#longarm sewing machine

[catastrophicallykat]

Snow Blooms

60x72 - 2024

Sewn and stitched by me. I drew the floral designs to custom fit the squares then stitched them into the quilt on my longarm. Semi-pro tip: use whiteboard markers and plexiglass to test out your design ideas before you stitch them in!

[anotherdayforchaosfay]

One of the two quilt shops is closing its doors permanently because the owners are retiring. Anyone fancy throwing a few hundred dollars my way so I can take advantage of the massive discounts?

I have paintings and quilts listed and available here. All but one digital listing is free, and every item comes with the option to pay more than my asking price.

A few of the items listed are below:

[aikyudo]

Recently finished quilt!! This was soooo satisfying to have completed! The quilt was a quilt kit that was bought July 2022, made in November 2022 and finally quilted in August of 2023. Took a little while to get snuggle-ready, but she's finally here.

[bevanne46]

At Quilting Mayhem in Snohomish, WA

[leahstuff]

Another Christmas quilt - this one completed! It’s been awhile since I’ve done straightforward patchwork - or whatever it's called when you sew just squares together. I found it relaxing.

I also haven't machine quilted anything myself in awhile (preferring to hand quilt, not quilt, or pay someone to longarm). For this one, I cut some white flannel smaller than the top, then "stitched in the ditch" (on the existing seams) to attach it, then I did a bagged out finish (I've read that it's called that when you sew the top and backing together around the edges, leaving an opening, then turn it right sides out, instead of doing a binding).

So it's quilted with flannel as a batting, and it's backed with the red flannel you see here. I like it, as it's sort of heavy, but also more flexible than lofty batting feels to me.

Also, I want to note that I now have some cute satin tags that I bought from EverEmblem on Etsy and they work really well for tagging my quilts (seen at the bottom of the finished pic).

Pattern: Just 6" squares Fabric: Holiday/Christmas/winter fabrics I pulled from my stash, including Jolly Darlings (by Ruby Star Society), Twas (from Riley Blake designs), candy cane stripe fabric from JoAnn, and others

[creations-by-chaosfay]

I know it's my day off, but the week has been a bit of train wreck. Three doctor appointments in three days, two being in the middle of the day and completely throwing off my rhythm. Then a potential client wasting my time and leaving me with just...anger, and that made the whole mess of my week that much messier (less than $200 for a king size quilt!?! That doesn't even cover the cost of batting!!!).

I'm gonna see about finishing up the mininquilt wallhanging giveaway prize, but it won't be washed until next week. There's also the five-piece dining set (placemats and table runner) giveaway prize to work on, which I'm really looking forward to. I'll work on it next week after I finish the two coaster set commissions.

Next week will the mark beginning of the handquilting for Star Story. That'll start Monday, after I wash the dining room floor. I need to baste the quilt first, of course. Monday/Wednesday will be handquilting days, Tuesday/Thursday sewing and machine quilting days, and weekends spent recovering.

Depending on finances, I'll either just be touring around the quilt show in a neighboring town, or doing some shopping for quilt supplies while there. So far, it's looking like just touring. I was hoping I could manage some cute things, like buttons, magnets, and stickers. Perhaps a couple t-shirts. Ideally, fabric, books, patterns, maybe a new rotary cutter if anyone there will permit testing. Mine is a plastic cutter, and a metal one will take stress off my wrist, buuuuut they're around $60-$150.

I have two commission slots left, and several shop listings available. There are quilt tops in the shop with the add-on option of me turning them into complete quilts. Quilt shops often offer the service of their longarm machine quilting, for a price (that's a fraction of what I charge for handquilting), and all they need from you is a quilt top.

Small note: purchasing any of the quilts, however small, from my shop will result in more space for new things. 😉 Also, if my ko-fi goal is met by October 1st, I'm giving away a twin size quilt.

After I finish up with my breakfast, I'll be in my sewing room. Then housecleaning and world domination (Civilization VI).

[20dollarlolita]

I have not had time to write this as in depth as I want, but here's a sort of casual framework:

For sewing machines, not embroidery machines, not longarm quilting machines, when you start throwing more money at the machine and seeing what you get.

first, you get better build quality, stronger motors, real internal frames.

machines start getting more complex computerization. Basic computerization isn't a big thing, but multi-design things and all that. Here's where some machines start saving your programming instead of reverting to default every time you turn it off.

machines start getting physically larger to accommodate bigger throat space

sensor presser foot lift, automatic presser foot lift, automatic pivot feature, knee lift

side motion feed. With side motion feed, you get much better fonts

At this point in the price point land ($2k ish) you start seeing the brands sort of split apart. At a lower price point the difference between a Bernette and a Janome is name, but at $2k you really start seeing the difference between brands. It's completely reasonable at this price point to write off an entire brand (or stick to a brand) because you don't like how they feel.

A full size color touch screen is expected at about this point. These machines often have so many stitches that there's no way to function if they don't have a touchscreen and a menu system.

They're still getting larger and larger. The exemption to that is Bernina, who has a series of body sizes and a series of features, and will slap those features in any body size. The 735 is big and all that, but the 590 has more features, in a smaller body.

