A lesson I just recently learned: don’t get too into the audio book you’re listening to while quilting. I pieced more than 10 HSTs with no thread in my bobbin because I was so wrapped up in the story. 🤣
One more tip. Turn to a lovely quilting tutorial like this for encouragement before you get started. A smile brings out some quilt magic and happy sewing. Thank you for spreading your encouragement.
Pace not race. I love it. I’m back at quilting after 25 years hiatus. I’m 74 now and amazed at how much I remember and how much I’ve forgotten. My practice quilts are abominable but my family thinks I’m a gifted crafter so who am I to argue. I’m binge watching your channel. Cheers from N.B.
@@janicejettsitter2097 I too have taken a break for past year but have become inspired this summer - mainly due to a new quilting friend. I hope to finish several quilts I had tucked away.
I make mistakes all the time! My quilting looks like a preschool art class! I don’t care! My quilts are perfectly imperfect! Love the video! Just went to the dollar store! The nonslip shelf liner works great❤️
I could have written this comment! I’m too impatient and too hard on myself! I need to chill a bit and I need to be more careful. I’m loath to rip out bits gone wrong but I am going to have to do this to improve my quilting. I think I may be being just a bit too kind on myself!
Never sewed a quilt..started making Chemo port pillow for donation..a stranger invited me to church sewing ministry..We were given boxes of scraps..BECAUSE OF YOUR VIDEOS..I am a STAR..I love strip quilting.. we make quilts lap throws for nursing homes ..many children fighet quilts. You are my main go teacher! I love the colors. Now moving on to stashing..thank you for teacher style.
If you don’t mind, I would be very interested in how you get involved with charity sewing. I’m particularly interested in making small quilts for sick children and perhaps for the NICU, but I have no idea how one gets started with this. I would welcome any tips and advice.
I forget every time I’m finishing a quilt that quilting tired leads to using a seam ripper. Usually once I mess up once I realize I’m tired and stop for a bit.
Karen, Karen, Karen. You're amazing, if I haven't said so before. You just throw it out there so casually, and you're so good at quilting tutorials. You're someone I could have a drink with and talk quilts. Jan from down under
This makes me smile, with not only all your hints, but the fact that I know your doppelganger! Even stranger is the fact that you both have the same voices....I am ALWAYS doing a double take when I see your videos!!
One of my favorite bits of advice from you is using a timer. It reminds me to quilt in chunks of time, not marathons. I'm happier with my outcomes when part of my time is not spent ripping out because I was tired and should have stopped. You always bring such helpful information. Thank you for all you bring us!
Thank you so much. I drive myself scatty with small imperfections which then makes quilting a chore or i ruin projects repeatedly unpicking. Hopefully i can now learn to live with these and enjoy quilting again 😅
Good morning. When I started quilting, I would rush through the quilting part anxious to check it off my list of to-do’s...and often end up with more problems to solve. Here are my 8 tips for getting the best results. It will take more time but good quilting makes your piecing shine.
I am glad that you showed the mistakes and what it looks like when you pick out the mistakes. And mistakes I do know!! This was a VERY helpful video Karen thank you!! I have something to tell you!!! I bought a Juki TL 2010 mid arm!!!! I am so excited!!! I tried a long arm at my favorite fabric store and it was too vibrational for me. It was fun and it looked really cool, but I am used to FMQ while sitting down! So I saved and I was able to buy the Juki!!! I am so happy!!! I started a new job last month, and since I have been in training, I am too tired to do anything with it so far. It has been sitting on my desk staring at me. This Saturday I am firing it up! I am so excited!!!!!! I would have told you when I got it, but I think I am still in a state of shock LOL!!! I hope you are doing well!! Happy March!!!
I do my quilting practice on 10 inch blocks of fabrics I'm no longer a fan of. That way i know I'll eventually have enough blocks to turn them into a quilt as you go quilt. That way the practice feels more productive.
Karen, you and Jenny Doan from Missouri Star Quilting Co have both inspired me to try quilting for myself. I have my fabric, some batting from a previous project that I have left over, and I'm going to attempt my first quilt project this week. Thank you for your advice and inspiration. A grateful fan from Australia.
Hey Karen, What about the old saying that "the mistake only counts if you can see it while riding by full speed on a galloping horse"? Thanks for this. You are great to watch!
Omg Karen! You are my saving grace tonight. Ready to quilt some flying geese tonight aaaaaaaahhh I wish I had a pillow to scream into. It was like you were in my sewing room telling me. Don’t forget to practice that choice on a quilt sandwich as error after error ensued. Thread breaking, no gloves, wrong quilting foot, it was as if You were sitting on my shoulder at each turn. I finally stopped quilting and decided to view this video again on the couch. TY for saving me from the quilt mess on my practice piece and not on my nephew’s quilt. Tomorrow is another day!
