Quilting with Singer 237 Fashion Mate?

Question

I just started sewing about a year ago, and I didn't want to buy a new, expensive machine - just in case it didn't work out too well! Well, my father-in-law gave me this old sewing machine that he had been having for whatever reason. It is a Singer 237 Fashion Mate (quite aged). I don't have the instruction manual (but just ordered it from Singer's website). I was just wondering if anyone knows if I am able to quilt with this machine? Or would I need a different type of machine? What is the difference between sewing and quilting when it comes to machines? Is it the machine itself or the needle or something? I would just be doing a basic quilt with squares (none of the patterns and stuff yet!). Any help or tips about your beginner-quilting experiences would be appreciated! Thanks so much! :)

Answer 1

One thing that can lead to confusion is the word quilt; creating the top layer (in your case, the squares) can be done on any machine that can sew reliably. Putting the backing and batting together with the top you made is what makes it a quilt (noun).

You can tie all the layers together or you can "quilt" it (verb) by hand or machine. Quilting is the act of stitching the layers together.

Stitching the layers together on your sewing machine can get awkward by the time you roll up all that bulk and try to fit it through the machine while keeping the stitch area flat and pucker free. Naturally the more room in the opening between the needle and the base of the machine, the better. A special foot, called a walking foot, can also be a tremendous help. Many modern machines can accept interchangeable feet, and if yours does then a walking foot is tremendously helpful.

This is an oversimplification of your options, though. If you like creating with fabric and decide to keep up with quilting you may want to seek out other quilters, or a guild or club in your area. Then you can learn more about longarm quilting, quilt as you go techniques, and much much more.

Many quilters create beautiful quilt tops and leave the quilting to professionals. The machine your father-in-law gave you may serve your purpose for a long, long time.

Answer 2

any machine can be used to quilt with. see if you can find a 1/4 inch presser foot from the singer site that is compatable. If not put some tape 1/4 inch to the right of where the needle goes in. I agree to have it serviced if the machine does not have good top and bottom stitching, then go for it. You might find a local quilt shop or quilt guild in your area that give inexpensive lessons to get you started. Best of luck, you will be hooked.

Answer 3

Any straight stitch machine works for machine quilting. Piecing takes some practice to get things on the mark and straight, but the only difference is that you are working with 1/4" seaming(quilting) instead of 5/8"(fashion). The other difference is that quilting involves batting and working with large with a large, pieced top. Quilt spray and basting is the trick to keep the batting in place until you have everything stitched down. Rolling your fabric into a bundle to get it to fit under the machine takes a little thought and practice, but it's hardly rocket science. Start small(like a tote bag or wall hanging) to get the hang of it and build your confidence. there are a ton of beginning quilting magazines out there with cute projects to inspire you and guide you.
For a super simple, first project, a flannel rag quilt with no batting is as easy as it gets. Just cut double squares of flannel (size isn't important execpt they all need to be the same). Place them wrong sides together and sew a big "x" in the center going to each corner. Then seam them together with 1/4" seams with all the seams to one side. Sew around the outside edge 1/4" and clip the other seams to fray them. Now you have a reversible throw with chenelle seams on one side and flat on the other. Enjoy!

Answer 4

That machine will work fine, but do get it cleaned and tuned or you are in for some frustrating times.

Piecing the top together uses regular skills, but then there are some things you might want to know for quilting and binding.
http://www.quiltbug.com/machine-quilt.htm
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