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Free Motion Quilting for Beginners



Learn the basics of free motion quilting, from preparing your quilt and setting up your machine, to types of threads, needles, and tools to use.
Ample time allowed for hands on practice.
Need ideas on how to finish a quilt? Bring it to class!
Yes! We will make feathers!
Call or stop by the store in advance if you need help finding the correct free motion foot for your machine.
Supply list below.

For questions or more information about this class, please email Rana directly at ranaquilts@gmail.com.

Supply List for Free Motion Quilting Class


Sewing Machine that you are familiar with (don’t forget power cord and foot pedal)

Please be sure you know how to set your machine up for free motion or darning before class.

Extension Table if you have one

Darning Foot* (also called a *free motion quilting foot or hopping foot)

Extra needles* for your sewing machine (size 90/14 is a good general size. (*Topstitch, Microtex  or quilting needle if you have them)

Thread* bring more color choices than you think you will need. Cotton, polyester, rayon. No metallic for today. Go for color more than brand—I use everything from YLI to Sulky. Variegated thread is OK.

Sewers Aid* to help thread feed smoother (only if you already have it)

Bobbins* some machines want you to use the same thread in the top and the bobbin. If that’s the case, bring empty bobbins so you can fill them with whatever brand/weight thread you are using on top. Otherwise, use bobbin thread (very thin thread like *Superior Bottom Line, Aurifil 50 wt, or Coats and Clark bobbin thread in white, gray or other neutral color)

Gloves* Ask for quilting gloves at the fabric store.

Small scissors* to snip threads

Marking*—specially made marking pencils or markers are a good bet. I also like Crayola washable thin tip markers, and ordinary chalk. If you don’t have anything, don’t worry—I’ll bring mine.

Quilt sandwiches for practice. Make a few so you don’t run out of practice space. 

Take a light colored fat quarter. Cut in half for two 11” x 18” pieces. Layer with batting. Spray baste. If you don’t have *basting spray, bring the fabric and batting and we’ll spray it in class. 

Reading glasses if you need them

Snack/drink/water for lunch break

An actual quilt if you want, for consultation!


*Starred items are available for purchase at The Sewing Machine Exchange.


Skill Level: Beginner
Skill Details:
Instructor: Rana O'Connor
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Included Materials


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This class cannot be purchased online. Please contact the store for more information.