Over ambitious me. I have been sewing a long time. I had never tackled a quilt. When I finally had an opportunity for a class, it had started then covid hit and it is still unfinished. So my granddaughter loves Elsa/Frozen and this Nana got a big idea to make her a princess quilt, for a full sized bed. I actually got the top completed, had a devil of a time trying to make the quilt sandwich the size was difficult to get stretched. I have it stitched in rows and need to finish other directions. It is not perfect but so far no folds. And of course, it needs to be finished by her birthday. It has been a daily project, stressful, with a few meltdown moments. Next time I will know all the pitfalls. Fingers crossed the rest of the quilting and trim go ok.
It's really exciting but I do not fight against myself. This is my quilting sampler quilt and I try the first time... My son loves it from first stitch. He is now seven years old ❤️
Start on something small like a table topper. I actually started on a pot holder and then went to several table toppers and then started the quilting on an actual quilt. If you start on smaller items, it helps you get used to what it feels like having something so bulky under the needle. It really is fun I promise!!
I use Excel to help "lay out" my quilt. My CPA son thinks it's hilarious. Primarily, when working in rows, it helps me keep track of which blocks are in which row (by number). I'm still a beginner, so no worries about semi-circles, or geese flying about. ;-)
I'm just starting my 2nd quilt. I feel like I dont know anything about sewing or my machine. There are so many options for tools and attachments and "Do I need a quilting arm?" So much to learn! I like your videos best. So now I will just breathe and take my time. Thanks for the encouragement.
I used to be intimidated by free motion quilting but now it’s all I do. It can be a challenge at times( I use a domestic machine) but it’s always worth it.
As always, thank you for sharing your knowledge. I actually made a pot holder and a tissue holders this week. The binding on the pot holder was still wonky, my mitered corners are different sizes, and some of my sew lines veer off but I think it looks beautiful. Can’t wait for your next video.
I’ve never made a quilt but I’ve been watching you for a year now. You’d think I’d have taken your advice by now, right?! Well, I’ve found THE fabric I want to make my dream quilt from. Problem? I can’t make myself cut into it! It’s perfect but I don’t have the perfect pattern idea yet! I refuse to wait another year!
First lesson: Don't compare yourself to others. If you do it, you'll never be satisfied with your own work. Second lesson: Those practice pieces can be made into pet beds and charity quilts. Trust me, a snuggle bug doggo is not the quilting police. Just make sure there are no toe catchers. Very good tips here Karen. That clear shower curtain works a charm.
Just seen a lot of photos of quilts at this years Festival of Quilts in Birmingham UK. It saddens me to know I need more years ahead of me than I have before I would become half as good as I am. I think I’m going to make a quilt for all the members of my family and anytime after doing that will be a bonus. 😁
I keep my practice pieces as a catalog of the quilts I’ve given away. Pictures don’t do the fabric justice and this way I keep a small part of every quilt I make.
Come on, Karen. Girls just wanna have fun!😁 I'm 5 mins from death, too old to get good enough to compete at Houston, but young enough to play w various machines, new tech, and learn more with each project, or rather learn what's wrong from each project I make. Right now im discovering, after many videos, I just don't get the whole concept of trimming different types of blocks. I can do HST blocks, lining the diagonal seam w the diagonal ruler line, but what about blocks w/o diagonals? I'm lost w my rulers and cutters and where to trim. So I'm looking for a video of yours to try and get that now that my rug w sewn strips cut into blocks is almost done. (Well, that's what I learned was wrong this time!)Thanks for your great vids. Know we sure appreciate your teaching us.☮❤🙋
Love the tips and advice in this video. Thank you Karen for encouraging us how to be better quilters and how not to be so hard on ourselves. I piece together leftover orphan blocks and practice my free motion skills or stitch in the ditch on them before I dive into my real project. I feel like I'm not wasting those leftovers while practicing quilting.
Karen, As usual, you addressed too many of my quilting issues :) I’ve never been very good at accepting anything less than perfection from myself. Sewing has always been a release for me but quilting is very different from sewing. I assumed my years of sewing garments would make quilting fairly easy,, how wrong I was! Your input is always helpful and so entertaining. It makes me I believe I too can accomplish this. Now,,,,, if I can just get past that perfection issue! My love from the (beginnings) spring fields of Ohio. Hope you and your family are melting as well 💜
I definitely picked a mistake and seam-ripped it to correct. I made sure to sleep on the decision to pick it first. In the morning decided it was worth pick out the mistake and correct it.
You are so awesome to share these steps for quilting on a sewing machine. The key for me is SLOW DIWN. I seem to always be in a hurry before I even realize it...whew! Thank you Karen.
Oh my gosh ! I had to zoom in to see these ridges! Do I really have to be concerned about a little bit of that! I think I’d never quilt again ! Here’s to the fun of getting it done! 😀
This was so encouraging! I have tried quilting but gave up due to perfectionism!!. I pay so much now to have ot done - think I will try again. Thank you for this helpful, practical and encouraging segment!
