Free Motion Sewing Machine Setup Success

Geraldine Author

Start Your Free Motion Quilting Adventure Right

Set Up Your Sewing Machine for Free Motion Quilting Success

Part 1: Getting Started with Machine Setup

When it comes to free motion quilting (FMQ), success starts with a well-prepared sewing machine. Whether you’re new to FMQ or just need a refresher, this first part will guide you through the essential steps to ensure your machine is ready for smooth stitching.

Gathering Your Tools and Supplies

Before diving into the mechanics of FMQ, it’s important to gather all the necessary tools and supplies. Here's a checklist of items you’ll need to get started:

1. Thread and Needle: I always recommend using high-quality threads.  It’s a simple step but ensures consistency right from the beginning.
2. Free Motion Foot: Make sure you have the correct foot for your machine. Some machines include a free motion foot as an accessory.
3. Quilting Gloves or Discs: These help control the fabric as you stitch. I’ve found that gloves work well for larger projects, while quilting discs give me more control when working on smaller pieces.
4. Glider or Slider: A glider or slider is a game-changer. It creates a smooth surface over your stitch plate, allowing the fabric to move freely as you quilt.
5. Extension Table: If your machine allows for it, adding an extension table helps support the quilt and prevents the fabric from dragging. 

Setting Up Your Machine

Once your tools are ready, it’s time to set up your machine for free motion quilting. I know it sounds basic but start by consulting your machine’s manual. Trust me, following the manufacturer’s instructions for setup can prevent a lot of common issues later. 

1. Clean and Oil Your Machine

Before you even think about quilting, make sure your machine is clean and well-oiled. A clean machine helps it run smoother. 

2. Lower the Feed Dogs

Free motion quilting requires you to control the movement of the fabric, so you’ll need to lower the feed dogs. 

3. Check and Adjust the Tension

Tension is key to achieving smooth stitches. Start with your machine’s default tension setting, usually around 4 or 5, and test it on a scrap piece of fabric to see if it needs adjusting. 

4. Attach the Free Motion Foot

Now it’s time to attach the free motion foot. Make sure the bar of the foot is positioned above the needle bar so the foot can hop with each stitch. 

Final Checks

With everything in place, double-check your setup. Is your workspace organized and well-lit? Do you have all your tools within reach? Once you’re ready, it’s time to practice those first stitches!

You don't need to do it alone. When you are ready, join other quilters like yourself and take my "8 Steps to Machine Setup Success" online video course. I walk you through each step of the process, including adjusting tension.

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Part 2: Adjusting Tension and Practicing Stitches

Now that your machine is set up, let’s focus on one of the most crucial aspects of free motion quilting: tension. Managing tension can be a bit tricky, but with some patience and practice, you’ll quickly learn how to make the necessary adjustments.

Understanding and Adjusting Tension

Tension plays a huge role in free motion quilting. When it’s off, you’ll notice either the top thread or the bobbin thread showing through in places where it shouldn’t. Here’s how I handle tension adjustments for smoother stitching.

1. Start with Default Settings

Begin with your machine’s default tension setting—typically around 4 or 5—and test it on a scrap quilt sandwich. Stitch a few big straight lines to check if the tension looks balanced. If it’s not, don’t panic. Adjust in small increments and retest.

2. Look for the Signs

If you see loops of bobbin thread on the top or the top thread showing too much on the back, it’s a sign your tension needs adjusting. Small tweaks to the tension dial can make a big difference, so adjust gradually. 

3. Practice Straight Lines and Curves

Once you’ve adjusted the tension, it’s time to start practicing. Begin with straight lines to get the feel of moving the fabric under the needle. As you become more comfortable, add in gentle curves, loops, and other shapes. I always like to warm up on a small quilt sandwich before starting a big project.

Hand Movements and Machine Speed

The relationship between your hand movements and machine speed is crucial in FMQ. If your stitches are too long, it means you’re moving your hands too fast. If they’re too short, you’re either moving too slowly or your machine speed is too high. Find a comfortable balance that works for you.

1. Control Your Speed

Set your machine to a moderate speed if it has speed control, or use your foot pedal to manage the pace. Over time, you’ll develop a rhythm that feels comfortable and produces even stitches.

2. Warm Up Before Quilting

Warming up isn’t just for athletes! Before starting your actual quilt, take a few minutes to practice on a small quilt sandwich. This helps check your tension, test your stitch quality, and get you into the groove of free motion quilting.

That’s it for Part 2! Next, in Part 3, we’ll look at working smarter, not harder, by optimizing your setup and troubleshooting common issues.

You don't need to do it alone. When you are ready, join other quilters like yourself and take my "8 Steps to Machine Setup Success" online video course.

