One frequently asked question is, “What kind of longarm quilting machine do you have?”.
Given space and the opportunity I would have this
: the APQS Millennium with the Bliss drive system, the 14′ rails, micro handles and a stitch regulator and whatever other bells and whistles that would aid in using the longarm well. Yep, that’s what I’d have.
George would be a very close second as the way I quilt is more consistent with how George is used. Sitting at the machine and moving the quilt under the needle rather than moving the machine across the surface of the quilt.
But alas, I do not have a Millennium or George. I don’t have space for either one of these machines. The foot print for both of these is just too big for any space that I have in the house.
So the answer to the question is: I don’t have a longarm.
I quilt on a home machine that is 16 years old.
Here’s my Bernina 1080 perched on a table ready for quilting. I love my 1080. I’ve learned her sounds and feel and rhythm.
We’ve quilted for hours and hours and hours together. I’ve learned how to listen for when the bobbin is running out, that MasterPiece needs to be threaded through the eye of the bobbin and that a good cleaning every now and again is a good thing.
When quilting the feed dogs are down, the tension is adjusted to meet the weight of the thread, needles get changed quite frequently and the new thread stand rocks! (I don’t know why I waited so long to get the thread stand.)
I find it a compliment that I’m frequently asked what kind of longarm I have. I do enjoy telling them that I quilt on a domestic and that with some practice they can too. That breakthrough moments happen and the quilting becomes easier and easier as time accrues. You’ll get to know your machine and how it functions.
Happy quilting!!!
Teri
I HAVE A 1080 – LOVE IT, LOVE IT, LOVE IT. Have a few other Bernina models as well, but you just can’t beat this machine! Mine has been dragged (in a case) down stairs, loaned to several friends, been on several cruises, used to death, and it just keeps on stitching!!
I originally said that I didn’t have room for George, but Tom insisted and we would find a way to make it work in my studio and still have room for the children’s sewing classes. I am so thankful that he encouraged me to think outside the box and figure out how to help George fit. After George’s arrivial it was love at first stitch! (and I too am a Bernina lover – or as my son-in-law puts it – Bernina Snob!).
Thanks, Teri, for your encouragement and inspiration to us “newbies” out here. I have a Bernina 440 and it intimidates me. I bought it on a trip back to the US and never had classes for it. I am slowly starting to experiment with it. I just need to take the plunge and quilt with it!
Let me know if you have questions for your 440 – there’s some quilt related stuff I can work you through particularly with the BSR.
I know how you feel about your machine. Although I have a newer machine, I absolutely love my old 1090!! What a work horse!
Thanks for the encouragement. As a new quilter, with a great machine (Brother Innov-is 4500D) I’m very aprehensive. I’ve just gotta take the plunge & start putting some miles on it! Your work is fantastic…You’re my new hero!!
You’re welcome. Practice on fat quarters with batting and thread you’d use in a quilt and have fun!
I have a longarm, but I am AMAZED at what you can do with your domestic machine. I’ve tried to quilt on my domestic machine and wouldn’t you know? I had puckers on the back. I’ll stick with my longarm, but I SO admire your work! It really is a special talent.
Thank you Tammie!