This video is the BEST Karen. We all need that posture reminder, but the point you make about the speed of videos compared to our real time speed is priceless. I can't tell you how often I have had the pouts because I am so slow. I enjoy all of your videos, but I had to take a moment and watch this gem twice
I've seen this one before and enjoyed it very much. Not sure if I commented or not but just wanted to say how much I enjoyed it. And I'm very happy you were able to get a longarm.
I’m looking at quilting my three quilts soon. They are about 5x 5 feet and I enjoyed making the tops this winter. I am not experienced in machine quilting so your videos are very helpful to me. Thank you.
I've attempted to do the quilting many times but finally got smart this past year and now send it to a long arm quilter. I decided to go this route because I put a lot of hours into a quilt top and I can wreck it in 10 minutes trying to quilt it. I have a small Baby Lock sewing machine with a small throat. My blood pressure would go through the roof every time I wrestled with the quilt and the sewing machine. I love the look of my quilts now. It is worth every penny to me and I have an awesome long arm quilter.
OMG, go slow and don't stress - Yes, yes, a thousand times yes. I have been practicing reminding myself to slow the [heck] down and "Enjoy the Process." As ever, I truly appreciate all your awesome videos and tips. You're the best mentor I've never actually met
Hi Karen, how very nice it is to see the experts, like yourself having problems and having to unpick! You have made me want to do more on my quilts. Thank you. Ps. Hi from cold, wet, windy Sydney, Australia. Cheers..
Another thought to add to your key and important instruction is for us to BREATHE while quilting. I used to tell my students this periodically because I noticed quilters holding their breath while quilting. We tense up when we hold our breath, and eventually this comes back to haunt us with fatigue and sore shoulders and necks. Thanks so much for your videos!
I hope this video can help me learn how the heck I can quilt and shove it all in the 'arm' hole of my domestic sewing machine. I love your channel, I feature you on my page and reccomed you to anyone I know who's new to quilting ☺💕🇨🇦
Column quilting has helped me get better. Only working with about 12-15 inches at a time. I’m still pretty bad at FMQ, but I still keep trying for better results. Practice is the key. LOVE the shower curtain idea.
Thanks for your videos. You are in my top 2 quilters to watch and number 1 for giving me the confidence and tips that I need to move forward on this quilting journey. If I started a UA-cam channel I might title it "How Not to Quilt as a Beginner." 🤣 You seem to know what my channel would cover and give solutions for prevention. Again, thanks so much.
I'm about begin quilting my first machine quilted project. I've found a lot of information in all your videos that have encouraged me along my journey. Nothing gives more joy than see a gradchild so very excited to receive a longed for quilt. Thanks for sharing all you knowledge and experience.
Since I only do hand piecing and quilting I don’t have these issues. I just baste all three layers together so there is no shifting and then I use a quilting hoop rather than a rack. Much easier on the neck and back. And it is portable.
Great tips. I am guilty of #5-#8. I seem to always tense up and hunch my back. BUT I did love watching you stretch. Your videos are always very informative. Love watching you.
I have Avery small space - a small dining table. And cats. And have to do all of this in my bedroom. I’ve tried every trick and still have to reposition the sandwich pieces as I quilt, which is why I do t use backing with a direction in the pattern. Oy! I’m sure a walking foot would help but space for sandwiching is the biggest issue.
After 40 years of dressmaking I'm finally taking my first baby steps in learning quilting and have found your videos absolutely great for clear, concise explanations of what to pay attention to and what not to fuss over! Sitting last night with my first teeny practice top ( nine 8" blocks) laying out the blocks and fretting over placement I told myself firmly "Karen would say "Just get it done!"," lol, so I did and amazed myself as to how well it came out, mistakes notwithstanding. Tomorrow it's onwards with the quilt sandwich but I will make time to practice the actual quilting on a spare block, so thank you for the timely tip. And thank you for all the videos, I'm sure I'll understand more of them as I progress!
Wow, I’m at the stage trying my hand at ruler work. Oh my God, I did realize it was going to be so hard. The worst part is the bird nest at the beginning and end of a run. 😩 Hopefully I will see the air at the end of this tunnel. Thanks for sharing your inspiration. 👍❤️😊
@@JustGetitDoneQuilts unfortunately the nest is within my 4 1/2” block. Trying my hand at orange peel. Not sure what the best method for anchoring stitches.
👍👍🥰 Hey a new long arm! How exciting for you!! 👍💕🌸 I’m looking for a “PRE-OWNED” (what regular people call USED 😂) long arm myself!! So...if you know of anything, please please let me know!! Thanks a bunch Karen!! And btw, I love ALL your videos! I always learn SO much and it’s very important things I’ll use for life!! The kind of knowledge that really matters!! So...thanks so much for taking your time to show us “younguns” down the chain, how to do it right!! 🙏🙏🙏
Karen - thank you for providing the how too’s and what not to do’s. I started to teach myself to quilt in the first lockdown here in the UK. Have done a few tops but just about to do my first complete sandwich. So, I will take things slowly and take each step at a time. I may have to purchase a long arm, my domestic has a small harp! Large quilts I will sent off to be done professionally! Thank you for you videos just love them 😁
I just love your videos and appreciate you so very much. Thank you for making them...I have no quilters near me so your lessons and tips and tricks are vital for my learning!
