Stitchnripper

totally agree. Your decision.

tranum

You have to select the model that works for you but we all advise you to jump in and use it.
I was a bookkeeper & payroll clerk using paper & pencil back in the “dark ages” then we joined the computer age. I had 3 days of training then I was on my own to input all my info into this. Everything about it was foreign but it had to be. It went better & better.

Feathers-N-Fur

My MIL is about your age. I wish so much that she would do anything other than sit in her recliner all day. She was healthier when she was more active. If the long arm keeps you up and moving, it is far, far cheaper then hospital bills.

quiltingshorttimer

Rhonda Lee, if you've tried out long arms at shows, maybe taken a certification course and actually used one (or used a friends) so that you are aware of the process, if you have the room and the $$, then go for it!. Yes, there will be a learning curve--I've observed among my friends that the more you use it the faster that curve is overcome. LA quilting is hard on your body--if you plan to do mainly pantographs then I'd suggest you get computer/robotic guided to make it easier. If you think you'll do more free motion, rulers, stencils, etc then get fatigue mats to stand on and a drafting stool .

DACO48

You worked, now are retired. Treat yourself well.

stitch678

Your new home may dictate what you own due to size. I'm 70, and own a midarm l use on a queen frame. Most of my quilts are for charity, and they are seldom larger than " double", though l can do a quilt 84" wide on my frame. There are newer versions that come smaller, you can reposition and do a large quilt . My 15" Bailey has no bells / whistles, cost less than most domestic computorized machines these days, and can be used as a sitdown as well ( l've even taken it in the motorhome and used it at the dining table or at a resort's welcome center where there are foldup tables.) I used to hand quilt.At 65, l realized l'd better learn to quilt by machine, since my list of quilts to make was very ambitious, and there's only so many years where eyesight and body can do them. If you find you don't care for this, you can always sell. Quilters often upgrade, you may esily find a basic used one for a decent price.

Peckish

Great point!!

zozee

You have had this long arm purchase as part of your plan when you downsize in your move. My guess is you have thought it out, maybe tried using a LA, and envision it enriching your life. I say if you are familiar with the strength and stamina it takes and are okay with it, if you have the money and space, then I would encourage fulfilling the plan you and your husband have thought out. Your friends may simply be projecting their personalities, habits, budgets, and health onto you. It’s not their decision. Would your buying it impact them? Maybe they are jealous that you have a rewarding hobby, a supportive mate, better health, more money, etc. All that really matters is yours and your husband’s agreement because it is a big purchase and takes up a lot of room. But it sounds like you two have already thought of all that. I personally would rent time on one and see if I could get the hang of it. But if I enjoyed it and hubby was in favor, I’d dismiss everyone else’s input. .

Pagzz

another point - who is advising you against this? are they quilters or do they fall in the group of people who don't understand quilting? those who say "don't you have enough quilts?" etc. You worked and earned money. You get to spend your money how you wish. period.

cashs_mom

I think the notion that you are "too old to learn" is ridiculous. Keeping active and learning new things is one of the best things you can do as you age. It keeps your brain active. Its your purchase. Think about it, shop for longarms, try them out and if you want it, get it. It's really not anyone else's business how you spend your money. I've discovered that often those that scoff at something are just jealous. They wish they had the money/guts to do it.