How to Work a Husqvarna Quilting Machine

Modern quilting machines, like those made by Husqvarna, make quick work of quilt assembly.

For over 100 years, Husqvarna has manufactured sewing machines and accessories. The company's quilting machines have made it possible for quilts to be finished far faster than if they were stitched by hand. Husqvarna also offers quilt racks to make it simpler to produce large quilts. The Husqvarna Quilt Designer II also has an available embroidery unit that turns the sewing machine into an embroidery machine. This creates even more quilt embellishment opportunities and gives more freedom of design to the quilter.

Things You'll Need

• Thread
• Quilt or fabric for quilt
• Quilt frame

Instructions

1. Make sure the machine is plugged in and thread the machine. Pass the thread through the thread pre-tensioner, then through the other guides. This is the basic premise for all the machines, although different models may vary slightly. Use the thread that best suits the particular project you're working on.

2. Assemble the quilt or fabrics for sewing. These are the cut shapes that when sewn together make a quilt block, or quilt blocks to be sewn together. Lift the presser foot with the handle that is on the back side of the machine, or with the professional knee lift that is on some Husqvarna machines. Place the fabric under the presser foot and on the feed dogs. Lower the presser foot, making sure the fabric is aligned correctly.

3. Press gently with the right foot on the pedal. This pedal regulates the speed at which the machine is run. Some Husqvarna quilt machines run much faster than their regular sewing machines; for instance, the MegaQuilter can sew up to 1,600 stitches per minute, which is twice as fast as a standard sewing machine. Sew the desired seam or quilt line.

4. Cut the threads when finished with the sewing seam or quilt line. Some Husqvarna machines offer an automatic thread cutter. Press the button with the picture of scissors to have the machine automatically cut the thread. Raise the presser foot and remove fabric from the machine.

5. Load the quilt frame with the quilt top, batting and backing which have been basted together. Place the sewing machine on the platform base on the quilting frame. Clamp the machine into place, and plug cords in. One of the biggest advantages of using the machine and quilting frame is the ease of use. There are two handles on the machine platform that are used to control the speed and direction of the machine during quilting. A button near the left handle takes place of the foot pedal, allowing the quilter to walk along the quilt frame with the machine.

6. Continue with piecing quilt sections together or stitching the quilting lines until the project is complete.

Tips & Warnings

• The feed dogs should always be up unless free form quilting is the goal.

References

• Husqvarna Viking: Quilting
• Husqvarna Viking: Mega Quilter Features