I get excited when I see you have made a new video Karen. You offer such common sense and useful advice to solve mishaps that sound so very familiar to me. I am one of those that always seems to underestimate how long a project is going to take and then I'm pushing myself when I'm tired to 'just get it done'; excuse the pun! Loving what you do, thank you. Take care
I'm going to the dollar store today to pick up the clear shower liner. For the last week I have been using jack the ripper to take out the quilting of a large baby quilt because I used the wrong color. 🤥
Yes, we absolutely do love watching quilting. I don't like when it's slowed down. I like to watch the whole thing. Including the videos, I don't like when they're real short under 20 minutes. I would like to see everything that is happening.
What a great post! I’m on the verge of being an “empty nester”, and quilting is one of the fibre arts I plan to try. Glad I found (okay, UA-cam led me to) your channel!
Thanks for the quilting tips! I am always disappointed with my quilting, hopefully using your tips will improve the looks of my quilts! Thanks for sharing!~ Joyce
There are other challenges on the large piece but if you practice on smaller pieces and develop skill in the small, that muscle memory can be applied to the large.
A lesson I just recently learned: don’t get too into the audio book you’re listening to while quilting. I pieced more than 10 HSTs with no thread in my bobbin because I was so wrapped up in the story. 🤣
LOL
Lol!!! Oh no!
Or while driving. I've missed many exits because I'm deep into the book. And I've tried it while quilting and it just doesn't work
I sewed an entire border inside-out because of a good book. ugh. LOL.
You just joined my club!!! Did the same thing last week!
One more tip. Turn to a lovely quilting tutorial like this for encouragement before you get started. A smile brings out some quilt magic and happy sewing. Thank you for spreading your encouragement.
Her advice is so deep Im obsessed
Pace not race. I love it. I’m back at quilting after 25 years hiatus. I’m 74 now and amazed at how much I remember and how much I’ve forgotten. My practice quilts are abominable but my family thinks I’m a gifted crafter so who am I to argue. I’m binge watching your channel. Cheers from N.B.
I understand. I took a break also. About a year's worth. It's amazing how much I have forgotten.
@@janicejettsitter2097 I too have taken a break for past year but have become inspired this summer - mainly due to a new quilting friend. I hope to finish several quilts I had tucked away.
I make mistakes all the time! My quilting looks like a preschool art class!
I don’t care! My quilts are perfectly imperfect! Love the video! Just went to the dollar store!
The nonslip shelf liner works great❤️
I could have written this comment! I’m too impatient and too hard on myself! I need to chill a bit and I need to be more careful. I’m loath to rip out bits gone wrong but I am going to have to do this to improve my quilting. I think I may be being just a bit too kind on myself!
You're a bad'ass. No hostages. You go gurl! That's why I like to see them videos. Thanks
Never sewed a quilt..started making Chemo port pillow for donation..a stranger invited me to church sewing ministry..We were given boxes of scraps..BECAUSE OF YOUR VIDEOS..I am a STAR..I love strip quilting.. we make quilts lap throws for nursing homes ..many children fighet quilts. You are my main go teacher! I love the colors. Now moving on to stashing..thank you for teacher style.
If you don’t mind, I would be very interested in how you get involved with charity sewing. I’m particularly interested in making small quilts for sick children and perhaps for the NICU, but I have no idea how one gets started with this. I would welcome any tips and advice.
I forget every time I’m finishing a quilt that quilting tired leads to using a seam ripper. Usually once I mess up once I realize I’m tired and stop for a bit.
Karen, Karen, Karen. You're amazing, if I haven't said so before. You just throw it out there so casually, and you're so good at quilting tutorials. You're someone I could have a drink with and talk quilts. Jan from down under
I just love this comment. The fact that you are happy with your imperfections is perfect.
This makes me smile, with not only all your hints, but the fact that I know your doppelganger! Even stranger is the fact that you both have the same voices....I am ALWAYS doing a double take when I see your videos!!
The quilting part of quilting. Also known as "The Reason Why You Are Crying BEFORE You Cry Putting on the Binding." Oh, the dread. Thank you for this.
I like that saying...so very true
One of my favorite bits of advice from you is using a timer. It reminds me to quilt in chunks of time, not marathons. I'm happier with my outcomes when part of my time is not spent ripping out because I was tired and should have stopped. You always bring such helpful information. Thank you for all you bring us!
thank you
It's a great idea for any kind of craft that you may get lost in and end up not moving for hours!
