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Accessories/Videos
stlgal
Joined: March 1, 2011
Posted: March 18, 2011, 2:41 PM
I recently purchased a used HQ16 SITDOWN and have questions on the bobbins and needles.
1) Can prewound M bobbins be used in this machine? Any brand that can't.
2) Can any metal M bobbins be used? Any brand that can't.
3) What is the specific style/size/number/manufacturere of needles that can be used. I have a pk that says 134 and another that says 135...although I confessed I don't know those numbers mean.
4) Could you put all the videos that pertain to your product under Videos/Tips and Tricks.
5) Would it be possible to make a video of using the VersaTool on the HQ 16 SITDOWN version. I know there is one with the frame model.
6) Is the warranty voided if I install the open toe foot myself?

I would really appreciate a reply to my questions. Thanks.
Re: Accessories/Videos
kathisalter
Joined: Dec. 2, 2008
Posted: March 18, 2011, 4:53 PM
Question:

I recently purchased a used HQ16 SITDOWN and have questions on the bobbins and needles.
1) Can prewound M bobbins be used in this machine? Any brand that can't.
2) Can any metal M bobbins be used? Any brand that can't.
3) What is the specific style/size/number/manufacturere of needles that can be used. I have a pk that says 134 and another that says 135...although I confessed I don't know those numbers mean.
4) Could you put all the videos that pertain to your product under Videos/Tips and Tricks.
5) Would it be possible to make a video of using the VersaTool on the HQ 16 SITDOWN version. I know there is one with the frame model.
6) Is the warranty voided if I install the open toe foot myself?

Answer:

1. Prewound bobbins can be used in all of our machines. The correct size for the bobbins used in our machines is the class M. I have not used all the different brands of prewounds that are out there, but I do know that we use the Superior Thread prewound and have great luck with them.

2. You can not use just any metal class M bobbin. Some are deeper and some are heavier than our bobbins. You need to use the metal bobbins that can be purchased either directly from us or from any Handi Quilter dealer.

3. The numbers and letters on the package of needles tell what system the needle is. It refers to the shank size and length of the needle. It is critical that you use the right system needle with your machine. We use Grotz-Bechert needles. The system number that you must have on the needles you use with your machine are any of these numbers:

134
DP x 5
135 x 5
135 x 7
797
SY1955

All of these numbers refer to the same needle system, but with different companies. On the Grotz-Bechert, all these systems are refered to on the package. I would strongly suggest that you purchase your needles from Handi Quilter or from one of our dealers. The needle comes in 5 different sizes ( 80/12, 90/14, 100/16, 110/18, 120/20). The size you use is determined by the thickness of the thread you are quilting with. The lighter weight the thread is, the small number needle you would use with it. To avoid shredding, it important not to use a needle too small for the thread weight. The following is a suggestion of what weight thread to use for the different size needles:

80/12- silk (100 wt.)
90/14- silk (100 wt.), monofilament (60 wt.), glitter, some metallics
100/16-60 wt., 50 wt., 40 wt., monofilament, glitter, metallics
110/18-50 wt., 40 wt., 30 wt., metallic
120/20-30 wt., 20 wt., 12 wt.

4. Thank you for that suggestion. I will pass it along.

5. Great minds think alike! We are in the process of making a video for the sit-down machine, including using rulers. It will be available on YouTube around the first of May.

6. Installing the open toe foot yourself will NOT void the warranty. We even send instructions with the foot so you can install it yourself.

I hope I have answered all questions to your satisfaction. Have fun with your machine. I am very confident you will love it!

Kathi Salter
Handi Quilter Studio Educator