I experimented with both Gammill and APQS - and, of course, I loved the "big guys". But the reality was that I was only going to quilt for myself at this time, and I certainly did not have the space available to dedicate to a fixed frame for either of them. So, I tried the Handi Quilter and I bought it. The investment was a fraction of the bigger machines, and I bought the adjustable table that Handi Quilter madkes that can be put away when I actually need to use my dining room for dining!

All things said, the machine is a very nice machine. No, it doesn't do absolutely everything that the others do, but it does do everything I need in a quilting machine for my quilts, and I don't have to feel that I must quilt for others to pay for it. I can learn to be a longarm quilter and not worry if I change my mind one day and have to sell it. I have even ordered the computerized setup for it and am anxiously ready to get my hands on that when the tech comes and gets it installed this week.

But most assuredly, you must try a machine before you buy it. And ask lots of questions. You will be surprised at the differences in the "feel" of the machines. I took classes with Linda Taylor, and I've also attended seminars with Karen McTavish. Plus I watch videos and DVDs whenever I can. Remember, a good dealer is a great help too.

Then when you decide on one, relax and enjoy! I know I have.

Hi Sue, I have the gammill permier. I have it for since 2003, and I love it! She has become my right hand! I know it can be real expensive when we start getting into these machines. I also know that alot of dealers that work with gammill also have used machines that were traded in for upgrades, and most of the time you can get a great steal on one.

I have the 12ft table and my machine is a 18inch throat. It works out great for me. I don't use it for business, right now its for my own pleasure. Maybe someday, but not right now.

The best thing you can do, is find one that is comfortable for you and that your happy with. The best way is talk to your dealers and ask alot of questions, that is what they are there for, also if you can make it to quilt shows, there are always alot of dealers there, and they let you play with their machines! There is homework in buying one of these types of machines, but in the long run it will be worth it.

Tip: Never go on someone elses comfort of a machine, I have always found that one machine might always be the one that works for you, where it might work out for someone else. It has to be comfortable to you! Its just like a car. You might like the way the car drives and is comfortable to you, but to your girlfriend it might not be. I hope this helps! Good luck and I hope you find the right machine for you! Lisa

What you can also do is go to a website called: http://www.houseofhanson.com and check out the classifed ad section. Very often when people upgrade, they post their machines for sale there. Also, each manufacturer takes trade-ins for upgrade and then resell them.
A used machine may be the way for you to go so you can decide whether you really want to do this as a business.

Eileen Keane, mailto:mpkemk@frontiernet.net
http://www.designingquilts.com
Gammill Classic soon to be Plus
Maybrook, NY

Thanks for your responses. I am planning on attending the San Diego quilt show the end of August, so I should be able to test drive a few machines. Imight also hit the Orange County fair, if I can't force myself to go to see what they have in the vendors mall. I'm trying to get as much info as I can before I go so I don't get swayed by a persuasive sales person. I'm in no great hurry to buy (well, really, I am, but you know how that goes!). I'm hoping to be able to purchase something this time next year--unless I fall into a bargain.

I have the Voyager 17 on the Hinterberg stretch frame. It does not have a stitch regulator (it is due out in late summer?!?). I felt uncomfortable when I test drove machines with the stitch regulator on, so it was not an issue with me (I haven't done any panto work, either).

I'm pleased, it fit my budget and since I didn't have to trade in my first born to buy it, I can "justify" it for a hobby machine It is comfortable for me to use, easy to oil, and a delight to work with. I've been (mostly) happy with the results of my quilting (still need more PPP!).

Are you able to test drive any machines? Can you get to a major show? That is where I test drove many different home systems, before buying (I had to go home and save up those pennies, nickels and dimes!).

JOY

The one suggestion I would make is no matter how glowing a recommendation you get here or elseewhere, don't uy anthing until you get your hands on at least two of your options. A few years ago we thought the early Handi-Quilter frames were pretty cool, until we had other options, for instance. From what I've seen at shows, the Hinterburg feels a lot more solid than the Grace frame now. Test drive as many as you can -- that is a big investment!

Benet, in unseasonably green Texas.

I'm starting to do my research on an entry level quilting machine. I'd love to have a Gammill or equivalent, but unfortunately the budget doesn't allow for this at this time. So, I'd like to get something for around $3,000.00. Any advice or opinions are greatly appreciated. What machine do you have? What frame are you using? Does it have a stitch regulator? Anything else I should be asking?
TIA,
Sue