I just bought the HQ Sweet Sixteen sit-down machine in May, and LOVE it! It was affordable, took up very little space, and gives me the throat space necessary to do very large quilts easily. It sets up in a jiffy - out of the box and running in less than an hour :-). I liked the fact that it can be converted to a frame machine if I ever have more floor space to do that. It comes with the table, and you can order the side tables if you need them. I know that other HQ Sweet Sixteen owners have purchased less expensive side tables from Ikea or used folding tables. With the computerized speed control (very user friendly) and a little practice you can regulate your stitches easily. Lots of good light built in, too. I could go on and on, but you get the idea - I call her "Henrietta" :-)

What is the price point on this?

For the money I don't think you can beat it. I bought one this summer - I have limited space and no way can I fit the stand up models in my house. The Sweet 16 is great - the machine sits flush with the table so moving the quilt around is a breese. I got the extended arms for mine so when I quilt I have 72 inches of space on the sides to support the quilt. The table height is adustable too. I'm very happy with this machine.

I tried this machine last month, loved the ease of use, and I am a longarm quilter. If I didn't have my longarm, this would be my next choice.

Is there a picture?

I tried out LAs for 2 years (all of ones at the Houston Quilt Show) before I decided. Then took several LA classes from LQS before I decided which one to buy. I also studied where local vendors were for repairs & maintenance and whether some of the LAs had local groups that might get together to trade tips and give assistance. Since I live in 2 states, I had 2 areas to deal with for my criteria. I have several vendors to choose from both places I live.

I ended up with Jewel (BabyLock). Besides getting the LA, along with the leader cloths, frame, channel locks, laser stylus, etc..., I paid $8900. BabyLock also offered classes 6-8 times a year on the Jewel machines in St. Louis which I am on my way to in September. the classes are for 4 days. You just need to bring your project.

I almost bought one at the Paducah Show. After testing it several times I pretty much decided that my needs could be served just as well with the Brother 1500S that I also looked at. The 16 was selling for $4500 and the Brother $800. I haven't been sorry with my decision. For the price they wanted for the 16 I felt that a stitch regulator should have been part of the package.

The show special for the sit down with table was $2999.00. The stand up model with stitch regulator and 10 ft frame set up in your home was $4999.00. That was the show price. If you were to order somewhere else or later it would be another $1000.00 each. I would find a show with a dealer and take a look if you think you might be interested. Ann in TN

I want one!!!!

Wow! That is a great price! I want...