I remember the excitement I felt when I first learned to do the couching stitch on my machine. I was surprised how easy it was and how the result added so much movement to my quilts. Not only did it add movement, it added definition and texture.
Couching is the act of stitching cording or yarn to the surface of your quilt, garment or home decor item. It is a wonderful way to finish off raw edge applique, especially with the added sparkle of a metallic thread.
I like to use #30 Madeira Supertwist thread.
It can be a great way to add some flow and movement to a basically simple quilt like the “Square Within a Square” quilt below.
If you are really ambitious you can simply cover your quilt with flowing lines and create a whole layer of stitching to move the viewer’s eye across the quilt.
You may use the couching stitch with your domestic machine using a zig-zag stitch and any presser foot which allows for a zig-zag stitch. My favorite foot is the #21 braiding foot but any foot which fits your machine which is comparable to these feet will work.
Interested in learning more? I offer an online class teaching this technique here.
Also consider joining our FREE Facebook Group to find like minded people who love to quilt and sew.
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