Sunday, January 13, 2013

CRAFT GOALS for 2013

I'm a list maker, partly because I have always "worked" that way...and partly because my short term memory issues mean more gets forgotten than remembered if I don't write things down immediately, lol. 

So, this morning I began making a list of the sewing, quilting and knitting or crocheting goals I have for 2013.  My list isn't long as I cannot complete much on a daily basis, but it includes items that I really want to concentrate on and perfect.  This year I am focusing more on "quality" than "quantity".   

As a fairly "new" quilter I have to admit I am totally and COMPLETELY frightened of free motion quilting.  It is a skill I want to learn and become good at, but the thoughts of even "attempting" any FMQ just scares the pants off of me.  So I am going to find the ugliest fabric I have in my stash and make small "sandwiches" on which to practice various patterns.  Leah Day has a wonderful series of free videos online to teach free motion quilting.  I have watched every single one of them, TWICE, and have modified my generic FMQ foot to stop the inherent bounce that makes FMQ quilting more difficult.  I have ordered and received gloves to make it easier to grip the quilt sandwich and I am currently waiting to receive several free gift cards so that I can purchase a silicone mat to place on my machine to help the quilt glide.  And then...I WILL learn how to free motion quilt!!!

Honestly, I don't have a clue why FMQ scares me so badly.  It is only material, batting and thread... and since my seam ripper is already my best friend I should have absolutely NO problem unpicking any mistakes I make (and I am sure there will be PLENTY)!   Guess I will just have to take a deep breath and plunge right in.  Any suggestions before I jump into the drink???

PS - A list of my goals can be found on my sidebar.  I will update the list as I reach my goals.


4 comments:

  1. I dont use a mat. perhaps I should. the ONE THING I have learned is to move slowly and steadily..............

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks for the suggestion on moving slowly and steadily. Slow may be a bit of a problem as my usual style is to do everything FAST, lol. I can't wait until I can get back to my sewing machine and try my sample sandwiches of FMQ...although I am still just a teeny bit scared, lol.

      Delete
  2. I keep making lists as well. Right now most are unfinished projects.... Look out once those are done a new project list is being made.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Jackie -

      My lists have lists!!! Right now I have been so preoccupied with J's move and getting things together for the lawyer that I still have not touched my sewing machine since right before Christmas. I am going into withdrawal!

      Delete