Handi Quilter
So, if you've made it to this site, then there's a good chance you're already thinking about investing in a Handi Quilter. It's certainly a big decision! You might be thinking that it's too expensive, or that it will take up too much room. So let's talk about some of the things you might be thinking about.
First, yes, it does require an initial monetary investment. But think about something. Are you one of the many quilters who loves designing the quilt, picking the fabrics, choosing just the right pattern, getting all the cutting and piecing work done, and then... then the quilt sits for a while, or maybe you even start another quilt, because it's just hard to find the time, or maybe the interest, in getting it quilted? Are you starting to have a huge collection of projects in your sewing room, calling out to you, that you can't get started because you're getting dragged down in the final quilting stage? Quilting can certainly be a long and involved process, but the Handi Quilter allows you to streamline one of the most labor-intensive aspects of our craft--the actual quilting! With beautiful patterns and easy sewing, it makes quilting *fun*. So, sure, you might need to save up for a little while to get it. But start putting aside some of your fabric money every month, and you'll be amazed at how quickly you're ready to buy your new Handi Quilter.
The other thing is space. You may think that you don't have room for the Handi Quilter. But you should keep in mind that it may take less space than you think. For instance, you can often make use of floor space *under* the Handi Quilter. It's a great place to store sewing supplies, tubs, bins, boxes, or anything of that sort. You could even get small shelves to store fabric underneath. You can basically build it into your sewing room. Make one quilt first, see what space you need, where you like to sit, where the quilt falls, etc., to figure out what space is available. Then you can design or buy just what you need to make the most use of the area.
Worried that the Handi Quilter will take up the entire spare room? Something to consider is that you probably won't be using the HQ every day. You'll generally work in cycles, where you'll start with a new quilt, cutting and piecing. Once the quilt is ready for the quilting stage, you'll set it up on your HQ, and depending on the size of quilt, your experience level, and how much time you have a day, you'll be done in a day or maybe a few days. Then on to the next quilt. So if you set up the HQ in a spare bedroom, all you have to do is work on other parts of the quilt-making process while your guests are visiting. Or if it's going to be in an office, dining room, living room, family room, den, etc., just reassure your family that you'll just need a little time there for each quilt. You don't need to take over a room or have an entire room dedicated to quilting to be able to manage it.
Is it worth it? Well, you'll need to make that decision yourself. But the fact that you're reading a blog on the Handi Quilter site tells me that you probably want this machine, and you just need to figure out how to fit it into your life. So good luck, because you're going to love it!
Comments
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What size table do you recommend I purchase? I just bought a "new" original model handi-quilterby sue singer on 19 August 2009 at 4:05 p.m.
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Do you live anywhere near the Annapolis area? The easiest way would be for you to come in and take a look. You can try out the machine and get an idea of how the features work, see sample quilts made with the HQ 16, and our staff could walk you through what to look for in a machine and what it does/can be used for. If you did decide to go for it, we offer free classes so that you can perfect your skills with it. We love this machine and would love the opportunity to share it with you if you live near enough to come by or maybe come this way for quilt shows?by CottonseedGlory on 07 August 2009 at 11:50 a.m.
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I am trying to decide on a quilting machine and I've looked at a few. Some were more costly than others. What should I be considering and the key elements to be looking for. I was in a quilt show yesterday and they had the HQ Sixteen with stitch regulator. I was impressed with the ease. I have no experience with these machines, but I really want invest so I can quilt my own and possibly quilt others. I live in a small community and there only a few who quilt for others. I was thinking of renting my since I have the perfect space to allow others to use. I concern about the wear and tear. I would be with the individual durning the use. Have you had any michanical problems? This quilt store I visited, she rents hers out. Thank you for your help and imputby Hartford Lady on 07 August 2009 at 7:53 a.m.
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