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I am researching these two machines and was wondering if anyone had done so previously. If so, what were the reasons you chose the HQ16 over the Tin Lizzie? I am planning to try both out at Road to California in January, but would like any input.
Thanks
Darlene
I have tried both machines and chose the HQ16 for several reasons.
1. The HQ16 throat space is higher than the throat space on the Tin Lizzie
2. The HQ16 runs smoother with less vibration
3. The quilting frame on the HQ16 has the extra pole for holding down the quilt so the quilt is flatter while quilting and not vibrating as much as with the Hinterberg frame
4. Customer service is available from the dealer AND the factory no matter what your problem may be
5. No follow up service with the Tin Lizzie
6. Much better warranty with the HQ
7. The HQ can be purchased stitch regulated or stitch regulator can be added later
8. Very few additional accessories available for the Tin Lizzie

In my not so humble opinion, the Tin Lizzie is a poor quality machine. When I saw the Liz at a quilt show, the demonstrator was having severe bobbin troubles and could not get them corrected. Since the person was a factory representative I felt that spoke VOLUMES about the machine. After leaving the show, I called several machine repair shops to see about getting the Lizzie serviced, could not find anyone that would even touch it. Asked the same about the HQ16, only found one repair that would not service the machine and was told that he would not service any type of longarm.

I will admit that I have not had a single problem with my HQ. I've used all types of thread from very fine water soluable threads to 12 wt. threads without a hitch. But we all know how important service is for our machines. So you need to find out where would you get the Lizzie serviced if ever it should need it.

Hope this helps and keep us posted on your findings.
Thank you so much for your comments. My quilting buddy has the HQ16 and loves it. Moore's Sewing Center just opened a store about 30 minutes from me and they carry the TL. I thought it would be nice having a dealer close by. Great suggestion about finding out who is available in my area for servicing either machines. I'll look into that. I will be trying out both machines, and I really appreciate your input.
Darlene
Unless something major comes up to change my mind, I've decided to purchase the HQ16. But that leaves me with a few ( of many future ones I'm sure) questions to get started.

1. In another discussion it was mentioned that the warrenty needed to be checked to see if it would be void if the machine was used for business. At this point I am not looking at doing that, however I would like to know if that clause is in the HQ16 warrenty.

2. My friend purchased the HQ16 a little over a year ago. She did not get the most recent upgrades. I would like to purchase as many "bells and whistles" as I can afford at the time of the machine purchase. For example, my friend does not have the piece that is used with the groovy boards. Can you give me a laundry list (or a website to find one) that lists all of the extra's that can be added? Also, what are the costs of these extra's.

At this point I am not in the market for the Pro Stitcher. I want to have at least a year of practice before I even consider that addition.

3. When I go to purchase the machine, are there any specific questions I should ask?

4. Is it better to purchase directly from a dealer, or from a show? Road to California is coming up in a few weeks.

5. I want to get the Pro table as I have room to keep it set up all the time. What would be a good price for the HQ16 and this table?

6. I will need to finance my machine. Can I get preapproval so I can then shop around or do I have to do the financing at the time of purchase?

I have learned so much from this forum. And I expect to become a regular during the purchase and certainly after. Thank you all so much for your guidance.
Darlene
Good to hear your decision Darlene. I have the HQ16 with the QuilTable. Love this set up. Since you can leave yours set up all the time, you really need to consider the sturdier table. Also, you may want to call the factory directly to purchase since your machine comes direct from there anyway. But ASK FOR SHOW PRICING! I got show pricing on my set up and basically I got the QuilTable almost for free!

I didn't get the Tilt Screen on my handles and frankly really don't see the purpose of it. If I can't see the screen off the front handles I just go to the back handles and do my set up from there.

The stylus you are talking about is for the groovy boards. I don't have the groovy boards so I really can't tell you if you are missing anything or not.

I STRONGLY recommend the Handi Versa Tool, the Nested Half Circles and the Handi Ruler. Also, get all three of the DVD's by Suzanne Hyland.

Here is what my shopping list would be:

Handi Quiter 16 with Stitch Regulator
QuilTable (big sturdy white one)
4 packages of extra needles (2 of each size)
Extra Bobbin Case
Handi Versa Tool
Nested Half Circles
Handi Ruler
Ruler Base (must have for ruler work)
3 DVD set by Mrs. Hyland
5 Extra bobbins

They have some other handy gadgets on the website so you'll need to look and see if anything catches your eye.

But be sure to ask for SHOW PRICING! You can get a really good deal that way.

