I purchased a mid arm (18") in Sept. I am new at it and having a wonderful time learning all the stitches I can do. I just quilted one with feathers! I like finishing my own quilts rather than sending out and having someone else finish my work. I did not go for computerized because of the expense and find that with a bit of practice I can do some nice work. So much easier than on my sew machine and the backs are always beautiful too and no pinning and laying out.

I'm not sure what is considered a mid-arm, but when I googled mid arm machines, the Juki site came up. When I talked to the salesperson, they told me it was a mid arm (it didn't have 18" throat space). The invoice I received with the machine said JukiTL98Q mid arm quilting machine. I only know that there is a lot of space compared to a regular machine. It is enough for me and I don't think I will need another machine with more space.

I bought the HQ16 about 2 years ago and love it. I get many more quilts done than if I did not have it. Just quilt for myself using pantos, but I am very happy with the results. Would never complete anything if I tried to hand quilt, and it would be too much of a struggle to quilt large quilts with my regular machine. I am not sorry that I spent the money.

I have a prodigy longarm, it is a great machine, but i wish i would have gotten a smaller one. I just quilt for myself .

As a retirement gift to myself, I purchased the HQ16 with stitch regulator and heavy duty Studio Table. I also purchased pantograms and a few groovy boards to use with the laser beam. I haven't actually done a quilt yet because I am still in the practicing mode, but I love the feel and movement of the HQ16. I did a lot of internet research and tried several machines at quilting stores before deciding on the HQ16.

if any one can recommend a book for long arm my hubby bought me one for anniversary and only a video came with it and i would really like a book if anyone knows of one???

I don't have one but my mom has a Nolting and I can use it when ever I want to.

I quilt using my Designer SE using the embroidery unit, works great.

I have a Statler Optimum and love it. Don't quilt for others, just for charity and family. It was either go to a long arm or quit quilting because of arthritis. Greatest decision I ever made.

I have done 3 king size quilts on my regular machine. It wasn't the easiest thing, but I did get them finished.