Holice

I responded to this subject at another post and thought I would post another message on the subject.

Many quilters have small machines they take to classes. They are certainly easier to carry. However, the smaller machines, in my opinion and experience, don't allow the student to receive the full benefits of the class. An example is machine quilting classes - FMQ and general machine quilting. The small machines usually don't have adequate extension tables which often will make the project easier. Here are my thoughts.

If you are taking a class and need to take a machine, then take the machine you intend to use the learned tehnique at home. This is especially tru in machine quilting classes. I am not sure one can perfect the techniques one one machine and then transfer to another.

If the machine does not have an extension table, then try to get one for it. Good work area makes a real difference in the finished work.

Make sure the machine is functioning and you bring all the required tools, feet and especially the instruction book.
I had one student bring her Featherweight without the cover for the bobbin case.

If you don't understand what is required for the class then ask for clarification. A recent class in Machine quilting, one of the students didn't have the free motion foot and just assumed it was in the tool box. A second student - the same thing.

Make sure the feet work. Another brought a generic 1/4" foot that didn't even feed the fabric thru.

There are inexpensive alternatives to extension tables but the investment in one for your machine will be worth the $$ in one's quilting satisfaction.

And never assume the teacher will be able to fix a problem. We are not machine repairpersons.

Just some thoughts this morning.