My baby lock was in in a week I really like it

Going to the local quilt shop this Saturday to get one! Well, probably just order it, I'm sure they don't keep them in stock.

Connie, my decision mirrored yours quite a bit. The HQ was much less expensive, has a good reputation as a dependable machine, and I love mine. It's not a "Sweet" 16, but I am very happy with it.

I have been looking at them. And I just got one I went with the baby lock tiara I really like it just with I had more time with it

In order to get it installed "free" I had to order from the local dealer. It's the same price on the HQ website, and I'll avoid shipping.

LPoullard wrote: That sound like a good deal - in my area, the bonus is usually the "tefflon table cover" (sorry I don't know the exact word). And with the stitch regulator, they sell it for 6000$ (CDN).

Andrée

Well, the two local HQ rep stores are offering the show price and no shipping! Sooooooo, rather not have to drive to Houston since I can get the same price local.

Susan, where are they taking pre-orders for the new hopping foot - did you order it local or from HQ?

There is no delivery charge around here, while Houston is on. Additionally, just found out there is a new hopping foot set that is an easy change out, as in screw on and screw off to change from closed to open toed foot. They won't be out until mid-November, but orders are being taken. I've ordered one, because I like ruler work & the open toed foot is kind of a pain with rulers, but I like it for free-motion. There is also a new set of couching feet available.

When I got my machine, I was given $300 of Golden Threads poly-wrapped polycore thread. Nice for utility quilts and easy to use.
It will be fun to see what the extras are. Let us know!

Just an update. Talked to HQ today and they are selling the SS (with stitch regulator) for $5295 with bonuses (but I don't know what the bonuses are ).

Going to call HQ and two shops within driving distance tomorrow to see 1) what they are selling for at the quilt show and 2) if either shop will match the quilt show price. If not, guess I will have to drive to Houston (which I rather not do). Hmmmmm, wonder if they will have the new Bernina at the show?

LPoullard wrote:
That's a great idea to test them out at a quilt show. when I went to Road to California a couple of years ago, I stayed for a couple of days, and had lots of time to try the different machines. I quickly found some that were good for the way I like to quilt, and some that didn't work for me.

I'm sure that the quality of the machines is very good for all the brands, it probably is a matter of what suits you and how much you want to pay .

Have fun, Kathy

A HQ Sweet Sixteen with the table, delivered and set-up (by some dealers) is about $5,000. The delivery charges are free right now as part of a Houston special, no matter where you live. It is basic and it does what it does well, and it has been on the market for years. Just thinking about newer machines gives me the heebie-geebies until they are proven. I guess I read too many forums. Just saying! I still think access to a good dealer is paramount, although I've never needed it for my HQ. Sometimes my new fangled Bernina has to go back every 6 months, or every 6 weeks when she starts "quacking". (I still don't know what that is). I love my Berninas, especially my older ones, so read between the lines.

Stop the presses! Bernina is debuting their new sit down quilting machine!!! I have the sweet sixteen, but I KNOW the Bernina will be better! Don't know about the price, though.

Thanks Connie & Kathy. I think I just might drive up to Houston this week and check out the machines at the quilt show. I appreciate everyone's input - will let you know what I decide. I am soooo anxious!