Hope this helps and keep us posted on your results
Shandar--do you by chance live near Apple Valley, CA? They just opened a Moore's here. I'm glad you've decided to go with the HQ rather than the Tin Lizzy for all the reasons Crash gave. I've had my HQ for six months and am completely convinced that I made the right choice. The only thing I'm not thrilled about is the manual situation--like others have commented--but I used a good dealer who is very approachable. He came 45 minutes from his shop to check my assembly to be sure I did it right and answers questions willingly anytime I call.
jl
Yes, I live in Phelan, which is only about 30 minutes from Apple Valley. That is the reason I had considered the Tin Lizzy, because that is the machine that Moore's carries. I thought having a dealer close would be a benefit. But all things considered, the HQ16 seems the best for my situation. Did you go to the dealer in San Bernardino?

Thank you so much for all the info Crash! That list is so helpful. I will call the factory direct this week. I'll also call the company that does the financing (on HQ16 website) and see how that would work.

Darlene
WOO HOO!!!!!!!!!!! So good to hear you decided on the HQ16. You will love it. Regarding thread I have used everything from water soluable thread (finer than a frog hair) up to 12 weight blendables and have not had one single problem. Of course, when you first change threads, and this is with ANY machine, you do have to piddle with the tension but after that YOU ARE GOOD TO GO!

You might also want to get some inexpensive muslin and contrasting threads (one for bobbin and one for needle) to practice with your machine. I used bright red in the needle and navy blue in the bobbin when I was practicing. I used both polyester and cotton battings so that I could see what the differences were.

Have fun and let us know when your new "child" arrives!
Shandar,
So glad to know there are at least two of us in the area with HQ 16s! Yes I used San Bernardino. So glad I did. HQ headquarters works very well with him and he's very service oriented. How can we talk in person?
Hi Jean,
I would love to talk to you. My personal email is dar@shandar.us
We can exchange phone numbers there. I have a friend in Oak Hills who has had her HQ for a little over a year. That would make three!

I must admit I am concerned about all the tension issues I have read about. I understand it is the same with all the machines. I am a special education teacher who has LOTS of patience with people, but very little with things. I worry that I will become overwhelmed and frustrated with the machine not working properly. Is it purely a practice and experience issue? Do those of you who have had your machines for awhile still have the tension issues, or have you figured out how to dial it in each time?
Shandar,

I have had my HQ16 since the end of June 2007. Tension is always a "test". I hear from most mid/long arm quilters this is NORMAL. You get better with time. Some of my standards are always oil the bobbin housing, use a new needle and testing the tension on a scrap sandwich, looking at the top and bottom. The right frame of mind manages to keep me sane. In the the beginning I got very frustrated. Overall I am very satisfied with my machine. Love It! How did I manage without it?

BTW I bought the handi quilter table, stitch regulator, pantho stylus and groovy board stick. So far I like making my own designs (free style).
Hi Jean and Shandra. My name is Debi, I live in riverside. I bought my HQ from Moores in riverside when they carried it. But they stopped. They were not helpful at all. Just to let you know. When I was readly to order my pro stitcher, I could not order thru Moores as they did not carry it any more. Called the San bernadino store you guys are referring to and he could not order for me as he sold his HQ and did not have it anymore and HQ will not let him order anything until he buys another machine. In early November he said he was not sure if he would be getting another because of his finances. I know he will still service them but now sure you can buy from him. The only other shop I know is one in San Marcos. That is who ordered my pro stitcher and they were wonderful. Drove to Riverside to install it for me. Good luck. I would also like to keep in touch with you guys, as I only know 1 other person who owns a HQ. Debi. my email is debigneckow@sbcglobal.net
I'm new to this whole chat thing but wanted to chime in on the hq16. Five members of my church quilt group have HQ16s. They all love them and their quilts are beautiful. I am in Orange County and had considered looking at Moore's in Mission Viejo. Interesting to see they aren't listed as dealers anymore. I'm not sure who to look to at this point. One friend has been to Utah twice and is planning to go again because she learns so much from their classes.

Space is somewhat of an issue for me so any feedback on what type of table I need would be appreciated. My quilts are generally in the 60-65 x 70" range for our ministry group. Also how much should I expect to spend for the system I will need. By the way, I have a friend with an APQS machine and tension is ALWAYS an issue and it is finicky regarding thread type. I've heard much better reviews on the HQ16.
I spoke with the guy in San Bernardino yesterday as I had intended to go there to test drive the HQ. He said he sold his floor model so didn't have one available. It was like pulling teeth to get answers to my questions. He seemed evasive.

