Happy Friday! One of my goals this year is to try to share more tutorials with you guys - it's the least I can do to thank you for all of your support here on my blog. Today's tutorial is a free motion quilting one - I love free-motioning, and I absolutely love
teaching it to others as well. This FMQ stitch is a simple continuous line design I'm calling the Clamshell Loop. It's an easy and pretty fun to boot.
This is a linear design, so you'll either need to mark your quilt top for this design, or FMQ this design on a quilt with lots of patchwork that you can use as your lines. For the photos in this tutorial, I created a small quilt sandwich, and drew lines with a ruler and a Frixion pen. Frixion pens are handy for marking because they disappear when heat is applied, like from an iron.
Before I try any new FMQ style, I always doodle it a few times with a Sharpie to get the hang of the motion of the stitch. A quick warning: I doodle the opposite direction the I stitch in. I doodle from left to right, just the same way that I write. But I quilt from right to left, so just keep that in mind when following this tutorial. To doodle this design, simply follow the arrows on the diagram below.
Now, when I sit at my sewing machine to FMQ, I make sure to begin by placing my needle in what will become the binding area, and stitch a few stitches in place, to create a knot, then begin to stitch in an arc to the left, as shown below.
I sew the first arc, moving from right to left, and creating a loop that moves counter-clockwise, leading into the next connected arc, and so forth. I then continue into the third clamshell, the fourth, and so on, until I finish a row.
Then, I begin all over again, moving my quilt sandwich so that I'm back on the right edge of the quilt again, and stitch another row. This stitch gives lots of great texture to a finished quilt, even when you look at it through a print, rather than a solid fabric.
You can experiment with the width of your clamshells, with the size of your loops, and create a lot of different looks with this one stitch. I hope you enjoyed this tutorial! If you follow this tutorial, I'd love to see your progress in my Flickr group,
Stitching with Don't Call Me Betsy.
I recently used this FMQ style for a project that's headed to QuiltCon, but I can't show you much more than this just yet. Very soon, I promise!
Let me make it up to you - the fantastic Julie of Intrepid Thread is giving away a super fun fat quarter bundle that I've put together, which would be so amazing in my new Wheel of Fortune pattern - this bundle is called Orange You Glad It's Friday. To enter, simply tell me about your favorite FMQ stitch. Never tried FMQ before? Tell me which FMQ stitch or style you'd love to master. This giveaway ends Sunday 2/3 at midnight EST. A winner will be announced on Monday. Have a great weekend! THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.
I love doing loops and twists. I recently got a FMQ book for Christmas and it includes some great tutorials to help expand my techniques. I am looking forward to learning wood grain to incorperate it into the paper piecing project that I am currently working on. Thanks for this opportunity and the great tutorial.
ReplyDeleteMy FMQ skills are improving but I'm still in beginner mode! I would love to do any kind of line design - it seems like I always end up messing up the scale (either vertically or horizontally) as I progress from side to side! lol practice makes perfect though!
ReplyDeleteI'm still in the practice stage...would be happy just to master a meandering stitch!
ReplyDeleteThank you for the tute on how you do clamshell loops and for the opportunity to win that fabulous stack of fq's.. I really enjoy pebbling, I love the way it looks, but boy does it take a lot of time and a lot of thread.
ReplyDeleteI'm still trying to learn to stipple and meander. Need lots more practice! Thanks for the chance to win.
ReplyDeleteYour loopy clam shells are so sweet, I have to try them!
ReplyDeleteI have a Bernina 550 QE with stitch control and love it! My favorite FMQ is free style flowers and swirls: http://goo.gl/cjaU6
I love swirls and paisley. I will have to give clamshell a try. I like how you add in the little loops!
ReplyDeleteI'd would love love love to be able to do pebbles. But it's really intimidating looking.
ReplyDeleteLove this tutorial! Thanks so much for sharing it with us. I seem to practice alot, but not use it in any quilt other than stippling. Feathers are something I really want to get better at. Thanks for a wonderful giveaway.
ReplyDeleteI am totally new to quilting. I have yet to master FMQ...Although I am trying. I tried yesterday on my first big quiltI have done. I ended up ripping out what I did it was a nasty looking mess for sure.Now this design above looks much simpler. I may attempt it. But I think I am gonna make me a little qfabric uilty sandwhich to practice on first....Wish me luck cause goodness knows I need tons of it with this. I really want to learn how to do the featehr designs most of all when I figure all of this out. conn_and_vans_mom(at)yahoo(dot)com
ReplyDeleteI'm a real amateur, but this week I am trying to do a pattern that looks like puzzle pieces. Love you clam shell design and thanks for the chance to win!
