Not very enamoured of machine quilting, I continue my little quest to learn better methods than my prior self-taught episodes. Ladies and Gentlemen, we have a winner. Introduced to me by fellow-quilter friend, Susan, I have discovered Leah Day. When I first went to this website and saw the photo of this little young woman I thought, quilter? really? Well, let me just say, if you are quilting bed quilts, wall hangings or garments, her methods will likely convert you to a machine quilter. Really.
So after viewing two tutorials, one stipple or meandering and the other paisley or teardrop. I made a quilt sandwich, like we did for the Sulky class. I used a dark top fabric, better to see the stitch quality with white thread, great contrast. A thin layer of cotton batting and a muslin backing. I did use the KK2000 basting spray to secure the layers. Since these were small samples, about 10 inches square, they were easy to manipulate.
I have my machine set with the feed-dogs down. Leah says that is not necessary because her Supreme Slider covers the feed and she uses a 0 setting for stitch length. I tried that, it didn't work for me or my machine. After much playing, this machine likes the dogs down, the stitch length at 2.5, and the Supreme Slider silicone sheet attached to the bed of the machine.
 |
| the layers are spray basted. a 1 inch perimeter traced around the square with chalk. the layers are stitched around this mark. It secures the piece and helps you practice straight stitching. |
 |
| Close up of the stipple stitch. The goal is to end up with even stitches through all the twists and turns. I have always had a hard time doing this. With Leah's method it was easier. I also wore my gripper gardening gloves. That does make a huge difference. | |
 |
| another sandwich, for the paisley/teardrop sample |
 |
| close-up shows a wobble or two, but I think it is getting better |
 |
| looking better at a distance, the white thread really points out the mistakes! |
I plan to spend more time at Leah's site (http://www.daystyledesigns.com/) Finding this young talent has really inspired me to learn to improve my machine quilting. Maybe I will finally finish some of those tops!
Conclusion: thanks Susan for introducing her to me. Now all I need to learn is vibrant color choices!
*there are items for purchase on Leah's site as well. Including the slider. (no compensation received for this endorsement)
www.daystyledesigns.com
Gratuity Moment: for clarifying thoughts
Comments