Anyway, I called the Santa Monica Sewing Arts Center. The owner had come up to our quilt guild in Wrightwood to give a quilting presentation this past year and my husband and I had talked to him last year at the Pomoma show. Each time we have been very impressed. I spoke with Becky there yesterday over the phone and she was so helpful. She spent about 30 minutes just chatting about the machine. So my husband and I are going to make a day of it and go down there today. We both grew up in Santa Monica so we can go check out our old stomping grounds after we visit the center.

I do have a question about Road to California. Why is it that a dealer from Washington state is the HQ rep for this huge California event? Why wasn't a California dealer chosen? Just wondering.
The deed is DONE!!! I ordered my HQ16 today from the Santa Monica Sewing Arts Center. I'm SOOOOOOOO excited!!! One great feature is that the owner of the shop will come out to my home and set up the machine!! That will certainly take out the guess work for that anyway. I looked at the computerized part, however decided against it right now. I will have enough of a learning curve just using the machine manually. They said it will take about a week to arrive. HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!
The Tin Lizzie is a stratch machine. The HQ16 is a much better macine. I've had mine for about 3 years and love it. I just got the Pro Stitcher and am looking forward to using it. I live in San Jose, CA. My e-mail is fayestone@comcast.net , I would love to hear from anyone else who has gotten the Pro Stitcher and we can help each other learning it. My phone number is (408) 729-3754.
WhooHooo! I just got my tracking notice and my HQ16 is supposed to arrive on Friday! Even though the dealer won't be out to set it up until 2/9, at least it will be in my home waiting. I will be at Road to California on Fri 1/18 -Sun 1/20 and then I head to Northern Cal for a week. So 2/9 was the soonest the schedules could be coordinated. TOO MUCH FUN!!!
Darlene
Darlene,
I too just got my machine and my husband graciously set it up for me. I researched many different longarms and the HQ was the best for me. I also have a dealer just an hour away from where I live so that made it even better. I am so excited to get started and am thankful for this forum to get all these helpful hints. By the way, I used to live near your neck of the woods. Lake Arrowhead, Highland and Yucaipa, California. I am now located in North Carolina and really like it but miss the So Cal mountains! Good Luck with your new machine and have FUN!!
Hi- I purchased my HQ16 (LOVE IT!)from San Marcos about 8 mos ago as Moore's in Riverside could not match the $ and would not install. I have heard that HQ pulled the dealership from Moores. I have also heard that Quilter's Cocoon in Riverside is a new HQ dealer. They are a great store, and am happy to have a closer source for when I can't live without the Pro-Stitcher. As everyone else has noted, tension can be a little tricky, but seems to be the same with all machines, even the much more expensive big long-arms The end result is great and the machine is easy to use and so much fun!!
neecees quilts in NC, where are you at? I live in NC also. Near Morehead City on the coast. Where is your "only one hour away" dealer? You lucky gal you. I had to go to Myrtle Beach to purchase mine, but they did offer a very good deal. Had mine about 4 months. I love my machine, have had no real problems with it, thread breakage once in awhile but I attribute that to thick seams. I have not encountered the tension problems so many have talked about. It doesn't differ from a domestic machine all that much, so it is easy to figure out if you walk away from it for a few minutes. I wish I could guide it as smoothly as it works. I know practice, practice, practice.
Denny--I live in Apple Valley where they just opened a new Moore's. I was in there and asked why they no longer sold the HQ16 and had gone to the Tin Lizzie. They gave me some line about wanting to stay "up with the biggest and best on the market." I bit my tongue and didn't believe a word they said. I got mine from San Bernardino and have been really pleased with the service there.

So glad you love your HQ 16. I got mine last summer and have not regretted it one minute!
Hey Jewel,
I'm living in the small town of Tyro near Lexington NC. The dealer I purchased my machine from was in Greensboro, Randy's Quilt Shop. They have the HQ Sixteen set up and available for demos and practice at anytime. They also have a huge selection of beautiful fabrics. I think they carry the entire line of Kaffe fabrics. They offered a beginning long arm class free for those of us who purchased the machine and I'm glad I took it. I learned a lot. One thing that might help you that I learned was not to hold on tight to the handles. She showed us to hold on with just your fingertips to guide it along. Give it a try and have fun. I'm sure enjoying mine!
Jewel,
I live in Newport NC, right near you! I bought my HQ16 from Jacksonville before they closed. Love it. We will have to get together to compare notes. Feel free to call me 252-223-4330, after working hours. I am also in guilds in both Morehead and Havelock.
Neecees, I'll try to remember to try the fingertip control. I do have a habit of choking the handles sometimes! It is still fun even though I'm still a little wobbly.
Vicky, I didn't know Havelock had a guild. I work evenings so I'll try to give you a call early one night. I wish the gal in J'ville was still in business, I have wanted an HQ16 for so long and could finely afford it and she was gone. Looking forward to talking quilts with you.
I, too, am comparing the HQ 16 to the Tin Lizzie. The Tin Lizzie dealer is much closer to home; but I just seem to like the look and feel of the HQ 16.

