Thanks to you all for the advice. I've watched sooo many videos and even talked to the gal at the store where I bought my machine and read its entire instruction manual. One simple question remains that I am a bit confused about (well, I have more than ONE question, but here goes, one at a time, maybe):

1. Do I use the same weight and color of thread in the spool for the bobbin? What if I use mono-filament thread in the top; do I use it in the bobbin, too? 

2. What weight thread should I use? Embroidery (60/40) or all purpose mercerized cotton or polyester?

3. If I don't want to free-motion quilt, should I use the walking foot with the feed dogs up?

 

Okay….that was more than ONE question, but it was one-at-a-time! lol

Debbie,

Sorry didn't see this until this morning.  Lonnnnnnnnnng day at work yesterday.  Pete and BEG all have excellent suggestions.  Practice quilt sandwiches are an excellent idea.  Here's a site that shows what I mean:  http://daystyledesigns.com/  She also has a blog.  She did a different free-motion quilt design each day.  It's great practice in a small area.  Harriet Hargrave is the queen of machine quilting.   I've seen her book at the library.  Read a few things, watch the video and then practice on a few quilt sandwiches.  Stiching in the ditch is the simplest method.  You sew right down the middle of the seam.  Remember, you're keeping the 3 layers of your quilt together.   Since you have all the wonderful stiches available to you, you could use a decorative stitch to do that. 

I'd also look at videos on YouTube.  The more you see what's going on, the better it will translate to your brain and then to your hands and machine. 

I know there are lots of others out there who have great ideas for Debbie.  Share them here so we can all learn some great hints and tips.

If you are just beginning to quilt, it is very helpful to have a good general book for referance.  My personal favorite is Fons and Porter's Quilter's Complete Guide.  I have a very old copy and still use it!  https://www.shopfonsandporter.com/product/New-Quilters-Complete-Guide-Softcover/dvds-and-books

Doing some practice quilt sandwiches really is the very best way to get the hang of machine quilting.  Even though I have done a LOT of machine quilting, I still have a few practice pieces around to get started with, especially if it's been a while, and every time I do free motion quilting.

There are a lot of variables, and specific instructions really depend upon whether you intend to quilt in the ditch, do free motion, follow a quilting pattern, etc.  That pattern, or lack of one, the area being quilted, and your machine will also determine the need for an even feed foot or if some other foot will work.

But, since you addressed your question to KellyB, perhaps it is best to back out of the conversation and let her answer your question.