I too have the Handi Quilter 16, would LOVE to upgrade to the Avente. My dealer comes to my house to take apart and clean (service). I have only had him out once, I have had it for about 2 years now. I highly recommend it, as anyone who has one does.

I'd like to upgrade too. Trying to keep up with how much I use it this year so I can justify the need. I was thinking of quilting for other people instead of renting it. DH doesn't want me to put that pressure on myself.

I have the HQ 16 and I think it is a heavy duty machine. I also purchased the heavy duty studio frame, which can be changed from 6 to 12 foot. I also have the stitch regulator, laser light and groovy boards. I think the machine is very smooth handling. I purchased mine from Quilt Trends (QuiltTrends.com)and got the best price from them. I believe they are located in Ohio. They brought the machine (table was delivered) to my home, set up the frame and machine and gave me a demonstration on usuage. There was no charge for them coming to my home. They are very nice to work with.

Eddie, did you get you the longarm yet?

I placed my order on Saturday! :) I decided to go with a the Gammill Premier 18". It'll be here in about a month. It's going to be a very long month! I can't wait!

i'm glad you didn't get the little gimmall you would of out grown it quick

The Simply Sixteen DOES have a stitch regulator. I am considering upgrading my Sweet Sixteen to the Simply 16.The cost to do this is $3500. Although it is only 5 feet wide, one can work on any size quilt. Instead of rolling the quilt on a roller, you simply lay the quilt over the frame and clamp it down taut. Then when you are ready, simply move the quilt, reclamp, and continue quilting. The machines, by the way, are identical.

PDQuilt, I think the Simply Sixteen in this thread was a different offering from HQ - this thread started in 2010. very confusing, hmmm?

I work for a Handi Quilter dealer. The Simply Sixteen is a brand new, innovative frame machine with a built in stitch regulator. It is easy to put on the frame. No mounting the top, batt, and back separately. It mounts on what I would describe as a giant square embroidery hoop with clips. I'm trading in my sit-down for one of these machines. I think it's brilliant!

I agree. Try them all if you can. My friend bought a LA and she had bought the model that was the next step up. It is an expensive purchase so you know you made the right choice. It is a lot like buying a car.