Julie R

I'm also a former Janome Artistic owner. I would not recommend it to anyone. Janome dealer didn't want to support it since it was manufactured by Tin Lizzie. Tin Lizzie dealer didn't want to support it since I didn't buy if from them. Ended up trading it in for an Innova (took a beating as it had very little resale value) but couldn't be happier with the Innova. I'll admit 22" is a bit of a stretch to load, but I love it!!

Cari-in-Oly

I agree with everyone else that you should try as many as you can before making your decision and that dealer support should be considered. Even different dealers that carry the same brand will be different. When I was looking to buy I couldn't decide between a Gammill or a Handi Quilter. It was the Gammill rep who made the decision for me. He was rude, pushy and wouldn't answer direct questions. His loss because I had cash and wanted to spend it. Shortly after that someone got me in touch with a super HQ dealer who happens to be local to me. Not only did I get a very good price on a slightly used machine with a brand new frame/table, she set it up for me at no charge and is always available if I have any questions. I can't say enough good things about my HQ Avante or my dealer Cathy Moore.

Cari

Peckish

There's a group of quilters in my area who are all longarm owners. We're all friends and go on retreats together. I've been picking their brains and looking at their machines for several years now, and have put myself in the market to purchase a longarm by the end of the year. I'm 90% sure I'm going to purchase an Innova.

At least 3 of the quilters in my group have moved over to Innova from their original machines in the last 2 years, and they're all very pleased. Innova has very good 24/7 tech support.

I've heard rumblings about Gammill that make me leery. A couple of years ago their largest US dealer pulled every single machine they had in stock and stashed them in a warehouse, then started selling Innovas instead. My limited understanding is that Gammill stopped supporting warranty work done by the dealers.

Starling

I'm so glad I asked y'all about this. I hadn't even looked at the Innova. The Pine Belt Quilt Show is coming up (in Hattiesburg, MS) - I can't wait to try one out there. I am so thankful for everyone's feedback.

quiltingshorttimer

It really is something that you need to "test drive" several brands to see what seems to be the best fit for you. I bought a used Gammill Classic Plus (with a stitch regulator) 3 yrs ago and love it. I've taken a number of classes at shows on long arms and used Innovas, Handi Quilter, APQS and I frankly prefer the frame/table on my Gammill. I also rented time on a Nolting before I decided to purchase one and liked it a lot, too. For me the Innova's just didn't "fit" right--so really do spend some time on all the different ones to see what works best for you. I do not have a computerized system as I just didn't want to have to learn a programming too. Yes, the Statler is what most Gammill owners put on their machines, but I think there are a couple of other computers that can be retrofitted to Gammill's too. One thing I suggest if you do go route of computerized is to see how easy it is to disconnect the computer system in order to do FMQ

Features I like: Stitch regulator, channel locks (although I usually only use to attach batting!),both LED and black lights, handles for micro quilting, handles on both front & back, laser light for using pantos. Most important is it needs to be heavy duty--mine is a 10 yr old and does just fine! I'd say also at least a 12' table/frame.

jmoore

I agree with the many suggestions that you should test drive multiple machines. I have had the opportunity to attend MQX the last two years in which the FMQ classes have been on various machines. I have narrowed my decision to a couple... I am big on customer support and warranty.

sewnclog

After using my sisters brand new Gammill, I loved it. But knew I could never afford one like that. I have a Gammill but it is what they call "gently loved". I paid about half what a new one cost at the time. I think I purchased it in 2010. I have gotten a lot of use out of it. It is a good idea to 'test drive' a few of them. If you can find a quilt show going on there are usually vendors there; don't but the very first one you try; you might find something even better down the road. Good luck in whatever you choose.

yel

I also have an INNOVA would not trade it for all the other ones out there ....love it

letawellman

One thing I forgot to mention in my earlier post...
Get as big a "throat" as you can afford and reach. My machine is 18x8 (18" from needle to back of throat, and 8" tall). I REALLY wish it was at least the 22". That 4" of space can make all the difference in the world, especially if you're doing custom quilting (rulers & templates) on really large blocks. And if you have the space, be sure to get the 12' frame/table, because you just cannot easily do a King quilt on a 10". It can be done, but it is AGGRAVATING!!!!!!

mindless

There is so much good advice here! I shopped for over a year b4 buying my HQ Avante (which I love ), and the dealer was the reason I bought the machine I did. She (my dealer) is really awesome! And she has free ongoing classes and group meetings for all customers who want to attend. I get lots of help, and am always learning new things. She regularly buys a new machine and puts the gently used floor model up for sale here:

http://www.longarmuniversity.com/MachinesForSale.html

If you want to consider a used machine, this is a good place to shop. You might be able to find something close by in your area. good luck with your hunt.