What, you ask???? Well, my George sit-down long-arm...
I will tell you, I struggled mightily with this decision - did I want a traditional long-arm? If so, I knew I wanted a BIG one... so I went to a store, took some lessons, and rented one... I know people love them, but it felt like driving a big old truck to me.. I hated loading the quilt, I didn't like going in rows, I didn't like standing up, and I had to start skill-building from scratch...
So, I looked at these machines - but frankly, wasn't sure whether one gained "enough" to warrant the purchase... But, after a lot of thought, I bought it - thinking that I could always sell it if it didn't float my boat.... how's that for a confident purchase???? ha ha
Fast forward six weeks - enough that it doesn't frighten me any more -
and I am cranking out quilts like no body's business... so here's what I think now:
1) The wide throat is fabulous - my quilting is better quality cause I am not struggling with the quilt.
2) I love leaving it set up and a project in progress - I just sit down and sew!
3) If you already machine quilt, your skills will transfer very quickly - doesn't take time at all to be comfortable!
4) My stitches look soooo much better....
5) Is it faster? I don't know - I think I put in more quilting now, so probably not faster, but definitely better.
other points:
6) It is simple - a little oil, a little canned air(yes, it's ok in this machine, not so your Bernina), a new needle once in a while, and off you go..
7) that scary "tension" thing is mostly about just buying the kind of thread the machine likes to sew with....
I LOVE MY GEORGE - and my stack of sandwiched but unquilted projects is shrinking at record speed...
NOW IF IT WOULD PUT ON BINDINGS!!
I close with some family photos:: DH with the kittens in their 'outdoor activity' tent... usually its just for the kitties, not humans...
and a furry snuggle - - their favorite bed is on a table near my sewing machine
how did those tiny kittens turn into such loooong creatures???? I do love them so.
Happy Sunday everyone !!!! I'm off to sew...
Kate
2 comments:
That looks like a great solution to not have to stand and not have to learn new skills!! Hip, Hip, Hooray!
I am really learning that the thread your machine likes is what's really best!! Especially in the last couple of days;)
Nice report. I, too, have rented time on long arms and did not enjoy the process at all. Maybe a George can be in my future, too.
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