Hi, everybody
I am looking at getting a new machine. I want more space in the throat/harp. I want to be able to adjust pressure on presser foot. I want to be able to quilt something bigger than a postage stamp without lots of hassles. I want a machine with a smooth, even bed and no hump to go over on either the needle plate or on the cover for the feed dogs.
Some of that I can fix with additional items on my machine, but the pressure issue is a problem with me & using the walking foot as the pressure is too high and is factory set, apparently with no way to adjust it, though I have been tempted to tinker. :-P
I can't afford a LA machine. The closest dealer to me that might have a machine to play on first is a good 2+hours away, one way. With gas prices & health issues, I'm not sure I can justify that. I have been looking at a Juki TL-2000Qi vs a Juki TL-2010Q. As I understand it, the machines are nearly identical except for speed control and a couple of extra feet.
My Questions with regards to 2000qi/2010q:
1. Is the price difference worth the money? One dealer's quotes had the 2010 as 100 more than the 2000.
2. How soon will I need to order in a supply of oil? What kind of oil? I've been using the zoom oil (the tech closest to me uses it on all his machines, antique to new commercial embroidery models) on lots of things (machines, fans, etc) and like it. Is it compatible with the Juki? If not, what do you use and where's the most economical place to get it? Most likely I will have to order online.
3. I have a year's supply, unless I really get busy with FMQ, :lol: of sewing machine needles, the normal kind with a flat spot on the head of the needle shank. What needles do I need for a Juki? Yes, I have been trying to research online, but am currently more confused than informed.
4. How many bobbins would you recommend having on hand? I have tons for my sewing machine, but I don't think they are compatible with the Juki as they are for Janome/Brother/Babylock, etc.
5. On the bobbins, I'm thinking all metal works better than cardboard & metal. Do you agree?
6. Outside of a frame, stitch regulator, stylus, and other goodies for a frame set-up, what do I need to get to go with my machine upon purchase other than what comes with it?
7. What dealer would you recommend with the best service & price overall? The Juki is a heavy machine and I have to admit "free shipping" sounds like the way to go. I've been pricing them at Allbrands, SewingMachinesPlus, and Icanhelpsew. The latter is closest to me which is why I was considering her. If I run into a major snag, she is close enough to holler at in person, versus Louisiana or California. None of the dealers are what I consider close. I've contacted a couple of other online dealers this past week and these three are the only ones who bothered to answer. I am going to email Raichert to see what they can do, but haven't as yet.
8. How do you pick an online dealer? Dealer A, B, and C all offer the same package for the same price, and all have good reviews. Which one do you choose and why?
9. If you run across a dealer selling Brand X, saying they are an authorized dealer and can provide warranty coverage, but the Brand X website does not list that dealer on THEIR website, would you order from the dealer anyway?
10. Am I the only one who thinks it's better to email than to call when looking for info? For example, I contacted a sewing place about 3 hours north of me a while back concerning specials and/or used machines. Three days later I got a curt little email saying he was too busy to be bothered answering emails about machines, specials, etc, and I just needed to call the shop. I was a little miffed. Had I wanted to call the shop, I would not have emailed. Why does he have email listed if he doesn't want to answer them? BTW, my voice is soft thanks to cancer surgery back in the day and people on the phone generally can't hear/understand me or they think I'm a kid about 10. Besides, an email is written and isn't just words in the air; words are cheap and not everyone stands behind what they say, quilt shop or not.
If you think I've got a lot to learn, you would be correct. I'm just trying to get the most bang for the buck with the least amount of headaches. Used machines in my neck of the woods are a no go. People generally think they are made of solid gold or platinum and some thing they have diamonds in them, too. :roll:
Thanks for your help, advice, recommendations, experience, and other tidbits. I lurk a lot and have learned tons on this forum.
Happy Quilting!
M&M