NZquilter

A 31-15 has come up in my price range, but a five hour drive away. The harp space is three inches more than my 15-91 I use and I would love to get it for free motion quilting.

I have seen on a lot of blogs and forums that people get these machines for FMQing, get all excited and post all about it at first. They may do a few projects on it and then they go back to using their 201 or whatever they were using before. At least, this seems to be the common thread. I'm curious why? Are the stitch less than par, or are there tension problems?

I'm not planning to put the 31-15 on a frame, because I simply don't have room for it. My plan is to replace the current clutch motor with a Servo motor, for better speed control. I'll probably need a new belt when I change the motor too. I'll get a high shank FMQing foot too, but that is easy. Anything I'm missing? Should I try it?

Mickey2

I know some use their vintage 15 or 66 because of their low noise level, and mostly use their larger industrial for when it's needed. Some like the feed dog drop on 15s and 201s, not all of the industrials do. There are always ways about it. I don't know about the 31-15, but some can do the thickest type cotton batting on their vintage industrial model and absolutely love it for that reason. Some industrials run very smooth and low nose, but something adds to the noise lever, I guess motor, maintanance, model, and various factors makes all the difference. I think it was a 95K40 in a cabinet that was made to run well within acceptable noise levels.

zozee

Five hours away? Ugh! How badly do you want it?

NZquilter

Quite badly.

NZquilter

Thanks, Mickey2. I'll see what happens. If it's still available in about a month I think I might try to go get it. Hubby and I are booked with home renovation projects for the next few weekends. I will be thrilled if I could get use it for FMQing!

Karamarie

Maybe there is a quilt shop or two to stop at on the journey so to make it really worthwhile.

leonf

I have a friend who uses a 31-15 for quliting. I'll see if i can send you her addy.

NZquilter

I found a video of Tim Latimer using a 31-15 treadle for FMQing. Looks like so much fun! https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=6wBV8jwpg1M