Bernina (Grace) quilt frame with Viking Sapphire
#1
I posted a few weeks ago asking about the Bernina quilt frame... well, I bought it! Some people have reported some problems with them, but I am very very happy. No more spray basting of quilts before FMQ. No more tired arms from moving a heavy queen quilt while FMQ. And especially, no repeat of my recent wrinkled-batting disaster.
The frame is sturdy, well constructed, and parts are readily available. Don't try to assemble without instructions, though!
The Viking Sapphire is a great computerized machine with a 10" throat. I got it a few years ago especially for FMQ. With the Grace frame, however, there is a problem - the Grace speed control and the Grace stitch regulator are not compatible with the Sapphire. I did 3 small quilts with the control on the floor, under my arm, and other very awkward places ... I was pricing various other machines (9" throat) ... then I turned over the foot control and yanked out the rheostat. With a single cable tie, it attaches as a thumb control just above the handle. See picture.
An added bonus to the Bernina/Grace frame - the storage shelf underneath is just the right height for toddler play time.
The frame is sturdy, well constructed, and parts are readily available. Don't try to assemble without instructions, though!
The Viking Sapphire is a great computerized machine with a 10" throat. I got it a few years ago especially for FMQ. With the Grace frame, however, there is a problem - the Grace speed control and the Grace stitch regulator are not compatible with the Sapphire. I did 3 small quilts with the control on the floor, under my arm, and other very awkward places ... I was pricing various other machines (9" throat) ... then I turned over the foot control and yanked out the rheostat. With a single cable tie, it attaches as a thumb control just above the handle. See picture.
An added bonus to the Bernina/Grace frame - the storage shelf underneath is just the right height for toddler play time.
#3
I just sent for the Gace Frame catalog. I can't afford the full blown machines like Gammels and such. This was within my price range and I was wondering if there was someone who owned one that I could chat with about it. Does it move smoothly?
#4
More details -
All the work is done standing up.... I like it this way, and it is very "kid proof".
FMQ goes faster, I am not sure how much faster though.
At the highest speed, the machine shakes. Do they all do this? Any advice appreciated.
I have slightly better control seated with the fabric hand held. I have the machine up on blocks to get my face a little closer to the fabric, but still need more practice or something.
Also, I sewed over a pin and the needle did not break. :-)
All the work is done standing up.... I like it this way, and it is very "kid proof".
FMQ goes faster, I am not sure how much faster though.
At the highest speed, the machine shakes. Do they all do this? Any advice appreciated.
I have slightly better control seated with the fabric hand held. I have the machine up on blocks to get my face a little closer to the fabric, but still need more practice or something.
Also, I sewed over a pin and the needle did not break. :-)
pin sewn onto quilt
[ATTACH=CONFIG]236724[/ATTACH]
reverse of quilt
[ATTACH=CONFIG]236725[/ATTACH]
#6
Poosterman ... The grace frame is so smooth! I "test drove" a longarm ($15,000) at a recent quilt event. The longarm is smooth BUT the sewing machine is pretty heavy and has a lot of momentum... could take lots of getting use to and practice. The Grace frame is a huge step up from hand held FMQ.. and cost is well under $1000.
I got my frame used, BTW, and I feel that used would be the way to go on these. Check craigslist. If you have a choice, the metal Grace frames are probably better for the long term.
I got my frame used, BTW, and I feel that used would be the way to go on these. Check craigslist. If you have a choice, the metal Grace frames are probably better for the long term.
#10
Originally Posted by 1000projects
... then I turned over the foot control and yanked out the rheostat. With a single cable tie, it attaches as a thumb control just above the handle. See picture.
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