Quilting

Long Arm Quilting Machines

December 28, 2019 by David Allen Leave a Comment

Quilting practice is currently easy and convenient. There is no need of wasting too much time using traditional quilting machines. The Long arm-quilting machine works even faster than the hand-quilting machine. No wonder it has lately gained huge popularity. It is used to simultaneously sew a quilt top, a quilt backing and a quilt batting into a finished quilt top. Long arm machines have caused the rise in recent years for quilting activity.

The quilters can easily have their quilts ready without tolerating the previous time consuming process linked with usual machine quilting. The emergence of the long arm machine has caused the launch of new quilting services. Therefore the sewers could have a professional long arm service anytime they want as long as they are willing to pay a fee in exchange.
Typically, this machine consists of a 10 to 14 foot table, a sewing machine head and numerous rollers.Each feature is described below:

The table
Each long arm-quilting machine has a table region. The table’s size in terms of length can range from 10 to 14 feet. It has a flat surface consisting of a thin layer of transparent plastic. You could place all your patterns on this surface. If you want to make larger quilts, it is important to select a larger table.

The sewing head
This is made of a sturdy industrial metal. The sewing head is guided using computerized controls or hand controls on both sides. By placing the head on wheels that run on metal tracks along the machine frame, you can cause a full range movement.

Some sewing machines heads have a laser pointer to guide the user along the pantographs. The pantographs are patterns, which are placed underneath the clear plastic part of the table’s surface. The hand driven machine head has special handles onto which the user can direct the machine along the textile.
He or she can freely choose the best designs. A computer machine head is quick and convenient. The quilter’s only task is to press a keyboard button. The long arm machine will sew the selected pattern onto the quilt. The user’s assistance is not needed.

The Metal frame
The machine frame has numerous rolling bars. These rollers hold the textile layers together. On the side of the quilting machine, one can see two rollers called feeder bars. They have a muslin leader onto which the quilt top and the backing can be attached with sewing pins and zippers. Then the fabric can be stretched out tightly on the belly bar. The sewer is free to choose how tight the stitches should be.

Long arm controls
Every machine you are likely to buy has electronic controls serving different roles. They help the sewer to make any adjustments at the same time as the fabric covers the area where the machine runs.

Using the long arm quilting machine, a sewer can quilt two types of designs. One type of a design is called a pantograph and the other design is called custom work. A good machine can help you finish any type of a design quickly and efficiently. In Northern America you can find at least ten world-class quilting machine manufacturers. So, you have many models to choose from.

How to choose the best fabric for quilting

December 14, 2019 by David Allen Leave a Comment

Choosing the best fabric for quilting is one of the most important things you will have to do before you start to make your quilt. Not only will you have to decide what particular material you will use but you will also have to do decide which colours you will be using on your quilting pattern. If you’re making a patchwork for instance, then you will probably need to choose a few different colours. So it is vital that you choose colours that blend well with each other.

An easy way for choosing which colours work well with each other is to use a colour wheel. This will show you exactly which colours blend well with each other by showing you which are primary, secondary and which are
intermediate. By using the colour wheel you know almost instantly whether the combination you have been thinking about will work well and be a good choice of fabric for quilting. Obviously it’s your own personal choice which colours you use but it is also important that they match the use for which you are making the quilt for.

If you’re really unsure when choosing fabric for quilting, then there are many places you can look for help. The first place to look would be a local fabric shop. Here you will be able to touch the individual fabrics and to compare which colours look good with each other. If you don’t happen to have a fabric shop in your local area then you can have a look at some of the many web sites on the Internet for more advice. These will generally have free quilting patterns that you can look at and compare which colours and fabrics will be best for you. It shouldn’t take too long before you know exactly what you need to make your quilt.

Brother PQ1500s High Speed Quilting and Sewing Machine Reviews

December 14, 2019 by David Allen Leave a Comment

The Brother PQ1500S Straight Stitch Sewing Quilt Club Machine has been around for several years but is still a favorite for quilters that like using a machine to piece fabric tops, and do their quilting with a straight stitch. It’s a reliable sewing machine that has received good reviews from the quilting community. This machine is priced in the upper-mid cost range but it’s heavy duty and operates like an industrial model sewing machine, which makes it worth the investment.