ReplyDeleteI'm just learning FMQ, so far I've only tried stippling and walking foot wavy lines. Usually fearless, I find I'm surprisingly stuck/reluctant to get adventurous. Thx for the opportunity on the giveaway!
ReplyDeleteFMQ is on my list of things to learn this year. I would like to master a couple of the easier looking patterns...maybe pebbles or your clam shell. Thanks for the give away.
ReplyDeleteAt the top of my bucket list is to be able to FMQ! Currently I do all of my quilting by hand.
ReplyDeleteI would really love to be able to fmq at all. But if I had to name a stitch, it would be feathers. I love the way they look!
ReplyDeleteIf one day I have a sewing machine that can FMQ, I would like to make a quilt with dresden daisies.
ReplyDeletehttp://freemotionquilting.blogspot.nl/2009/10/day-66-dresden-daisies.html
I've been doing FMQ for a few years not and I'm constantly learning., but stippling is my old standby. One thing I really love to do is FMQ adjectives into the quilt that describe the person who is receiving it. The most I've done is 21 words. The last quilt I did was a wedding quilt and I FMQ the words to the couple's "dfirst dance" into the border! So I guess writing words is actually my favorite FMQ to do! Thanks for the great giveaway!
ReplyDeleteI can't honestly say I have a favorite stitch, I have never been taught and I just attempt to do things...like meandering, loops, etc. This past week, I valiantly attempted to make hearts in my free motion, for a valentine runner. They look decent. Live and learn, that's the joy of life. Thanks for a lovely giveaway.
ReplyDeleteRecently I did a stipple with random stars on a baby boys quilt. It turned out nice. I'm rather new to FMQ and see so many that could be favorites. Can't wait to try your clam shell! contentncm at yahoo dot com
ReplyDeleteClamshells are one of my favorites - I also like double loops.
ReplyDeleteGosto muito de seus trabalhos!Eles inspiram me...Obrigada!!!Sou aposentada e estou começando a me aventurar nas costuras...
ReplyDeleteI'm new-ish to FMQ. My only experience is woodgrain quilting on one quilt. I'd love to master a basic stipple and pebbles though. I've tried them on small practice quilts, but I'm afraid to try them on a large quilt because I don't want to mess up!
ReplyDeleteI am trying to learm FMQ. I have taken two classes and still do not have it down. I need to bite the bullet and practice more! Any simple design would do!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tutorial! My favorite FMQ is plain jane stipple but I'm branching out and love anything with curves.
ReplyDeleteI'm still scared of FMQ! I've done some basic loops but would like to learn the more repeatable patterns, such as clamshell.
ReplyDeleteI have only done stitch in the ditch but am wanting to do more. I have signed up for a Craftsy class which I am looking forward to actually start after we finish moving. Your clam shell stitch seems very good and practical, so that is definitely one that I will want to practice. Nancy: rangerer@sbcglobal.net
ReplyDeleteI want to learn to FMQ. I've practiced but am having a hard time knowing how fast to sew & how fast to move my fabric around. I want to master a meandering stitch. Thanks for the tutorial! This clamshell loop is so pretty & I love the texture it gives the quilt.
ReplyDeleteI adore your design! I like loops or anything that is easy! ;)
ReplyDeleteMan, Oh, Man! I love those loops! They are super cute and simple- it seems!
ReplyDeleteI have not done much FMQ- I have attempted a few times but not great at it- just stippling.
I plan to try a continuous line of "square" loops on my next baby quilt- I have been practicing up.
And, I love Julie from Intrepid Thread!!! She completely and totally rocks her bundles!
One of my 2013 resolutions is to teach myself FMQ. I've signed up for 2 Craftsy classes and hope that will help me. I'm drawn to loopy, curved designs rather than linear ones, so I love this tutorial! Thank you so much for sharing and inspiring me! Also, the giveaway bundle is gorgeous - I appreciate the opportunity to win. mags721 at skybest dot com
ReplyDeleteI am a novice with FMQ. I want to conquer stippling
ReplyDeleteI don't have much experience with FMQ... have done lots of straight line quilting with the walking foot. But I have done stipple and loopy type free motion, but nothing on a quilt...it's always been smaller projects (totes, mixer cover, pouches, etc.)
