Leaving aside all these thread hi-jackers who seem to think because they can't do something nobody else should try (now they'll all have the hump
), FMQ isn't entirely the work of the devil, but does require the p-word - practice.
Use good quality thread, of the same weight top and bottom. For practice, try 50wt cotton - needn't be expensive stuff, and have a larger needle - try a 90. Make up some quilt sandwiches. Polycotton may not be the best choice as the weave is tighter than plain cotton. Use those FQs you've had for years and don't really like, or get some calico. Then set up the machine, dropped feed dogs and darning foot, and stop with needle down, and play. The trick is moving the quilt to match the machine speed. It doesn't have to be flat out, find the speed you're comfortable with. If you can regulate the speed of the machine, you may find this helps, especially if the foot pedal is stiff. I'm not familiar with your machine, but my old Pfaff has a half-speed setting. If you have a straight stitch needle plate, put that in as that reduces any flexing of the needle if the quilt drags or you corner too fast. You may have to play with the tension a bit to get a balanced stitch. Usually adjusting the top tension will work. Once you find the right setting, make a note of it, then you can find it again. Other things to remember: don't take your hands off the fabric until the machine has stopped, with the needle down (if you haven't got this option make sure you turn the wheel before you let go completely) and take your foot off the pedal before turning the quilt round. Make sure you have a hold on the work before you set off again. And don't be over-critical of your efforts. They will get better, and only the quilt police (or those pesky
) will take a magnifying glass to it (and that's just sad
).
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