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Longarm Quilting Terms You Need to Know

By Darla Hall for Quilting with Darla


Longarm quilting, much like quilting in general, comes with its own unique set of terms and techniques. If you're familiar with free-motion quilting or straight-line quilting on a domestic sewing machine, you'll notice some overlap, but longarm quilting introduces its distinct vocabulary and methods. Whether you're new to longarm quilting or looking to brush up on the basics, this guide will help you understand the essential terms and concepts.


Motif Terms



Stitch in the Ditch

"Stitch in the Ditch" is a technique where you quilt by sewing directly into the seam lines of your quilt top. This method can be done either hand-guided or with the assistance of a quilting ruler. The goal is to create a subtle quilting effect that enhances the piecing without drawing attention away from the overall design. Whether you're using a longarm machine or a domestic machine, mastering this technique adds a polished finish to your quilt.


Ruler Work

Ruler work is a game-changer in the world of longarm quilting. This technique involves using a specialized quilting ruler to guide the hopping foot of your longarm machine, allowing you to create precise and consistent lines, curves, or intricate designs. Ruler work can be used for anything from stitching in the ditch to crafting complex patterns, making it a versatile tool in any quilter's repertoire.


Fillers

Fillers are the unsung heroes of quilting, especially in applique quilts. These background quilting patterns can range from simple to complex, adding texture and dimension to your quilt. Common filler designs include meandering, echoing, McTavishing, and pebbles. Whether you prefer a minimalist approach or something more intricate, fillers play a crucial role in enhancing the overall look of your quilt.


Feathers

Feathers are a classic quilting motif that never goes out of style. This elegant design can be created using a ruler or hand-guided, depending on your preference and skill level. Ruler-marked feathers are ideal for achieving perfect symmetry and uniformity, while hand-guided feathers allow for more organic, flowing shapes. In the example provided, the small solid border features ruler-marked feathers, while the interior of the quilt showcases hand-guided ones, beautifully complementing the Iris Flower panel.


Essential Longarm Machine Terms


Understanding the parts and features of your longarm machine is crucial for mastering longarm quilting. Here are some key terms to know:

Hopping Foot

The hopping foot is a vital component of a longarm quilting machine. This small foot moves up and down with each stitch, "hopping" over the quilt layers to guide the needle. The hopping foot ensures that the fabric remains flat and secure while quilting, helping to create even stitches. It's particularly important when doing ruler work or intricate designs.


Needle Bar

The needle bar holds the sewing needle in place and moves up and down to create stitches. On a longarm machine, the needle bar is designed to handle the heavy-duty work of quilting through multiple layers of fabric and batting. It's essential to ensure that the needle bar is properly aligned and maintained to achieve consistent stitch quality.

Tension Assembly

The tension assembly on a longarm machine controls the tension of the thread as it passes through the machine. Proper tension is critical for creating balanced stitches that don't pucker or skip. Understanding how to adjust the tension assembly can significantly impact the quality of your quilting, especially when working with different types of thread or fabric.



Frame

The frame is the structure that holds your quilt in place while you work. Longarm quilting machines are mounted on large frames that stretch the quilt sandwich taut, allowing you to move the machine smoothly across the surface. Frames come in various sizes, accommodating different quilt sizes and room configurations. Knowing how to properly load your quilt onto the frame is key to successful longarm quilting.



Stitch Regulator

A stitch regulator is an advanced feature found on many longarm machines that helps maintain consistent stitch length, even when the machine speed or movement varies. This is particularly useful for quilters who are still mastering the art of moving the machine at an even pace. With a stitch regulator, your quilting will have a professional finish, regardless of your skill level.



Quilting Head

The quilting head is the part of the longarm machine that houses the needle, hopping foot, and other essential components. It's the "business end" of the machine, where the actual stitching happens. The quilting head is mounted on rails that allow it to move smoothly over the quilt surface, and its size and features can vary depending on the machine model.



Mastering the language of longarm quilting is an essential step in becoming a confident and skilled quilter. Whether you're just starting out or looking to deepen your understanding, knowing these key terms will help you navigate your longarm machine with ease and creativity. From understanding the basics like the hopping foot and stitch in the ditch to exploring more advanced techniques like ruler work and fillers, each term adds to your quilting toolkit. As you continue to practice and experiment, these terms will become second nature, empowering you to bring your quilting visions to life with precision and artistry.


Happy quilting!


 

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