I have a few hints for you...these come from experience mostly:
1. Tension dial...the tension dial may or may not have numbers on it. If it has numbers...they are NOT settings...they are for referrence only. Adjusting tension is one of the things new to longarm quilter's have the most frustration with.
2. Needles...make sure to get the correct size & to insert them correctly.
3. Don't forget to put the hopping foot down, and bring up the bobbin thread before you start to stitch.
4. Tension, I know, I already mentioned tension...but if you have trouble with tension...and you will...do post to for help. There are several ways to set tension...and the fabric, batting, how the quilt is loaded, thread, etc., all can have an effect on tension. It's easy once you get it familiar with it, and lose the fear of turning the dial, and adjusting the screw on the bobbin.
I have the TL18LS...and before that, I had a Nustyle 227 (big old machine). We now have a great group on Yahoo called TinLizzieLongarm. We share a lot there...and much is of use to most any longarm machine.
Private Message me if you need help, and I'll email you off group & try to help.
Originally Posted by Debbie B
Today I bought a Juki TL 98 Q and a Gracie II frame. I got it off Craigslist. It's 3 years old and she said that she barely used it, because she developed heart & health problems. It came with a speed control, cloth leaders, a lamp that clamps on, some feet and a bunch of bobbins, plus Quilt Cad, perfect pattern templates & a little extension table when the machine is off the frame. My husband got it all set up & then left for a football game. Still have to get the sewing machine hooked up. I have a small sewing room (my son's old bedroom 10'6" X 12') & it really takes up the space. As soon as I get the room half way put back together I'll post some pictures. Anyone on the quilting board that has this set up or something close to it...any suggestions that will help me learn what to do will greatly be appreciated. I'm going to be reading the manual all evening. Whoo-hoo!!!