My name is Paola (pronounced like pow-la). Today, I decided that I need to learn a new hobby. I've never sewn (other than a few loose buttons) or quilted anything before. I just got done ordering three beginner quilt books and quilting software: "Your First Quilt Book (or it should be!)" by Carol Doak; "101 Fabulous Rotary-Cut Quilts" by Judy Hopkins; "First-Time Quiltmaking: Learning to Quilt in Six Easy Lessons" by Becky Johnston; and the Quilt Design Wizard by The Electric Quilt Company. I do not have a sewing machine (yet). I've been doing some research online and have come across three manufacturers that have garnered favorable reviews: Pfaff, Singer, and Bernina. I'm not sure which sewing machine to get though. I figure that I should get a machine with the options I need based on what I read in the books and/or software.

Well, that's it for now. I'm open to suggestions. Thank you. :)

Welcome to the site from New Hampshire! You are going to love your new hobby! It will take over your life however, but that's a good thing! Give a look at Janome sewing machines. I have one and all my quilting friends too (we all have different models and levels of machines, but we all love them). I have Carol Doak's book and I love it. If you have any questions or problems with quilting bring them here. There is a lot of experience on this board and everyone is so nice. Don't forget to post pictures of your quilts if you can. We like to see what everybody is working on.

Welcome to the board from Southern California!!!

Hi and welcome from the sunny state of Florida!!

I'm in New Jersey too, where are you located???? Welcome to the board, you will love it here, so many wonderful helpful people!!!!!!!!!! Lace

I love my Pfaff. You might want to vist the closest quilt shops near you and try out your favorites. Then think about which shop you liked the best. Many give free lessons on the machines they sell and it will also help when you need service.

Hi and welcome from Alaska!

Really?! I live in Monmouth County. Where are you?

Thanks for the tip! I didn't know that I could try out sewing machines at local quilt shops! Of course, now, I need to find local quilt shops! I knew I'd forget something! :P

I've read mixed reviews of Janome, which is why I'm a little nervous about the brand. I didn't realize posting quilt pictures is encouraged. Good to know! :)

I live near Clinton, Nj and I am not far from the Pocono's. My Aunt lives in Brick. Lace

Yes, welcome. I live in Mercer County, NJ. We have many fabulous LQS's in NJ. It will be exciting for you to buy your first sewing machine.

Have you been to the Pennington LQS?

Hi from Minnesota --- welcome!!

Welcome!

Hi and welcome.

Welcome from northern NY

OK. I shamelessly sat here for 5 minutes wondering what the heck LQS stands for! And then, I came up with three possibilities: Local Quilt Store/Shop/Show. How'd I do? ;)

perfect! local quilt shop

Hi and welcome from Central Florida. I think you'll love this board. I have learned so much since I joined and have avoided some problems that I think would have been very discouraging. Enjoy your new hobby!

Welcome from Ireland

Hi Paola - Welcome from New Hampshire
I have a 1030 Bernina that I've had for about 20 years - it's a wonderful non-computerized workhorse.
I'd get the Quilters Bernina or the new Janome if I were to buy another machine (I have 4).
I strongly recommend Jem Platinum to start out, until you find whether you're going to really get into quilting.
That's my Jem Gold in the Avatar

Hi Paola! Welcome from North Carolina!

Hi! and welcome from Missouri. I also have a Janone sewing machine. I have been sewing for over 50 years and I can say that they are hands down the best machines out there.

Hello and Welcome to the board :D:D:D
So happy that you joined us!

You are sure starting out on the right track :D:D:D

Hello and welcome from Ontario.

Yes, I've been to Pennington, but my favorite shop is in Burlington.

Hello.