Showing machine quilting on a small sample isn’t as helpful as a demonstration on a throw or twin sized quilt would be. Learning how to manipulate that much bulk, in the machine, is what I (and probably others) need to see.
Oh how brave you are. Ive never actually seen anyone do that! Everyone demos w one little item and what's the use? I can free motion or use templates to quilt on a placemat. But as for an adult quilt of any size? Well, I can sort of hold it . . .😂
My favorite quilt was the one I made for my daughter in law as she was battling Lymphoma at age 30. It was a signature block, where there were over 140 squares for family and friends to sign. I found she has so many friends and is surrounded by so much love ❤. Happy to say, she is cancer free 😊
When I had cancer at age 41, the women in my guild each made me a block. When I was recovering and couldn’t do too much, I put them together. It gave me purpose beyond simple survival. I’m sure it helped boost my weakened immune system. I am a 20 year survivor this past May.
I'm a hand quilter. I started quilting in 2016, and never could get the hang of machine quilting. No matter how much basting I use, My layers always shift, and I end up with a giant mess. I eventually tried hand quilting in late 2019, and absolutely fell in love. With thick 8 weight thread, and big stitches, 4st/inch, I can finish a queen size quilt in 10 days. Not only that, but the repetitive, rhythmic movements of hand quilting really helped me during the COVID-19 pandemic. I always preferred hand work over machine work, so the few quilts I hand quilted are some of my most prized possession..
I am currently doing big stitch quilting on a medallion quilt. I am using 12 wt. Perle cotton and size 9 crewel needles. You are absolutely right about getting a rhythm going. But I am not as fast you are!
@@KelleysQuiltsandCruises Speed has nothing to do with it. Take your time, and have fun. As long as you are enjoying the process, that's all that matters..
Please be aware that "stitch in the ditch" will make your quilt less stable. You are stitching over stitching, not into your actual quilt sandwich. I like to stitch next to the ditch instead, just a quarter inch will do it. It makes a much stronger and sturdier quilt.
Yes, I do agree with you about not stitching directly into the “ditch”! To me the quilt looks better when stitching alongside the seam and is really easier than trying to get right into the seam.
Yes and no. If you press your seams open? Yes it will make it weaker. If your seams are PRESSED TO ONE SIDE, ditch in the ditch is perfectly fine to do and is as strong as regular quilting
What you say makes sense to me. Stitching directly over other stitching is going to put more stress on each point where the threads cross. I'm making a bunch of kids quilts, and I want these to be sturdy. Stitching right next to the ditch is going to add more strength overall to the quilt because that extra seam will make the sandwiches more stable. I'm imagining kids jumping up and down on their bed on top of a quilt.😊
@sandybruce9092 No classes or ppl around who quilt, so I learn by doing and YT. I found SITD was hard and messy like trying to color inside the lines.😅 I decided I'd make another line bc half of the SITD was another line, and then there was crossing the seams. Do SITD beside the ditch, not in it!
I grew up with the tied quilts my grandmother made. The favourite one we kids all competed to have on our beds was one that had an old wool blanket as the batting. So cozy and warm! When a blanket wore out it was put into a quilt, so it wasn't thrown out and wasted.
My problem isn't quilting a small piece like this, its when you are trying to manouvre a double quilt or larger under the machine. I have done a large throw doing free motion which I really enjoy, but it is such hard work. My last one I hand quilted and quite enjoyed that but am using a quilt as you go method with my current project. I agree with those bent pins, they are so good. There is also a tool available to make using them even easier. Goos video though.
You sound like my husband! "You don't NEED more fabric!" "You don't NEED a better sewing machine!" " You don't NEED more pattern books" "You don't NEED a long arm" LOL And since he's correct, I'll finish watching your quilting tips!
My husband hopefully better not say those things to me as I don’t have but..1 a sewing/ embroidery machine, and fabric..oh please, I haven’t much, especially anything that’s over 3 yards to make 3 yd quilts, and no long arm machine, can’t afford one. Have to make due with my own design yuck..yuck. It’s all trial in what we have. And fabric is so..expensive anymore.
@@roxeannesexton8447 some men are mean and mouthy about things we want. It's fine and dandy they have what they want, but...when we want anything, It's a whole new ball game. Be well aware of how he talks to you as I put up with a lot of this when we were first married, these men try to be intimidating to us. They can be verbally abusive, etc. We finally had our talks about a lot of our problems. He don't talk to me like this much anymore. I have plans to see a Social worker. Some men are mean and cruel to us women. They need turned in.
When you do any of the stitching methods, do you start in the middle of the quilt and work your way outward or do you start at one edge and work across to the other edge?
Another option is quilt as you go. Takes some thought process but gives excellent results. I have made many😊 have also hand tied, and line quilted. All have turned out nice😊
Quilt As You Go seems to be a forgotten choice and u agree it is t really hard - just takes a different thought process. There are some wonderful books available with a few different ways to do QAYG - I happen to have several!!! Thanks for the reminder - and I do think this technique can be used with Fabric Cafe patterns with maybe just a few adjustments.
My favorite quilting method is any kind of hand stitch. My Grandmother on my Mom's side used the "tacking" method. My Grandmother on my Dad's side used the "straight hand stitch" method. Both of them made beautiful quilts all of their lives. In fact, my Dad is the one that gave me my first hand sewing lesson when I was 14 years old. With quilting, crocheting, and sewing, I am able to keep their memories alive... it makes my soul happy... and the sound of the sewing machine puts the babies to sleep, so that is a plus! :D
I'm a new quilter, I just wanted to say Thank You so much for thoroughly explaining each step in each process, as well as why. Many quilting videos tend to whiz through so quick without explaining the process, the equipment, or even needle size and why you're using "that" needle. I get so over whelmed and confused. Even being able to stop and pause doesn't help if they don't explain it properly. So here's just a Huge HUGE THANK YOU! I look forward to watching more of your videos. ❤
I’ve been quilting for over 30 years and have never ‘sent a quilt out’ to be quilted! Quilting in the ditch, corner to corner, free motion quilting is easy and doesn’t cost hundreds of dollars extra. It’s all part of quilting.
I saw an interesting technique for tacking a quilt. Instead of tying, mark as you would for tying, but put underneath your pressure foot and sew a small box. The new machines are capable of sewing sideways. Sew sideways 5-6 stitches, forward 5-6 stitches, sideways and reverse. You have made a tiny box. Move to the next mark. And do it again!
