I've got my mind made up on which frame and machine combo I want, now the big question is this... there is a package offered that is almost $400 higher because the machine has a larger table and the thread cutter. I have decided on the Grace GMQ Pro with a Juki TL98. The only variable is as I stated, the thread cutter and auxiliary table. Both packages offer speed control and QuiltCaD software.

Would it be worth the extra $400 to get the machine with the thread cutter? Or will I kick myself later for not getting it? Because if I don't use the $400 for that, I can use it for lots of little toys to go with it or some more fabric.

I want to say this board is great, I've had great fun here the last few weeks and you are always full of wonderful help.

Thanks

I would go for it get the machine you want. You can always save and get the little gadgets that go with the machine or get all the and gadgets and wish for the other perks of the machine and have to save more money yet. Just my thought. Good luck on your choice.

Machel

If I were you, I'd join the homequiltingsystems group at http://groups.yahoo.com and do a search on "thread cutter" there. It will give you an idea of the advantages and disadvantages of having a thread cutter. If you're still not sure, you can ask for opinions on that group. Someone there is bound to have this setup.

I'm not sure what difference a larger table would make unless it allows you to quilt larger quilts. If you mostly quilt small quilts, it may not add any value.

Have you compared this machine's arm with that of a Bailey 13 inch or 15 inch? There will be more quilting space when you are near the end of the quilt and it is rolled up in the arm of your machine.

Best to ask other owners of the same machine..."How much quilting space do you have?" Then check into other machines. don't buy short arm and wish you had a longer arm. Mid arms are very nice.

June

The thread cutter is of no use. you need to pull the bobbin thred up anyway to lock your stitch. I have the juki its a nice machine but I want a much larger one now. I am looking at the APQS. tryed them out at the HMQS last year and they are fantastic better than the Gammill.

Do not waste your money on the thread cutter. Go buy more toys and fabric!

I have the Juki 98Q. Love it! But, when I get serious about my quilting, I still want a Bailey 15 inch. So, the Juki's fine for now, but I still have lots to learn and when I get proficient I want a Bailey.

So, you may want to skip the Juki and go to the Bailey if you are going to do more than just a hobby.

I love the thread cutter. And there's the lever that you hold down to do reverse and lock the stitch. The only time I pull the thread up from the bottom is when I put in a new bobbin.

good luck! Let us know what you decide.

I have a Hinterberg frame & Viking mega quilter. I SO wish for a machine with a larger harp. It is ok for table runners, wall hangings, etc but for a quilt there is not enough room in the harp area as the quilt rolls up. Please be very sure before purchasing this machine.

Polly

I would love the Bailey but, I can't afford the Bailey and the frame I want... so, I think I'll go with the Juki and work out whether to get the thread cutter or not...