My machine didn't take 6 weeks! I've had it a few weeks now and have my 6th quilt mounted and ready to go. First I had muslin for practice and went over it twice with different colored thread. I have tried everything, even using rulers, which is tricky! The first 2 quilts I did are guild projects that will be donated, so not too much pressure to be perfect. I did simple meandering. Next, I did a very busy print fabric with a pantograph and had a blast. Nolting includes 5 pantos with purchase and I have tried 3 of them so far. I found several places to order more on-line and did, at about $15 each. I have found that I learn something new every time I use the machine. I've oiled, run bobbins, adjusted tension, etc. I also learned that I can discourage the cats from using the quilt as a comfy hammock by leaving the roller unlocked. It only took one time of having the quilt unwind and fall to teach them to stay off. This is so much fun! But, I must admit, I need a LOT of practice before I can offer my services for hire. But there's no hurry really, I'm having a great time learning. Plus, I still get a lesson once I've learned enough to know what to ask!

Anyone considering buying - I would definitely go with a company like Nolting where the Rep comes to set it up. Mine is adjusted for my height, she got me started and made sure it would work right. She's less than an hour away and I can go see her or ask questions as often as I like. Very nice knowing help is close by. Nancy

My understanding is that my Nolting rep comes to my house to set up the machine once it's delivered. My Nolting has handles that are infinitely adjustable and the height of the table/frame is too, so she said we'll set it up exactly right for me. One of the reasons I went with Notling is having this rep close by (less than 1 hr drive). I have heard of owners of other machines who've had to pack the heavy machine up and send it somewhere for service. Or like someone mentioned earlier, not getting any classes. I can visit her as aften as I want and she'll spend several hours with me after set up.

I'm excited to check out all the information that's out there. Seems like there's lots to learn and maybe it's a good thing I have 6 weeks to do it! The ability to buy this machine is due to my mother's passing and the inheritance she left me. I feel like it is such a wonderful gift that she and my dad left for me! A new venture that I have them to thank for.

I guess having the machine in a separate house would make it difficult to find time. When the time comes I highly reccommend the yahoo board. Also don't forget Micheal the tech guy. He is literally available 24/7 and no problem is too small.

cjbeg wrote:
I do have a sandwich set up on it. The person who assembled it helped me do that and we did one computer design. It's just that it's at my new house in the country and we haven't completely moved in yet. When I get ready to start using it I need hours or days, not minutes, which is all I can spare right now. Besides I don't even remember the process for turning it on. Also it's hooked up to a computer so I can't free motion on it without making some changes. And I don't remember how to do that either. For now I don't mind not using it because I have so many other things that have to be done first. But when I do get started I expect to get a lot of projects finished quickly. I'm not a member of the yahoo board yet.

NancyAnn1959 wrote: Hey Nancy, I think the main thing is to make sure your machine is set to the correct height. You still use your core muscles and shoulders and if you slouch too much you might still have back problems. plus relax. Tension can also cause problems. I know I have days that are more relaxed for what ever reason. Some days things seem to just flow better than others.bmaybe it's the caffeine.

Annis, what are you waiting for????? I also have the Innova and absolutely LOVE my Roxy. I know about being distracted, but at least set a sandwich up on it and then you can squeeze a moment or two to play and get to know your machine. Up until now I have mostly done a couple edge to edge quilts for two customers and a church raffle quilt. Now I have my husbands retirement quilt and am starting to play with free motion feathers and ruler work. I am expected to enter the quilt into a quilt show, so I'm really critical on what I'm doing even though it isn't a national show. Probably a little too critical. . Oh, BTW are you a member of the innova yahoo board? Lots of good information and plenty of people to help.

I have so many quilt tops waiting to be quilted that I will use for practice. Several of them are just to be donated anyway, so no great pressure on how they turn out. I have rented time on an HQ 16 and took a class, as well as the several hours spent with the Nolting rep, so once I understand the bobbin and threading, I'm good to go! I've developed a problem with my shoulder when quilting at my regular machine, so I'm really hopeful the long-arm will be more comfortable. The rep said that was also the case with her. Can't wait!!!!

Congratulations Nancy, Cheryl, and Betty Ann! I'm looking forward to seeing posts of your progress. I can't believe my Innova has yet to be turned on after it was delivered and set up a couple months ago. I look at it occasionally and wonder when there will be enough time to make the practice worth it. Nothing like being sidetracked with too many things to do. I guess it's all a matter of priorities. Thanks for all of the suggestions Margo. I have watched their videos but it has been awhile. I will watch them again when I finally get started using the machine.

Congratulations, Nancy! Have fun and keep us posted!

Congratulations, you are going to have so much fun. Definitely check out the links Margo posted. There is a lot of information out there.

Congratulations Mary Ann!! Start by educating yourself!! Check out the Nolting web site and see if they have instructional videos!! Watch them all!!

Then check out blogs by quilters whose work you admire and practice DRAWING their quilting designs. It will build muscle memory and make the learning curve much easier when you do get your machine. A good way to find blogs is to go to PINTEREST.COM and do a search for QUILTING. Click on the photos you like, then click again on the photos and sometimes you will be lead to the original quilter's info. Have fun!

It's a New Day!!

I took the plunge yesterday! I have ordered a 24" Pro Nolting on an 11" table. I got to pick the color - purple! It comes with a bunch of thread, pantographs to try and I purchased a starter set of rulers. Now I just have to prepare the area where she will be - under the sky lights in the sunroom! The bad thing is that it takes about 6 weeks - how will I wait!!!

bettyannseeman wrote: Thanks Betty Ann, I spoke to Michael during set up, and have talked to Dan Kerwood in NY about classes. I bought mine from a MQS show in Providence, so the classes aren't included. Both Dan and Michael are extremely helpful 24/7 no matter the time of day. one of the reasons I went with them.

cjbeg wrote:

Don't forget to post some pictures on the forum of your new creations, have fun with your new toy!