Hmmm. No mention of how to handle all of that fabric when you are machine quilting and you don’t have a long arm. Even a baby quilt can be challenging. I was really looking for some guidance on that issue. Also, no mention of using a walking foot? I appreciate the guidance on tying off when machine quilting, and planning your starts/stops to efficiently work your way around your seam pattern for stitch in the ditch.
Fran did. She mentioned it at the beginning and then said she had left the bottom corner for video demonstration. And yes, you definitely would start in the center!!!
If your new to hand quilting you might consider the color of the backing of your quilt, with regards to the color of your quilting thread. If you plan on quilting with a dark color thread, using a dark colored backing helps disguise those uneven stitches that might be super obvious on a much lighter fabric
Thank you for this video. I am thrilled to learn these different ways. I am so happy you spoke of tiger tape, I have had a roll for a couple years and never knew what it was for. YEA..I have a new tool.
Thanks for this video, Fran. I especially like how you finish offf. I do not want to quilt by check book so do mine by my home machine. I'm rather wonky so genereally to a cross hatch or serpentine stitch. i have been using pool noodles to baste my quilt and have found they fit nicely in the throat of my machine so it the quilt is not flopping all over. Never make more than a lap size so the THRee yard Quilts are perfect!
I am a hand quilter usually. When I was younger I did the tiny stitches coveted around here, with a quilting thread and hoop. Now that I'm older I use perle cotton and larger running stitches and love the look. I have some projects coming up that the stitch in the ditch and the tying might be better choices. Thank you for demonstrating all three. This is a very handy video to keep referring to.
I am unable to hand stitch because of my eyes and arthritis so these methods are great for most but not all. The method I found that works the best for me, especially for larger quilts, is the Quilt as you Go method. You make a square, block or section of the quilt, quilt it then add another section & quilt it. I have made 2 Queen size quilts on my regular Viking Machine using this method with ease!
That's the beautiful thing about quilting; there are so many options that can work for everyone! 🥰 Glad you found something that works for you so you can continue to make beautiful quilts.
I am really liking your new format of teaching! Not only do you have great kids for us, but also providing us great education. I hope you gain more subscribers with this new format. I love when you show us the make up of the block and now you’re adding more to my abilities by discussing techniques. All my love to you and your team.
For hand tying, my great aunt and many other ladies who have given us quilts used yarn. I honestly prefer the look and feel of yarn over such thin thread.
So obviously quilting began to use fabric to hand and make something out of nothing, for people who could not afford anything else. I cannot afford the prices for long arm quilting but still want something lovely. I don't usually use a pattern, preferring to make it up as I go along. 😊
Fran. Great, Great idea to show us how to quilt our quilts. I'll be trying all three ways on my next quilts. You explained perfectly and showing where to find the necessary tools should you need to purchase it was a great idea. Thank you so much.
Really nice video. Learned a few things. Thank you. I want to know what is the hoop you are using. Where to get that one. I am mostly a hand quilter. I don’t use a hope but i am developing some problems with my hands and thinking about using a hoop to make it easier on my hands. Greatly appreciate a reply.
I have a quilting frame that holds any size of quilt quilt firmly. It stands on legs so I can sit and reach over and under the quilt & sew in any shape I want to. The frame lets you mostly rolled up the quilt far side, and as you quilt, you unroll that side to move the non-quilted part into reach. The frame can be folded and stored under the bed. That is how I. hand quilt.
Thank you Fran for the visual instructions. Question? Do you press once quilt is sandwiched? Your seams and quilt look so perfect👍 Mine never ☹ I usually do straight line quilting or zig zag over seams or hand tie. Thank you for the example of hand tying,I do mine only going through fabric once and knotting twice. I know there are no quilt police but great to see how others do things. Thank you again😊
Please don't forget to mention to decrease the foot pressure - if the sewing machine has that possibility. That was my mistake, I couldn't even finish successfully quilting on the thinnest batting until I found out what I made wrong.
Please show finished quilts in all three methods. It is no fair to say, Here's the method, but we didn't use it on this quilt, we chose the best method which is longarm finishing! Show us that the three methods can make a "nice" finished quilt that we could be proud of by showing a totally finished sample.
Thanks for a great step by step video on these 3 methods of hand quilting. I especially like that you are relaxed in allowing the hand stitching to not be perfect. Too many people get turned off by those that insist it must be done a certain way. Quilts finished are much loved no matter the way you complete them!
You can also tie to the back, making the front less busy. Simply pin the tie spots from the front, turn entire quilt to back, use pins to do first stitches, tie and trim. I also use long threads, don't finish tying and trimming, running from one tie point to another, cut half way between tie points and can then move to a comfortable chair to tie and trim. Works great and is a bit faster when you "batch" steps Just suggestion!
The bent safety pins are on my list to purchase, I can see how they would make the process easier. I tend to not do stitch in the ditch, my corners aren't perfect enough! I find it easier to quilt in a pattern that isn't quite as dependent on perfect blocks. Great video and I haven't even watched the whole thing yet!
Another quilter I follow doesn't recommend SITD for beginners and she made good points. I don't like the idea of putting extra stress on the seam even though I know plenty of people do it!
I'm a hand quilter. It really helps me de-stress. I found some bent safety pins without the loop at the end - love them! Finished my first tied quilt last week - a flannel throw with a minky backing. Really liked the result, especially considering the thickness I was dealing with.
Excellent video!! I would love to use the stitch in the ditch method using my sewing machine, but am wondering if you can suggest some methods to shift larger quilts while you are using your sewing machine. I can imagine it could get a little bulky and difficult to manage. Any suggestions?
Morning - I enjoy your videos. I do both machine and hand quilting. For machine quilting, I really enjoy rulerwork (I'm just not coordinated enough for regular free motion quilting). The rulers/templates help me to get a consistent design. When hand quilting, I don't use a hoop at all. I prefer to just hold the quilt in my lap. I do use thimbles -- 3 of them! I use a plastic finger on my pointer finger under the quilt, a metal thimble on my middle top hand finder to push the needle, and a leather thimble on my top pointer finger to help pull the needle through if a bit tight. I prefer spray basting for both machine and hand quilting and use SpraynBond Basting Adhesive. It holds very well and does not have the toxic smell of other brands. Just goes to show that are many ways to get the same job done and whatever works best for you is the one to use. No quilting police! Have a gerat day!
