I have found a Queen Quilter 18 long arm quilting machine with frame and two days worth of "retreat" time with lessons to learn how to use the machine for under $5,000.00, new, not used. I'm currently looking at every single long arm machine that's made, and this one is in my price range, but I'm not knowledgeable enough to know if it's a top-rated brand. Can anyone give me their opinion of this particular brand machine? Thanks!

It's made by Tin Lizzie isn't it? How far away from you is the dealership in case you would need repairs or a part? Does it come with a 10 foot frame? Then you will probably be limited to 103-108" width quilt. Will they come to your home and set the frame up for you and adjust the machine so it is ready to sew?

Wow that is a great deal. I have this longarm with the wooden frame which I love love love....I think it is a good price for sure....Is there a dealer close by for support?

The dealership is in Texas - I'm in Huntsville. The machine is going out of stock, which is why the price has been reduced (to affordable). I think the options were for a 10, 12 or 14-foot frame, which seems like an excellent choice, and for $500.00, they will come and set it up. I'm not sure about in Alabama, though. Those were details I figured I'd find out if I could actually get the machine.

Thanks for the positive responses so far. See if they remain positive with this additional information. . .
:shock:

The only concern I've heard from people with this machine is this: In Stitch Regulated mode, the stitching does not totally stop, when movement stops. You would need to turn off the machine for the needle to stop, making it a little more difficult for any ruler work. You would need to stop the machine to adjust your ruler and continue quilting.

Also, Tin Lizzie does not make a 1/4" foot for precise ruler work. There have been some ingenious people, who have adapted their feet to 1/4" though.

If you are not planning to use rulers in your quilting, none of this will be of any concern to you and the machine will be a good one for you.

pittsburgpam (a member here) uses this machine.

here is a link to her blog and you can read all her successes and struggles with the machine.

http://thecasualquilter.blogspot.com/

also you might want to send her a PM to take her temperature on how she feels about the machine now.

every machine has a learning curve and people are quick to post how they don't like things but fail to follow up when they become happy with their machines.

I agree with everything mytwopals said. The 'stitching after stopping' issue was just something I go used to and just push the button when I stop.

The thing with the smaller foot, however, is still an issue with me. I wanted to do ruler work, but can't find a ruler that will work. Rumor has it that a new, optional, foot is in the works that will enable ruler work. Have to wait and see.

Other than that I really like it a lot. Very un fussy about thread and have not had any tension issues (knock on wood).

That's a fabulous price.

Thank you! All the input is helpful and gives me more information to use in my decision. So much to think about!

[quote=PaperPrincess]I just went back to look at the specifications of the machine, and this was one of the paragraphs of what the machine offers:

Hopping Foot - Hopping foot holds down the fabric while the needle completes the stitch. The foot
height can be adjusted up and down for thickness of batting or material. The foot also allows for
stitching next to rulers and templates.

toi123 - contact Huntsville Sew and Vac. Donna is really a great lady to work with. She also sells the Lizzie and the Guntersville store has the new Janome 18" as well.
I'd check with them first before you buy a machine so far away from home. ;)

And hi from another Huntsville, AL member!! :)