Old 08-06-2011, 10:32 PM
  #13  
AliKat
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Join Date: Apr 2007
Location: Phoenix, AZ
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First check your budget.

Yes, there are a lot of machines out there. Sample them all by going for a test sew at LQS's. Find which brand you bond with the most and has the largest throat area for your quilting.

If your budget is a bit tight, know that many quilters trade up and you can find great used machines if you look.

Also, if you are going to be taking this on retreats, sew-ins, or classes, you might opt for a machine that is easy for you to transport.

I have a Pfaff Creative Vision but that stays put at home. No traveling for that machine! It cost too much. I had tried a Baby Lock machine that also embroidered but it was no thanks to that machine ... waaayyy to heavy to even lift. No traveling for that machine! I have a Pfaff 2046 and a Featherweight. I take one of these for anything not at home. If I take a class and want to use my CV then I only do a small sampler for class and then a quilt at home.

I also use only one machine for each project. Whatever machine I start on ... that is the one I finish on. Seam allowances aren't the same with different machines [or rulers.]

Good luck with your choice.

ali
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