Quilting frame on craigslist
 

Is this a good deal? I would like to try hand quilting and I was wondering how good this frame is and
if anyone here has used one?

[h=2]GRACE quilting frame model EZ3 - $150

http://kansascity.craigslist.org/art/5164474941.html[/h]

I have a grace machine quilting frame, and feel it's very well made. I'm sure their hand quilting frames are no different. Sounds like a bargain to me if you do hand quilting. I could never get the hang of quilting in a big frame. I want it in my lap. Good luck to you. Gina

That would be a real bargain. My mom had one and gave it to my oldest daughter, and she loves it.

That's a great price. If you are not used to hand quilting in a floor frame like that, you could be in for a lot of adjustment challenges. Most people using that kind of frame learn how to hand quilt in all different directions. Unlike a lap hoop (or adjustable floor hoop), you cannot move the frame to suit the direction in which you want to quilt. Also, these types of frames take up quite a bit of floor space compared to a hoop.

Since you have not hand quilted before, I would recommend starting out with a lap hoop. The Grace company sells a good one: http://www.graceframe.com/site/hoops/laphoops .

I have only learned to quilt in one direction; I don't know if it would be easier/faster to start with a hoop and learn to quilt in one direction first, then learn to stitch in other directions when you switch to the frame, or to start out with the frame and learn it all at once.

Thanks for all the input. :) I am still trying to decide kind of frame to start with.

I believe that is one of the frames which load the layers separately, like a longarm frame does, so there is no need to hand baste. The ad says "shoot me an offer", so you may be able to get it for a bit less, as well. I say "Go for it!" You won't be sorry.

I love to quilt on my Grace frame. I have the Z44, but they are similar. It isn't hard for me to quilt in all directions. Just a suggestion. When buying the frame used, check to see that all parts are there. It is even a better deal if it has the leader cloths and clamps.

I got mine several years ago at hancocks for 169.00

I found another one.
http://columbiamo.craigslist.org/art/5153616648.html

This looks like a great deal. The only thing is it was never stained or
finished with anything.
The Grace website says to finish the wood to protect it and to keep it
from warping. Should i be concerned about warping if it was kept inside and
in very good shape?