I have seen used HQ 16's online which offer lots of extras with them for about the same price as a new one (without the extras). Does anyone have any thoughts on buying used?

I spent lots of time with an HQ 16 dealer at the Sew Expo in Puyallup, Washington, yesterday. She is about an hour from my house. I don't feel I would get the same support from a dealer if I didn't actually purchase the machine there. Any thoughts?

Also, does anyone have anything to add about the Tin Lizzie versus the HQ 16?

Thanks,

Brenda
Dog loving Quilter;

If you are hesitant on purchasing a used HQ16, contact the seller to find out why they are selling. I LOVE my HQ16 and have not regretted my purchase one bit. In fact, I took back my deposit on a Gammill to purchase the HQ. I tried the Tin Lizzie at a show, and tested it extensively while I was doing my research on machine purchase. I didn't care for the handling of the frame. I felt it was very stiff and a bit hard to direct especially when trying to free hand feathers. Also, there is not much clearence in the throat space. I asked them about the bulk of a king size quilt being rolled up and never could get a very good answer from them.

On my HQ, I've done wall hangings to king size quilts and have not had a single problem. As with any machine you will have to fiddle with tension when you switch threads. But that is with all machines not just the HQ.

When I bought my HQ, I couldn't find a used one for sale. My machine is stitch regulated and I wouldn't trade that feature for all the tea in China! When you try both machines at Road to CA, be sure to really put the machines thru all the paces and ask LOTS of questions.

Regarding support for the HQ, I'm sure you will get all the support you will need not only from this forum but from HQ also. This company is quite proud to stand behind their machines.

One thing to keep in mind, the HQ is NOT a stretched machine. The Tin Lizzie is actually a stretched Singer.
Thanks so much for the reply. I think I have found a few pretty good deals on used machines - my fear is that since they are a couple of years old, they may not be quite as good as the "newer" models??

Also, I get the feeling from some dealers that if you don't buy from them, they aren't as willing to help you???

So, if you could've bought used, would you have bought used?

I just noticed that Gammill has a lower-end model now - the Premier Plus for about $10,000, hmmmm...

I played extensively with both the HQ 16 and the Tin Lizzie at the show in Puyallup this weekend - I agree with you, I like the HQ 16 much better - even though the new digital version of Tin Lizzie does start a little smoother than the HQ 16 - and since they have added the digital feature (for $1,000) - it does feel like it runs a bit smoother than the lesser model of the Tin Lizzie.

Any advice you can add is GREATLY appreciated!


--Brenda
Dear Dog Lover;

In my not so humble opinion, if a dealer is not willing to help you just because you didn't buy from them they aren't very customer oriented. Granted they do make some money from the original sale, but they need to realize that the residual income from service will bring them greater amounts in the long run. (I had my own business for over 13 years and found this statement to be very true)

If I could have bought a used HQ16 I would have bought it in a heart beat. But, then again, I know the dealer in my area that has HQ16 would have been more than happy to service the machine because she is VERY CUSTOMER oriented. She made not have made money from the sale, but trust me, she has done quite well from all of the purchases I've made there. Yes, her prices are a bit steeper than another local shop, but because of the service I get from her I will remain a loyal customer.

Funny you should mention the Gammill Premier Plus. That is the same machine I had put a deposit on the day I found the HQ16 and went to get my money back. You need to do a bit of research before you jump into any other machine. 1. What kind of table is the machine on? Look closely, the table with the Premier plus is wood. It does vibrate ALOT. 2. Can you upgrade the machine? If upgrades are available what will you need to do in order to get the upgrade? 3. With the set up you looked at, can you use the Gammill template system? Can you use the Stater Stitcher? Lots of stuff to consider.

