I only took a class with the HQ16 but was impressed by how easy it was to set up, adjust, and get started. Felt comfortable right from the start.

several quilting friends have various Handiquilter products and they are very happy with the company the instruction and the service......I am sooooooooooo tempted to take the plunge

As a HQ16 owner myself, I think you will be very happy with your decision. I have no Tin Lizzie experience, but I can't speak well enough about my HQ! It's always good to listen to your gut, as it seldom leads you astray! :-)
Enjoy!

I was sold when I watched them quilt with metallic at the Houston Quilt Show. Metallic, really. Not a break to be had either. I have had mine for about 7 years now, and have never regretted my decision to purchase it! Best wishes for whatever decision you make! :-)

I bought the Sweet 16 and I haven't been a bit sorry. I like it cause I can sit and quilt (which would be a big issue for me, standing I mean). You will love it. Just a note though mine likes Superior Thread. If you go with cheaper prepare to do a lot of finagling with the tensions. I'm just going to keep mine happy with King Tut and SuperBob bobbins. Good for you!

Good thinking have fun with your quilting

the thought of having one shipped to my home and me put it together turns me off entirely! I want someone who knows what they are doing to put mine together and show me how to run it!! I will be purchasing soon too. So, thanks for the info!

I have an Avante and I am ready to give it away though Greg at HQ in Utah is very sympathetic. I have had it for one year and 4 times the bobbin hook assembly has fallen apart. I get a loud clunk, and then a needle breaks and the bobbin assembly twirls around and the bobbin only goes in vertically and of course no needle will go down.. I have travelled over 200 miles each time to get it serviced but never repaired (obviously) and I am off to the repair shop again on Monday. However, when it works, it is great. Just my bad luck I guess.

If you are going to get a longarm definately buy from a dealer that will deliver and set it up for you. If it cost extra it's well worth it. I have a Nolting and there is a dealer in my area that delivered it, set it up and gave me a quick refresher lesson similar to what she did before I bought it. So stick with it you won't be sorry.

I'm glad to hear you did that!!! My friend has a Tin Lizzy --- she has tons of problems. I have a HQ Avante (big sister to the Sweet Sixteen) and have had far less problems. I can not imagine setting up a longarm when you don't have experience at it!!!!!!!!!!! I think you'll be pleased with your purchase.