Quilt in a Day Forums

I really want to get a long arm machine. I don't know what is best auto or manual? I would like to purchase one to bring money into the home. Since I love quilting and detailed work, I need a good investment but need to be a good stewart of my money when purchasing or renting or leasing one. Please let me know your thoughts. Thanks!

Are you set on new or would a used one be acceptable?

Personally, I would try as many different machines as possible before making a decision. I was certain I wanted a Gammill. But when I went to a big quilt show and started trying out the various machines, I found it was too heavy and torqued my achy back too much when I tried to move it around. Another seemed too 'cheesy'. I tried out about 6 different ones at booths and finally made a choice I've never regretted - but which surprised me at the time! So, try out as many as possible before making your decision!

Another idea is to join user groups. Many groups will allow "wannabes" to join. Read the posts and get info from other members.

Talk to other professional quilters. Call quilt shops. Take notes. Check out e-bay, and other sources for prices. Do you have a trade-in? How much space do you have to set up your frame?

Make sure you research the service and tech support of any machine you might buy. Even the Better Business Bureau might have info. Perhaps Consumer Reports has done a study on Quilting machines. All possible sources of information.

These are just ideas popping into my head while I sit here having a one-sided conversation over a cup of coffee! Hope i don't come across as "lecturing"! lol! But I just went through this whole process myself 2 years ago. i wish you good luck in your search and in your future endeavors!

Mary Z

good suggestions Mary. I think trying out several systems is the best advice. I tried out short arm machines and then narrowed it down to 2 and was lucky to find "Cleo" used.

Check Craig's list and tell everyone you know what you are looking for and you might find a great deal too. Many dealers have slightly used systems when people upgrade that is a great source too.

Look at "The House of Hanson" website. It's all about longarm quilting. You will see a link on the front page, taking you to machines for sale, called "Formerly Owned Machines."

http://www.houseofhanson.com/

Hope this helps!

Nancy
Gammill Classic Plus

A friend of mine tried out several different brands of LA's...and, she finally decided on the HQ16 LA machine. It has been a really good machine and she loves it. I will try them all out before buying one and then decide what is right for me.

Another few ideas:

Once you figure out which brand is best for you, and if you are willing to go used, many of the user groups on-line have a 'for sale' section in their forum. Also, check out quilt shops within a whatever you consider a travel-able distance. sometimes they have a bulletin board where patrons can post 'for sale' ads, as well as 'wanted' signs. Just a couple more ways to get the word out. And dont' forget any quilting guilds in your area.

And PLEASE let us know when you make your decision! We all are interested!

mary

Test drive test drive test drive. If you can get to a big show that's the best place to try them out because the machines are all there in one spot at the same time. You won't believe how different they all feel from each other. My favorite LA is the A-1. I have a middy - the HQ-16.