Vorrei chiederti delle cose, sto iniziando con il quilting ma il piedino preme troppo sulla stoffa e non capisco il motivo
TY Karen! Uggg I rush quilting and for some reason I'm completely shocked at how much time it takes to do correctly...lol every time!🤪
I know...it takes so long
Thank you so much. I drive myself scatty with small imperfections which then makes quilting a chore or i ruin projects repeatedly unpicking. Hopefully i can now learn to live with these and enjoy quilting again 😅
Good morning. When I started quilting, I would rush through the quilting part anxious to check it off my list of to-do’s...and often end up with more problems to solve. Here are my 8 tips for getting the best results. It will take more time but good quilting makes your piecing shine.
I am glad that you showed the mistakes and what it looks like when you pick out the mistakes. And mistakes I do know!! This was a VERY helpful video Karen thank you!! I have something to tell you!!! I bought a Juki TL 2010 mid arm!!!! I am so excited!!! I tried a long arm at my favorite fabric store and it was too vibrational for me. It was fun and it looked really cool, but I am used to FMQ while sitting down! So I saved and I was able to buy the Juki!!! I am so happy!!! I started a new job last month, and since I have been in training, I am too tired to do anything with it so far. It has been sitting on my desk staring at me. This Saturday I am firing it up! I am so excited!!!!!! I would have told you when I got it, but I think I am still in a state of shock LOL!!! I hope you are doing well!! Happy March!!!
Thank you Karen. Pace, don't race, pace, don't race. Got it!
Can you talk a bit more about the bunching and how we should be sewing so the fabric doesn't pucker
I do my quilting practice on 10 inch blocks of fabrics I'm no longer a fan of. That way i know I'll eventually have enough blocks to turn them into a quilt as you go quilt. That way the practice feels more productive.
👍
Thanks for that great idea, Jan. I’m definitely going to try that!!
Brilliant idea!!
That’s a great tip!
Great idea
Karen, you and Jenny Doan from Missouri Star Quilting Co have both inspired me to try quilting for myself. I have my fabric, some batting from a previous project that I have left over, and I'm going to attempt my first quilt project this week. Thank you for your advice and inspiration. A grateful fan from Australia.
Wendy, go for it! 🌴🌴 I'll be cheering you on from Southern California. 🌴🌴 Take care and be safe 😷
@@dcinrb8538 thank you! You too!!!
Yes! Karen, Jenny Doan and Donna Jordan from Jordan Fabrics are my three go to ladies. So grateful for their talents and willingness to share!
We need more Dollar store sewing hacks ❤️😁
No dollar stores here! Pity, you girls seem to buy from them constantly xxx
Yes Karen a great idea or using objects not meant for sewing for sewing.
@@maureenkomperda3421 my best is using pool noodles to make my sandwiches. Brilliant idea. Makes the task doable on a tabletop, a bit at a time. 🤗
I don't even quilt... Not sure what I'm doing here, but it was interesting 👍😅
Hahahaha Me neither but after all her videos I'm going to start quilting really soon. I'm in love now. 😃
You will be! I have done one.
You should, it’s great!
2funny! 🤣 Love it! This is a great video!
Be careful! This was me and then...
Hey Karen, What about the old saying that "the mistake only counts if you can see it while riding by full speed on a galloping horse"? Thanks for this. You are great to watch!
Really helpful! Piecing is my favorite part. So I find I rush the quilting.
Omg Karen! You are my saving grace tonight. Ready to quilt some flying geese tonight aaaaaaaahhh I wish I had a pillow to scream into. It was like you were in my sewing room telling me. Don’t forget to practice that choice on a quilt sandwich as error after error ensued. Thread breaking, no gloves, wrong quilting foot, it was as if You were sitting on my shoulder at each turn. I finally stopped quilting and decided to view this video again on the couch. TY for saving me from the quilt mess on my practice piece and not on my nephew’s quilt. Tomorrow is another day!
So hard to take that step backwards to practice
Over ambitious me. I have been sewing a long time. I had never tackled a quilt. When I finally had an opportunity for a class, it had started then covid hit and it is still unfinished. So my granddaughter loves Elsa/Frozen and this Nana got a big idea to make her a princess quilt, for a full sized bed.
I actually got the top completed, had a devil of a time trying to make the quilt sandwich the size was difficult to get stretched. I have it stitched in rows and need to finish other directions. It is not perfect but so far no folds. And of course, it needs to be finished by her birthday. It has been a daily project, stressful, with a few meltdown moments. Next time I will know all the pitfalls. Fingers crossed the rest of the quilting and trim go ok.
Thanks Karen, I am listening while I am quilting my sons triangle quilt... First time of FMQ... 😁🍾🍫
It's really exciting but I do not fight against myself. This is my quilting sampler quilt and I try the first time... My son loves it from first stitch. He is now seven years old ❤️
I love making tops but finishing and quilting scares the snot out of me. Hopefully this year that will change
Start on something small like a table topper. I actually started on a pot holder and then went to several table toppers and then started the quilting on an actual quilt. If you start on smaller items, it helps you get used to what it feels like having something so bulky under the needle. It really is fun I promise!!