ReplyDeleteI just need to practice FMQ more! I love your loopy scallops, and the only FMQ stitch that I can get to look decent is just a loopy meandering stitch. Love that bundle from Julie!
ReplyDeleteLove the clam shell loop tutorial can't wait to try it! The last quilt I did was with a Crybaby meander (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZZIhpCwmdPc) and I love it. Thanks for the chance to win!
ReplyDeleteI'am also New to Quilting and am teaching myself by reading and experimenting and watching as many tutorials, You tube etc to learn!!! I'am loving every minute of it all the while!!! Thank You, for this wonderful tutorial on FMQ which is also something I look forward to acheiving!!!
ReplyDeletei'm new to fmq and have been practicing free form loops-- this seems a step up--I think I'll try it :)
ReplyDeleteI love tutorials. I'm just a beginner at FMQ and need all the help I can get. Thanks so much! That fabric bundle looks wonderful.
ReplyDeleteI'm new to FMQ but I'd like to master pebbling!
ReplyDeleteI want to screw up my courage and try FMQ...so far I've been chicken (no offense to chickens) :)
ReplyDeleteI am new to FMQ and have not gotten the hang of it but this looks like something I could do, thanks for the tutorial! Other than this I would love to master pebbles!
ReplyDeleteI have not done much fmq, but did feel successful with some loopy stitching on a couple small quilts.
ReplyDeleteI have never done fmq before. It actually scares me to even try. I'm still trying to sew in a straight line!!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the giveaway!
megromeo@gmail.com
I am just learning FMQ, but so far one of the ones that I've tried and liked is echo shell... it's pretty easy, but after I try this clamshell loop I might find that it's my new favorite!
ReplyDeleteI have done a lot of meandering and other basic FMQ, but I haven't mastered pebbles and the orange peel. I finally ordered an extension table and am anxiously awaiting it so I can practice more. You put together an awesome bundle!
ReplyDeleteI just started FMQ. So far just a meandering loopdy-doo. I would really like to move on to stippling next. Any hints on how to keep it uniform in size? Thanks for the great giveaway :)
ReplyDeleteI have just made one FMQ quilt so far one with meandering stitch similar to stipple. I would really like to master a more definite geometric pattern though. Let'see. I am definitely going to give these clamshells a try.
ReplyDeleteWOW! Love the FMQ pattern and the FQ bundle! I'd love to take it home with me and try out this tutorial. I'm just learning and have a long ways to go before my FMQ looks as good as that. One quick question: what do you use to mark your quilt top for FMQ?
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to hear more from you.
I'm just a beginner so loop de loops are my favourite FMQ but I eventually would love to learn how to do and master feathers.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful bundle!
ReplyDeleteMy go to stitch is a simple meandering one or free form flowers, but I might have to try this one out. It looks great!
Still trying to master FMQ. I completed one small quilt using stippling but it was far from perfect. I'd like to try this clamshell soon. It looks beautiful.
ReplyDeleteI've just started learning to FMQ. I've done some variations of the clamshell a couple of times & really enjoy it. The next time I'll try your pattern - thanks for sharing & thanks for the chance to win.
ReplyDeleteI love feathers. I am not so good at them, but I keep trying.
ReplyDeleteI`ve never done FMQ but one of my favorites is feathers.Thanks !
ReplyDeleteI have only tried once. I would love to master any stitch. :) I have been working on some doodles from project Fmq so we will see where that takes me!
ReplyDeleteOh, that bundle is just gorgeous!! Lately, I've been doing a lot of simple loops with fmq. I'm trying to get our of my rut of meandering. I also like Leah Day's zippling (sharp points on stippling instead of smooth curves). it creates a super fun look for kid quilts but I have a heck of a time keeipng a straight line with FMQ, lol
ReplyDeleteI love this design, looks like so etching even I could tackle! My goal this year is to get comfortable with FMQ, I'm always afraid I'll ruin my project.
ReplyDeleteNot "some etching" - something! Not sure how that happened!
DeleteAhhh... I am scared of FMQ, but definitely want to learn how to do it. I have only machine quilted once and that was straight line quilting. I will face my fear of FMQ and hopefully master it some day. Perhaps winning this beautiful bundle would be just the push I need to try! :-)
ReplyDeleteLove your design... I have been looking at trying a FMQ with the clamshell pattern, and I think I love this even more! My favorite FMQ at the moment is the Dogwood that Oh Franson has a tutorial on... I have done 2 quilts with it so far! Can't wait to try this one!
