My Machine Quilting Began with a Hunt
I’ve always had a love of sewing machines, quilting, and fabric…lots of…
Set your mind to quilt boldly, adventurously, or as I love to say… BODACIOUSLY.
The surest way to grow into the quilter you dream of becoming starts with believing one simple truth — you CAN do it. Making the decision to quilt bodaciously means stepping forward with confidence, creativity, and determination.
Quilting bodaciously means treating mistakes and challenges as learning moments that guide you toward improvement and success.
Like great innovators, every attempt brings you closer to mastering your craft and growing your creative confidence.
Quilting on a Thread inspires you to take creative risks, explore new techniques, and enjoy every step of your quilting journey.
The “can do” attitude, for me, came at a very young age, imprinted by two events in my life.
The first event had nothing to do with quilting, but everything to do with life.
I was about 3 years old when my father sat me down to teach me to read, BEFORE I knew my A-B-Cs. He insisted that I could do anything, if I put my mind to it. And he demanded that I put my mind to learning to read. Learning the A-B-Cs just came naturally as he taught me to use letters to form the words I was reading. It was an unconventional way of learning to read for sure. But that was my daddy…bold, bodacious.
The attitude, that I could do anything I put my mind to, imprinted itself upon me.
The second event was my first step toward becoming a quilter.
I was on a sleep over watching Nana (she was everyone’s Nana) as her needle sped through the quilt on her frame. I asked her to teach me this mysterious skill. She pulled me up into her lap and explained with her being blind there was no way she could teach me to quilt. She tapped me on the chest and stated with all confidence “If you’re gonna quilt, it’s already in here.” The next morning, I woke up to find an envelope filled with all of her piecing templates. No instructions, just these unlabeled pieces traced on and cut from magazine pages, catalog pages, butcher paper – whatever she had handy at the time. I carried these precious bits home and began my first quilt. (picture of the double wedding ring quilt)
The thought that quilting was already within me imprinted itself on me that day. Without knowing it, I had started on my own journey to Quilt Bodaciously.
My journey with the Cutie Table-Top Quilting Frame began with a simple online discovery that completely transformed how I quilt. As someone who struggled for years pushing quilts through a domestic sewing machine, finding a compact, affordable frame opened the door to smoother quilting, faster results, and renewed creative excitement.
The Cutie Frame sits easily on a tabletop and can be stored away when not in use, making professional-style quilting possible in small spaces.
This frame allows quilters to use their domestic sewing machines, making it accessible without investing in expensive long-arm systems.
With the right setup and practice, quilts can be completed faster and with better precision, turning months of work into days.
Ordering the Cutie Frame was the start of a learning and growth journey. While waiting for delivery, I upgraded to a Jazz II sewing machine and spent time mastering its settings — something I strongly encourage for every quilter. Once the frame arrived, it transformed my entire quilting process, allowing me to piece, load, and finish quilts more efficiently and confidently.
The Cutie Frame quickly became one of the most valuable tools in my quilting studio — helping me quilt smarter, easier, and with greater creativity.
After months of practicing on my Cutie frame with my Q’nique 19 long arm machine, I felt ready to start a real project. I tested several quilting styles and found loops and swirls worked best. Inspired by a Bargello design, I created my own wave pattern using Electric Quilt.
Using my design, I selected batik fabrics and white yardage from my stash. I cut and sewed the strips together, added white “interruptions” to create the wave effect, and carefully assembled the columns to match the pattern.
After preparing and floating the quilt on the Cutie frame, I quilted it using large loops and swirls with soft grey thread. Once finished, I named the quilt “Interrupted Waves,” which became one of my favorite creations due to its des
Because of the interrupted wave and the sweeping watery wave of this quilt, I decided to quilt it with large loops and swirls. I used a soft grey thread that disappeared into the quilt. This quilting and thread complemented the bargello nicely.
I began quilting at a very young age, watching my Nana quilt as her needle moved like magic through the fabric. When I asked her to teach me, she told me I would learn on my own if quilting was truly meant for me. So, I stayed close, watching and learning through observation.
Nana and her friends would quilt for hours, chatting while creating beautiful pieces. They never formally taught me, but by observing them, I absorbed their techniques, passion, and dedication to the craft.
Through watching and practicing, I learned that everyone quilts differently, and perfection is a myth. Quilting taught me patience, determination, creativity, and the courage to try new things, where real growth and magic happen.
Over the years, I’ve created countless quilts and developed my own designs. Quilting taught me to trust myself, focus on my personal growth, and appreciate the journey. Every day brings new lessons, making quilting a truly rewarding and meaningful experience.
Quilting success begins with understanding your tools, materials, and techniques. By learning step-by-step methods and practicing consistently, you can create beautiful quilts while improving your skills and confidence.
Start with essential quilting knowledge, including fabric preparation, stitching techniques, and design planning to build a strong foundation.
Experiment with patterns, colors, and layouts to create quilts that reflect your unique creative voice.
Understanding your sewing machine, quilting frame, and accessories allows you to work more efficiently and achieve professional-looking results.
Every quilter starts somewhere. With the right guidance, tools, and encouragement, you can grow your quilting skills faster while enjoying every stitch. Step into a quilting journey filled with creativity, learning, and accomplishment.
Quilting is more than stitching fabric together — it’s about expressing creativity, building confidence, and enjoying every step of the journey. Whether you’re just beginning or expanding your skills, the right tools, techniques, and mindset can completely transform your quilting experience.
Explore quilting styles that allow you to express your personality and creativity through color, design, and technique.
Learn practical quilting approaches that help improve precision, efficiency, and overall results.
Develop the skills and mindset needed to quilt boldly and enjoy the process without fear of mistakes.
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