getting started problem !

[Salpells]

I have only just discovered Eleanor and the wonderful fresh ideas I now have to quilting but can anyone help in my 'getting started' dilemma. I have a Bernina Virtuosa 160 which is just perfect for all patchwork and quilting but 'it' doesn't seem to like starting a row of stitching, ie. it catches and puckers and just will NOT feed through easily. I have tried everything I can think of...any ideas please ...HEEEEELLLLPPP

[purrfect-lady]

I always use a "jump scrap". When I finish sewing a seam I sew off my project onto a little scrap. I leave the scrap in the machine. Then when I'm ready to sew my next piece, I sew off the scrap onto the good fabric. I use the same scrap over and over and over. What many quilters do is, instead of using a scrap, they keep squares at the side of their machines and sew squares together. EVentually, they have another quilt sewn!

Chain sewing your pieces also is the same thing as the process above.

finally, if you don't have a scrap or other fabric in your machine when yous start sewing, hold your bobbin and top threads firmly in your hand as you start sewing. This will prevent them from getting sucked down into the machine.

Hope this helps!

[Marilynsgrammy]

I follow Mary's last step.. hold the threads at the beginning of my seam... it does really help.

also, when sewing more than one block I use the chain sewing step that Mary talked about... sew the first section together and instead of clipping the threads keep your foot on the peddle for a stitch or two, then start your next section...

hope this helps, what is your project?

[12stepquilter]

I save all the ends of my bindings just for this problem. I just cut them into small pieces and use them as the start on and jump off. Good luck with your project and will be waiting to see your results in the photo section.
Rhonda

[WeeOne]

Welcome to El's world.

Maryz has given you the tips I use.

Good Luck!
Lyn

[MainelyMe]

I agree with the others, the tricks to use are:
Use a piece of scrap fabric first, then sew your project piece
Hold the top and bottom threads in your fingers until you have taken two or three stitches
If using straight stitch, use a single hole throat plate
Hope you'll find what works for you!
Joan

[Becca]

When I first started sewing I did the same thing.The tip of using the scrap will help I think.Works for me.I also use the chain method.Hope this helps. Becca

[QuiltGram8]

Salpells: Welcome to the forum. I use all the same tips already given, so I have nothing to add except, WELCOME to our group. We will be watching to see your pictures of your projects. It's great to have another new person to visit and learn with.

Velda

[scrapquilter48]

Good luck solving, cause nothing so annoying when we can't get our sewing done. Especially when we are in the sewing mood/grove for long time.

[Salpells]

Hi to everyone who replies to my plea for help..... thank you all so much and I will endeavour to get this annoyance sorted. I am truly glad to a part of this wonderful sewing group but am not sure how quickly you will expect photos !!! I work full time so have next to no time to get things done...still one day ! Do keep in touch and maybe send over a few UFO's of your own X