After a whirlwind week in Kansas City and a quick trip to Texas, it is time to get caught up on some projects. First, staying with my “F” theme….Fun with Foam. I am prep-ing a quilted piece but instead of batting, I’m using FOAM. I love the definition it gives and the soft stability it has. There are several on the market and I’m using Soft and Stable for this project. I used my walking foot to keep all layers moving together. A walking foot or even feed foot is great to keep one layer from shifting ahead of another layer when quilting. Here is what the foam looks like in the “quilt sandwich”…

AND my walking foot in action when quilting the lines. Notice, I’m FOLLOWING (another “F”!) the lines of the design in the fabric. No need to do anything fancy for this bag. Now I’ve FINISHED quilting and ready for the next steps!

I’m making an “Alpen Belt Bag” by Center Street Quilts. I purchased the pattern online as a pdf. (no affiliation, I love the simplicity of this bag!) Yes, I, too buy patterns. Even though I design patterns, I still purchase patterns! I love supporting other pattern designers. I’m looking forward to getting the orange webbing I ordered for the belt/strap!

Tip #1 – A walking foot or even feed foot or built in feed system really helping in keeping your layers even when quilting!

Tip #2 – Give FOAM a try instead of batting. It is great for items that need a bit more stability!

Tip – Bonus – FOLLOW lines on your fabric as your quilting design. Simple lines can be very relaxing to quilt. ALSO, When quilting lines, I always try to quilt in the same direction each time. I don’t go down and back. One way helps keep the fabric smooth and not “ripple” back and forth.

Question – FEEDBACK needed… Should I sell my patterns as Pdf patterns on my website. Do you like the instant gratification of printing at home? Or would you rather purchase a printed version and I mail it to you? I’d love to get your input.

in quilting,

Debbie