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Part 3: Working Smarter, Not Harder

Now that you’re comfortable with your machine setup and have had a chance to practice stitching, let’s talk about how to make the quilting process more efficient. Working smarter—not harder—means using tools, techniques, and strategies that help streamline your quilting.

Optimize Your Workspace

Having an organized and comfortable workspace can make a world of difference when you’re quilting. Small changes to your setup can help you work more efficiently and avoid unnecessary strain.

1. Good Lighting

Good lighting is crucial for free motion quilting. Make sure your workspace is well-lit so you can easily see your stitches. 

2. Comfortable Seating

Sitting for long periods can be tough on your back and shoulders. Make sure your chair is at the right height so your elbows are level with the sewing table. This helps reduce strain and keeps you comfortable while quilting.

3. Extension Table

An extension table gives more space to support the quilt and keeps the fabric from dragging as you quilt. 

Break Down Big Projects

Managing large quilts on a domestic machine can be a challenge. However, breaking the project into smaller sections can make it much more manageable.

1. Divide and Conquer

Start by working in smaller sections, focusing on one area of the quilt at a time. This approach makes it easier to move the fabric under the needle and prevents you from feeling overwhelmed by the size of the project.

2. Quilt-As-You-Go Method

The quilt-as-you-go method is another option for managing large quilts. This technique allows you to quilt smaller sections individually and then assemble them once they’re quilted. It’s a great way to handle larger projects without struggling with the bulk of the entire quilt.

Develop a Routine for Consistency

Having a routine helps ensure that your machine is set up properly every time you sit down to quilt. Before you start, check your thread, needle, and tension. Then, sew a few test stitches to confirm everything is working as it should. Consistency in your routine will save you time and frustration in the long run.

With these strategies, you’ll not only make your quilting process smoother but also more enjoyable. 

You don't need to do it alone. When you are ready, join other quilters like yourself and take my "8 Steps to Machine Setup Success" online video course.

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Part 4: Troubleshooting and Final Steps

Now that you’ve got your machine set up, your tension dialed in, and your hands ready to quilt, let’s focus on troubleshooting common issues and making those final adjustments for smooth free motion quilting.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

We all encounter problems when quilting, but with a little troubleshooting, most problems can be resolved quickly. Here are some common free motion quilting problems and how to fix them.

1. Tension Troubles

If your tension is off, you’ll notice either loose stitches or the bobbin thread showing on the top of your quilt. The first thing I do in these cases is rethread both the top thread and the bobbin thread. It’s surprising how often this simple step fixes the problem. If rethreading doesn’t work, adjust the tension dial in small increments and test again on a scrap fabric sandwich.

2. Skipped Stitches

Skipped stitches can be caused by a dull needle or improper threading. Change your needle to a fresh one, and make sure both the top thread and bobbin are threaded correctly. Also, check that the free motion foot is properly installed, with the bar positioned above the needle bar so it can move freely as you quilt.

3. Thread Breaking

If your thread keeps breaking, it might be due to incorrect tension or poor-quality thread. Make sure you’re using high-quality quilting thread and that the tension isn’t set too tight. Loosen the tension slightly and test again.

Warming Up Before Quilting

Before diving into your main project, warm up on a practice piece. This allows you to check the tension, make any final adjustments, and get comfortable with your stitching.

Final Adjustments for Success

• Speed Control: If your machine doesn’t have a speed control feature, use your foot pedal to keep the speed steady. Start slow, especially if you’re just beginning, and increase speed as you gain confidence.
• Hand Positioning: Pay attention to your hand positioning and how you move the fabric. Keep your hands in a way that maximizes control over the fabric while reducing strain.

Finishing Strong

At this point, you're ready to start quilting your main project! Remember to practice regularly and get comfortable with your setup. Every time you sit down to quilt, double-check your tension and settings to ensure a smooth start.

With practice, setting up your machine and troubleshooting common issues will become second nature. You’re well on your way to mastering free motion quilting!

Conclusion: Mastering Your Free Motion Quilting Setup

Free motion quilting can be a bit intimidating at first, but as we’ve covered throughout this series, the key lies in preparation, practice, and patience. From setting up your machine to troubleshooting tension issues, each step builds your confidence and sets you up for success.

You don't need to do it alone. When you are ready, join other quilters like yourself and take my "8 Steps to Machine Setup Success" online video course. I walk you through each step of the process, including adjusting tension.

Remember, FMQ is as much about the process as it is about the final product. Take the time to practice, experiment with different designs, and fine-tune your setup. The more you get to know your machine and how it operates, the smoother your quilting sessions will be.

And if you ever find yourself hesitant or unsure, take a deep breath and keep going. Sometimes, it helps to encourage each other along the way. You're on a journey to free motion quilting success, one stitch at a time. Happy quilting!

Categories: : bernette 79, free motion quilting, machine quilting, quilting education