LA Class today by tlcquiltnut

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.

Well DH has my machine frame up and machine all ready to go. Just have to get a surge protector and extention cord....some final tweeking, oh yes the leaders need to be put on too.

Sounds like you will be ready to go in no time! Congrats.

tlcquiltnut wrote:

Well DH has my machine frame up and machine all ready to go. Just have to get a surge protector and extention cord....some final tweeking, oh yes the leaders need to be put on too.

Remember, the best surge protector of all is to unplug your machines when not in use. Surge protectors will not protect your machines from lightning strikes.
Also, be sure to notify your insurance company about your expensive machines. Many are not covered by regular policies. My insurance company wanted a copy of the invoice and a picture of the "beast".

missmommy wrote:

tlcquiltnut wrote:

Well DH has my machine frame up and machine all ready to go. Just have to get a surge protector and extention cord....some final tweeking, oh yes the leaders need to be put on too.

Remember, the best surge protector of all is to unplug your machines when not in use. Surge protectors will not protect your machines from lightning strikes.
Also, be sure to notify your insurance company about your expensive machines. Many are not covered by regular policies. My insurance company wanted a copy of the invoice and a picture of the "beast".

Thanks MM.... I do unplug my machines every single time......don't want to have to replace any of them..love them too much.

TLC also note that cheap surge protectors are less protective and ALL the electronic goodies should be unplugged or off during lightning storms.

I unplug my computer during a thunder boomer. Too bad I can't unplug our dog Timothy...
Poor guy hates them and wants to be in the house. He has chewed the back door some so we have to put him in the barn tied up if a storm comes.
My LA is unplugged as we speak as well as my other 2 machines. Just too much a risk to have to replace them.

NOt a chance, he is such a kind dog.....will someday have to keep him in the house when he gets really old. He is about 11 now....he loves the house.