It’s two to three times faster than most home portables and made for durability and longevity. This featured Brother Sewing Machine has all metal gears which will make it last much longer than those with plastic interior parts. Metal gears also holdup well when working on heavier and layered fabrics (like quilts). The PQ1500s is one of the fastest home sewing machines on the market, sewing up to 1500 stitches per minute. It also has one of the largest sewing surface areas available. It comes with a generous accessory kit and an over-sized fabric carrying case on wheels.

The Brother PQ1500S sewing machine is a good all purpose machine that is easy to use on large scale sewing projects. It is very user friendly and has a fast learning curve so it’s perfect for beginners and experienced quilters alike. The large arm, knee lift, F.A.S.T. needle threader, and thread cutter are time savers and make it very convenient to use. And the extension table has room for sewing large projects, quilts, or even drapes. Quilters that use the Brother PQ1500S say it makes quilt assembly much easier and faster.

The presser foot can be operated with the knee lifter, and the foot pedal controls the stitching speed, leaving your hands free to manage the fabric. On the front of the Brother PQ1500s you will find a manually operated reverse lever for backstitching and reinforcing, and a color coded upper tension setting dial. The needle stop position is also programmable so you don’t need to turn the balance wheel to raise the needle. When the needle is down the needle stop position button lights up so you can easily see where your needle is at any given time.

I love the fact that even when the extension sewing bed is being used, you can still access the vertical bobbin area so you don’t have to stop everything to change the bobbin. And there’s a quick automatic bobbin loader when you do need to change. I also like the metal bobbins that come in the accessory package. That’s a personal preference though. I just think they are more durable but some people like the clear plastic bobbins so they can easily see how much thread is left. You can use either kind on this Brother model. There is also a telescoping thread guide bar so you can use cone style threads and a fast bobbin winder.

The exclusive pin feed mechanism is great for piecing together patchwork fabrics. It allows you to get a perfect point where the quilt pieces come together. Once the presser foot is lifted the pin automatically drops for safety. No fabric slipping or sliding. And the four feed dog settings give you precision fabric control. The feed dogs can be adjusted with an easy turn of a dial and they drop automatically when the presser foot is lifted. Another handy feature is the fabric separator for sewing together fabrics with different weights without puckering.

The PQ1500s model comes with an automatic thread cutter that cuts both top and bobbin threads with the push of a button and then instantly resets itself for the next use. No more looking for where you laid your scissors down the last time you used them.

Advantages of the Brother PQ1500s over other quilting machines –

1500 stitches per minute speed
Extra large work area
Exclusive pin mechanism for precision stitches
Automatic needle threading and thread cutting

Disadvantages

Includes only a straight stitch
Somewhat heavy to move for a portable machine
A bobbin out indicator light would be a nice added feature

Brother PQ-1500S Features and Functions

The Brother PQ-1500S comes with lots of high end machine features that will make your quilting projects automated and easy. Read on for a comprehensive list of what this quilting machine will do.
It has an exclusive adjustable pin feed that keeps the fabric layers even and prevents slippage. The mechanism comes up from below the needle plate eliminating the need for a walking foot attachment
Sews an amazing 1500 stitches per minute for experienced machine quilters
Has an automatic needle threader
Automatic thread trimmer button that cuts top and bottom threads and resets for the next project
Four adjustable feed dogs for fabric control.
Large 12” x 18” bed extension to accommodate larger quilting projects and fussy fabrics
An oversized 6” x 9” throat area to accommodate quilts and large projects
Fast bobbin winding
Programmable needle stop position
An array of adjustable presser feet allow a wide range of quilting and sewing functions
Knee and hand levers for presser foot lifting
Stitch length up to 7mm for machine basting
A telescoping thread stand to allow cone style thread
Unique fabric separator that helps when sewing different fabric weights without puckering
Sewing area light
Reverse stitch lever
Measures 12.6″ T × 7.9″ D × 19.3″ W
Built in handle
Foot stitching control
Manufacturers US warranty – 25 years on parts, 5 years on electrical, 1 year on labor

Included Sewing Tools and Accessories – Check The Website You Order From For Confirmation Of This List

Plastic dust cover to protect machine when not in use
Rolling fabric storage case
Screwdrivers and cleaning brush
Presser foot knee lift
An assortment of machine needles and a case
Fabric separator attachment
Feed pin and changer
5 metal bobbins
Seam guide
Foot controller
Fabric extension table
Sewing feet –

