Looking to get a longarm...where will I get my tops?
 

Like the title says, I am considering pulling the trigger on a Gammill Statler Stitcher. Like many of us, I fell in love with the precision of the computer as well as the smooth, cloud-like hand guidance. I am not an insanely fast piecer, and only put together a top or two a month. I have four waiting to be quilted, but what should I move on to after them? I am not particularly interested in running the longarm as a business, especially not at first. Also, I do not belong to a quilt guild or anything like that. It is just me, the internet, and my quilting. Where do you guys source your tops when you're starting out?

There are quite a few charity quilting groups that will be happy for your help. I do work for Quilts Beyond Borders which mails tops to quilters; you can go to their website for more information. You can also google charity quilting groups in your area.

I agree - charity quilts are your best bet. Check with your local quilt shops and guilds to see if they can put you in touch with groups who quilt for charity. They will appreciate your contribution immensely.

Also contact your LQS and local churches - you may find many of them make charity quilts.

Quilting charity quilts is the only way to go. My charity tops are going to a newbie LAQ so she can hone her skills.

Are you looking for tops to practice on? I agree that charity groups in your area would probably love to have a longarmer volunteer to quilt some of their quilts. You might ask for $5 or so for the thread you will use, per quilt, unless you want that to be your donation to the charity.

If you are looking to buy tops for yourself, I piece tops for sale. You can pm me if that is what you need.

Good luck with your new machine!

Linda Rotz Miller used to post on this site. She makes some amazing tops that are for sale at http://www.quiltsandquilttops.com/

You're just what I'm looking for. I need a longarmer for the charity quilts I make. I can't stand quilting them and usually just plow across them. SVAL

Another option is to buy "cheater" tops for practice. There are some nice ones available on eBay. This is one I did - http://www.quiltingboard.com/picture...d-t214440.html

Also once you get your longarm you may find that your friends just love to share their tops to help you out.

Great ideas guys! All links provided have been very helpful. When I get it, I know where to turn!