ReplyDeleteI'm totally a beginner at FMQ, but I love the look of it. I think my favorite that I've tried so far is the clamshell design--I'm excited to try yours with loops!--and I hope to work my way up to feathers one day! :)
ReplyDeleteI have am still a beginner at FMQ. I want to master the etching and pebbles.
ReplyDeleteI want to FMQ. That is my next sewing skill to master.
ReplyDeleteI've been experimenting with different free motion patterns lately. My favorite was making glass ball ornaments on my Christmas quilt. Thanks for the chance to win!
ReplyDeleteThe only one I have done is that all over stippling pattern. And some thread painting I like the thread painting. My all over stiplle could use some help ;-)
ReplyDeleteSó sei remoinhos ainda começando.Obrigada estes tecidoa são lindos.
ReplyDeletetiacarminhapezzuto@gmail.com
This FMQ looks great! Is that gold thread on the red? Looks so classy. Great idea for some tutes. (don't count me in your giveaway - I just wanted to comment on how nice it looks!)
ReplyDeleteI would to master swirls. I am practicing them but they all look very wonky still.
ReplyDeleteI am very impressed by the fmq of others...someday it may be in my future, too! I'd have to get a different machine though...not a bad thought! For now, I'll say your clamshell stitch and thank you for the opportunity.
ReplyDeleteLove your quilting. My quilting is all jagged and uneven, so lately I have been resorting to straight-ling quilting - which is not FMQ at all!! I am most comfortable with making wood grain FMQ, for some art quilts I've done, and also stippling.
ReplyDeleteWavy lines are my favorite because they don't have to be even. Thanks for the give-away!
ReplyDeleteI've never attempted FMQ on an actual project. I'm still in the practice phase! Thanks for the giveaway!
ReplyDeleteI just bought a darning foot for my machine. I am excited to try free motion quilting soon. I love your clamshells.
ReplyDeleteI have only practiced FMQ and will now try your design so I can oneday actually do it on a quilt. I would love to have this Fat Quarter bundle color group.
ReplyDeleteI do mostly loops, but like the to make radial symmetric flower like motifs on corners or square blocks.
ReplyDeleteI'm so amazed by FMQ that I'm terrified to try it. Working up the guts.... Maybe stippling?
ReplyDeleteI am a fan of spirals. With just a few changes you can get a number of effects.
ReplyDeleteOh my goodness, Elizabeth!! Awesome tutorial and gorgeous fabric stack! I just made a mini quilt sandwich the other day to finally practice FMQ. Let's say for a first time I guess it went OK - but I need loads of practice. I need to get steady with my speed and moving the fabric so the stitches are fairly even. I want to learn it all, but for now I want to figure out meandering. Thanks for the chance!!
ReplyDeleteThere are so many terrific FMQ designs that I'm drawn to, but if I had to pick a favorite, it would be a flowing flower/feather one. I too am just a beginner at it and still in the intimidation stage. I am definitely going to try your clamshell, though. Your tutorial really makes it seem possible.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the tutorial. I am still learning to FMQ - it takes a lot of practice.
ReplyDeleteThe only FMQ I can do is stippling. I really want to learn freehand feathers.
ReplyDeleteI've never done fmq but would love to figure out how to do some pretty flowers!
ReplyDeleteOoo I'm so scared of FMQ, think I might be the controlling type, I love the look of pebbles...one day
ReplyDeletethanks for the giveaway.
feather and fan!! one day I hope to be able to do it my self :)
ReplyDeleteI have never tried FMQ, but tutorial looks very intiquing!
ReplyDeleteI've never done FMQ, but I'm going to learn soon I hope because I'm participating in Pile o Fabric's Skill Builder BOM. I'd like to do this design one a quilt one day - http://www.ohfransson.com/oh_fransson/2012/03/orange-peel-quilting-on-a-grid.html#
ReplyDeleteYour clamshell loop looks great! I'm going to try it in my class next Saturday when I've got some time, space and practice sandwiches ready to go. I really want to learn how to quilt feathers. I did it years ago, but have lost my confidence after a few years of mostly straight-lining everything. I need to re-learn how to back track neatly. I think I always try to stitch in turbo mode and go too fast. Thanks for the giveaway - these are the colours I've got pulled for a scrappy trip along!