Thanks so much for your great video. I've been sewing and piecing together quilt tops for years, but am now just learning to quilt on my home machine. My first attempt was pretty much a disaster. And since I used my machine's fancy quilt stitch that mimic's hand quilting -- plus I used transparent top thread -- which required a higher thread tension, it seems near impossible to rip the quilting out. Once I've figured out how to do that, I'm going to hand quilt using the running stitch you mentioned. What I loved about your video is your easy to understand instructions AND that you listed links to all the supplies you used (which I have just ordered.) I subscribed to your channel and book marked your page. I plan on learning more from you.
Oh, Fran! What a great, informative video. Both my husband and I are quilters, but I do all the actual quilting after he has pieced his top and sandwiched his quilt, using a spray basting product. I use my mid-arm Handi Quilter Sweet 16. We enjoyed watching your demonstration of the various quilting methods. ❤
I grew up with hand tied quilts and I still love them. I took a certification course on longarming so I hope to do more of that in the future. On small things that are not a headache to shove through my domestic sewing machine, I like to do free motion quilting. I am very impressed with people who quilt large quilts on their domestic.
My mother and grandmother always used yarn to tie off quilts as they used old army blankets and etc. for batting so the quilts were quite thick. I did have some quilts machine quilted by a person but he that passed away so plan on either using my sewing machine or trying to hand quilt the three I have ready to be finished. Appreciate your showing three different ways to quilt. When I was little there was usually a quilt frame set up in our large living room during the winter months.
The only time I tied a project was about 44 years ago when I made a changing pad for my son. I first used a regular granny knit in the corners of a few squares and then the ,Ishtar bulb went off and I changed to a square knot. I’ve the several years of washing quite a lot, the granny knots came out quickly but the square knots never did. I can’t remember if I saved this or not - it may still be in a box somewhere after we moved to a different state back in 2003!
@@sandybruce9092 = I hand tied a quilt over 20 years ago and not one of the ties have failed. I don't know what kind of knot they were. I only know one way to make a knot.
I learned to use the longarm courtesy if Cindi Rang at the Fabric Patch. Once I came home to CA, I put together a very busy Halloween quilt top and gathered my courage and rented time at a local quilt shop and long- armed it myself! Its prettty amateur, but was REALLY fun. A busy quilt top is pretty forgiving, but hard to see where you are going as you "drive" the machine. It all gave me impetus to find a Cutie frame on sale to get better at the specific eye- gand coordination. This video was great! Havent given nuch thought to tying, but coyld be a good option. Wondering what battings are best for.hand tied? Going to be making a lot of 3 yard quilts to get the hang of the actual quilting!
Really depends on your machine brand! She’s using a Pfaff and this foot might fit or not it fit your machine if it’s different. I have several different machines that use snap-in feet and some are interchangeable and some aren’t! It’s nice when they are!!! My Pfaff machines are older than Fran’s and I don’t think my foot has these red markings but I really need to check this out.
Taking notes , I can finish my Log Cabin Christmas Queen Quilt that I was having trouble with my domestic machine. I will use the knotty technique to the back since the back fabric is golden light, the quilt front is fine. I just have an idea now to use different Christmas knotty colors to the back. What do you think? Thank you for inspiring me. Happy Thanksgiving to everyone
Thank you for the step by step instructions. I’ve been wanting to try the tying method and the hand stitch. I’m not so intimidated by it now that I watched your video.
You are so precise. I've given up on stitch in the stitch. I have some visual problems and I'm past even trying. I will continue watching your video to see what's ahead.
Why polyester thread on cotton fabrics? Polyester is stronger than cotton and will saw through cotton fibers during use and washing and life. So it makes your piecing and seams being cut. All that work and won’t last
I have a quilt that I made about 20 years ago and some of the squares have come unsewed. I wondered why, but maybe polyester thread is the cause of it. Your post is very enlightening. Actually when I made the quilt I did not notice what kind of thread I was using. Thank you for your comment.
This was a great, informative video. I really appreciate that you went over equipment and why it is preferred. This will be a video I reference often. Thanks Fran! You are a great instructor. 😊
Thank you so much for making the piecing and quilting tutorial videos! They are very informative and something I can implement along my learning process. You explained and demonstrated the techniques and supplies you use in a way that those of us that are new to the quilting world can understand and follow as I am learning to quilt using a domestic machine. THANK YOU! Looking forward to more of your tutorials!
Hi Debbie! It is a 1/4" foot. The Bernina machine we are using has something called "dual feed", which acts similarly to a walking foot, and is activated during this process.
Great video Fran!!!! I’ve done quilt in the ditch and some other quilting using my sewing machine. I have never tied a quilt or quilted by hand. Thank you so much for more options! 😊
I love to hand quilt using mostly a running stitch. It’s very relaxing to me to hand quilt while watching YouTUBE videos. In fact I learned to quill from watching videos. I looked up Quilt In A Day on YouTUBE and binge watched for several days. From there I went to Missouri Star and binge watched Jenny. I believe it has been close to ten years since that time. I have always done simple quilts, mainly because I don’t have the patience to cut all those small pieces just to reattach them back into yardage. I made a throw sized quilt for all my granddaughters and a special princess quilt which has been passed down to my great granddaughters. It’s on the third one naw. She is coming up on six years old now, so it will soon be passed to the younger ones who are almost two and almost one. I really need to do one for the boys, there are six of them. Wow! My fingers get sore just thinking about all that quilting!
Wow, thanks for sharing your journey, Shirley! We love our 3-yard quilt patterns because many of them don't require cutting smaller pieces to mark our quilts, and instead focus on creating larger strip assemblies that are sewn together. Makes it easier to manage 🥰 Good luck with all of your quilts for the boys!
Thanks for your video. I use spray adhesive and not pins anymore as they were marking my mat for free motion quilting. I have also stitched in the ditch and have often used embroidery thread when quilting as I have more colors since I do embroidery and they have worked well.
❤thank you for sharing. I will be trying the curved pins and also the tiger tape. Didn't realize there was a tape with marking. I use the hand quilting and machine quilting method, straight line using the masking tape. I try not to use the painters tap, that some recommendend, it tends to leave a film.
