twhvlr

Here is another recommendation for Innova. I love the machine and have had only minor 2 issues which over the phone support helped me solve. Doing my own maintenance has really increased my confidence in using and maintaining All of my machines.
The only thing that I wish I had is the lift system. I like a variation of sit/stand and the lift would make it a lot easier.

Bobbielinks

I have a hand guided Gammill Classic which I purchased new in 2000. No stitch regulator, no computer. I love the study metal table and frame, the flip up belly bar, and the handles and switches at both ends. After quilting over a thousand quilts on it, mostly for others, I really would not change a thing about my setup. It has served me very well, no problems with tension, thread breakage or maintenance.

maryb119

I have a Nolting. I bought it from my mom when her health didn't allow her to stand much any more. I like mine because the manufacturer is 45 miles away and I can ask for help anytime I need to. Dealer support is huge for me.

tallchick

As others have mentioned do shop around and go test drive as many as you can! I have a HQ Fusion on a 12 ft frame and added the robotics once I had it paid off. I知 so happy I bought the robotics, I知 not a thread artist at all and I enjoy having one quilt being quilted while I work on another, it also saves my back from standing for long periods of time. Overall I知 very pleased with my set up. What ever you decide enjoy the process and have fun!

I do wish manufacturers would automatically add hydraulic lifts to the tables, I知 tall and would love to have the ability to raise and lower my table, but the current offerings from HQ leave a lot to be desired. I知 sure I知 not alone in this.

cathyvv

I had a HQ16 with a pcquilter from 2011 through 2018. Loved the setup and got it used so the price was right. The pcquilter worked well, but the old xp computer it was on was on its last legs. The HQ16 was not stitch regulated and the pcquilter didn't require it. Newer robotic systems all require stitch regulation, and I didn't want to change the HQ16. I do recommend Handiquilter, though, as I had zero problems with it in the 7 years I used it. DH maintained it for me, but all it ever required was cleaning and a bit of oiling.

It was replaced with a Q'nique 21 with Quilters Creative Touch robotic. I like it. I got it in May but 'stuff' has come up, so I have only used it sporadically, but it works well.

I will suggest that you look at used LAQ and computerized quilting systems because the difference in price from new to used is sometimes astounding. Also, make sure you can test it while it is set up so you know that it works.

jmoore

Shows are a great way to see and play with machines. I have been at MQX in Manchester, NH for the past 4 days and have taken some great longarming classes on different machines. I first attended this show 4 years ago when I started my research on LA machines. I can say that the machines have improved quite a bit and some that I did not like four years ago have moved to the top of the list today. I was surprised at the stitch quality and handling of an Innova on Wednesday and then got to use the new HQ Amara in a ruler class.

Many of the newer longarms have nice features...I think it is a personal choice and by test driving machines, you will find the one that fits you. I made my decision also based on local support from a dealer. Good luck.

donna13350

I have a Tin Lizzie..(1997)...great basic machine, easy to use, maintain and repair. I have a computerized head for it, (qbot)...I like that as well, but really can't compare it to other computerized LA setups, as I have no experience with them. It has stitch regulation..has all the bells and whistles I need. There are a bunch of TL clones around now, and from what I can see, they are still just a basic TL machine..I would buy one if something happened to mine.
You tube is just overloaded with videos on how to load a quilt (several ways)..you can watch some then decide what method you like best..no right or wrong..some ways work better for some people...just relax and enjoy the hunt for a good machine.

feline fanatic

Another happy Innovian here since 2010. I quilt all hand guided so no computer except the Lightening Stitch Stitch regulator which I upgraded to like Dunster.

When you test at quilt shows, pay attention to your visibility. Most people don't realize how much visibility the Innova has when compared to other brands. Other great features of the Innova, (not already mentioned) the ability to flip the machine head sideways for easy access to hopping foot and needles and also very convenient for removing the machine from the rack. A fabulous rack system. Super sturdy, has a deadbar, the top loading bar lifts so it is easy to ensure your batting doesn't have a wrinkle in it and infinitely adaptable so you can change it to suit how you quilt and what works best for you.
Awesome 24-7-365 phone support from the manufacturer.
It is easy to work on yourself once you learn via the phone support. I have no fear when it comes to timing my machine.
They will quilt with any thread and do a beautiful job.
Many professional and show quilters are switching over to Innova.

There are several out there that are manufactured by others. Tin Lizzie makes the Janome LA. Handi quilter makes the Baby Lock longarms. Those are the two I know off the top of my head.

feline fanatic

Definitely agree with Peckish on this. Take a class. You may find you don't like any aspect of longarm quilting on a rack. Or you may find the step of loading a quilt too troublesome. The class will definitely tell you if you want to pursue this.

AngelaS

We’ve had our HQ Fusion for 2.5 years and really like it. It has the robot and my husband took the class to learn to use it along with me. He’s better at the computer part than I am and we both use it.