Machine Quilting a Patchwork Quilt: Stitch in the Ditch Quilting in One Direction Only

by Barb
(Malvern, PA)

Hi,

I am making a baby quilt, gingham style squares with 9 squares across and 11 squares down.

I sewed the rows first, pressed alternating row seams in opposite directions and sewed the rows together. The backing is one fabric.

I'm now ready to quilt the beast on my domestic sewing machine. I am a beginner and want to do the simplest method possible!

So, if I do stitch in the ditch, it's all good on the rows, but the columns all have alternating sides on which the seams have been pressed.

What is the simplest method of machine quilting?

I have a walking foot. Can I just do horizontal stitch in the ditch quilting with no vertical lines?

Can I do horizontal stitch in the ditch quilting on horizontal lines and then do vertical "stitch in the neighborhood" lines which fall beyond the 1/4" seams?

Not sure what is best. Suggestions, please? MUCH appreciated and thanks!

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