ReplyDeleteI'm just learning FMQ (one of my 2013 goals) and so far my best and only presentable stitch is meandering loops. Love your clam shells!
ReplyDeleteI love this clamshell stitch. I have just recently started FMQ and mostly do the loopy stitch and a daisy flower. Thanks to Intrepid Thread for the giveaway!
ReplyDeletei'm alway doing flowers and vines they seem to work weell with almost everythng. the fabraic bundle is wonderful have a great weekend. lisaursino@msn.com
ReplyDeleteI love feathers but I am not very good at them yet. I mostly do loops or hearts because I find those the easiest. Thanks for the giveaway.
ReplyDeleteI would love to master Elizabeth Hartman's dogwood flower. I think it makes such a lovely pattern but so far I just can't get it to "flow" right. Oh, well, more practice, I suppose!
ReplyDeleteI usually settle on a loopy stipple, only because I need to learn more variety. I would love to know how to do the quilting that looks like random boxes, not sure what it's called. Thanks for the tut, who knew it was so easy??!!
ReplyDeleteI've never tried to FMQ, but I really want to be able to do just a basic stipple so that I could use it when I make baby quilts to give away! christina112358 at gmail dot com
ReplyDeleteI'm just beginning to practice FMQ and this is the exact stitch that i tested. I like free motion wavy lines.
ReplyDeleteI'm a straight-liner (or mostly straight) but love the look of stippling and now, this clamshell!
ReplyDeleteI love to FMQ! It's one my favorite parts of making quilts! I really enjoy trying new things and stitches. I follow Leah Day on her Free Motion Quilting Project site and I received Angela Walters book recently, so I'm excited to try the designs in her book. I have 5 quilts in the works right now, so I'll soon have plenty to play with!
ReplyDeleteAs for my favorite stitch? Hmmm.... I must say I love a good stipple, for it's what I'm most comfortable doing. But I also love just doodling and trying new things.
Girlfriend, I love this bundle gonna buy it right now. I love this tute too. I just got a new Janome, I am naming her Nia ! So next wk when I go for my class, I will use this stitch to learn. Perfect timing.. Now I can catch up on Sea, and Star with you. Plus, your other tutorials. Wow you Hot right now ! Keep it up, and thank you for teaching !
ReplyDeleteSuper cute bundle, I've not done any FMQ yet, but I really love the look of your clam shell loops, I may have to give it a try.
ReplyDeleteI have a thing for spirals. I can't help but see them on every quilt when I am deciding which FMQ design to use. I am starting to branch out. The stitch I really want to master is an all-over feather design (I think it is Leah Day's), but I learned about it in a Cindy Needham class. It is gorgeous! Of course, mastering regular feathers might be in order before I jump to all-over ones! LOL!
ReplyDeleteI love the look of pebbling, but I've never had the guts to give it a try. Maybe one day??? This is a gorgeous bundle of fabric. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteGenius! I've never been a big fan of clam shells, but the little loop at the bottom makes all the difference! I might actually give this one a try!
ReplyDeleteI will always love regular old meandering because it is easy, fast, and hides my mistakes. However, I also really like quilting spirals. Thanks for the tutorial, as well as the giveaway!
Love your clamshell tutorial! I've tried FMQ, but haven't completed anything on my own. Would have to say I really like the loopy and pebble patterns when I see them. Thanks for the giveaway 😃
ReplyDeleteMy favorite (I say favorite, but it's more like only) FMQ stitch is the double loop with swirls. Quick and easy!
ReplyDeleteHI! I'M A FM BEGINNER AND WORKING ON 2" TRAILING HEARTS. GETTING MUCH BETTER WITH THIS,BUT STILL YEARN FOR BETTER SPACING VERTICALLY-PRACTICE PRACTICE,I SUPPOSE! THANKS FOR A SWEET GIVEAWAY!
ReplyDeletemsstitcher1948@yahoo.com
Great tutorial! I don't have a favorite FMQ stitch, but I like to play around when quilting. I recently completed a baby quilt and free motioned a large flower. :)
ReplyDeleteI've just gotten up the nerve to try FMQ, and have finished one mini and one full-size quilt. The stitch that comes easiest for me and looks the best is the swirl. Love this tutorial - will give it a try!
ReplyDeleteI love a Baptist Fan pattern - but it's a little boring by hand. I'd like to learn how to FMQ it. Those fabrics are gorgeous - thanks for the giveaway!