1. General purpose foot
2. Rolled hem foot
3. Zipper foot
4. Invisible zipper foot
5. ¼” foot for quilt patchwork piecing
6. Quilting foot
7. Walking foot

Janome MC6500P Review – Memory Craft Sewing Quilting Machine

December 14, 2019 by David Allen Leave a Comment

Janome 6500P Quilting Machine, First a little history of Janome sewing machines. Previously the company was the New Home Sewing Machine Company, which has been in business since 1860. They are an industry leader in programmable computerized sewing machines and the first to offer professional style embroidery stitches. Janome machines are known for their ease of use and stitching quality.

The Janome Memory Craft 6500P is one of their best and most popular sewing machines with lots of quilting features. It’s a super modern sewing machine with lots of options to allow you to finish up quilts and other sewing projects quickly and easily. The computerized engineering offers an amazing array of features for the home quilter, in addition to sewing features for embroidery, monograms, garments, and home décor. This flexible Janome MC6500P Sewing Machine does it all. It’s a home quilting machine that professional sewists love. It’s priced in the upper-mid cost range so make sure you visit a sewing studio and try one out before you invest. I love it and think it’s definitely worth the money.

There are some elements that are especially handy for making quilts including a large 9” x 5” throat area that will accommodate big quilts, along with a 12” x 24” extension bed to give you a much larger sewing surface and support for the fabric. There is a knee lifter for raising the presser foot so you keep your hands on the project, and an advanced feed mechanism that works with thick, layered, or delicate fabrics. It sews fast too, up to 1,000 straight stitches per minute with professional speed control and flexibility. It’s the fastest Janome has ever offered.

The customizable and specialty stitch choices are very generous. The back-it LCD panel with a ten key selection display makes them easy to program. With 135 different stitch types over 4 different modes, there is a wide range from utilitarian to decorative. That translates to 391 stitch variations including 7 buttonholes. There are beautiful custom stitches such as the French Knot and Feathering. The Quilting mode has 69 patterns, 4 of which look like hand quilting. And the system memory will recall the last 3 settings you’ve programmed in case you need to go back and re-do a particular seam. There is a quick flip chart that shows all of the stitches that folds up from the back of the machine. And just in case you don’t sew in English there are 9 other languages included.

Another nifty feature is the exclusive independent bobbin winder. The bobbin loader is a drop in style and very easy to change – as long as you don’t have a project going. That’s a disadvantage. It seems if the Janome Company thought it was important enough to be able to wind a bobbin while still sewing they would have used a side bobbin loader so you don’t have to stop sewing to load the bobbin. Seems contradictory. But the bobbin mechanism is jam proof, which is a great feature. Janome recommends using plastic bobbins which aren’t my favorite but the advantage is you can see easily how much thread is left on the spool.

The automatic thread cutter will cut both the top and bobbin threads with push of a button. Or it can be programmed to cut automatically at the end of certain stitching combinations. And the automatic needle threader makes your set up time fast and easy.

The needle controls for the reverse, lock, and up/down settings are located right above the sewing area. There’s a light in the face plate along with a visible pressure gauge that lets you control how much pressure the sewing foot places on the fabric. Once you find the perfect setting for a particular project, you can see exactly how to get back to it every time.

The Janome MC6500P has die cast aluminum arm, bed, top cover and face plate. The internal gears are all metal it comes with a 25 year limited mechanical warranty. Metal gears allow top speed sewing without vibration and they last longer than plastic parts. The disadvantage of metal gears is the noise and weight. This machine weighs 27 pounds so it’s not made for toting to quilting class easily. This sewing machine is built like a tank and made to last.

Advantages of the Janome MC6500P Over Other Quilting Machines

Works well on a machine quilting frame when sewing large quilt projects.
Many programmable and automatic features that allow fast and easy quilting
Large number of different stitch and monogram styles.
Heavy duty construction made to last.