Here's also where you start seeing specific traits for different brands. If you start looking for a specific thing (integrated dual feed) you'll see what brands offer that (pfaff, bernina) and which don't.

Now it's reasonable to assume that your machine is larger than god himself.

A 9mm stitch width is really a lot higher up on the list than you'd think, and I'll tell you why: we programmed all the 7mm stitch width things back in the ancient past, but you have to program newer 9mm stitches. So they cost money.

I'm very tired.

They keep getting bigger.

the inside of the sewing machine store is just one sewing machine, like how Sandy wasn't fightin the alaskan bull worm, she was fighting his tongue. the sewing machine store is just a sewing machine. the machines keep gettin bigger.

please feel free to message me if you would like deyails on any of these parts.

[hexjulia]

this is one of the best types of youtube videos imo. she just welded an old singer sewing machine to make it into a longarm lmao

'This note is intended to supplement the YouTube video and blog posts of Ms Anne Marie Sullivan.  She wanted a long arm, and did not let her lack of knowledge in mechanics or welding stop her.'

[fairykukla]

I'm too late to vote but;

I can sew by hand.

I can sew on a domestic sewing machine.

I can sew using a serger.

I can sew with a commercial sewing machine.

I can load a quilt on the frame and sew with a Longarm quilting machine. I can program and operate several robotics programs for those machines, too.

I can free-motion quilt on a domestic machine, and hand-quilt.

I can sew with a single thread on a Sashiko machine, a blind hem machine, or a chain stitch machine.

I can embroider by hand, digitize embroidery patterns for machine and embroider on an embroidery machine.

I can needle-felt by hand or by machine.

I can follow a clothing pattern, and for certain garments I can draft or drape a pattern. I can alter a pattern.

And if you buy a machine at my shop, I'll get to teach you all of these things.

...except for the hand work.

[stitchings-blog]

Your Must-Have Quilting Accessories

Quilting is a rewarding and creative craft, and having the right tools can make the process even more enjoyable and efficient. However, any quilter will tell you that there are certain accessories that are essential for achieving great results.

Here’s the must-have quilting accessories every quilter should consider if they want their projects to have that professional finished look.

Stitch Regulators

These are invaluable for ensuring consistent stitch length while free-motion quilting. These devices automatically adjust the sewing machine’s speed to match the movement of the fabric, allowing for even stitching without having to constantly monitor your speed.

This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your quilting but also reduces the frustration of uneven stitches. With a stitch regulator, quilters can achieve professional-quality results more easily, making it a must-have for both beginners and experienced quilters alike.

Quilting Feet

These accessories are specifically designed for various quilting techniques, from free-motion to walking foot quilting. Each type of quilting foot serves a unique purpose, enhancing precision and creativity.

A walking foot, for example, is perfect for straight-line quilting, allowing for even feeding of multiple layers of fabric. Meanwhile, a free-motion foot enables intricate designs, giving quilters the freedom to explore their creativity without limitations.

The right quilting foot can make a significant difference in the final outcome of a quilt, making it an essential accessory.

Pressing Mats

Mats are crucial for achieving crisp seams and precise fabric alignment. Unlike traditional ironing boards, pressing mats provide a firm surface that allows for better steam penetration and heat retention.

This helps set seams accurately and prevents fabric distortion. Investing in a high-quality pressing mat will improve the overall quality of your quilting projects, ensuring that each piece is finished with care.

Seam Rippers

Mistakes are part of quilting, and having an ergonomic seam ripper on hand is essential. Whether you're using a longarm or domestic machine, a comfortable seam ripper can help you remove stitches without straining your wrist, especially during long sessions of correcting errors.

Curved Scissors

Curved scissors are perfect for snipping threads without snagging your quilt fabric. They provide precision and ease of use, making them an invaluable tool in your quilting kit.

Self-Threading Needles

Switching threads frequently can be cumbersome, but self-threading needles make this task much easier. Simply push the thread through the needle, and you’re ready to go. This is particularly helpful when you need to change colors or bury threads for a clean finish.

Quilt Clips

When working with delicate quilts, quilt clips are ideal for securing layers without causing damage. They are especially useful when floating quilt tops on a longarm machine, providing stability and preventing pinholes in your fabric.

Tension Gauge

This tool is crucial for longarm quilters. It helps you set your bobbin tension accurately, ensuring that your stitches are even and secure. Maintaining the right tension is essential for achieving high-quality quilting results.

Thread Snips

In addition to curved scissors, thread snips are a quick and efficient way to trim threads as you work. Their small size allows for precision cutting, which is especially helpful when working on intricate designs.

Rotary Cutter

A rotary cutter is essential for any quilter. It provides a safe and efficient way to cut fabric with accuracy, making it easier to prepare pieces for quilting.

Quilting Ruler

Using a quilting ruler can greatly enhance your cutting accuracy and precision. They often have grid lines to help with alignment, ensuring that your fabric pieces are cut to the correct dimensions.

Which Ones Are Part of Your Quilting Kit?