ReplyDeletethank you for a great tutorial...i really like the look of the clamshell loops. :) i have never tried FMQ. i really like loose loops, gives the quilt a playful feeling. thanks for the chance to win the bundle. lovely fabrics!
ReplyDeleteLove this tutorial - thank you so much! I am really only "good" at stippling, but I love swirls and concentric circles. Need to practice!! :)
ReplyDeleteI've never tried FMQ. I got a FMQ foot for Christmas so willing to try just about anything, will have to do alot of practice pieces first though. Love your swirl tutorial, have to try it. thank you.
ReplyDeleteYes! Yes I am glad it's Friday :) I have tried FMQ the stippling on a couple of baby doll quilts, but I think I'll need a lot more practice before I like the results. I like the "dogwood" pattern of FMQ I've seen around.
ReplyDeleteMore FMQ is my goal for this year! I have only done stippling, but really want to try the orange peel. Your clam shells look awesome!
ReplyDeleteMy favorite go-to right now is a viney motif with scrolls and hearts. I am GOING to learn how to make nice feathers this year. It is happening. That's all there is to it!
ReplyDeleteFMQ = Free Motion Quilting? If so then ACK! That is frightening. I need to get into beginning quilting before I pick up that. I don't even know where I would start with FMQ!
ReplyDeleteMy favorite is meandering with loops. I'm still sortof a beginner at FMQ, so I'm trying to expand my skills. I love your clam shell pattern and will have to try it!
ReplyDeleteWoo hoo! This is fantastic! I really loved the woodgrain pattern I tried not too long ago. :)
ReplyDeleteI do not FMQ yet, but I so want to try the grid lines. I have seen it before and it just looks fantastic. Thank you for the giveaway :)
ReplyDeleteI love FMQ! My go to is just Meandering, but have been trying several new techniques, mainly pebbles and up and down lines. It's fun!
ReplyDeleteJust LOVE this bundle of fabric! I have never done any FMQ but would love to learn! I'm attracted to the feathers lately.
ReplyDeleteWell, I can't lower the feed dogs on my machine, so I can't FMQ. :( I really want to try it, but I need to save up for a new machine first. I just want to try an all over random wiggly line pattern. I can't think of what you call it right now. Thanks for the lovely giveaway!
ReplyDeleteI'd love to do any FMQ - just started quilting and need lots more practice before I try it on a 'real' quilt!
ReplyDeleteI like pebbeling, thoug I am a beginer so I want to learn more and get decent at it :)
ReplyDeleteThose loops are awesome! Thank you for showing how to do them. I want to do these when I first start FMQ. :) Love them so much!!
ReplyDeleteThis looks like a great FMQ motif that I'd like to try. Just curious why you go right to left because for me it seems like it would work better going left to right and gradually reducing the bulk under the arm?
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful tutorial! I always seem to go back to my favorite.....meandering. Thanks for a great giveaway!
ReplyDeleteYou make that seem so easy. Well, I would like to master that one but I also would like to be able to do the feather FMQ one as well. Bpfrimmer@yahoo.com
ReplyDeleteGreat fabric choices! I love the cotton shuffle.
ReplyDeleteI don't have a fave FMQ stitch yet--not brave enough to try it yet. Maybe I would start with stippling?
ReplyDeleteI'd love to master any of them! I'm just starting to really learn.
ReplyDeleteFabulous bundle - you sure can pick fabric! My fav stitch for FMQ? I guess it would be straight (I'm not a very brave soul you see... but I'm working on it!!).
ReplyDeletewavy lines
ReplyDelete~~~~~~~~~~
thanks for the giveaway: it's a luscious bundle!
Have never FMQ....want too! lol Newish to quilting, so have only done quilt in the ditch so far. Would love to learn Stippling, or Pebble Stitch first tho.
ReplyDeleteI haven't mastered the whole free motion thing... still working on it. LOVE this bundle!
ReplyDeleteI have never tried FMQ! I would love to learn how to do daisies or flowers.
ReplyDeleteAwesome giveaway and thanks so much for sharing your clamshell loop fmq tutorial! My new fmq stitch would have to be the wishbone and crazy 8's for sashings! Love them! Thanks for the wonderful giveaway!
ReplyDeleteI love doing pebbles, but it does take a long time. My faster stitch is a double loop with a single loop inbetween. It looks great! Thanks for the giveaway.
ReplyDeleteI'm very comfortable with loops and meandering.