Raven Smokedancer great suggestion Raven!
Snap
I use Excel to help "lay out" my quilt. My CPA son thinks it's hilarious. Primarily, when working in rows, it helps me keep track of which blocks are in which row (by number). I'm still a beginner, so no worries about semi-circles, or geese flying about. ;-)
I can't tell you how much I need this right now. I feel so overwhelmed with my lap quilt and my grandmother's 1968 Kenmore. I love your videos!
I'm just starting my 2nd quilt. I feel like I dont know anything about sewing or my machine. There are so many options for tools and attachments and "Do I need a quilting arm?"
So much to learn! I like your videos best. So now I will just breathe and take my time. Thanks for the encouragement.
#8 is probably the best tip ever. And remember the why/who the end is for. Great video.
Thank you for showing mistakes- it help me to know there is hope for me!!!😀😀😀‼️
I'm only on my 2nd quilt ever and have made everyone of these mistakes. lol Thanks for the tips!
This is so helpful! The rushing and quilting while tired ... I know these two things well!🤦♀️
Finished is better than perfect!
I used to be intimidated by free motion quilting but now it’s all I do. It can be a challenge at times( I use a domestic machine) but it’s always worth it.
As always, thank you for sharing your knowledge. I actually made a pot holder and a tissue holders this week. The binding on the pot holder was still wonky, my mitered corners are different sizes, and some of my sew lines veer off but I think it looks beautiful. Can’t wait for your next video.
During my last quilting zoom meet up, I was complimented on my precise piecing, and I have your trifecta tips to thank!
🤗
I’ve never made a quilt but I’ve been watching you for a year now. You’d think I’d have taken your advice by now, right?! Well, I’ve found THE fabric I want to make my dream quilt from. Problem? I can’t make myself cut into it! It’s perfect but I don’t have the perfect pattern idea yet! I refuse to wait another year!
First lesson: Don't compare yourself to others. If you do it, you'll never be satisfied with your own work.
Second lesson: Those practice pieces can be made into pet beds and charity quilts. Trust me, a snuggle bug doggo is not the quilting police. Just make sure there are no toe catchers.
Very good tips here Karen. That clear shower curtain works a charm.
Just seen a lot of photos of quilts at this years Festival of Quilts in Birmingham UK. It saddens me to know I need more years ahead of me than I have before I would become half as good as I am. I think I’m going to make a quilt for all the members of my family and anytime after doing that will be a bonus. 😁
I do love you AND your ideas!
I took my practice piece and bound it. Now it sits on my computer chair so that my legs don't stick when I'm wearing shorts/skirt. Reuse reuse reuse!
Omg...a pet bed! Great idea for what l'm currently working on!
I keep my practice pieces as a catalog of the quilts I’ve given away. Pictures don’t do the fabric justice and this way I keep a small part of every quilt I make.
Come on, Karen. Girls just wanna have fun!😁
I'm 5 mins from death, too old to get good enough to compete at Houston, but young enough to play w various machines, new tech, and learn more with each project, or rather learn what's wrong from each project I make.
Right now im discovering, after many videos, I just don't get the whole concept of trimming different types of blocks. I can do HST blocks, lining the diagonal seam w the diagonal ruler line, but what about blocks w/o diagonals? I'm lost w my rulers and cutters and where to trim.
So I'm looking for a video of yours to try and get that now that my rug w sewn strips cut into blocks is almost done. (Well, that's what I learned was wrong this time!)Thanks for your great vids. Know we sure appreciate your teaching us.☮❤🙋
Thanks for all your great tips. I just finished quilting my first sandwich and neither my back or shoulders are hurting. :)
Love the tips and advice in this video. Thank you Karen for encouraging us how to be better quilters and how not to be so hard on ourselves. I piece together leftover orphan blocks and practice my free motion skills or stitch in the ditch on them before I dive into my real project. I feel like I'm not wasting those leftovers while practicing quilting.
👍
Karen,
As usual, you addressed too many of my quilting issues :)
I’ve never been very good at accepting anything less than perfection from myself. Sewing has always been a release for me but quilting is very different from sewing. I assumed my years of sewing garments would make quilting fairly easy,, how wrong I was!
Your input is always helpful and so entertaining. It makes me I believe I too can accomplish this. Now,,,,, if I can just get past that perfection issue!
My love from the (beginnings) spring fields of Ohio. Hope you and your family are melting as well 💜
🤗
I definitely picked a mistake and seam-ripped it to correct. I made sure to sleep on the decision to pick it first. In the morning decided it was worth pick out the mistake and correct it.
I liked the shower curtain tip to layout a quilting design! Thank you.
I always say " it's not perfect, but I'm not striving for perfection, I'm striving for progress."
I say it is perfectly imperfect.
@@lizwetherington1618 I say, "leave me alone, I'm having fun"!😄😄😄
Can I just say I love your channel but your hair is beautiful.
