While at Bullseye last week for the class I took, we were shown how to properly prepare a kiln shelf for firing. I’ve been an advocate for thin fire to fire glass on, but that’s because I can be a bit lazy now and then. You can get away with it for flat work but if you plan to slump your work you’ve got to use kiln wash to prep your surfaces. Over at the Warm Glass web site they have a tutorial on how to coat your shelf with wash. The picture in the pdf file was taken at Bullseye, so this is exactly what I learned last week. I’ve been shown this procedure in the past but Nathan, our fab instructor, was so good he made me want to always use kiln wash. And since I did pick up that set of square plate molds in various sizes…but that a whole other posting.
Have you read?
Best Sewing Machine for Quilting Beginners: Your No-Stress Buying Guide
My first quilting sewing machine was a $50 Black Friday special that literally smoked when I tried to quilt a twin-size top. (RIP, little guy.) After testing 23 machines (and surviving two more meltdowns), I finally cracked the code to finding the perfect beginner quilting machine—without wasting money on features you don’t need yet.
Here’s everything I wish I’d known, including:
The 3 must-have features for beginner quilters (spoiler: automatic needle threader = lifesaver)
5 machines under $500 that actually handle thick quilts
The truth about “quilting mode” (and when it matters)
What Makes a Sewing Machine “Good for Quilting”?
Non-Negotiables for Beginners
- Throat Space: At least 7 inches (so your quilt doesn’t get stuck)
- Walking Foot Included: Prevents fabric layers from shifting
- Drop Feed Dogs: For free-motion quilting later
Nice-to-Have Perks
- Speed Control: Because quilting a king-size in “rabbit mode” = regrets
- Needle Up/Down: Crucial for precise pivots at corners
- LED Lighting: Spotting seams under dim light = no more “mystery stitches”
2. The Best Machines Under $500 (Tested on Real Quilts)
1. Brother PQ1500SL ($479)
- Why Beginners Love It:
- 16-inch throat space (fits bulky quilts)
- Straight stitch only (no confusing dials)
- Industrial motor handles denim + quilt batting
- Watch Out: No fancy stitches (but do you really need 200 decorative options?)
2. Janome 3160QDC ($449)
- Best For: Quilters who want some embroidery flair
- 60 stitches (great for quilted gifts)
- One-handed needle threader (no squinting!)
- Automatic thread cutter = fewer thread nests
3. Juki TL-2010Q ($499)
- The “Grow With You” Pick
- Professional-grade straight stitches
- Knee lifter (hands-free presser foot lifting)
- Heavy-duty but quiet
Pro Tip: Watch for Joann’s 50% off coupons—they work on these!
3. The “Don’t Waste Your Money” List
Overkill for Beginners
- $1,000+ Machines: Unless you’re quilting daily, start smaller
- Heavy Industrial Models: Your kitchen table will protest
Too Basic
- Mini Machines: Can’t handle batting + fabric layers
- Vintage Singers: Adorable but often need $200 in tune-ups
4. Your First Quilting Project: Start Here!
Pair your new machine with:
- This free “Disappearing 9-Patch” pattern (uses only squares!)
- Pre-cut fabric bundles (no scary rotary cutter yet)
My #1 Advice: Practice on placemats first—less pressure than a queen-size masterpiece.