Nammie to 7

Like usual a lot of good advice from those who know what they are talking about! I read it all with interest just in case some day I have a room big enough for a long arm! Good luck with whatever machine you choose.

jmoore

I agree with an earlier post, you should test drive any longarm you might be considering. Considering the price of these machines, I think each has its pros and cons. I, too, have done some research but have only had FMQ'ing experience on an APQS Lenni that I rent locally. Although I love the APQS, I would still want to try an Innova or one of the other highly recommended machines.

pumpkinpatchquilter

I bought a used APQS - I love it! It is not stitch regulated and only cost me slightly more than a high end sewing machine. I purchased it for mainly for myself so it was a good way to get the benefits of a long arm without paying more than my car for it.

gramacheri

My suggestion is to "play" with a few brands before you buy. Some are very heavy to move around and others just don't have a good "feel" to them. It has to be what is best for you. I bought one a year ago and that was after I was able to use it on a "rental basis" for 4 quilts. I am so glad I did it this way. I was able to learn it with supervision in it's previous home and it's previous owner was there to help with questions. Go for it if you can. I don't think you will be sorry you did!

lynnefaye

After trying all the brands at machine shows for 2 years, decided on the Innova 18" on a 12' frame with the basic stitch regulator. It is a wonderful machine and very easy to maintain. I do only free motion quilting but still wish I had gotten the 22" just to roll a little less often. If you want a computer system, get the 26". Their service is a phone call away. I have only had to call twice for operator error issues and were resolved in a friendly helpful way.

Be sure wherever you buy to get some classes in the deal. If you are totally new to longarming, there is a learning curve. Even with that, it is so much fun.

Judi in Ohio

I bought a used A-1 that I got for a great price. It was originally $17,500 so I feel pretty good about what I got it for. That said I bought it from a foreclosure and it was an as is. Someone else saw it ahead of me and passed because it had rained into the container it was stored in. The table was actually wet and the machine was not. I sent it to the factory, they gave it a spa treatment, I went to a weekend class with Jamie Wallen and all is well. I got a great set up for a great price and a little work.
My advise is to go out on that limb and buy the best set up you can. I would hate to have to switch to a new set up after this one is set up. I have stitch regulator and the hydraulics - I'm tall so I also have blocks under my feet on the table to make it higher to start.
I agree search for a used outfit and try everything you can.

tessagin

Sew much information on this Board.

Normabeth

http://www.baileyssewingcenter.com/homequilter.html

Check this site out - this is afforadable and Chuck the owner, is very helpful
there is a yahoo group for Bailey owners - check it out, can be very helpful

maggiek

I have the HQ Sweet 16 sit down model and love it. I can't stand for long periods and don't have the room for the huge frame of a long-arm. There is a big difference however. With the sit down model, you move the quilt rather than driving the machine with the handles. Works like a domestic machine except a huge throat. Just finished a king-sized T-shirt quilt with 16" squares and it handled great.

charhend

I have the HQ 16 with a stitch regulator and have been very happy with it. I do long to have a computerized Long Arm some day. I need to sell this one first. I also need to get beyond meandering, stippling and loops!!!! I am 69 and think to myself is it a waste of money to buy the computerized machine??? Please give me your thoughts on this.