Using Monofilament (“Invisible”) Thread for Machine Appliqué and Quilting
Monofilament – often called “invisible thread”– is one of those quilting topics that can bring up a lot of questions. Some of that hesitation comes from early versions of the thread that really did behave more like fishing line. But modern monofilament threads are very different – and when they work well, they can be […]
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Quilt Marking Tools Tested: Safer Choices for Machine Quilting
Quilt marking can make machine quilting feel more manageable – or more stressful, depending on the tools you choose. Over the years, I’ve tested a wide range of quilt marking tools while quilting on a domestic sewing machine, and I’ve learned that visibility, removability, and long-term fabric safety matter just as much as how easy […]
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You Asked — I Listened! DIY Pressing Boards + Big Board for Quilting
After my “Make Machine Quilting Easier” video, many of you asked how I made the big ironing board that I use to support large quilts while quilting on my domestic machine. So, in this video, I show you how to make your own pressing boards — both the portable versions (handy for class, travel, or […]
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Walking Foot Quilting Made Easy: 3 Versatile Techniques (plus variations!)
Ready to quilt with a walking foot? In this beginner-friendly quilting tutorial, I’m sharing 3 easy walking foot quilting techniques that every machine quilter should know. These simple, foundational quilting tips and techniques can help you quilt smoothly, avoid puckers, and build real confidence — even on your very first project! We’ll cover: You’ll also […]
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Easy Fixes for Thread “Nests”
Tired of messy thread nests or “bird’s nests” on the back sides of your quilts? In this quilting tutorial, I’ll share simple ways to prevent messy starts when you’re machine quilting – no fancy tools required! These easy but effective tips apply to both straight stitching and free-motion stitching. In this quilting tutorial, I share: […]
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Thread Tension Fixes Every Quilter Should Know
Struggling with loopy, loose, or irregular stitches or other common sewing machine tension issues? Learn how to balance bobbin tension and upper thread tension on your domestic (home) sewing machine for both straight stitching and free-motion quilting, and how to troubleshoot common machine stitching issues – no screwdriver or expensive repairs needed! In this quilting […]
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No More Wrestling with Your Quilts! Easier Machine Quilting
Managing the bulk of a quilt in your domestic machine sure can feel like a workout! My newest video shares my favorite ways to make machine quilting easier – from setup and (optional) stabilizing lines to simple ergonomic tricks. No matter what size sewing machine you have, I hope these tips will help you quilt […]
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How Quilt-As-You-Go Made Modern Has Held Up After 10 Years
Wondering if Quilt-As-You-Go quilts really hold up over time? I revisited several quilts I made using Jera Brandvig’s QAYG method – where each block is quilted with batting (but no backing!) before being joined together. After 10 years of family use and frequent washing, I’m sharing what held up, what surprised me, and why I […]
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2 Different Approaches to Quilt Basting, Step-by-Step
I’ve talked about spray basting before, but I recently posted a FREE tutorial on my YouTube channel for those who wanted to see the process in more detail. But basting spray is not for everyone! Some folks find it too pricey or too difficult to source. Others may dislike the smell or would prefer not […]
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Quilt Basting with Pool Noodles and Broomsticks
I’m planning a series of posts with some of my favorite quilt basting tips. So, I thought I’d start by answering a question that recently came up in one of my machine quilting classes: “What are pool noodles and why do you like them so much?” Depending on the size of the quilt, the type […]
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