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Asking your input - considering an HQ Sixteen
Posted: July 21, 2009, 11:29 AM
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I've been using PCQuilter with a Viking MegaQuilter and am quite happy with the results on small quilts. But that limited throat space makes me crazy; I'm thinking the HQ Sixteen might be a perfect compromise between the MegaQuilter and a true long arm which I don't really want.
I welcome thoughts from others who have made the transition from A traditional machine to HQ Sixteen. Is anyone out there using an HQ Sixteen with PCQuilter? I remember reading somewhere that the Simply Sixteen won't work with PCQ (don't remember why) so am assuming it could work with the sit-down model. |
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Re: Asking your input - considering an HQ Sixteen
Posted: Aug. 23, 2009, 7:01 AM
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Hi, I'm new here. I was in the same situation - very fustrated trying to get a larger quilt into my traditional machine and didn't want to purchase a VERY expensive long arm (30" throat). I did alot of research online and talking to other quilters. Then I went to a quilt show in Hershey Pa. and tried some machines. This is a list of some of my mid-arm (14-18" throat)machine findings: Gammill-very expensive and too many add-ons to purchase, Bailey's- found online blogs containing many problems and only one service person to call, Nolting-same price as HQ16 but machine stitches rough I didn't like it's feel, Viking 18"-very expensive, HQ16- when you want to add a feature you don't have to purchase a new machine, I like the way it feels and there are 2 dealers in my area, this was very important to me. They also gave me free lessons. When I have a question, I call the local dealer not HQ. At the quilt fair, I purchased the HQ16 floor model and received a big discount. I also purchased the recommended table ($500) that adjusts from crib to king size. I hope this information helps.
Happy Quilting, Lorraine |
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Re: Asking your input - considering an HQ Sixteen
Posted: Aug. 23, 2009, 9:16 AM
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Hi Lorraine,
Thanks so much for your comments. In doing my own research I found many of the same issues you did, ultimately buying an HQ16 through my local dealer and after a month of owning it, I am DELIGHTED with it. Happy quilting back to you. Melanie |
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Re: Asking your input - considering an HQ Sixteen
Posted: Sept. 10, 2009, 3:19 PM
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I have had a HQ-16 for over 2 years now. I like it alot. Recently added a computerized side saddle. Wonderful. Information can be found at thequiltingsolution.com
I have started quilting my backlog of tops which I don't feel confident to quilt. They come out great using the computerized designs. |
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Re: Asking your input - considering an HQ Sixteen
Posted: Oct. 7, 2009, 10:23 AM
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DaneMomQuilts, did you end up getting a Handi-Quilter? Just curious. I ordered mine a week ago and they called yesterday and are delivering it in 4 days or so!
Happy Quilting, Sarah in Indiana |
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Re: Asking your input - considering an HQ Sixteen
Posted: Oct. 7, 2009, 10:24 AM
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DaneMomQuilts, did you end up getting a Handi-Quilter? Just curious. I ordered mine a week ago and they called yesterday and are delivering it in 4 days or so!
Happy Quilting, Sarah in Indiana[/quote] |
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Re: Asking your input - considering an HQ Sixteen
Posted: Oct. 10, 2009, 7:36 PM
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| I am new here, after reading all kinds of info on all the different types of long & mid arms, my HQ 16 will be here tomorrow!! Stitch regulated w/Quiltable. For the money and quality and a very helpful rep, who will be coming and setting it up and giving me lessons for a day, what more could a quilter want. |
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Re: Asking your input - considering an HQ Sixteen
Posted: Oct. 13, 2009, 12:08 AM
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| I have ordered an HQ16 thru my local dealer. Didn't get the pro-stitcher. While I am waiting for delivery does anyone have tips on what I should have ready as to supplies so I can begin practicing right away. I would hate to have my new baby sitting there and just stare at it because I wasn't prepared. The dealer said it will be delivered with one spool of thread. Not sure what size batting to start with and if I should get a roll of it or where to order it & where to order thread. Also heard a suggestion to start by practicing on old bed sheets. Any thoughts? |
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Re: Asking your input - considering an HQ Sixteen
Posted: Oct. 14, 2009, 6:13 AM
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| You are in for such a great time. I would suggest getting some muslin, wide enough for your table set up size. Use a coupon for Joanns and get one cut at 50% off or a good sale price. I mean 20 or 30 Yards. This is cheaper and less traumatic than ruining a quilt top! Then get a friend to give you her coupon (promise her chocolate) and get one cut of batting, 10 to 20 yards. I know it sounds like a lot but once you get started practice quilting the supplies will disappear fast. Get a cone of good thread so you can practice your tension. You might want to buy a simple pantograph. Not too busy. Try following the pattern with your finger and see if it feels like it flows for you. If you just get comfortable doing free style, pantos can wait for later. You can also just practice with the machine off to get used to the movement of quilting. Most of all don't be afraid to try your machine and make a less than stellar quilt pattern. You will get better with practice, practice, practice. I ordered a DVD by Dawn Remirez "The Pajama Quilter". Personally I thought it was very informative and she is funny and puts you at ease. I like her practice technique of using a dry erase board to practice quilting patterns. Enjoy your new experience in quilting and keep us up to date with you progress. |