Great video loaded with so much information. Thanks so much for sharing and explaining each step. Smaller projects like wall hangings, I have tied or long stitched. Liked the look of both. Anything larger, I have my friend quilt it. One of my very first log cabin quilts, I stitched in the ditch and had a lot of puckering. Your video would have been helpful many years back!!! Is the presser foot universal or only for that specific machine?
I use a slightly different hand tying method, from my grandmother. I stitch the tacking stitch leaving the long end, but then just continue to the next tacking stitch, and so on, until the whole quilt has the tack stitches. Then clip halfway between and tie the ends as you did, and trim the ends. I just find it super quick. As for hand quilting, I love that you're including both that and tying as options, as well as the machine quilting. I just lap quilt with no hoop, after hand basting the whole quilt on my floor or dining table. It's lovely to see such explanations for beginners, as well as refreshing memories for more experienced quilters. Thank you.
Miss Fran, great informative video! I love your teaching process, voice and smile! Keep teaching. Any tips with quilt as you, especially joining the quilted blocks?
Thank you for this video! I’m new to quilting and have three tops needing to be quilted. I’m excited to finish them now! You were detailed enough to guide me but it didn’t feel overwhelming.
Thank you Fran, you have made my day with this tutorial video. I have several quilt tops but did not know where or how to start to get them quilt. I can’t afford to send out to a longarmer. Sewing machine machine here I come.😂😂.
I loved this video. I really only like the piecing of the tops. I am working on two 3 yard quilts for gifts and have decided I can tie them. I had never seen it done before. Thank you for all your videos. Happy Holidays!
Excellent info, Fran! Have you or your mom tried using the new Clover Wonder Pins, yet? Much easier to manipulate than curved safety pins, I personally find them easier to see as I’m quilting (the part of the pin you grab is either pink or yellow and white plastic), and with a bit of practice, can even be opened & closed with one hand. Personal opinion is, well worth the cost.
That looks easy when you only have 4 squares , things are a whole lot different when you are trying to maneuver a queen size quilt on a regular machine
Tiger tape. What a great thing. Never know about it. The main reason for not hand stitching was my spacing was always off. Going to give this tape a try. Thanks so much
Thank you so much for posting this! It was just what I needed to move forward in my quilting experience. I have made a T-shirt quilt that I think I will now tie with embroidery floss and my first full quilt top that now I think I will try the stitch in the ditch since it's squares are similar to your sample. I truly appreciate you sharing your talents with us quilting rookies!
This is a really interesting video thank you. Having stuffed my first attempt at machine quilting (and spending days unpicking) I turned to hand quilting and I love it. There's very little information about hand quilting so I appreciated all your tips and tricks.
Favorite method is hand quilting..without a thimble. Even though the finger feels like a pincushion. Need someone to teach how to use a thimble. Thank you for showing me tiger tape. I am a bit fussy to get even stitch even.
Your a great teacher. I don’t want to tell how many years I’ve been quilting but I didn’t know about the knots for hand sewing. Thanks for the demonstration love your teaching❤❤❤❤
I can’t get my brain to stitch in the ditch so I quilt several threads to the side. Have a quilt I’ve been thinking about hand tying. I feel more confident, thanks to you!
Fran, this video is perfect to encourage us to quilt our own quilts. Machine quilting is my favorite, but I have used all 3 methods. I like to use a walking foot and quilt all my projects that are three yards or smaller with great results. 😊 I just know this video will give quilt makers courage to get those tops out and finish their gorgeous projects! Thank you so much.
I prefer QAYG. I have a small working space. I can sash with a complimentary fabric, black for a stained glass look, or sew without sashing. I have more time than money. My longarm quilter is a bit pricey for a large quilt.
Showing machine quilting on a small sample isn’t as helpful as a demonstration on a throw or twin sized quilt would be. Learning how to manipulate that much bulk, in the machine, is what I (and probably others) need to see.
Oh how brave you are. Ive never actually seen anyone do that!
Everyone demos w one little item and what's the use? I can free motion or use templates to quilt on a placemat. But as for an adult quilt of any size? Well, I can sort of hold it . . .😂
You are correct. Having a larger quilt and rolling it up to fit in the machine is way more difficult
My favorite quilt was the one I made for my daughter in law as she was battling Lymphoma at age 30. It was a signature block, where there were over 140 squares for family and friends to sign. I found she has so many friends and is surrounded by so much love ❤. Happy to say, she is cancer free 😊
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When I had cancer at age 41, the women in my guild each made me a block. When I was recovering and couldn’t do too much, I put them together. It gave me purpose beyond simple survival. I’m sure it helped boost my weakened immune system. I am a 20 year survivor this past May.
Wonderful news!
I'm a hand quilter. I started quilting in 2016, and never could get the hang of machine quilting. No matter how much basting I use, My layers always shift, and I end up with a giant mess. I eventually tried hand quilting in late 2019, and absolutely fell in love. With thick 8 weight thread, and big stitches, 4st/inch, I can finish a queen size quilt in 10 days. Not only that, but the repetitive, rhythmic movements of hand quilting really helped me during the COVID-19 pandemic. I always preferred hand work over machine work, so the few quilts I hand quilted are some of my most prized possession..
What’s your needle of choice?
@@susanivey8853 For 8wt thread, Cotton darners No 5. For 12wt, cotton darners No 7..
I am currently doing big stitch quilting on a medallion quilt. I am using 12 wt. Perle cotton and size 9 crewel needles. You are absolutely right about getting a rhythm going. But I am not as fast you are!
@@KelleysQuiltsandCruises Speed has nothing to do with it. Take your time, and have fun. As long as you are enjoying the process, that's all that matters..
Birdie batting..stickers fabric without basting
Please be aware that "stitch in the ditch" will make your quilt less stable. You are stitching over stitching, not into your actual quilt sandwich. I like to stitch next to the ditch instead, just a quarter inch will do it. It makes a much stronger and sturdier quilt.
Yes, I do agree with you about not stitching directly into the “ditch”! To me the quilt looks better when stitching alongside the seam and is really easier than trying to get right into the seam.
Yes and no. If you press your seams open? Yes it will make it weaker.
