u/Kali_Dow

And now I’m completely overwhelmed trying to learn all the new features (in the best possible way).

I went to a LQS who happens to be a major sewing machine dealer here in Cleveland “just to look.” I had NO intention of buying because there’s a show coming up in C’Bus and I was going to check out all the machines then. Well, a rainy Saturday, a patient partner, and a delightful, no pressure salesgirl who found me a classroom machine, and I’m now the proud owner of a Janome Continental M8.

Quite the upgrade from my humble but stalwart Kenmore no-name Janome produced machine of the early 90s. (She’s sticking around as my backup. She’s reliable and easygoing. That comfortable friend you’re always happy to see) I spent most of the day reading the instructions and figuring out what went where. But omg…never having to thread the needle again!!!! Life changing. lol I can’t wait to actually sit down and attempt to FMQ for the first time on it. It will likely be awhile before I’m comfortable on this beast (took me about an hour to realize that one of the presser foot shanks was missing-I thought I was nuts) and there’s likely way more features than I will ever need but she’s a dream. And as I get closer and closer to retirement I think it makes sense. So wish me luck, friends. I’m going to delve into some online classes on learning this machine and get to quilting!

I didn’t think I’d ever get here. Tbh, I hated this about half way through. Messed up the quilt top “pattern” and refused to go back and rip out the seams (because picking seams apart makes me crazy) so decided to live with it, mistakes and all. Took a longarm class to be able to rent time on a longarm machine at my LQS and quilted this puppy myself. No basting and pinning for this girl. I don’t have a machine at home that could handle quilting it anyway. Managed to get it quilted in about 5 hours, a simple channel stitch, then put the binding on. Hand stitched the back to finish the binding-that turned out be the most enjoyable part for me. We put on “The Boroughs” and I sat here last night, binge-watched it and finished the binding. Popped it into the wash today and loved seeing all the gorgeous crinkles once it dried. It’s prettier now than it has ever been. Cat tax paid in full.

I can’t begin to tell you how hideous I think this is. lol it’s ok. Most of my decisions in life are usually prefaced with a “why the heck not?” And this was no exception. To say I “winged it” would be kind. No pattern, no plan. I just decided I should make a quilt.

And here is what I learned. It’s important to measure and cut well. (And I enjoy that) whoever discovered nested seams is a genius and I bow at their feet for all eternity. Using the same type of fabric, as a newbie, is important. (I had no idea that different fabrics sew differently. Duh) I ABHOR picking seams. I will avoid it at all costs. See above example. Towards the end I realized I messed up the order….and said screw it I’m pressing on. That’s how much I hate picking ripping seams, I will live with a jacked up quilt to avoid it. I learned that I love fabric and pattern and texture. I loved the process of making this. I also learned that it “might” be helpful if I bought some patterns and followed them for my next quilt projects. lol

I’ll get the backing ready. I’m super excited to have signed up for a long arm class. Our LQS will let you rent their long arms! So I will finish this mess, in all its glory and post it when done. No one will care that it’s wonky and the seams done match when their feet are cold on a north coast winter night!