Disadvantages

The metal construction gives the Janome Memory Craft 6500P some extra weight making it less portable than some machines
Does not include a free arm for garment sewing
Doesn’t include a start stop button and the machine must be run by foot

Features & Functions

Back-lit LCD screen with stitch indicator
Ten key stitch selection in quilt, monogram, quilting, and direct modes
10 language selection
Memory function with recall for previous 3 stitch settings
Sews 1000 pm straight stitch & 700 pm zigzag
Auto stop at the end of buttonhole
Speed control lever & foot speed control
Knee control presser foot lifter & lever on back of Presser bar
9” x 5” throat area
12” x 24” extension bed
Front access 5 piece feed dogs with up & down control
SFS – Superior Feed System
External feed balancing dial
Separate bobbin winder with thread cutter
Jam proof, magnetic, top-loading full rotary bobbin hook system
Automatic thread cutter with memory
Built in needle threader
Industrial spool stand
Visible pressure gauge
Sewing lamp in face plate
Manual tension dial
Short folding handle
Size 19.5” W x 11.8” H x 8.6” D
Weighs 27 lb
13 standard feet that attach easily including:

1. Automatic buttonhole foot – There’s a feature in the machine to auto cut the thread when the buttonhole is finished
2. Satin stitch foot – For a dense zigzag sewing and decorative sewing
3. Open toe satin stitch foot – For sewing dense zigzag stitching & made of clear plastic making it easier to view underneath
4. Zigzag foot – For everything from straight to wide zigzag stitches
5. Blind hem foot – Just place the folded fabric against the black guide for an invisible hem
6. ¼” seam foot – Very handy for piecing quilt tops and top stitching
7. Cording foot – Three slots in this foot hold 1 to 3 in place while stitching over them
8. Zipper foot – Easily guides the seam along the zipper for side or center placement
9. Overcastting foot – Finishes off raw edges easily
10. Overedge Foot – Another edge finishing stitch to reduce raveling along the fabric edge
11. Open toe walking foot – Reduces shifting and puckering of layered fabrics. Feed dogs are incorporated into the foot itself which work in conjunction with the machine feed dogs to feed fabric layers evenly. The open toe configuration allows for a clear view of your work
12. Open toe basting/darning foot – A spring loaded foot for free motion quilting, embroidery, and monograms
13. Rolled hem foot – perfect for hems that are too small to sew by hand

Tools and Accessories Included

Accessory kit that includes extra needles, screwdrivers, seam ripper, large and small spool holders, 2 quilting bars to use for evenly spaced quilt seams, and more.

Stitches Types And Styles

Fold up stitch chart for quick reference
135 stitches across 4 modes totaling 391 including the buttonholes
7 buttonhole stitches – Square, rounded, keyhole, and more
Block and script monogram stitches – – 2 American alphabets & 2 European alphabets with accent marks. Each alphabet comes in both block style and script, along with upper and lower case letters. Also includes numbers.
Adjustable zigzag stitch
Stitch length to 5mm & width to 7mm
Individual, combination stitch editing
Elongation stitching
Mirror image stitching
Turnover stitch & reduction of monogram

Tin Lizzie 18DLS Longarm Quilting Machine

December 14, 2019 by David Allen Leave a Comment

The Tin Lizzie 18DLS Long Arm Quilting Machine is an affordable high quality long arm quilting machine, and the most popular machine the Company makes. It was introduced in 2006 and was one of the first lower cost machines on the market. It is designed for the home quilter in mind, yet has the high end features and size that a professional quilter needs.

If it were up to me I would put this machine in the mid arm quilting machine category instead of long arm. Mid arm machines generally range from 12” to 18” in the throat area so it’s at the highest range. But long arm quilting machines are usually thought of as industrial bedspread and comforter sewing machines. The Tin Lizzie 18 is truly a machine made for home quilting. Big enough to accommodate king size quilts, and yet compact enough to live in your spare bedroom. It’s the best of both worlds.

The Lizzie stitch, an automatic stitch regulator that is included in the Tin Lizzie 18, is a favorite feature with quilters. This helps keep all of the stitches on your quilt the same size. The auto up or down needle position setting helps minimize bending or breaking the needles, and allows the machine to move freely in any direction. And there is a rocker switch for turning directions on the Tin Lizzie. All of these standard features mean that your stitches remain a uniform length, and give you the flexibility to change speed or sewing direction without affecting the quality of the quilt.

Ergonomic handles with rubber grips adjust up and down for comfort and safety. And you can stand or sit while quilting when using a frame. Try using a rolling bar stool for ease of movement if you prefer sitting.

