I was a very delicate blanket lying on my grandma’s bed. I was amazed that she brought it. But I was shocked when she said she made it herself with a quilting! I was like, how? She smiled and said Easy,
Quilting Stitches
To do quilting stitches on a sewing machine, set the machine to a zigzag or decorative stitch, and sew along the quilt layers with a walking foot to keep the fabric even.
She pulled up a chair beside me and shared how she had carefully chosen the fabric, pieced it together, and stitched it with love. The whole process had taken her weeks, but it was worth it.
Table of Contents
What Is Quilting On A Sewing Machine?
Quilting on a sewing machine is stitching multiple layers of fabric together to create a quilt. It usually involves three layers: the top fabric (often a decorative design), the batting (a layer of soft, cushioned material), and the backing fabric. Together, they make a decorative thing.
Types Of Quilting Stitches On Sewing Machine
Quilting isn’t just one specific stitch. It’s actually a fun mix of different stitches all working together to create beautiful patterns.
When you’re quilting on a machine, you can choose which stitch fits your style and project best. Some of the most popular machine quilting stitches you’ll find are..
- Free motion quilting\ feather stitch
- Stitch in the ditch
- Zigzag stitch
- Blanket stitch
- Blind hem stitch
- Darning stitch
- Running stitch
- Straight stitch
- Backstitch
- Basting stitch
- Buttonhole stitch
- Chain stitch
- Outline quilting stitches
- Stipple quilting
- Stretch stitch
- Straight stretch stitch
Yes, you have many options. You need to use the right one at the right time. Sometimes I even use a cover stitch to secure the edge.
How To Do Quilting Stitches On Sewing Machine?
After answering my basic questions, she got into showing me quilting practically. She said that to do a quilting stitch, you need to follow five steps.
Make a Large Sample Quilt Sandwich
“Before you jump into quilting your actual quilt, sweetheart, take a good-sized piece of fabric—the same kind you used for your quilt top—and layer it with the same batting you plan to use.
You can quilt a twin-size quilt. But I like to keep my quilt about 64 to 72 inches wide and 86 to 90 inches long—using a standard sewing machine.
I like to make this sample pretty big. So, I can really feel how my machine will handle the layers. This helps me adjust my settings properly before I start on the real thing. You want to avoid jump stitches when you get to the main quilt.
So don’t skimp on this test piece!”
Choose The Right Thread
I’m using fusible batting today. It’s wonderful because it lightly fuses the layers together, so I don’t have to pin or baste the quilt sandwich first, which saves loads of time.
For the thread, I love this cotton Marathon thread in a bright fuchsia. This thread is perfect for satin stitch.
It really stands out and helps me see every stitch clearly. Choose a strong, good-quality thread, and don’t be shy about using a bright color on your sample, even if your final quilt will be more subtle.”
Draw And Practice The Quilting Pattern
The stitch we’ll use looks like many letter Cs all over the quilt. It’s quick and easy, but it also looks like a custom, hand-done stitch. Grandma said while drawing C.
You’re basically creating a continuous flow of C-shaped stitches, going forward and then tracing back over each C. You can make your C’s big and bold or small and delicate.
It’s up to you and what feels comfortable. You can do any machine embroidery.
Set Up the Right Stitch Length
The ideal stitch length varies depending on personal preference and project requirements. But a range between 2.5mm and 3.5mm is generally recommended to achieve balanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
When piecing quilt blocks, a shorter stitch length of approximately 1.5mm is preferred to ensure tighter, more secure seams.
Quilting needles sized 75/11 or 80/12 are commonly used, as they provide optimal penetration and minimize fabric damage during stitching.
Stitch A Big C Shape With Your Needle And Thread
Begin stitching anywhere in the first quarter. Make a big C shape with your needle and thread, then sew back over the same line to reinforce it. Keep making C’s, changing direction as you go—sometimes curving left, sometimes right.
This variation keeps the pattern interesting.
If you reach an edge or tight spot where a full C won’t fit, simply ‘travel’—that means moving your needle to a new area and starting another C there. It’s perfectly fine if you have small gaps; your eyes will blend them in once you’re done.
Continue Stitching Adjacent C’s, Switching Directions
Continue stitching adjacent C’s, switching directions (left and right curves) to add visual interest. This typically involves making thousands of these Cs — a fun and rhythmic process for a twin quilt.
When space gets tight (like near edges), simply travel your needle to a new spot to start another C.
For a 35” square sample, you might need about 150-200 C stitches, so expect roughly 20 to 30 times that amount for a full twin quilt.
Keep a Steady Rhythm and Speed
To keep your stitch length and size even, I like to hum a little tune or think of a rhythm while I sew. This helps my hands move smoothly and keeps the speed steady, which is key for consistent stitches. If you randomly sew too fast or slow, the stitches can get.
And that’s it! You got a blanket of quilting stitches on the sewing machine! I keep it simple with the C pattern, but you can do a complex yet beautiful pattern once you are comfortable with it. And end it with backstitch or lightning stitch on sewing machine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should my sewing machine settings be for quilting?
Set your stitch length between 2.5mm and 3.5mm for quilting. Use a quilting foot for better fabric control, and ensure your tension is balanced for smooth stitches through all layers.
What is the best stitch size for quilting?
A 2.5mm to 3.5mm stitch is ideal for machine quilting—long enough to avoid puckering but tight enough to hold layers securely.
What is a good throat size for quilting?
A throat space of at least 8 to 10 inches is recommended for quilting, providing enough room to maneuver large quilts comfortably.
What is the best size sewing machine needle for quilting?
Needles sized 75/11 or 80/12 are best for quilting as they offer good penetration without damaging the fabric layers. Use quilting-specific needles when possible.
There You Have It
Quilting with the letter C stitch is a simple, fun way to bring your quilt to life. Take it one quarter at a time, keep a steady rhythm, and don’t worry about perfection. Your unique stitches make the quilt special.
Enjoy the process; before you know it, you’ll have a beautiful, cozy masterpiece!
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