Any Tips on how to use new Quilt frame and machine
 

Hi there, a few weeks ago i just purchased a new pearl Quilt Frame with a Babylock Crown Jewel, and i was wondering if some of you fine ladies and gents if there are gents out there. can give me some pointers and tips on how to utlize this fine machie to the best of it abilities.and hoping my abilities will keep up. LOL i know i need to PRATICE but i am not finding to many turorials on how to use templets or loading the quilt or any tips that makes it all easier.. any help on where to get supplies also would be greatful. Thanks and Happy Quilting :)

Take a look on youtube. There are lots of videos about loading a quilt and doing designs. Also a couple on testing for the right tension. Believe me, I have watched quite a few of them. (I have a midarm) There is also a very funny one called "you can quilt that out" that will have you laughing!

Is your dealer going to give you lessons on the machine?

One big tip. Only use for 20 - 30 minutes in one go. You may feel fine but I can assure that without these breaks due to the new position to use a stiff neck and shoulders do happen which last for a few days. These few minutes can get longer as you go. I did 2 hours and didn't move until I had finished a quilt never again.

look for forums of machine quilters. I regularly visit mqresource.com and the APQS forums. See if there are any yahoo groups especially with your same machine and frame.

locally I know of two longarm groups that meet once a month.

I recommend Kimmy Brunner's dvds

Congrats on your new machine! I have the same machine and they are wonderful! Practice is the best way to get the feel of the machine. You will be surprised it will be easier than you think! I watch as many youtube videos as I can find has helped me a lot. Relax and have fun! Supplies I surf the net for most of them. Depends on your dealer but alot of them offer great training.

I think Baby Lock still has the 4 day class in St. Louis with Kay Capps Cross. I have a Crown Jewel and went to that - stayed in the hotel and they found me a roomate to ease the cost. It was so great. I learned everything there is to know about my machine and had lots of practice with supervision as well as alot of fun with others who had the same machine. Each of us was provided with a machine and frame like the one we had purchased. Look it up on line.
Enjoy it.
Beth