If your seams are PRESSED TO ONE SIDE, ditch in the ditch is perfectly fine to do and is as strong as regular quilting
What you say makes sense to me. Stitching directly over other stitching is going to put more stress on each point where the threads cross. I'm making a bunch of kids quilts, and I want these to be sturdy. Stitching right next to the ditch is going to add more strength overall to the quilt because that extra seam will make the sandwiches more stable. I'm imagining kids jumping up and down on their bed on top of a quilt.😊
@sandybruce9092
No classes or ppl around who quilt, so I learn by doing and YT.
I found SITD was hard and messy like trying to color inside the lines.😅
I decided I'd make another line bc half of the SITD was another line, and then there was crossing the seams.
Do SITD beside the ditch, not in it!
I keep trying to stitch in the ditch @@sunshineandwarmth but after years, it still looks like a spider on LSD did the stitching. But it's fun anyway.
I grew up with the tied quilts my grandmother made. The favourite one we kids all competed to have on our beds was one that had an old wool blanket as the batting. So cozy and warm! When a blanket wore out it was put into a quilt, so it wasn't thrown out and wasted.
My problem isn't quilting a small piece like this, its when you are trying to manouvre a double quilt or larger under the machine. I have done a large throw doing free motion which I really enjoy, but it is such hard work. My last one I hand quilted and quite enjoyed that but am using a quilt as you go method with my current project. I agree with those bent pins, they are so good. There is also a tool available to make using them even easier. Goos video though.
You sound like my husband! "You don't NEED more fabric!" "You don't NEED a better sewing machine!" " You don't NEED more pattern books" "You don't NEED a long arm" LOL And since he's correct, I'll finish watching your quilting tips!
Yeah it's kind of like my husband he tells me you're not a quilter you're a hoarder of fabric 😂😂😂😂
My husband hopefully better not say those things to me as I don’t have but..1 a sewing/ embroidery machine, and fabric..oh please, I haven’t much, especially anything that’s over 3 yards to make 3 yd quilts, and no long arm machine, can’t afford one. Have to make due with my own design yuck..yuck. It’s all trial in what we have. And fabric is so..expensive anymore.
@@roxeannesexton8447 some men are mean and mouthy about things we want. It's fine and dandy they have what they want, but...when we want anything, It's a whole new ball game. Be well aware of how he talks to you as I put up with a lot of this when we were first married, these men try to be intimidating to us. They can be verbally abusive, etc. We finally had our talks about a lot of our problems. He don't talk to me like this much anymore. I have plans to see a Social worker. Some men are mean and cruel to us women. They need turned in.
Do you question your husbands when he “needs” another tool?
It's all in fun. he's an avid miniature painter so we tease each other about our hobbies..@@susanhart7003
When you do any of the stitching methods, do you start in the middle of the quilt and work your way outward or do you start at one edge and work across to the other edge?
Hopefully Fran will have time to answer but I have always heard that you start in the middle.
Another option is quilt as you go. Takes some thought process but gives excellent results. I have made many😊 have also hand tied, and line quilted. All have turned out nice😊
Quilt As You Go seems to be a forgotten choice and u agree it is t really hard - just takes a different thought process. There are some wonderful books available with a few different ways to do QAYG - I happen to have several!!! Thanks for the reminder - and I do think this technique can be used with Fabric Cafe patterns with maybe just a few adjustments.
I really like all the methods but I find machine quilting makes my neck hurt.
Yes, posture is definitely important. It's something we tend to forget about when we're working at the machine 😥
My favorite quilting method is any kind of hand stitch. My Grandmother on my Mom's side used the "tacking" method. My Grandmother on my Dad's side used the "straight hand stitch" method. Both of them made beautiful quilts all of their lives. In fact, my Dad is the one that gave me my first hand sewing lesson when I was 14 years old. With quilting, crocheting, and sewing, I am able to keep their memories alive... it makes my soul happy... and the sound of the sewing machine puts the babies to sleep, so that is a plus! :D
I'm a new quilter, I just wanted to say Thank You so much for thoroughly explaining each step in each process, as well as why. Many quilting videos tend to whiz through so quick without explaining the process, the equipment, or even needle size and why you're using "that" needle. I get so over whelmed and confused. Even being able to stop and pause doesn't help if they don't explain it properly. So here's just a Huge HUGE THANK YOU! I look forward to watching more of your videos. ❤
Yes! Exactly what she said!!! Thank you. ❤️❣️❤️
I’ve been quilting for over 30 years and have never ‘sent a quilt out’ to be quilted! Quilting in the ditch, corner to corner, free motion quilting is easy and doesn’t cost hundreds of dollars extra. It’s all part of quilting.
Thank you, very helpful,!
I saw an interesting technique for tacking a quilt. Instead of tying, mark as you would for tying, but put underneath your pressure foot and sew a small box. The new machines are capable of sewing sideways. Sew sideways 5-6 stitches, forward 5-6 stitches, sideways and reverse. You have made a tiny box. Move to the next mark. And do it again!
Hmmm. No mention of how to handle all of that fabric when you are machine quilting and you don’t have a long arm. Even a baby quilt can be challenging. I was really looking for some guidance on that issue. Also, no mention of using a walking foot? I appreciate the guidance on tying off when machine quilting, and planning your starts/stops to efficiently work your way around your seam pattern for stitch in the ditch.
May I ask why you don't use a walking foot to machine quilt?
Why not starting the center so if it moved it would move to the outside instead of puckering
Fran did. She mentioned it at the beginning and then said she had left the bottom corner for video demonstration. And yes, you definitely would start in the center!!!
If your new to hand quilting you might consider the color of the backing of your quilt, with regards to the color of your quilting thread. If you plan on quilting with a dark color thread, using a dark colored backing helps disguise those uneven stitches that might be super obvious on a much lighter fabric
Thank you for this video. I am thrilled to learn these different ways. I am so happy you spoke of tiger tape, I have had a roll for a couple years and never knew what it was for. YEA..I have a new tool.
Thanks for this video, Fran. I especially like how you finish offf. I do not want to quilt by check book so do mine by my home machine. I'm rather wonky so genereally to a cross hatch or serpentine stitch. i have been using pool noodles to baste my quilt and have found they fit nicely in the throat of my machine so it the quilt is not flopping all over. Never make more than a lap size so the THRee yard Quilts are perfect!