There are a number of other professional features included with this quilting machine. One is the laser light, which mounts on the back, and makes following paper patterns easy. Another is the capacity to use large bobbins. Nobody wants to refill the bobbin all the time. But when you are getting ready for a new bobbin, you can wind one automatically while you are still quilting. It saves time and the aggravation of having to stop for a tedious task when you’re on a roll. The hopping foot holds down the any thickness of sandwiched fabric and batting, and allows for stitching next to rulers and templates. And finally the oil reservoir with dip stick, keeps the bobbin area lubricated and keeps the oil off your quilt in addition to helping your machine last longer.

The Tin Lizzie 18DLS integrates easily with a computerized robotic add-on, called the Shirley Stitcher. It gives you the ability to quilt with computerized patterns or create your own design and save it into memory.

Tin Liz Lizzie 18DLS typically comes with a Falcon Frame or with the newer Phoenix Frame, which is made especially for the DLS machine. Make sure to check the specifications on the machine you are considering as some companies sell the components separately. Both frames can be expanded to 10 feet meaning you can make up to a king sized quilt with no problem. You can easily sew 12” patterns on a king sized quilt and you won’t have to turn the quilt. The quilt rolls onto the leader bars as you progress. The light weight sewing head mounts easily and glides smoothly along the rails. And the Tin Lizzie 18 can be used from the front or rear on these frames.

Features & Functions

Front handles with electronics
Throat space 18” x 6” with an actual quilting space of 15”
Digital Lizzie LCD stitch regulator
Adjustable 2 position laser light
Ergonomic handles
Needle Up
Needle Down
Single Stitch
Dual thread capability
Double bobbin capacity
Built in bobbin winder
Fully adjustable goose lamp
Multi thread holder
Super smooth machine head carriage
4 fabric clamps
5 year U.S. warranty on defects in materials and workmanship
Size 37” W x 17” H
Weighs 47 lbs

Tools and Accessories Included

M bobbins, metal and cardboard sides
Needle plate screwdriver
Bobbin tension screwdriver
Pack of 10 Groz-Beckert needles
Allen key
Superior King Tut thread sample spools
Two spool vertical thread stand
Rotary hook oil tube
Instructions & DVD

Stitches Types And Styles

The Tin Lizzie 18DLS Long Arm Quilting Machine has a single stitch that is controlled via the LCD panel at the front of the sewing head. The convenient panel also includes the stitch speed settings.

Learn More About The Tin Lizzie 18DLS Quilting Machine At The Tin Lizzie Company Website

The 5 Best Sewing Machines for Quilting – Beginners Guide

December 7, 2019 by David Allen Leave a Comment

Quilting is such an integrated part of sewing that we don’t think about needing sewing machines more capable of quilting. There are hundreds of sewing machines out there that present all the pretty bells and whistles, but they aren’t necessary when you need something for quilting.

The best type of quilting sewing machine is the one that you can grow to love and that can get the project done. The one key thing to remember when looking for a sewing machine for quilting is the straight stitch. The straight stitch is one of the most important stitches when it comes to piecing and quilting. In addition, you need a sewing machine that has a powerhouse motor that can work for hours, without pause and without overheating.

The 5 Best Sewing Machines for Quilting-Reviews

The list includes some of the top picks for sewing machines that specialize in quilting. These reviews include positive and negative things about the sewing machine to help you make an informed decision when purchasing.

1. Singer 9960 Quantum

stitches, 5 different monogramming fonts, and 13 styles. The Quantum comes with a stitch review setting that gives you maximum control every stitch, to ensure the perfect seam. The 9960 is equipped with a needle trimmer that will keep all your seams neat and tidy.

The Singer is also equipped with a speed control that lets you slow down the stitch during difficult seams, and speed up the stitch when you are free motion quilting.

The Pros

The Singer comes with an automatic needle threader, which takes most the hassle out of quilting.
Singer provides a quality sewing machine for quilting at less than half the price.

The Cons

The Singer brand sewing machines are only available in Canada and the United States. Consumers are advised against using this sewing machine with a voltage adapter, as it can cause some issues.

