New sewing machine? Enable me!
#1
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Join Date: Mar 2016
Posts: 1
New sewing machine? Enable me!
My birthday is coming up in July and I'm thinking it might be time for a new sewing machine. I have a Brother XL5600 I've used on and off for about 10 years and made this couch quilt and various smaller projects. Quilting this was a real bear--very hard to shove the rolled up quilt through the machine--so I'd be looking for a larger harp and probably an extension table. I'd also like to be able to drop or adjust feed dogs when I get up the nerve to try FMQ. I think I'd prefer a mechanical machine because it could get serviced near me (I live in Brooklyn and don't own a car), but maybe automatic tension control and needle up/down stop would be worth going computerized. Finally, since I only sew on weekends, i think it would be hard to justify spending more than $1500 (and even that seems like a lot).
So far, I'm considering the Brother PQ1500SL and the Juki TL2000QI. Since getting to a dealer to try machines in person will be a pain, I'm trying to narrow down likely candidates online in advance. Thanks for any thoughts / advice / experience!
So far, I'm considering the Brother PQ1500SL and the Juki TL2000QI. Since getting to a dealer to try machines in person will be a pain, I'm trying to narrow down likely candidates online in advance. Thanks for any thoughts / advice / experience!
#3
Super Member
Join Date: Oct 2015
Location: Va.
Posts: 5,753
I have the Brother PQ1500s and love it. It is great for piecing and fMQ. One thing I noticed that you mentioned rolling your quilt. Try either accordion folding or puddling/squishing it instead, much easier to FMQ that way than rolling it.
Rob
Rob
#4
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Join Date: May 2017
Location: Aotearoa
Posts: 28
I know that going to try them in person is difficult, but it would be worth it. I've tried a few different machines and it is definitely a personal thing. I love my machine, and I really hate my friends machine (but not my friend lol)
I've only heard good things about both machines you are thinking of. Good luck with your choice
I've only heard good things about both machines you are thinking of. Good luck with your choice
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