I am a hand quilter usually. When I was younger I did the tiny stitches coveted around here, with a quilting thread and hoop. Now that I'm older I use perle cotton and larger running stitches and love the look. I have some projects coming up that the stitch in the ditch and the tying might be better choices. Thank you for demonstrating all three. This is a very handy video to keep referring to.
I am unable to hand stitch because of my eyes and arthritis so these methods are great for most but not all. The method I found that works the best for me, especially for larger quilts, is the Quilt as you Go method. You make a square, block or section of the quilt, quilt it then add another section & quilt it. I have made 2 Queen size quilts on my regular Viking Machine using this method with ease!
That's the beautiful thing about quilting; there are so many options that can work for everyone! 🥰 Glad you found something that works for you so you can continue to make beautiful quilts.
I am really liking your new format of teaching! Not only do you have great kids for us, but also providing us great education. I hope you gain more subscribers with this new format. I love when you show us the make up of the block and now you’re adding more to my abilities by discussing techniques. All my love to you and your team.
That small 4 patch is easy to handle.....show us how to work with a 3 yard quilt..alot more planning and work
a lot
Agreed, this is useful but I want to see how to with a full size quilt.
You didn't mention using a walking foot. I always use it when doing quilting. Thanks for all your information.
For hand tying, my great aunt and many other ladies who have given us quilts used yarn. I honestly prefer the look and feel of yarn over such thin thread.
So obviously quilting began to use fabric to hand and make something out of nothing, for people who could not afford anything else. I cannot afford the prices for long arm quilting but still want something lovely. I don't usually use a pattern, preferring to make it up as I go along. 😊
Fran. Great, Great idea to show us how to quilt our quilts. I'll be trying all three ways on my next quilts. You explained perfectly and showing where to find the necessary tools should you need to purchase it was a great idea. Thank you so much.
Really nice video. Learned a few things. Thank you. I want to know what is the hoop you are using. Where to get that one. I am mostly a hand quilter. I don’t use a hope but i am developing some problems with my hands and thinking about using a hoop to make it easier on my hands. Greatly appreciate a reply.
I'm so glad! All of the store links to the hoops we show in the video are in the video description. 🥰
I have a quilting frame that holds any size of quilt quilt firmly. It stands on legs so I can sit and reach over and under the quilt & sew in any shape I want to. The frame lets you mostly rolled up the quilt far side, and as you quilt, you unroll that side to move the non-quilted part into reach. The frame can be folded and stored under the bed. That is how I. hand quilt.
Thank you Fran for the visual instructions. Question? Do you press once quilt is sandwiched? Your seams and quilt look so perfect👍 Mine never ☹ I usually do straight line quilting or zig zag over seams or hand tie. Thank you for the example of hand tying,I do mine only going through fabric once and knotting twice. I know there are no quilt police but great to see how others do things. Thank you again😊
Please don't forget to mention to decrease the foot pressure - if the sewing machine has that possibility. That was my mistake, I couldn't even finish successfully quilting on the thinnest batting until I found out what I made wrong.
Please show finished quilts in all three methods. It is no fair to say, Here's the method, but we didn't use it on this quilt, we chose the best method which is longarm finishing! Show us that the three methods can make a "nice" finished quilt that we could be proud of by showing a totally finished sample.
Jordan fabrics once made a nice tutorial on hand tying a quilt (a complete finishing of a quilt)
Hello Fran great tips today on hand quilting. It's always good to see you demonstrating techniques. Looking forward to seeing more of your video's.
Thanks for a great step by step video on these 3 methods of hand quilting. I especially like that you are relaxed in allowing the hand stitching to not be perfect. Too many people get turned off by those that insist it must be done a certain way. Quilts finished are much loved no matter the way you complete them!
You can also tie to the back, making the front less busy. Simply pin the tie spots from the front, turn entire quilt to back, use pins to do first stitches, tie and trim. I also use long threads, don't finish tying and trimming, running from one tie point to another, cut half way between tie points and can then move to a comfortable chair to tie and trim. Works great and is a bit faster when you "batch" steps Just suggestion!
The bent safety pins are on my list to purchase, I can see how they would make the process easier. I tend to not do stitch in the ditch, my corners aren't perfect enough! I find it easier to quilt in a pattern that isn't quite as dependent on perfect blocks. Great video and I haven't even watched the whole thing yet!
Another quilter I follow doesn't recommend SITD for beginners and she made good points. I don't like the idea of putting extra stress on the seam even though I know plenty of people do it!
Been waiting for this video. Thank you. What type/size needle do you use?
I'm a hand quilter. It really helps me de-stress. I found some bent safety pins without the loop at the end - love them! Finished my first tied quilt last week - a flannel throw with a minky backing. Really liked the result, especially considering the thickness I was dealing with.
Excellent video!! I would love to use the stitch in the ditch method using my sewing machine, but am wondering if you can suggest some methods to shift larger quilts while you are using your sewing machine. I can imagine it could get a little bulky and difficult to manage. Any suggestions?
Morning - I enjoy your videos. I do both machine and hand quilting. For machine quilting, I really enjoy rulerwork (I'm just not coordinated enough for regular free motion quilting). The rulers/templates help me to get a consistent design. When hand quilting, I don't use a hoop at all. I prefer to just hold the quilt in my lap. I do use thimbles -- 3 of them! I use a plastic finger on my pointer finger under the quilt, a metal thimble on my middle top hand finder to push the needle, and a leather thimble on my top pointer finger to help pull the needle through if a bit tight. I prefer spray basting for both machine and hand quilting and use SpraynBond Basting Adhesive. It holds very well and does not have the toxic smell of other brands. Just goes to show that are many ways to get the same job done and whatever works best for you is the one to use. No quilting police! Have a gerat day!
I tried to stitch in the ditch with my very first quilt. It was so hard! I ended up stitching along the ditch.
Yes, another RUclips quilter doesn't recommend sitd for beginners.
Me too! It’s hard to stay in the “ditch”!!
Thanks so much for your great video. I've been sewing and piecing together quilt tops for years, but am now just learning to quilt on my home machine. My first attempt was pretty much a disaster. And since I used my machine's fancy quilt stitch that mimic's hand quilting -- plus I used transparent top thread -- which required a higher thread tension, it seems near impossible to rip the quilting out. Once I've figured out how to do that, I'm going to hand quilt using the running stitch you mentioned. What I loved about your video is your easy to understand instructions AND that you listed links to all the supplies you used (which I have just ordered.) I subscribed to your channel and book marked your page. I plan on learning more from you.
