I tried out several quilting machines and ended up with the new Handi Quilter Avante18. It is so quiet and easy to use and I loved it's features. If I need help I can call my dealer or post a question on the HandiQuilter Forum and get an answer. You need to give the machines a test drive and then write down your likes and dislikes. Cost was important to me and I thought about a frame with a hobby quilter but knew I wouldn't be satisfied unless it was a longarm. I am a happy camper with my HQ Avante18!
PattyS
East TN

Great article, Renae! Thanks for sharing!

First I will start by saying I teach longarm quilting, and I have used nearly all the machines available. I was looking to buy a new longarm and thought it would be helpful for others to have some advice when they are shopping. Now that I have quilted for many years and owned many machines, new shoppers might benefit from what I have learned. I wrote an article that I offer free on my website http://quiltsonthecorner.com. You can find the article in the store on the "books and dvd's" page. It is free...but you will need to "purchase" it by placing it in your cart and checking out. When it asks for payment type just click on continue. You do not need to enter any payment information.

Good luck in your shopping!

Renae Haddadin
http://quiltsonthecorner.com
a new tip every Wednesday

Not a problem, Sue! We are glad to have you join us!
I think there is a domestic machine called the Athena put out by Singer. I have a Handi-Quilter16 and absolutely love it!! I would love to have the extra space of the Avante`, but since I don't ever plan to quilt for other people, the 16" is going to be just fine for me.

Yes, Margo, you are right...I seem to have this block about the actual name...it is the Avante and I finished another small quilt this morning. That was my first ever post on this site...I'm a novice. Thanks for setting me straight.
Sue

Foxyquilter, I think that the Handi-Quilter 18" machine is called the Avante`. I totally agree that the table makes a huge difference in the way a long-arm operates. Enjoy your new toy!

I did a lot of research and decided on the Athena which is the HQ 18" machine. I have found it very user friendly and love the results. Even after looking at them and "test driving" them in the store, I was amazed at how large they are when set up. Make sure you get full measurements including the extra space when you need to work behind the machine for pantographs. In my opinion, the frame is almost as important. I have used the standard type frame but decided to go for the precision glide studio frame. It is very sturdy and the machine glides so much easier. It was well worth the extra money. Good luck.

I agree with Eileennky, it's a personal decision. How about trying to rent each for day to quilt some easy lap tops? You probably have one or two around and it would give you a chance to go from start to finish on each machine. That would give you a good hands on test about each machine.

Hi
I just ordered the Innova 26 long arm with the encording foot. I tested this machine after trying lots of machines at PQIF. The machine is smooth and I also ordered the computer to go with it.
Susie
Designs by Susie

I finally decided on neither! I bought a Viking Megaquilter and the new Inspira Imperial frame. I've had it about 3 months and I love it. It does have drawbacks - namely only about 4-5 inches in which to work. Since I plan to do mostly freehand all over designs, this will work well for me. I'm mostly a handquilter, but it is nice to have one done in a day instead of 6 months! I figure if I like machine quilting and want to upgrade, I can do that in the future. For now, the price and ease of use for the Mega Quilter are great. Another BIG factor in my choice was the wonderful support and service I received from Country Sewing Center in Elk Grove. They even came and set it up in my sewing room!
Barbara

Yep, that's the one I got!

I have the V17w/Hinty stretch frame & I love it. I don't have a stitch regulator and after 4 yrs without one I haven't been able to justify the cost. Your question about the difference between these 2 machines - I know that the Tin Lizzie has a built in SR and I believe it it is a 'longarm' where the V17 is a 'stretched machine' (Singer Industrial).
see some of my quilts here
http://community.webshots.com/user/wnott

Barbara,
This decision is 100% personal. The only way you can decide is to test drive the machines you're thinking about.
Think about what you want to use it for and how often you'll use it. If you're starting a business, you need a work horse. If you'll be doing only your own quilts on an occasional basis, then it doesn't need to be so heavy duty.
Where will you keep it? Are you willing to give up a room or will it have to be able to be dismantled?
All of these questions need to be considered.
eileenkny

cjtinkle wrote:
CJ, have you seen the AWESOME new table that HQ just put on the market??? You've gotta check it out!!!