ReplyDeleteI stipply and do loops and such with no problem, but I would love to learn to do angular, squares, and triangles fmq. Must make myself try. Thanks for the chance in the giveaway.
ReplyDeleteI would love to learnt o pebble stitch. thanks for the chance!
ReplyDeleteI've just been learning how to FMQ so I like anything that is simple......probably some loopy stuff.
ReplyDeleteLove the name of the bundle! I haven't tried too much with free motion yet. Thanks for the tutorial, it will be very helpful! I think I would probably be interested in simple loops and daisies. I have only been quilting in straight lines so far. I really need to take advantage of all my machine has to offer and FMQ.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful fmq pattern - I have pretty much got the hang of a stipple, but now need to move away from my comfort zone - I want to learn pebble-y fmq!
ReplyDeletei've just started to focus on prtacticing my FMQ over the last month, so i'm still a novice, but my meander and loop meander are the best. i still need LOTS of practice on more uniform designs like this one!
ReplyDeleteI would love to do pebbles - I'm always drawn to quilts that have pebble quilting!
ReplyDeletewould love to master Feathers, thanks for the giveaway!
ReplyDeleteI really want to try some FMQ swirls in my next quilt!
ReplyDeleteourbusylittlebunch(at)hotmail(dot)com
I just finished a cute FMQ square in a square but my favorite to do is feathers. Love the bundle you put together too!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great bundle! I've only FMQed once and I just did a simple wavy line pattern. I really want to learn to stipple because I think it looks great on any quilt. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the chance! I'm gearing up to finally learn FMQ (I've been too scared so far!) and I think stippling is the first one I'd like to learn.
ReplyDeleteI am still a FMQ novice, but I am starting to get the hang of swirly loops. I am probably best at "organic" lines - ha ha!
ReplyDeleteI love the look of the clamshells - I am still trying to masted meandering. I would love to be able to do pebbling and feathers - they look awesome
ReplyDeleteI am still in the practice stage, but I would love to learn now to do feathers. Thanks for the great tutorial.
ReplyDeleteFMQ is next on my list of skills to attempt. Oh Fransson's tutorial for orange peel quilting is one that I'm particularly fasincated with (http://www.ohfransson.com/oh_fransson/2012/03/orange-peel-quilting-on-a-grid.html) and now I'll have to add these cute loopy clam shells!
ReplyDeleteMy favorite is an all over meander... randome and loopy! Thanks for the chance to win!
ReplyDeleteI love that clamshell arc and have just the quilt to try it on. I love all swirly FMQ designs and just did an entire quilt with waves. Thanks for the chance!
ReplyDeletei am still practicing but wont to get good at it this year thanks
ReplyDeleteHave been practicing and have the all over meander down pretty well but anything with circles is tough for me. Will keep at it. Would love to be able to stitch really nice feathers.
ReplyDeleteOh my gosh, those fabrics are gorgeous!!!! I would love to master the paisley free motion quilting.
ReplyDeleteI'd love to learn to stipple and meander fmq!
ReplyDeleteSusie
legato1958@aol.com
I usually just stipple, but I once did a star loopy thing that was really fun :)
ReplyDeleteI just enrolled in a class on Craftsy to learn some FMQ techniques. I would love to be able to do the pebbles and just a nice stipple. Thanks for the giveaway!
ReplyDeletethesimpson5@twlakes.net
I don't have the right machine or foot to fmq, but it is on my list of things to learn when I buy a new sewing machine next year!
ReplyDeleteI do a mean meander:) I've been working on doing small circles though. Just need to get them to look more like circles.
ReplyDeleteI'm very much a free motion quilting novice, but I love the look of pebbles and would eventually like to learn to do them. These clamshells look easier so maybe I could learn to do them in the meantime.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tutorial. I will try this one for sure. I love your give away, the orange comes in handy, we are having some great event comig on. Our queen is stepping back and we are going to have a king, and orange is the color of our monarchie!!!
ReplyDeleteI would love to learn paisley's. But to be honest I just need to get up the nerve to actually try FMQ on a quilt.
ReplyDeleteI usually do a loopy swirly thing but I love the look of the clamshells. I love the orange fabrics!! Thanks for a chance at the giveaway!! Have a great weekend!
ReplyDeleteOooh awesome giveaway, thank you! So far my favorite is pebbles, because when I make them, it's ok that I do a really messy job :| Practicing though ;)
ReplyDeleteI love this one - I have a pretty linear quilt - this would be great for it! My most successful so far is a wandering line that goes into a heart. The hearts were not as hard as I thought they would be - by no means perfect, but very fun!