Oh, Fran! What a great, informative video. Both my husband and I are quilters, but I do all the actual quilting after he has pieced his top and sandwiched his quilt, using a spray basting product. I use my mid-arm Handi Quilter Sweet 16. We enjoyed watching your demonstration of the various quilting methods. ❤
I grew up with hand tied quilts and I still love them. I took a certification course on longarming so I hope to do more of that in the future. On small things that are not a headache to shove through my domestic sewing machine, I like to do free motion quilting. I am very impressed with people who quilt large quilts on their domestic.
My mother and grandmother always used yarn to tie off quilts as they used old army blankets and etc. for batting so the quilts were quite thick. I did have some quilts machine quilted by a person but he that passed away so plan on either using my sewing machine or trying to hand quilt the three I have ready to be finished. Appreciate your showing three different ways to quilt. When I was little there was usually a quilt frame set up in our large living room during the winter months.
The only time I tied a project was about 44 years ago when I made a changing pad for my son. I first used a regular granny knit in the corners of a few squares and then the ,Ishtar bulb went off and I changed to a square knot. I’ve the several years of washing quite a lot, the granny knots came out quickly but the square knots never did. I can’t remember if I saved this or not - it may still be in a box somewhere after we moved to a different state back in 2003!
@@sandybruce9092 = I hand tied a quilt over 20 years ago and not one of the ties have failed. I don't know what kind of knot they were. I only know one way to make a knot.
When stitching in the ditch, what size machine needle do you use?
I learned to use the longarm courtesy if Cindi Rang at the Fabric Patch. Once I came home to CA, I put together a very busy Halloween quilt top and gathered my courage and rented time at a local quilt shop and long- armed it myself! Its prettty amateur, but was REALLY fun. A busy quilt top is pretty forgiving, but hard to see where you are going as you "drive" the machine. It all gave me impetus to find a Cutie frame on sale to get better at the specific eye- gand coordination. This video was great! Havent given nuch thought to tying, but coyld be a good option. Wondering what battings are best for.hand tied? Going to be making a lot of 3 yard quilts to get the hang of the actual quilting!
Polyester for hand tied. But read the package for maximum space btwn stitches. Cotton is like 2-3", poly is 4-6"?
Hi, I’m wondering what the name of your sewing machine Foot you are using with the two red lines? I am interested in getting one. Thank you.
Really depends on your machine brand! She’s using a Pfaff and this foot might fit or not it fit your machine if it’s different. I have several different machines that use snap-in feet and some are interchangeable and some aren’t! It’s nice when they are!!! My Pfaff machines are older than Fran’s and I don’t think my foot has these red markings but I really need to check this out.
Taking notes , I can finish my Log Cabin Christmas Queen Quilt that I was having trouble with my domestic machine.
I will use the knotty technique to the back since the back fabric is golden light, the quilt front is fine.
I just have an idea now to use different Christmas knotty colors to the back. What do you think?
Thank you for inspiring me.
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone
My favourite method which you demonstrated on this video was the last one of hand stitching! I’m going to try that on my next quilt! Thank you.
Thank you for the step by step instructions. I’ve been wanting to try the tying method and the hand stitch. I’m not so intimidated by it now that I watched your video.
I enjoy machine quilting in lines and have plans to learn how to free motion quilt first of the year. Really looking forward to it!
Wonderful! Way to go Nanette!
I love to do the running stitch on my quilts. Very helpful video. I always learn something new when I watch. Thank you!
You are so precise. I've given up on stitch in the stitch. I have some visual problems and I'm past even trying. I will continue watching your video to see what's ahead.
What a great tutorial on hand quilting, never tried and it looks so relaxing!
Why polyester thread on cotton fabrics? Polyester is stronger than cotton and will saw through cotton fibers during use and washing and life. So it makes your piecing and seams being cut. All that work and won’t last
I have a quilt that I made about 20 years ago and some of the squares have come unsewed. I wondered why, but maybe polyester thread is the cause of it. Your post is very enlightening. Actually when I made the quilt I did not notice what kind of thread I was using. Thank you for your comment.
I've been quilting almost 50 years and never learned to use a thimble. I guess I'd rather prick my fingers!
This was a great, informative video. I really appreciate that you went over equipment and why it is preferred. This will be a video I reference often. Thanks Fran! You are a great instructor. 😊
Glad you enjoyed it Patricia!
I love you videos Fran! I have a blind stitch foot for stitching in the ditch works great.
Thank you, Fran! such priceless teaching!! 🥰👌👍
You are so welcome!
Thank you so much for making the piecing and quilting tutorial videos! They are very informative and something I can implement along my learning process. You explained and demonstrated the techniques and supplies you use in a way that those of us that are new to the quilting world can understand and follow as I am learning to quilt using a domestic machine. THANK YOU! Looking forward to more of your tutorials!
Thank you so much for this tutorial. I have been wanting to try to quilt on my sewing machine!
I have a Pfaff passport 3.0 can you tell me the name of the foot you used to stitch in the ditch on the blue quilt.
Hi Debbie! It is a 1/4" foot. The Bernina machine we are using has something called "dual feed", which acts similarly to a walking foot, and is activated during this process.
Great video Fran!!!! I’ve done quilt in the ditch and some other quilting using my sewing machine. I have never tied a quilt or quilted by hand. Thank you so much for more options! 😊
I love to hand quilt using mostly a running stitch. It’s very relaxing to me to hand quilt while watching YouTUBE videos. In fact I learned to quill from watching videos. I looked up Quilt In A Day on YouTUBE and binge watched for several days. From there I went to Missouri Star and binge watched Jenny. I believe it has been close to ten years since that time. I have always done simple quilts, mainly because I don’t have the patience to cut all those small pieces just to reattach them back into yardage. I made a throw sized quilt for all my granddaughters and a special princess quilt which has been passed down to my great granddaughters. It’s on the third one naw. She is coming up on six years old now, so it will soon be passed to the younger ones who are almost two and almost one. I really need to do one for the boys, there are six of them. Wow! My fingers get sore just thinking about all that quilting!