2. Brother PQ1500S

This Brother Brand sewing machine is perfect for all your quilting needs. The first feature you immediately notice is the extended table. This space is there to allow you more workspace without always having to adjust the fabric. This powerhouse of a sewing machine can produce over 1,500 stitches per minute, which is perfect for when you are free motion quilting.

The Brother has a built in needle threader and also comes equipped with thread trimmers to keep all seams as neat as possible. The Brother sewing machine also comes with complete range foot pressure alterations and a small motor that can power through even the toughest of fabric.

The Pros

The sewing machine has a sturdy frame that withstands hours of work without overheating, while minimizing the vibrations from the motor.
Despite being a powerhouse, the PQ1500S is quiet as it glides through the fabric.
All of the presser feet are very responsive.

The Cons

This sewing machine should not be used with a voltage adapter.
The stitch speed can be too fast for beginners in sewing.

3. Janome 2212

This Janome 2212 is great for quilting and is also superb for budgets and small spaces.

The Janome comes with the 12 stitch selections, easy turn dial settings, and 110 volt engine that will power through even the thickest of quilts. The Janome also has a stainless steel needle plate as well as a reverse lever to perform locking stitches.

The Pros

The Janome sewing machines are covered by a 25 year limited warranty. The company promises to replace sewing machine parts and fix electrical or computer errors.
The simple 12 built in stitch design gives quilters everything that they need to make elaborate quilts in half the time.

The Cons
It is not advised to use this product with a voltage adapter as it might cause damage to the sewing machine that would not be covered under their warranty.
If something goes wrong with your Janome sewing machine while it is covered under warranty, the pieces to fix your sewing machine could take days to arrive

4. Laura Ashley Limited Edition CX155LA

We have all heard of the brand, now they are producing quilting sewing machines to help you accomplish all your quilting goals.

This machine comes with 155 built in stitches and is capable of basic monogramming. The extended table is optimal for quilting and having enough space for all of your fabrics.

The top thread and bobbin both threads easily to produce high quality stitches. The company also provides tech support for all their sewing machines.

The Pros

This sewing machine weighs in at less than 15 pounds so it can travel with you. This makes it the perfect sewing machine to take to classes with you or when you are travelling.
The Laura Ashley quilting sewing machine is affordable and provides you with everything that you need to take your quilting projects to the next level.
The sewing machine has speed controls to help ensure the perfect seam every time. It also allows beginners to get a hang of the machine.

The Cons
This sewing machine is not qualified for international shipping. This sewing machine is available for residents of Canada and the United States.

5. JUKI TL-2000QI

This sewing machine is a powerhouse machine that can piece together any quilt with ease. The JUKI is equipped with an extended table to hold more fabric and allow you to focus more on the project at hand. This sewing machine is capable of exceeding up to 1,500 stitches per minute, allowing you to breeze through quilting.

The frame is constructed from aluminum die cast, which provides the machine with the stability it needs to run the motor with minimum vibrations. The needle is automatically threaded, which helps save time and patience for the operator. There is one pedal that is in control of the machine speed and an automatic thread trimmer to keep all the seams orderly.

The Pros

The machine is fast and provides a threaded needle and needle trimmers, so you are ensured the perfect seam every single time you operate the machine.
The JUKI is simple to use and many quilters find this simplicity a blessing when it comes to long quilting projects.
This sewing machine is capable of free motion quilting and many customers find that the extended table helps them keep their project all together.

The Cons

The fast speeds might not be the optimal choice for beginners as it can lead to issues with the seam if the operator isn’t careful.
This machine is only capable of straight stitching; however, straight stitching is the optimal stitch for quilting.

Best Sewing Machines for Quilting Features to Consider before Buying:

The modern sewing machines for quilting have more advanced features. In addition, many dealers are currently operating on the Internet. This explains why selecting and purchasing a machine is no longer a problem. As a quilting expert you should know what your needs are. Perhaps you want a portable quilting machine to use anywhere anytime. Further, you could be searching for an exclusive home use sewing machine.

Maybe you want to buy an electronic, a computerized or a manual sewing machine. These types of machines are available in the markets. Quilting sewing machines are numerous and you can hardly lack one that matches your tastes and preferences.

