Originally Posted by k_jupiter
I like my pattern boards they are a thousand times easier than pantographs. They require no practice to use, only setting up the corners to match where on your quilt the pattern goes. What tracing? I am confused.
Using a pantograph to wrestle around a 90 lb machine is no fun, no matter how well balanced and level the frame is.
Tim, Something does not at all sound right with your set up. I just looked up the weight of a Tin Lizzie and the machine head only weighs 52lb. I have a 26" Innova. It weighs 54 lb. I can move my machine around on the rack with one hand with almost no effort on my part. If you have to "wrestle" around with your machine your frame is terribly out of level and there is something wrong with your carriage rails. The machine should glide relatively easily on the rails with only a moderate amount of guidance from you. If you feel like you are having to wrestle it something is most definitely wrong!
Now back to your original question... I have only used pattern boards once when trying out an HQ 16. I have seen items like Circle Lord demonstrated which is the same thing. While the circle lord is indeed intriguing to me I'm not sure how much I would use one and they carry a very hefty price tag as do all the pattern boards. The boards are marketed just like pantos and for machine throat size and they should state on the website or wherever that the pattern is suitable for a 16", 18", 22" or 26" machine thoat (which are the most common mid and long arm sizes)
For the price of one pattern board you could get multiple pantos, which you follow the design with a laser light (trace) instead of the stylus. If you do not like pantos because you feel the machine is "fighting" you while trying to guide it, I strongly recommend you find a dealer or someone who knows these setups inside and out to check out your rack and machine because if the machine feels to you like it is 90lbs and you are having to wrestle it something is most definitely wrong.