I've been practicing my freemotion quilting. Previously when I've created practice/sample pieces they tended to be on scrappy fabric/batting or larger pieces.
I've been looking for an efficient way to have a quick reference to refer to when deciding what designs to use on a quilt. Often I find that I've used a quilting design then forgotten about it or can't quite remember what it looked like or how I did it.
On Candy Glendening's website she shows how she created a freemotion quilting sampler book, with small quilt samples loosely bound together. This is perfect for what I want to achieve.
Here is my bundle so far ...
Candy used metal eyelets - my eyelet installing ability failed me so I resorted to using the eyelet stitch on my machine. The size of the samples is ~9 1/2" square - the same size as one of my rulers.
Individual samples ...
On each sample I've recorded the type of thread, bobbin thread, needle, batting used and anything else useful.
As well as patterns I'm trying different needle types with a variety of threads. I'm also interested in creating textures so will explore different battings and combinations.
My favourite accessory for my Bernina (440) is the multi-thread holder. It is just the best for the bigger reels of thread and especially metallics and the silky threads such as the Madeira Polyneons.
Before I had the holder I'd put the larger reels in a small container out the back of the machine so the thread would thread through ok. This mostly worked although there were times when the reel would bounce out of the container or the container (and thread) would end up on the floor.
While there are single thread holders available to have the ability to store several reels is great. If I'm working on a project with multiple thread colours I can have them all in the one place. What is a little annoying is needing to unthread when the bobbin needs to be wound.
The unit comes with one main holder and two smaller holders that can be attached to the back (see photo above) or sides (see box photo).
The best time to purchase one of these multiple thread holders is when the Bernina dealers have their accessory sale.
