Fun With Free-Motion Embroidery
An introductory course appropriate for any quilter wanting to explore machine sewing with the feed dogs down. This is a full day workshop where the students will explore free-motion embroidery techniques and the use of decorative thread. Students will experiment with the techniques on scraps as well as make a small sampler. A recently tuned machine (with decorative stitches and the ability to raise and lower feed dogs) is required. The student must be comfortable using the machine.
A two day workshop is also available for those wanting more in depth experience. The student will make a wall hanging using the techniques learned on day one.Thread may be purchased from the instructor.
Supply List
Every student is responsible for understanding their sewing machine and how to adjust it. Some brands have computer menus that are difficult to navigate. You will need to know how to: raise and lower top tension; lower feed dogs; change stitch width; change stitch length; reduce pressure on the presser foot; know how to set your machine for free-motion work. Some Viking machines have a free-motion override setting, know how to find and activate it.
- Sewing machine, with zig zag stitch and capable of lowering the feed dogs. Make sure it is cleaned and tuned up before class. There's nothing more frustrating than coming to class and your machine can't handle the assignment!
- Sewing machine instruction manual
- A platform or table extender to increase the flat working surface area around the feeddogs and needle.
- Darning foot for your machine, throat plate with wide hole
- Optional, extra bobbin case
- Extension cord, scissors, pins
- Sewing machine needles, size 10 or 11 universal, size 12,14 and 16 Schmetz topstitch needle, or brand recommended by manufacturer.
- Small bottle of silicone: Sewer's Aid is one brand name, optional
- Thread: bring regular sewing thread as well as at least one spool each of:
- solid color rayon
- variegated rayon
- 30 wt. rayon or polyester
- metallic thread for experimentation. The color should go with the fabrics for leaves.
- One spool of monofilament thread, clear or smoke as well as bobbin thread such as The Bottom Line by Superior Thread Co.
- Extra bobbins
- Pencil, paper cutting scissors, fabric scissors
- 12 inch square or larger of muslin or solid color fabric to practice on in class
- Scraps of prints and solids to contrast background, for appliqued and embroidered leaves. The colors need not be realistic.
- Paper backed fusible webbing, about 1 yard. Wonder-Under or Steam a Seam would be preferred brands.
- Half yard of 'Tear Away' stabilizer
- Bring a leaf or two from your favorite tree or plant to use as a pattern.
- Machine embroidery hoop, 7 inch size
- Iron and padded surface, optional
- Optional, SewSlip or Free-motion Slider (new cling type; no tape)
- Surge protector (with replacement fuse), or extension cord
- One Day Class: 8 x 11 inch piece of fabric for background, 3 inch strips of contrast fabric for a border
- Two Day Class: bring up to 24 inch square of fabric and enough contrasting fabric for a 3 or 4 inch border.
The instructor will have thread and top stitch needles available for purchase.
Classroom Setup: Please provide a table for each student. ironing boards and irons for every 6 students. Please no more than 20 students. Two large tables for the use of the instructor.
