Piecing, piecing, piecing…In the early 1990’s I became fascinated with making quilt tops: table toppers, runners, wall hangings, throws, and bed quilts of all sizes. The result of my passion for piecing was a stack of unfinished tops!!
I tried various methods to finish my projects---hand quilting, machine quilting with my domestic machine, and even some knot tying. Finally, I sent some projects to be completed by someone with a quilting machine.
The idea of making a quilt from start to finish sounded exciting to me…and with that idea in mind, I purchased a mid-arm quilting machine from a local dealer in 2004. This was used occasionally for several years…and then I became more aware of limited support from the manufacturer when I thought about adding features to this basic machine.
When the local dealer began to carry the Handiquilter, I realized how much more the HQ Sixteen had to offer. So I made the switch!!! Using this machine has helped me advance my skills. The stitch regulator helps me have better control with free motion. I love it!! It is fun to experiment and improve my skills using the laser light, the stylus, and the variety of programmed designs available with the Pro-Stitcher.
Customer support is excellent! The local dealer is very knowledgeable with the HQ products. From setting up the machine and basic instruction in my home to answering questions on the phone anytime, I have found the quilt shop to be a valuable resource. I also find it very easy to make a call to the HQ studio when I have a question. They are extremely helpful on the phone and make you feel very comfortable. A simple log in to the HQ website is worthwhile. Lots of tips are available and helpful. There are videos made by the HQ educators that take you through step by step instruction using a variety of quilting techniques.
I thoroughly enjoyed an added bonus when I was a participant in a beginner and an intermediate class this summer at the HQ studio in Salt Lake City. I spent 5 days in a class of 15 students and 4 teachers. It was a great experience for me!
I am so pleased with the HQ Sixteen. It has been the best purchase! By using this machine, I can now say that I am finishing those tops!! My piecing passion now includes finished quilts….thanks to HQ.

I own the following HQ machines: HQ Sixteen, HQ Pro-Stitcher