What really impresses me with the HQ is if you want to upgrade you purchase the upgrade and put it on yourself of take to a dealer for installation. No trading in the machine or selling the machine because of the upgrade. HQ has some very good tables to use with their machines. I got the QuilTable and LOVE IT! It is steel so I don't need to worry about any wood rotting away or coming loose. It doesn't vibrate much, and comes in handy when you're not using the machine and you need a large cutting area.

I have osteoporsis in my back, arthritis in my shoulders, elbows and hands. Vibration is a very big deal to me. That is why I changed my mind to the HQ16. Also, I like the orientation of the HQ handles over the Gammill.

But, you really need to put each machine thru the paces and decide for yourself. As far as buying it used, that would not be a very big issue for me. The HQ 16 is a real workhorse of a machine. Short of dropping it or running it over with a steam roller, not much harm can come to one.
I just want to say that I miss Puyallup! Boo hoo.

I saw and test drove the HQ 16 there a few years ago during the expo but had to buy my machine from a dealer out here in Maryland. Great dealer - great service - and get this, the led display went out on the front handlebars and the factory honored the warranty even though it expired one week earlier. They certainly could've said too bad so sad your warranty is up, but they didn't. They replaced the front handle bars/led display and the machine works great!

The factory stood behind the product even when they didn't have to and for that I will remain a loyal customer.

But I still miss the PNW...
Dog Lover - I just bought a new HQ 16 after deciding against the Tin Lizzie (even if my name would be on it!)

I bought my HQ16 from Bayside in Olympia even though the dealer at Sew Expo is closer to my home. I decided that service was key. I talked to both dealers and Bayside sold me on their service and willingness to help and answer questions on the phone (didn't get the impression that phone calls were welcome from the other dealer). Additionally Bayside has lots of things to go with the HQ16 (templates, boards, etc) - the store in Puyallup doesn't. BTW - Bayside is selling their demo machines.

I haven't had much chance to practice yet - going to pull out some 'what was I thinking' fabric out of my stash! Thanks to many on this forum - it helped in my decision to just go for it!
Elizabeth
EB:

Thanks for your input. I have decided to go with a new machine - but haven't decided on a dealer. There is a quilt store in Duvall which now represents HQ16. They got their machine in October 2007, so are a bit newer to it. I haven't gone down to Olympia yet - I spoke to them on the phone though. I plan to go see them at the show in Monroe on the 14th-15th-16th of this month.

Keep me posted on how things are going! I took a class on the machine in Duvall today - FUN, FUN, FUN!!!

--Brenda
EB:

You purchased it and already have it? Do they have them in stock there, or did you buy a demo model? If so, what is the scoop on those (price, etc.)?

Thanks again,


Brenda
I did it! I went to the quilt show in Monroe and bought the last of the demo models Bayside had to offer! Now, we just have to arrange delivery, etc. Exciting times!

Anyone have any more thoughts on a table - I was looking at the QuilTable for about $1,000 - but have heard lots of people actually tables built for them - does anyone have "plans" for a good table for the HQ16?

Thanks again,


Brenda
YEA! I'm happy for you. Will you get to take the 3 day class?
I haven't gotten too far with mine. Class isn't until May:( Until then I am winging it!
Elizabeth
I am going to take the class - haven't decided if it will be May or June yet. I haven't gotten the machine yet - as they didn't have it with them at the show in Monroe. Trying to decide which table to buy now - the $500 one or the QuilTable - most people say that one is better - but it is $1400 or so including shipping and tax. Which one did you get?

Brenda
I got the $500 table. So far so good although I haven't spent hours at a time using the HQ16 yet so I don't know how the vibration will be. I have it at full length and I can see how it is going to need a brace in the middle which I had heard before. I will probably take out a section or two to gain some space back.

I can't wait for class!

Elizabeth
Hi Elizabeth,

I ordered my QuilTable today and got all signed up for the May 1-4 classes at Bayside. Even made a hotel reservation at the Best Western. I live in Woodinville, and the drive is a bit far every morning and evening. I can't wait to learn all the tricks of the HQ16. I took a class in Duvall at a quilt store - but it's not the same as your "own" machine. I will get the machine sometime next week (probably) and then the table probably the next week. See you there!

Brenda
I am thinking about purchasing a used HQ16 and in reading this blog, it has helped me to know this has to be the right decision....this machine is four years old and comes with the stitch regulator, and many other extras...I am just hoping I can get it before it sells! What helped me was calling the dealer near my home. She gave me lots of suggestions and I have to say that she encouraged me to get the used HQ16, that she would come and set it up for me and she would be there to walk me through it. What could be better than that? I am going to her shop this week to actually try one, since I have only quilted on a friend's Gammill in the past.