Quilting Machines
Using a Quilting Machine
Tips and tricks of the pros
The long-loved hobby of quilt making has been given a boost of speed by specialty sewing machines designed just for quilts. But managing such a large amount of fabric long enough to feed it entirely through the machine is no easy task. Here are some quirky, useful sewing tips to help you make the perfect quilt.
- Change your needle often: Quilts have thick materials that can wear down a needle quickly. Keep that edge sharp by changing your needle once every few hours of quilting time.
- Get your fingers sticky: To stop your quilt from running away from you on the machine, keep your fingers sticky. The added friction will help keep it under your steady control. One of the most popular and simple ways is to use the tips of textured rubber gloves. Also, using an oil-free lotion or hand cream can do the trick and will wash away without a stain.
- Keep that quilt rolled: Quilting machines have a large open area between the sewing platform and the side of the sewing machine. This area is designed to allow a rolled quilt a stable place to lay while it is being fed through the machine. It is a great bulk management technique.