Quilting Designs Article
How to Select A Long Arm Quilting Machine
It’s large and it’s designed so it can handle huge pieces of fabric. That’s what a long arm quilting machine is. It helps the quilter in quilting large pieces of fabric and work faster. The throat depth may vary from thirty-two inches to forty inches. It is a system that is synchronous that helps in the prevention of friction and sliding. There are three poles for the purpose of holding the quilt in position, the quilt automatically rolls up and does not gather on the floor as you are working on it. The sewing machine on a track gliding easily as it quilts.
A long arm quilting machine gives you the advantages of ease and speed and it increases productivity and this is the reason why it is very apt for the quilting business. Though there is one disadvantage - these machines are very expensive but some quilters do buy this quilting machine for their personal use. A long arm quilting machine may cost you anywhere between US $7,000 to 15,000 and sometimes even more. An already used machine may cost you US $4,000.
There are various things that you must consider apart from the cost before buying a long arm quilting machine. Before you begin your search you must do a careful research of manufacturers. There are nine very well known manufactures of long arm quilting machines. These manufacturers have their own websites making it very easy for the buyers to view products online and make comparisons and decide which one to buy. These manufacturers will be more than happy to give you any additional information that you need about their products so do not hesitate and feel free to make any queries.
It is most important to have a look at the machine before you buy it. Check in your city or your state if there are dealers of the manufacturer where you can have a look at the machine and try it. Check as many brands as possible as this will give you a wider choice. The best way to do this is to attend a conference where they discuss and demonstrate different brands of long arm quilting machines. You will save a lot of time by doing so and get all information at one venue.
With all the important information that you have collected you must then narrow down the choices and come down to one single and suitable long arm quilting machine that you may want to buy. Different brands will offer different features and this will leave you with a large variety of choices. You can choose features that you think will suit you the best and are important. These quilting machines come in various sizes. Choose a size that will fit in the area you want to place it. Other things that you need to consider are the set up, training and directions of using the machine and repair services. Lastly, be very clear of your goals and expectations about using the machine. It is a very big investment and you must give it serious thought and make sure that your investment is not wasted.