ReplyDeleteThat is lovely! I have tried and failed but will try again! Thanks for the chance :)
ReplyDeleteMy go to FMQ design I call swirly, or vortex? You spiral in then back out. I love it and it is the only one I'm really good at. I'm trying hard to master feathers but they aren't ready for anything that isn't staying in my house! I love the clamshell and might try it on the quilt I'm piecing right now! :D
ReplyDeleteI have never tried FMQ but am looking forward to on the next quilt I make
ReplyDeleteI haven't done it yet, but would love to master the pebble FMQ stitch.
ReplyDeleteI love pebble quilting, but I really want to also try orange peel quilting.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the chance.
I love the boxy stipple - everytime I try its not crisp it starts to look more like swirls...
ReplyDeletehey Elizebeth, Thanks for this tut! I have enjoyed many types of FMQ over the years. I especially like the loop with a daisy. My machine that does FMQ has died after only 32 years..:( LOL So now I'm trying to learn how to FMQ with my aunties old Singer.... Someday I'll get a new machine.... :) and try some of these clamshells. Thanks
ReplyDeleteStill learning to FMQ so being good at any pattern would be great.
ReplyDeleteFMQ gives me the heeby jeebies!! I must make myself try it though. Love the orange fabric!
ReplyDeleteFavorite FMQ design: paisleys! I start with a simple center loop, then add a big loop with a bent end, scallop around the edges, loop into the middle, echo down...and so on!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tutorial and the chance to win that great fabric collection.
Joanna
My favorite FMQ is stippling. I've yet to try it yet, though, because I am a great big chicken.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tutorial!
ReplyDeleteI am going to have to try these clamshells! Thanks for the tutorial. I like paisleys now that I've been practicing, before that it was the standard stipple.
ReplyDeletemy fmq is not good enough to say i do fmq ... i would like to, at least, make a simple flower and leaf motif. sigh, i still am trying.
ReplyDeleteLoving those clam shells and that bundle would make me have a "Super Sparkly Day"!
ReplyDeletelisamcgriff (at) hotmail (dot) com
I love circles - pebbles I think they are called. They are tedious to do and not right for every quilt, but they look so lovely when done.
ReplyDeleteI am trying to master a spiral that starts in the center and goes out to the edge. This may take awhile, but I love the look.
ReplyDeleteThe loop adds a nice touch to this design.
ReplyDeleteI really like to quilt random wavy lines, or wavy lines in a pattern to make a pattern that looks very much like a wave. Quick and fun to do!
The best way to describe my favorite FMQ is a meander stitch that looks like curly brackets on a typewriter, first one way and then another.
ReplyDeleteSo far, I've only done stippling and straight lines. I would love to learn feathers :) Thanks far a great giveaway! :D
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to try your clamshell FMQ. I took a class and learned several stitches but haven't used any on an actual quilt. I have been sketching designs for a new quilt, though, and think the clamshell would be perfect--loopy but essentially geometric.
ReplyDeleteOn my list this year is to learn how to FMQ, so I will be starting with stippling.
ReplyDeleteHonestly, I just want to master loops! I am seriously NO good at FMQ! Terrible! that bundle is soooo gorgeous! I love love it! I
ReplyDeleteJust a beginner, but so far loops and swirls are my favorites.
ReplyDeleteI'm fairly new to it but I do like random flowers, just haven't got the hang of them yet.
ReplyDeleteI don't have a favorite FMQ stitch because I am just now practicing from the book "Beginners Guide to Free Motion Quilting" by Natalia Bonner...it's slow going but lots of fun!
ReplyDeleteRight now I'm in love with an all-over swirl. Thanks for the chance to win.
ReplyDeleteI am trying to learn some new patterns. I have mastered stippling and have tried swirls. It's fun but I don it tricky.
ReplyDeleteI saw a FMQ of stars recently, and fell in love - I would like to learn that one!
ReplyDeleteI just tried FMQ this week. I was thrilled to find out that I don't need to change the tension on my machine to do it. I tried it on a pot holder, and it was a horrible mess. I would like to master ALL of the FMQ stitches however I have a LOOOOOOOOOOONG way to go to get my machine to do what my brain wants it to do...or is that my hands?? I don't know for sure LOL.
ReplyDeleteNever tried fmq before, but I'd love to try some loopy stitch someday!
ReplyDelete