You are so awesome to share these steps for quilting on a sewing machine. The key for me is SLOW DIWN. I seem to always be in a hurry before I even realize it...whew! Thank you Karen.
I hear you. It almost like I need a metronome
Oh my gosh ! I had to zoom in to see these ridges! Do I really have to be concerned about a little bit of that!
I think I’d never quilt again ! Here’s to the fun of getting it done! 😀
Some issues don't photograph well. But the point is that you don't need to be so concerned
This was so encouraging! I have tried quilting but gave up due to perfectionism!!. I pay so much now to have ot done - think I will try again. Thank you for this helpful, practical and encouraging segment!
This video is the BEST Karen. We all need that posture reminder, but the point you make about the speed of videos compared to our real time speed is priceless. I can't tell you how often I have had the pouts because I am so slow. I enjoy all of your videos, but I had to take a moment and watch this gem twice
I've seen this one before and enjoyed it very much. Not sure if I commented or not but just wanted to say how much I enjoyed it. And I'm very happy you were able to get a longarm.
Thank yiu
I’m looking at quilting my three quilts soon. They are about 5x 5 feet and I enjoyed making the tops this winter. I am not experienced in machine quilting so your videos are very helpful to me. Thank you.
I've attempted to do the quilting many times but finally got smart this past year and now send it to a long arm quilter. I decided to go this route because I put a lot of hours into a quilt top and I can wreck it in 10 minutes trying to quilt it. I have a small Baby Lock sewing machine with a small throat. My blood pressure would go through the roof every time I wrestled with the quilt and the sewing machine. I love the look of my quilts now. It is worth every penny to me and I have an awesome long arm quilter.
Hi there Karen hope you and all your Family are keeping well ❤️❤️😊
Love watching your video with all of your Amazing hints & tips 👏👏👏❤️❤️❤️ xxxxx
Just love your attitude!
OMG, go slow and don't stress - Yes, yes, a thousand times yes. I have been practicing reminding myself to slow the [heck] down and "Enjoy the Process." As ever, I truly appreciate all your awesome videos and tips. You're the best mentor I've never actually met
Great video. Liked the curtain idea So true about being tired and quilting. Everything really
Great video!! I’ve made many of these mistakes. Now I have some ideas so I dont need to pull out my seam ripper so often. Thanks!!
Hi Karen, how very nice it is to see the experts, like yourself having problems and having to unpick! You have made me want to do more on my quilts. Thank you. Ps. Hi from cold, wet, windy Sydney, Australia. Cheers..
So happy to know that there a few things I'm doing right for once..❤
Another thought to add to your key and important instruction is for us to BREATHE while quilting. I used to tell my students this periodically because I noticed quilters holding their breath while quilting. We tense up when we hold our breath, and eventually this comes back to haunt us with fatigue and sore shoulders and necks. Thanks so much for your videos!
The breath and the clench...two biggies
Yep, breathe and "shoulders down"
I look forward to your videos, they make my day.
You give me the courage to try! LOL Definitely need more practice before I tackle the real quilt, I begin to think it's possible! 😁👍
I hope this video can help me learn how the heck I can quilt and shove it all in the 'arm' hole of my domestic sewing machine. I love your channel, I feature you on my page and reccomed you to anyone I know who's new to quilting ☺💕🇨🇦
Column quilting has helped me get better. Only working with about 12-15 inches at a time. I’m still pretty bad at FMQ, but I still keep trying for better results. Practice is the key. LOVE the shower curtain idea.
Awesome alliteration! Love your videos!!
Thanks for your videos. You are in my top 2 quilters to watch and number 1 for giving me the confidence and tips that I need to move forward on this quilting journey. If I started a UA-cam channel I might title it "How Not to Quilt as a Beginner." 🤣 You seem to know what my channel would cover and give solutions for prevention. Again, thanks so much.
Be easy on yourself...we've all been there
I'm about begin quilting my first machine quilted project. I've found a lot of information in all your videos that have encouraged me along my journey. Nothing gives more joy than see a gradchild so very excited to receive a longed for quilt. Thanks for sharing all you knowledge and experience.
Great info. I appreciate you. Thank you for sharing your vast knowledge on all things quilting!!!!🥰🥰❤💚💙💜
Thanks Karen, I haven’t venture pass my walking foot, but it will be in the near future. Thanks for all your tips. 👍❤️😊
Thank you for these reminders!
Since I only do hand piecing and quilting I don’t have these issues. I just baste all three layers together so there is no shifting and then I use a quilting hoop rather than a rack. Much easier on the neck and back. And it is portable.
Thank you sincerely for the tips
Great tips. I am guilty of #5-#8. I seem to always tense up and hunch my back. BUT I did love watching you stretch. Your videos are always very informative. Love watching you.
Same here! My massage therapists can tell when I’ve been doing FMQ!
I have Avery small space - a small dining table. And cats. And have to do all of this in my bedroom. I’ve tried every trick and still have to reposition the sandwich pieces as I quilt, which is why I do t use backing with a direction in the pattern. Oy! I’m sure a walking foot would help but space for sandwiching is the biggest issue.