If you are budgeting for a brand new machine, the following tips and hints will guide you:

Consider the features of a new quilting sewing machine
There are many features you must consider before buying this type of a sewing machine. These include the following:

The most important thing is the needle position. A few machines enable the user to select the up or down needle position when the machines stop. You should hunt for a quilting machine with an automatic pivot feature. It will slightly raise the foot, with the needle in fabric, when you tap the power foot. This allows you to pivot the fabric. You can keep on controlling the fabric with your hands.

The Foot

Sewing machines for quilting have unique features that make them function smoothly. Look for a model, which has a quarter inch foot or one that is capable of moving the needle position to the left or right to set a seam. A suitable model should have a power foot that gives you many other options.
You could try the pricey free motion or walking foot styles. A machine that allows you to raise your presser foot with a knee lift lever is good. You do not have to stop using your hands. A few machines enable you to avoid using the foot pedal by pressing a button.

Threading features

A useful quilting machine allows you to stitch easily. You should make sure that a model has an automatic thread cutter for both top bobbin and top threads. It should also have an automatic needle threader and enable you to make straight and zigzag stitches. A thread has to feed perfectly if you are using a quilting machine. To ensure it, just go for a machine that has a large cone.

Arm space

An arm space, often-called throat has to be large if a quilting machine will help you make big quilts.

Accessories

All sewing machines have some useful accessories. These include extra bobbins, free motion foot, single-hole throat plate, software disks with patterns and so on.
If you are buying sewing machines for quilting for the first time, take your time to investigate the rest of the features. Above everything else follow these buying tips:

Visit the quilt shows- if you will buy a quilting machine this year; attend the quilt shows held during the autumn season. You can find great price deals, extra accessories, and advice.
Select your dealer thoroughly- a good sewing machine dealer will offer you a reasonable price and a warranty.
Choose your model wisely- some machine models are not the repairable locally and will cost you more money in future.

Examining Quilting History

If you’ve ever looked really closely at some of the fantastic quilting designs, you’ll know that there really is a lot of work that goes into each individual quilt. And if you’ve ever tried quilting yourself you’ll know that it isn’t as easy as it looks. So let’s have a look at quilting
history and where it all began.

Quilting history can actually be tracked back all the way to the 1600s. The first sign of quilting was actually dated back to the Egyptians in Egypt. It is stated that some of the pharoes actually wore quilted materials as clothes. There are statues that clearly show this was evident that have been discovered.

Next came the introduction of quilted clothing that contained three separate layers. This was used to keep warm during the very cold winter months. It was then discovered that this was a great material to be used on a bed at night.

In the 1800s quilting really became popular in the United States and there were many competitions created by women who really fell in love with the popular craft. Not much really changed in quilting history since then until the late 19th century. That’s when new easy techniques were created which actually saw quilting become less popular.

Again that changed in the 1960s where people wanted to start quilting again. People still
enjoy making quilts but because they have become so easy to create by the large corporations and the prices are so cheap, many people just decide to buy them rather than to go to the effort of creating their own.

Obviously this isn’t the case for everyone as people get a lot of enjoyment out of creating their own quilts. People like to create their own quilts and hand them down through the generations of their family to make great heirlooms.

Examining exactly what is quilting

Many people are confused at exactly what is quilting but are surprised to find out it has been around for centuries. It was originally used as a form of clothing to help people keep warm in winter. It was involved from sowing cloth together to form three different layers. This means the body can maintain its own temperature as it doesn’t lose much heat and also does not allow much of the cold to get in. Later on it became more
popular in households especially in America, where women used to create patchwork quilts and small pattern materials. These were quite often displayed on the wall or on the dining table. Many of them were actually
quite intricate designs and took quite a long time to make.

Due to the mass creation of quilts, the popularity of actually making them decreased over the years. We all know how easy it is nowadays to go out and buy a basic white quilt. They are measured on a scale of how warm
they are, which are called togs. They are actually very cheap to purchase these days which is why the art of making them really decreased in popularity.

That doesn’t mean to say that no one at all still makes them. There are literally thousands of people who get great enjoyment and satisfaction out of creating their own unique quilts. There is quite a large market of
buyers also who will readily pay for a quilt that has had a lot of work put into it. So when we look at exactly what is quilting, the answer is really a craft that is steadily beginning to become more popular all over
the world. Just look at the number of web sites that are devoted to quilting and you’ll soon realise that there are a lot of people who get great enjoyment from the craft.