quilt frames. Does anybody know if this is a good system or not. I can't afford the mega machines with their $7000 price tags. Any input would be greatly appreciate..........

ttt

Glad u asked this question cause I have been wondering myself & thinking about looking into the machine quilting. *4U

The Pfaff Grand Quilter, Janome 1600, and Viking Mega Quilter are all the same machine. I believe they are all made by Janome. I have a Mega quilter and the Inspira frame with cruise control. Got a great deal on ebay and I love my setup. It was a local seller and I went to see it before I bid and picked it up so no shipping. I wouldn't have purchased it on ebay otherwise. I have my frame set up for the twin size because I use it to quilt fabric for bags mostly. I have done 3 twin size quilts with it. Works like a dream. I don't know anything about the Juki or Grace frames. But I do know that a good machine with a sturdy frame and cruise control shouldn't run you more than about $4,000 new. Whatever you decide I would strongly suggest that you get a hands on demo before you commit. Your comfort is going to be the most important thing in whether you use it. I mean physical comfort and peace of mind both. I am under 5ft. tall and I have to stand on a platform to use my frame. I know some very tall users have to elevate their frames to avoid slouching. Just a few thoughts. Hope they are helpful. And remember we'll want to see projects when you get your new toy!!!

1 comment

by bikermomfl 12 Apr 2009

super info thanks so very much, I'm only 5' tall myself so good point to think of.

Viking makes a frame that will allow you to quilt up to a king. At the the embroidery and sewing store that I use has this frame and the Janome1600 set up and selling for $3600. Have talked with ladies that own this set up and they love it...one sold hers to get the TinLizzy since it would give more quilting space, she went on to say that the stitches on the Janome were much better. Hope this helps...good luck on your choice.

I have a Janome 1600PDBX and I love it. I bought about 6 months ago and have quilted 4 twins & 4 crib quilts with it. I don't know about the little gracie frame, though. I bought a used queen sized grace frame and it works quite well. I think the newer grace frames are set up better than mine is, but I'm not unhappy with it. Tne needles are on e-bay and quite reasonable.

1 comment

by bikermomfl 12 Apr 2009

thanks so much for the input, I get so nervous wondering if I'm making the right decision or not, or maybe I'm better of going to the quilt store and renting theirs, but I much prefer my own setup if at all possible......

I can't help you, but this will bring your question to the top. Maybe more knowledgeable cuties will see it and be able to help.