Whatever you’ve changed about your hair, it looks awesome!! 💓
Thank you
Im working on sons quilt now which is my second quilt and im taking my time still learninf for sure
After 40 years of dressmaking I'm finally taking my first baby steps in learning quilting and have found your videos absolutely great for clear, concise explanations of what to pay attention to and what not to fuss over! Sitting last night with my first teeny practice top ( nine 8" blocks) laying out the blocks and fretting over placement I told myself firmly "Karen would say "Just get it done!"," lol, so I did and amazed myself as to how well it came out, mistakes notwithstanding. Tomorrow it's onwards with the quilt sandwich but I will make time to practice the actual quilting on a spare block, so thank you for the timely tip. And thank you for all the videos, I'm sure I'll understand more of them as I progress!
Moving from Dressmaking to quilting is harder than you think
@@JustGetitDoneQuilts I am finding this out!
I’ve discovered that quilting has a similar but different skill set too. It takes longer to reach your end results compared to dressmaking.
Wow, I’m at the stage trying my hand at ruler work. Oh my God, I did realize it was going to be so hard. The worst part is the bird nest at the beginning and end of a run. 😩 Hopefully I will see the air at the end of this tunnel. Thanks for sharing your inspiration. 👍❤️😊
The nest is fine as long as it's off the quilt top. It will get trimmed off when you square the quilt up
@@JustGetitDoneQuilts unfortunately the nest is within my 4 1/2” block. Trying my hand at orange peel. Not sure what the best method for anchoring stitches.
Bed quilts are way too heavy for me, luckily, so I make lots of wall art. You can't see any mess on the back as it's against the wall!
@@carmenbailey1560 get a machine w a lockstitch, best add ever!
Karen, thank you so much for sharing your tips and tricks. They have helped me immensely.
Thank you so much, from a very novice quilter 🇦🇺
👍👍🥰 Hey a new long arm! How exciting for you!! 👍💕🌸 I’m looking for a “PRE-OWNED” (what regular people call USED 😂) long arm myself!! So...if you know of anything, please please let me know!! Thanks a bunch Karen!! And btw, I love ALL your videos! I always learn SO much and it’s very important things I’ll use for life!! The kind of knowledge that really matters!! So...thanks so much for taking your time to show us “younguns” down the chain, how to do it right!! 🙏🙏🙏
Karen - thank you for providing the how too’s and what not to do’s. I started to teach myself to quilt in the first lockdown here in the UK. Have done a few tops but just about to do my first complete sandwich. So, I will take things slowly and take each step at a time. I may have to purchase a long arm, my domestic has a small harp! Large quilts I will sent off to be done professionally! Thank you for you videos just love them 😁
Just bought a FMQ foot to start on my home machine. Perfect timing for this video! Thank you!
Every single one of these tips is so true! BTW your hair looks great.
I agree. I think her hair looks absolutely fabulous. The grey is striking!
I just love your videos and appreciate you so very much. Thank you for making them...I have no quilters near me so your lessons and tips and tricks are vital for my learning!
I love your chats! They are inspirational and motivational.
I get excited when I see you have made a new video Karen. You offer such common sense and useful advice to solve mishaps that sound so very familiar to me. I am one of those that always seems to underestimate how long a project is going to take and then I'm pushing myself when I'm tired to 'just get it done'; excuse the pun! Loving what you do, thank you. Take care
Yes, slowing down is my great difficulty... and trying to get things done while I’m tired. Posture etc. great advice thanks, Karen. 🇦🇺
I’m like a horse heading to the barn at the end. I can have so many regrets if I don’t slow down
I'm going to the dollar store today to pick up the clear shower liner. For the last week I have been using jack the ripper to take out the quilting of a large baby quilt because I used the wrong color. 🤥
With posture you should put your scapula in your back pocket ❤❤❤
Yes, we absolutely do love watching quilting. I don't like when it's slowed down. I like to watch the whole thing. Including the videos, I don't like when they're real short under 20 minutes. I would like to see everything that is happening.
What a great post!
I’m on the verge of being an “empty nester”, and quilting is one of the fibre arts I plan to try. Glad I found (okay, UA-cam led me to) your channel!
I started hand quilting an entire quilt, and I love it.
Thanks for the quilting tips! I am always disappointed with my quilting, hopefully using your tips will improve the looks of my quilts! Thanks for sharing!~ Joyce
Love the alliteration!!!😊 The tips are so helpful! Practicing on a smaller practice piece is nothing like doing the full quilt! Much more difficult!
There are other challenges on the large piece but if you practice on smaller pieces and develop skill in the small, that muscle memory can be applied to the large.
Getting a bit better at it. Will just persevere!
Thank you so very much! I’m about to begin quilting one and will take all of this advice! ESPECIALLY to not try to get it done all at once!
Yeah! You are so helpful!
Thank you again for these great tips!