What design would you use on this quilt?

[Eileen K.]

Hi, I am a begining long arm quilter- what design(s) would work on this quilt?

[Hannelore N.]

I'm not a longarm quilter, but I sometimes take my large bed quilts and have them longarm quilted. I really like your top. It's very 'strong' (both, colours and pattern). I would be very careful not to 'overwhelm' this piece, and opt for simple lines that echo or follow the strong shapes.

[Margo C.]

Because that top is so busy, your quilting really isn't going to show up much. I would just use a panto that gives you the amount of density you want the quilt to have. Definitely something with some curvy lines!

[Margo C.]

Okay....beginner here. I too have a busy quilt top and was searching the blog for ideas on how to go about quilting it and what color thread to use. I read this posting and saw your quilt top. I sure like the colors it's very nice and busy like mine. Can I get some suggestions from anyone out there on this. Margo you said something about Panto...not sure what that is. Is that the red X's you drew?
Barb

[Hannelore N.]

'Panto' is an overall quilt design that does not follow the lines of piecing. I bet Margo can explain it better. I'm attaching two pictures. The first one shows a quilt I made and the second picture is a clos-up of the back, showing the panto design used (done here in the UK by the longarm ladies at The Bramble Patch).

[Margo C.]

Great photo explanation, Lorchen!

Barb a "panto" is short for pantograph. It is an all-over design that goes from one side of the quilt to the other (usually done on a long-arm quilting machine) without regard to the quilt's design. Here is a link with lots of panto designs for sale that will give you an idea of the possibilities. http://www.urbanelementz.com/shop/ca...ntinuous-line/

They are often used when a quilt has a very busy design where the quilting won't show much and will be more functional (to hold the quilt together) rather than the main focus of the quilt.

[Barbara C.]

Google longarm quilting patterns. There are many great one's out there to choose from. Something will speak to you!
Here are a few sites that I use.

http://www.columbiariverquilting.com/
http://www.kmquiltingsupply.com/
http://www.goldenthreads.com/

Barbara

[Barbara C.]

Thanks everyone! I always appreciate the advice from the pros. All of your quilts are so beautiful!
I wish I had a long arm so I can use some of these templates you recommend but I don't have the space for one, so instead I got the Bernina 830 which has a longer neck plus I have the Stitch Regulator foot (BSR). So I've been practicing on a few sample squares to get a feel for it and now I'm going to try stippling this quilt together. Wish me luck...LOL
Thanks
Barb