Wow, thanks for sharing your journey, Shirley! We love our 3-yard quilt patterns because many of them don't require cutting smaller pieces to mark our quilts, and instead focus on creating larger strip assemblies that are sewn together. Makes it easier to manage 🥰 Good luck with all of your quilts for the boys!
Thank you Fran for the step by step tutorial, your instructions are easy to follow.
Thanks for your video. I use spray adhesive and not pins anymore as they were marking my mat for free motion quilting. I have also stitched in the ditch and have often used embroidery thread when quilting as I have more colors since I do embroidery and they have worked well.
❤thank you for sharing. I will be trying the curved pins and also the tiger tape. Didn't realize there was a tape with marking. I use the hand quilting and machine quilting method, straight line using the masking tape. I try not to use the painters tap, that some recommendend, it tends to leave a film.
Great video loaded with so much information. Thanks so much for sharing and explaining each step.
Smaller projects like wall hangings, I have tied or long stitched. Liked the look of both. Anything larger, I have my friend quilt it. One of my very first log cabin quilts, I stitched in the ditch and had a lot of puckering. Your video would have been helpful many years back!!!
Is the presser foot universal or only for that specific machine?
I tie my threads in the back and use a needle to hide between the layers too. Made me feel good about what I do.
Will you please consider doing a video with FMQ rulers?
I use a slightly different hand tying method, from my grandmother. I stitch the tacking stitch leaving the long end, but then just continue to the next tacking stitch, and so on, until the whole quilt has the tack stitches. Then clip halfway between and tie the ends as you did, and trim the ends. I just find it super quick.
As for hand quilting, I love that you're including both that and tying as options, as well as the machine quilting. I just lap quilt with no hoop, after hand basting the whole quilt on my floor or dining table.
It's lovely to see such explanations for beginners, as well as refreshing memories for more experienced quilters. Thank you.
Can’t wait to try these quilting methods! Thank you! ❤
Thank you for the WONDERFUL tutorial. You're very easy to follow.
Miss Fran, great informative video! I love your teaching process, voice and smile! Keep teaching. Any tips with quilt as you, especially joining the quilted blocks?
Thanks ever sewww much for not only sharing your quilting tips but also giving us the confidence to TRY! 😄
You can do it! 💪🏼
Thank you for this video! I’m new to quilting and have three tops needing to be quilted. I’m excited to finish them now! You were detailed enough to guide me but it didn’t feel overwhelming.
If you do it on your sewing machine, start on the right hand side. That way if you have to squish or roll it , it's already sewn and easier to manage.
Thank you Fran, you have made my day with this tutorial video. I have several quilt tops but did not know where or how to start to get them quilt. I can’t afford to send out to a longarmer. Sewing machine machine here I come.😂😂.
Glad it was helpful! Yes, there are many ways to quilt without needing to send it off to a longarmer 🙂
Fran , you are not only a wonderful teacher, but an inspiring one too!
I loved this video. I really only like the piecing of the tops. I am working on two 3 yard quilts for gifts and have decided I can tie them. I had never seen it done before. Thank you for all your videos. Happy Holidays!
Excellent info, Fran! Have you or your mom tried using the new Clover Wonder Pins, yet? Much easier to manipulate than curved safety pins, I personally find them easier to see as I’m quilting (the part of the pin you grab is either pink or yellow and white plastic), and with a bit of practice, can even be opened & closed with one hand. Personal opinion is, well worth the cost.
Thank you so much for your hints on hand stitching and burying the thread! ❤
this is the best video on hand quilting I have seen.
Wow, thank you so much! Glad you found it helpful! 🥰
Are you using a special foot like a walking foot
We are using a 1/4" foot that has Bernina's "dual feed" foot, which is similar to a walking foot.
That looks easy when you only have 4 squares , things are a whole lot different when you are trying to maneuver a queen size quilt on a regular machine
I like to use a zipper foot to make it easy to get close to my stitch line. Super easy to see for stitch in the ditch method!
Tiger tape. What a great thing. Never know about it. The main reason for not hand stitching was my spacing was always off. Going to give this tape a try. Thanks so much
Thank you so much for posting this! It was just what I needed to move forward in my quilting experience. I have made a T-shirt quilt that I think I will now tie with embroidery floss and my first full quilt top that now I think I will try the stitch in the ditch since it's squares are similar to your sample. I truly appreciate you sharing your talents with us quilting rookies!
This is a really interesting video thank you. Having stuffed my first attempt at machine quilting (and spending days unpicking) I turned to hand quilting and I love it. There's very little information about hand quilting so I appreciated all your tips and tricks.
Thank you, Fran! I feel so pressured to send off my very beginner quilts which truly are not worth that expense.
This is so appreciated!
You are sew very welcome Christine! It will also be a great button on your beginner quilt journey. 🥰
Any quilt made with love is worth it, and your work is not inferior in value, just because it isn’t absolutely perfect. Plus, no one is perfect.
Favorite method is hand quilting..without a thimble. Even though the finger feels like a pincushion. Need someone to teach how to use a thimble. Thank you for showing me tiger tape. I am a bit fussy to get even stitch even.
How many strands did you use. Thank you Donna
I have the same question.
It looks like she used all the strands in the floss.
Outstanding video! Thank you for showing these quilting methods! It took me back to the time when I could arch my mom and grandmother! Thanks!
Your a great teacher. I don’t want to tell how many years I’ve been quilting but I didn’t know about the knots for hand sewing. Thanks for the demonstration love your teaching❤❤❤❤
Great video! I am a beginner and really learned a lot. Thanks so much!
I can’t get my brain to stitch in the ditch so I quilt several threads to the side. Have a quilt I’ve been thinking about hand tying. I feel more confident, thanks to you!
Fran, this video is perfect to encourage us to quilt our own quilts. Machine quilting is my favorite, but I have used all 3 methods. I like to use a walking foot and quilt
all my projects that are three yards or smaller with great results. 😊 I just know this video will give quilt makers courage to get those tops out and finish their gorgeous projects! Thank you so much.
Thanks Fran! I learned a lot from this video. Some of the details are so simple, but extremely important.
I prefer QAYG. I have a small working space. I can sash with a complimentary fabric, black for a stained glass look, or sew without sashing. I have more time than money. My longarm quilter is a bit pricey for a large quilt.