Have you given Kimberbell Clear Blue Tiles a try? Our innovative system makes it super easy to quilt on your home embroidery machine and take every project across the finish line! 🙌
A few weeks ago, we asked machine embroiderers for their favorite Clear Blue Tiles tips. Here's what they had to say!
#1: Just Get Started
We often hear in our Kimberbellas [and Fellas, Too!] Facebook group that sometimes people buy the tiles and then leave the box unopened for awhile because they're just too intimidated to try them.
BUT . . . once they DO try them, machine embroiderers can't believe how easy they are! 😊 The moral of this story is to just open that box and try them. You can start with scrap fabric. (What have you got to lose?)
#2: Tape the Edges
Another tip when using Clear Blue Tiles is to tape the edges of your quilt top so the machine's foot doesn't catch. (Kimberbell Paper Tape would work beautifully for this!)
#3: Have Fun
Tip #3 is to HAVE FUN. We've heard over and over again how Clear Blue Tiles are a game-changer for quilters. But think beyond the quilt! You can use Clear Blue Tiles on totes! Zipper pouches! So many projects!
For example, we used Clear Blue Tiles on this blank tote to make a darling trick or treat bag. (If that's not fun, I don't know what is!)
#4: Use a Magnetic Hoop
Now, this is totally optional but another popular tip from Clear Blue Tiles enthusiasts is to use a magnetic hoop (if you can) and use the biggest size you have.
This way, you don't have to remove the hoop from the machine each time you move the quilt. You can just move the top frame over the head of the machine, slide the quilt to the next spot, and move the top hoop back in place. Smooth out the fabric and continue quilting!
#5: Mark Your Entire Project
Ready for Tip #5? Mark your entire project with Clear Blue Tiles before putting the batting and backing on. Start in the middle and work your way out. (Don’t iron over the blue ink pen!)
#6: Add Extra Backing Fabric
Tip #6 is to add extra backing fabric so it’s a little bigger than the front. (We recommend cutting the back fabric to be about 3" larger than your quilt top on all four sides.)
We also strongly suggest using Kimberbell Project Batting because the loft is perfect!
#7: Use Marking Pen Lightly
Our next tip is to use your included blue marking pen lightly. The marks don't need to be dark, just visible! When marking dark colors, you can use a white chalk pencil. Take your time marking and hooping!
#8: Don't Overthink It
Another tip is to NOT overthink this process. Clear Blue Tiles are incredibly easy to use! Read your included, step-by-step User Guide and just go for it!
#9: Start with a Smaller Project
As we talked about with Tip #3, Clear Blue Tiles are not just for quilts (although they're wonderful for quilts)! But before tackling something that large, Tip #9 is to start with a small project like placemats or a table runner or even a cute little pillow like this one.
Your confidence will grow quickly until you feel like you can easily take on a larger project.
#10: Practice, Practice, Practice
As with anything new, Clear Blue Tiles just take a little practice. And guess what? You have plenty of helpful resources at your fingertips to help you along the way!
For example, we have several Clear Blue Tiles tutorials for you to watch (Click HERE to see our favorites!) You can also learn more about Clear Blue Tiles and Kimberbell background quilting HERE!If you haven't already, I hope you'll give Clear Blue Tiles a try! (Remember, you'll need the Essentials Set before adding to your collection with the Expansion Set or the Expansion Set 2. )
Do you love Clear Blue Tiles already? Drop a comment below! I'd love to hear your thoughts. 😊 Happy quilting!
