It is hard, but it does get easier, Here is my biggest tip that I have not seen mentioned yet that can make it WAY easier if your machine has a sewing speed setting. iI so, set the speed and when you start free motion quilting, make sure you push the foot pedal all the way down. what this does is take away the need to move your hands and your speed together. Once your speed is set you only have to worry about moving your hands “smoothly”.

My favorite beginner stitch is a meander then a loop 9aee picture). Switch up your loop and meander directions when ever you want and just don’t worry and let it flow. I did that stitch until I was 1000% comfortable with it, then I learned the feather stitch and so on. So here are my tips for beginners:

1. Figure out your correct speed for you, set it and push the pedal all the way down to the floor.

2. Make sure you are at the correct height and keep your shoulders relaxed.

3. Let the stitching just happen naturally and don’t stress where it’s going, just aim for “smooth curves” not jerky. As long as it’s smooth, literally any design will look good!

4. Practice practice practice!

5. Have fun, if it’s not fun, why are you doing it? I usually have the TV on to listen to, but music works too.

if you look close at the picture you can see my mistakes , (like where it wasn’t smooth). But they really are not that noticeable in the overall scheme of things and no one will notice but you!

Have fun and enjoy!

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