dove right in and FMQ’ed the negative space of the setting triangles of my most recent quilt. WHile my stitch length is all over the place, the effect is just what I wanted. A crinkly quilt hides a multitude of sins!
—Becky Greene on August 16, 2012I am improving….but need to keep at it! It’s the 2-3 months away from my machine that cause the problem! I did get a machine with a button start and speed control, and a bigger space. Taking the foot pedal out of it has helped me developed a smoother style.
—Bev Crabb on August 16, 2012i love stippling. it is really the only machine quilting that i can do. i am new to machine quilting on my home machine. i am very interested in learning more. most of my quilting has been done by hand.i would love to win your book.
—beverly maples on August 16, 2012I am in a bee through my guild named Wanna-Bees. We are a group of women that meet once a month to learn and practice our free-motion skills on our domestic machines. I love this group because it has challenged me to improve my skills, although my skills have improved slower than I had hoped. Most importantly, it has kept Domestic free-motion quilting skills on my front burner instead of in the "someday" category. When I started the domestic machine free-motion quilting, I never new how much there would be to learn – all the skills, tips, nuances, thread, fabric, batting and motifs, etc. make each quilt it’s own unique art. I have so much more to learn!
—Diane on August 16, 2012I’m another, timid, wanna be machine quilter. I have a very generic machine, and so far, no great results. I need to keep trying, and this book looks like it might help. Thanks.
—jan davis on August 16, 2012I am definitely a Newbie machine quilter…but I want to learn and conquer FMQ. Right now I am in the practicing stage! This book would be a great help!
—Pam on August 16, 2012Well last november I reluctantly left my first quilt(king sized) to be quilted. two weeks later I picked it up and aplogised because I realised I wonted to be the total creator of all my quilts.
—jane on August 16, 2012I am still a beginner in understanding quilting and I am a member of a quilting club now to learn more and I attend extra classes in the use of my machine.
I love fmq, have the eq7 software,stencils/chalk powder and a janome horizon. I have been looking for that certain something that would make my quilts more me and having just found out about your book, about stippling I feel is the one thing that has been missing!!.
The stippling techniques in this book look great!! I would love to have this book. She made stippling look so easy but I know that it takes a lot of practice but with the right teacher anything can become easy and Eva makes it look easy.
—Tammy Hempel on August 16, 2012I guess I would call myself a confident novice. This book would be great to help me improve!! Thanks for the chance to win!
—Pat on August 16, 2012I’ve done lots of sitd but when it comes to fmq I’m a ripper. I unsew as much as I sew. I’m excited to learn something new and to have hope that I will be able to put the seam ripper away for good. I think I really need this book! Thanks so much for the offer, I’m so excited!
—Karla on August 16, 2012I guess you could say that I’m a FMQ in the making, I’ve made 5 throw size and 1 twin size quilt and have 3 to go to have made for all of my gt.grandchildren. I have done a lot of stippling and meandering but have at hard time deciding what will work the best for my quilts. I LOVE Eva’s ideas and would love to put them to work for me!
—Kathy P in North Dakota on August 17, 2012Would love to be better at stippling as I make many holiday and other fun wall hangs for my family. I would love to be a much better free motion quilter so that I would have the confidence to make bed size quilts. Thank you for your wonderful new book. I am recommending it for our library to purchase since they are always looking for good new books to buy and OHIO has so many quilters to read and enjoy it.
—Sarah E on August 17, 2012I really would like this book. I am so tired of the same ol all over free motion. I keep telling myself to just practice, PRACTICE! I have been quilting for 17 years. One would think practice is over!! I don’t like tracing onto paper and then tearing the paper off. I see quilters at quilt shows just free motioning like they are taking a walk in the park. I am tripping while they are walking. So frustrating!! If I don’t win I will be on the lookout for this book
—Margie on August 17, 2012My FMQ skills are terrible. I can do BIG stipples, but not small pretty ones like Eva. The only thing I have not tried is to get totally drunk before attempting FMQ! I would love to get my hands on this book.
—Crazy Cuban on August 17, 2012I really need a kick start to dive in to try machine quilting and from the sounds of it this book is ideal
—gruffy on August 17, 2012I have recently made some doll quilts and had a hard time stitching in the ditch on some of them. Would love to learn to stipple
—Judy on August 17, 2012I’m a beginner and have tried a little stippling on small things. Mostly I stitch in the ditch.
—Wivi on August 18, 2012I had done free motion quilting on my sewing machine but it’s not very good. This book looks like a great way to get my quilting more accurate. Thank you!
—Lorri on August 18, 2012I am a pretty awesome free motion quilter. I’m working my way up to quilting my daughters full size quilt, having completed table runners of varying sizes. The hardest part is deciding how to quilt it, what pattern to use. I have moved beyond stippling just enough to know I can do something else, and I am ready!
—Jodi on August 18, 2012When I took a class in machine quilting, I was supposed to do a baby quilt. When I was finnished , it was a board. I just tense up when I try it.
—Eva on August 18, 2012I like the look of FMQ but haven’t been especially happy with the results of mine. I seem to have tension and stitch length issues. As a result, most of my machine quilting is with my walking foot, but I want to improve my FMQ and would love to add this book to my collection.
—Joye on August 19, 2012Joye in SC
I have done very little machine quilting. Most of it has been straight lines. I have a top right now that I need to quilt and a Stippling pattern would be perfect, but I am very nervous about trying it. It is a small wall hanging, but it will also be a gift, so I could use all the help I could get to make it the best possible quilt.
—Jamie on August 19, 2012At first I used to quilt by check and now I have been brave in the cave and try to practice each day before I start my regular quilting. I have started taking quilting classes at quilt shows and it has made a difference. So I now put the pedal to the medal and go and see where the designs take me.
—Sandy on August 19, 2012Today is my first time stippling on an actual quilt. I’ve done some practice swatches but wasn’t brave enough to do it for real. It’s far from perfect but I love it (hope my grandson does too). Can’t wait to take some classes and learn some more designs!
—Elizabeth on August 19, 2012I’m getting more and more capable every month
—Diane on August 19, 2012