Title: LA Class today.....
Post by: tlcquiltnut on June 26, 2008, 07:05:39 PM
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Well I had my first LA class today to see if , indeed I like to long arm quilt...it wasn't bad.....

It took about 2 1/2 hours and cost $45 and was well worth the money. I learned meandering, loop de loop(that's what I call it she called it making e's) stars, used a pantograph, flame stitch, and even feathers. Oh yes and and circles. Also how to quilt in a square... I learned how to load a quilt and turn the rods. Basically it was a learn how to use the machine and frame lesson. Very good teacher. Not to yappy and open minded to let you try different things. The machine I used was a Tin Lizzy. The only thing I could see that might be a problem down the road it the needle up and down switch...it was wearing out but it has had ALOT of use from a lot of people. So I guess that shouldn't be an issue if I buy one ...but am keeping my options open as what brand I want to buy...anyway that is about it... lots of fun...lots of learning...
There was a lap sized quilt sandwich that I practiced on and at the end there was just a little left over to practice what you learned. I really used everything she taught me. She said that most beginners just meader at the end. She said I did a good job ....
It was kind of like a reining class at the horse shows I used to go to. Just make your circles ROUND, not oblong. You go one direction then turn and go the other...lots of fun that reining ....and the quilting too.
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Title: Re: LA Class today.....
Post by: Pawstoquilt on June 26, 2008, 08:33:10 PM
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Sounds like you had a fun day. You have serveral projects coming up--a LA might be just perfect for you. So.......my vote is..........
GO FOR IT! :afro: :afro:
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Title: Re: LA Class today.....
Post by: QBee - Mary Ann on June 29, 2008, 09:31:16 PM
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Oh, how fun and exciting, TLC!! I think a main consideration in deciding on a mid- or long-arm would be the location of a knowledgeable and helpful dealer. Sounds like you may have found just what you need! That Paws is a smart woman. I like her advice! :afro: QBee
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Title: Re: LA Class today.....
Post by: jennQT1 on June 30, 2008, 04:55:10 AM
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Sounds like fun Tammy! And a great way to find out if you even like LA quilting before you put out the big bucks for a machine :afro:
Jenn
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Title: Re: LA Class today.....
Post by: TxMaryQuilts on June 30, 2008, 05:28:36 AM
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What an excellent opportunity that shop gives folks. I am glad you got to try it out. Even though mine is a short arm on a frame and not a mid arm--I do not regret buying it for a minute. And as soon as I justify this one with a bit more use--I am going to get a mid arm. I am leaning toward a Tin Lizzie too. :afro:
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Title: Re: LA Class today.....
Post by: tlcquiltnut on June 30, 2008, 10:38:14 AM
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I talked to the man from the Nolting company and he has a refurbishe 24"including frame.
http://www.nolting.com/view-detail.php?pid=487 here it is.....
I am seriously considering this one...but they have others too so next week and taking a trip to see my friend as she just called and needs help with a horse and GD in showing for a halter and showmanship class. So..........it is meant to be. I will go to the store and see what they have.....he told me about a machine similar to the tin lizzy, so am giong to check it all out...
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Title: Re: LA Class today.....
Post by: missmommy on July 22, 2008, 05:35:14 AM
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TLC - I have the HQ16. The closest dealer at the time was 3+ hours away so I never got any training other than the manual (which is poor) and a DVD. In two weeks I am going to take a 4 hr. one on one class at a shop that recently became a dealer about 1 1/4 hours away. It is the type of "training" plus more I should have received in the beginning. I finished the baby quilt in an hour! I say go for it.
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Title: Re: LA Class today.....
Post by: tlcquiltnut on July 22, 2008, 10:56:35 AM
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Oh MM, how did you know I am still thinking of a LA and tying to decide. OK then we will lean towards the get it side but must find a time DH in in a good mood....which is pretty rare these days....
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Title: Re: LA Class today.....
Post by: Calico_Chris on July 22, 2008, 11:38:32 AM
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How exciting for you...I'd love to play around with one but no intent to buy one in my near future ! I watched the girl demo the HQV Diamond machine today when I stopped into Joanns for thread. Very nice embroidery machine but I'd have to buy a 1000.00 upgrade to get the quilt package with stitch regulator...thats 1000.00 on top of the machine which was 9000.00. Seemed a bit steep to me

Good news is that I am entered into the drawing to win one (entered into a drawing so i can receive their junk mail more like)
Sure would be cool to win one :yahoo:
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Title: Re: LA Class today.....
Post by: missmommy on August 11, 2008, 12:32:05 PM
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Why don't you consider buying an emb only machine like I did. Janome 350e...cost about 1200 and does lots and user friendly too.
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Title: Re: LA Class today.....
Post by: quiltbrain on August 12, 2008, 06:56:25 AM
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Tammy - Good luck in your long arm search. Hope you find your DH in a good mood soon! I am still holding out for a Millenium. But that is still about 5 yrs. away.