New Machine Quilter from Harrisburg PA

[horsechick1]

Hello,

I was a former hand piecer and quilter. Had a stroke 4 years ago and doing well, however, I am machine piecing my current queen size quilt and would like to machine quilt it, also. I have a Janome Memory Craft 10000 and would like to purchase a home long arm quilting machine. I am not sure if I need a 12 or 16 inch arm or what machine is preferred for home. Can you help me, please?

[NancyH]

Re: New Machine Quilter from Harrisburg PA

Hello Horsechick1 and welcome to the forum. I am sure you will enjoy the forum. Many nice and helpful people here. I cannot answer your question, but I am sure someone can.

I noticed you are from Harrisburg, PA. I am about 40 minutes from Harrisburg near Carlisle/Newville area. Nice to see a local here. Good luck with your long arm quilting. Don't forget to post pictures of your work for all of us to enjoy.

[SuzanneOrleansOntario]

Re: New Machine Quilter from Harrisburg PA

Welcome HorseChick1 to the forum from Canada.

I guess it depends on the space you have and how many quilts that you plan on doing. I have a HandiQuilter Sweet 16. It's a sit down long arm, so you move the quilt sandwich across the table ( I have extensions both sides). I also have a bungee system to take the weight off when I quilt large ones, but normally I rarely use. I use rulers and do free motion quilting. I have also used stencils and plan to use tear away patterns. I didn't purchase stitch regulator,but find that with practice my stitches are now even. If I was buying another, I might look at the HQ Capri which has the stitch regulator in the table.

When I have a large queen or king to quilt, I rent a long arm at my LQS, a HQ Amara and do pantographs. The cost of renting per day is not worth buying and sacrificing a room in our house. Do your research. If you have LQS that can offer service and lessons, this is worth the money. Good luck on your decision.

[Bubby]

Re: New Machine Quilter from Harrisburg PA

Hi and welcome to the forum from Missouri. Glad you joined us.

[geegeequilts]

Re: New Machine Quilter from Harrisburg PA

Hello from the sunny South (at least for today). I tell all newcomers that this is the best forum. Got a question? You'll get answers. Have something to share? Well, we love that!!

Welcome!

Gina

[JCY]

Re: New Machine Quilter from Harrisburg PA

Welcome from Colorado ~ I have the Baby Lock Tiara II (there now is a III model). It's similar to the Handi-Quilter. It's a sit down table long arm. I have the table extension only on the L. side. It has a 16" throat. Since I already had been FMQ on my DSM, I did not buy the stitch regulator, which costs extra. I've never quilted anything larger than a large lap size on it. Many of the quilts I make are crib size. For large quilts -- which I seldom make -- I still pay a LAer to quilt them. You can view the machine in my Sewing Room Album.

You might want to watch Angela Walters' short video on her website, Quilting Is My Therapy, entitled "3 Things to Consider When Purchasing a Longarm." It's only ~3min. long.

[CraftyJnet]

Re: New Machine Quilter from Harrisburg PA

Hello and Welcome! from California.

[MRoy]

Re: New Machine Quilter from Harrisburg PA

The Grace Co. has the Q'nique quilter with 14", 15", 19" & 21" models. They also manufacture the Block-Rockit machine sold by Kathy Quilts.

[horsechick1]

Re: New Machine Quilter from Harrisburg PA

Thanks! Cold here.

[horsechick1]

Re: New Machine Quilter from Harrisburg PA

Thank you so much!

[horsechick1]

Re: New Machine Quilter from Harrisburg PA

I have tried to find this video, but couldn’t. Can you send me the link? Thanks so much!

[201 Treadler]

Re: New Machine Quilter from Harrisburg PA

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m7qTxPQD-KM Angela Walters who happens to sell them.

welcome to the forum,
heres Leah day

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gJPA93dtPx8

there is a q frame available for smaller spaces, think someone did a you tube on construction.
showing how to load a quilt

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hwJ34TArXSc

learnt last month that bernina do a machine that allows twin needle.
wishing you the best in finding your perfect machine.
T