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Merry Christmas to me!
Posted: Dec. 20, 2008, 6:44 AM
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We ordered my HQ 16 with stitch regulator/studio frame package and have received email of expected delivery on Christmas Eve. I am fairly new to this group and to machine quilting, so I will be asking many questions to gather information and helpful hints so please
keep everything coming. My first request is that you share any suggestions that I need for when my new toy arrives. It is like preparing a nursery for a new baby! LOL! Also, I have seen many posts on the old forum concerning the leaders--should I replace? If so, with what kind? |
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Re: Merry Christmas to me!
Posted: Dec. 21, 2008, 5:25 AM
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Merry Christmas and congratulations! You'll want to replace the leaders definitely. The 3 DVD's HQ sells are wonderful, and you'll likely want the ruler base and at least the Versatool to start with.
Have you "Tinkled" today? |
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Re: Merry Christmas to me!
Posted: Dec. 21, 2008, 8:43 PM
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I agree with the ruler base and Versa Tool. You need to get the Handi Quilter Ruler as well. Great for stitch in the ditch and any straight line stitching.
Also, get the Bohin Mechanical Pencil for marking your quilts. I bought 2 of these pencils, one for just the white lead and one for the colored leads. It marks a very fine line and removes very easily. Regarding the leaders, keep an eye on your leaders because they will stretch after using. After they stretch, you can actually re-square them, finish the edge and keep on using them. Instead of replacing mine, I got some non stretch twill fabric, cut the velcro strip off the old leader and sewed it onto the new leader. On your poles, you will see a dark gray stripe that runs straight along the pole, this is where you will line up your velcro that goes onto the pole. Be careful with your tracks. If you happen to crease them you will have a flat spot in your track and that makes it very difficult to move your machine. (Trust me I speak from experience) The DVD's tell you to set your table so that your elbows are 90 degree angle. I did this and found myself bending alot to see my stitching. I do suggest that you set the table higher so that you can see better. After you set up your table BE SURE TO CHECK THE LEVEL! If you don't have a level GO BUY ONE. It's worth it's weight in gold. A level table cuts down on vibration and machine bounce. Before you load a quilt, be sure to oil your machine and bobbin and let the machine run for a bit. Do not use the needle that is shipped with your machine, change the needle first. Gosh, I feel like I've really dumped on you but I'm just so excited for you and wish someone would have given me all this information when I got my machine. Keep us posted on how you do and don't be afraid to ask ANY question. Between all of us users, we've been there done that. MERRY CHRISTMAS! |
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Re: Merry Christmas to me!
Posted: Dec. 21, 2008, 9:10 PM
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| Thanks for all the advice and helpful tips. I already have a level and know how to use it. Will I receive additional needles with my machine or do I need to get some before it arrives? Any other items that I need to purchase before the machine arrives? I appreciate all the information |
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Re: Merry Christmas to me!
Posted: Dec. 22, 2008, 8:36 AM
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I think your machine will come with extra needles, but you might want to get a cartridge just in case. You might want to buy a few bobbins as well.
You might want to get some fabric and batting for practicing. I had bought two contrasting colors of thread and loaded one color in bobbin and one in needle to help me with tension adjustment. Regarding thread, I use whatever my little heart desires in my machine. If I want a heavier looking thread I use a 30, 40 or 50 wt. threads. If I want a delicate looking thread I use Maxi-Lock serger thread. Keep me posted on your progress! I AM SO EXCITED FOR YOU! |
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