Investing in any of these essential quilting accessories can make your quilting experience more enjoyable and satisfying. No matter what kind of machine you use, these must-have tools make any project safe and efficient to complete.

Having the right quilting accessories at your disposal can make all the difference in your quilting projects.

For more information about Baby Lock Sewing Machine and Multi Needle Embroidery Machine please visit:- Premier Stitching DBA Sew Vac City

[fulllinestencils]

Four Essential Tips for Domestic Machine Quilting

Quilting on a domestic sewing machine can a bit challenging. Though it can be a little difficult to fit the quilt within the small neck of the domestic machine, it doesn’t mean you can’t quilt on one. Many quilters, who don’t want to invest in longarm or mid-arm quilt machines, can effortlessly quilt bed-size quilts at home. Read more

[aikyudo]

Ahh.... this quilt has been haunting me for a while... see, I got this Malibu Barbie fabric on sale, and I love it! I love the fabric, I love the pattern! But. I tried to quilt it at home on my domestic machine and failed to pin the layers enough, and also did not start from the middle.

It has some serious shifting going on, and it just looks awful... I've tossed it to the corners of my sewing room, but I have plans soon to undo all the top stitching I did and just put it on a longarm frame and longarm the quilt finished.

Who knows exactly when that will be :/

[andersam5]

Left this company almost exactly a year ago and by then the dominos were already falling with how badly the Joann management fumbled this.

Heres the tea from my experience:

When the company went public after the pandemic, the stock was tied to the 401k's of the employees. Once the stock started tanking, managers started leaving because their retirements were tanking with it (I could be wrong about this, but one of the assistant managers was a huge gossip and I got this from her)

Joanns absymal pay (only a dollar or so above my states minimum wage) didn't encourage any new managers to come in, and the only people who could afford to work there were either students, retirees, or people who undervalued themselves (I'm in the last camp)

Part times only perk was a 20% employee discount

Shipments of merchandise came in every week, and usually would just be put on top of the pile of merch from last week we hadn't gotten out from the previous week.

Online orders were routed to stores, so not only did we have to serve local customers, we also had to fill online orders within a set time limit.

Hours were frequently slashed, which exasperated the backlog on the previous two points

Joann did away with most of their in store classes and replaced them with a crafting streaming service (think like skillshare). I never met a single person who used it even though we received multiple requests for in-person classes.

Plans were in the works to downsize or eliminate their paper coupon mailers and switch to digital. Digital coupons which a large portion of their clientelle- sweet little old ladies- had absolutely no idea how to use.

The company seemed at one point to really be pushing a product called Ditto, which was basically a ceiling mounted projectior to cast patterns onto fabric. We never sold a single one.

Our store got remodeled after the pandemic and offered new services like a longarm sewing machine to rent and a laser engraver. They all broke within months and we frequently had to turn down potential paying customers because the company wouldn't fix them.

I'm so glad I left, but for Joann to just say its because of "inventory and customer taste" is a load of bullshit

considering I'm in JoAnn's literally once a week, I am devastated!

Seriously, this leaves a huge hole in my crafting life. How tf am I gonna get all my sewing supplies the day I need them now?

[bevanne46]

What is Longarm Quilting? Longarm quilting is a sewing technique that uses a large machine to sew a quilt top, batting, and backing together. The machine moves across the quilt instead of the quilt moving through the machine. The term "longarm" refers to the machine's long throat, which can be up to 30 inches, and its rail system that allows it to swing back and forth. Longarm quilting machines can be 17–21 feet long and have rollers for attaching fabric layers. Some models can quilt many feet in one pass.

[creations-by-chaosfay]

The sewing machine has shipped!!!

Yes, I'm very excited! Sooooo many quilts are gonna be finished, and they'll be more affordable because the work will be done more quickly.

After lots of practice. I'll list the practice pieces with a steep discount, but there will always be the option to pay more than the listed price. As for what I'll make for practice, panel quilts will be a good option. Minimal sewing because a few are large enough they need just a couple borders to finish the top. Some quick and easy quilts as well, mostly lap size. I think four or five quilts will be a good number for practice.

I also intend to take a class or two at a local quilt shop. They offer longarm quilting classes, and seeing as my machine will serve as one, the classes will be very helpful. Namely free motion quilting. Someone suggested I get a stitch regulator, but the only kind I could locate are really expensive. Several hundred dollars, in fact. I do anticipate I'll need a longer foot pedal cord, so that may be something I need to consider. There was no description of the cord length. If I it does need something longer, I'll just move where the table is located until I acquire one. Not a big deal.

Now, time for breakfast.

[busket]

btw if you're interested in learning how to sew or learn how to operate a sewing machine, quilts are a great way to start!! you can buy packs of precut, coordinating fabrics called charm packs (squares) or jelly rolls (strips). there are tons of free patterns online to follow, or you can just arrange the precut fabrics how you like. my first quilt was just a simple grid with a 5x5 inch charm pack. usually you only ever sew in straight lines and iron down your seams. I contacted a local quilter with a special longarm sewing machine to do the stitching on top but you can always just sew along your previous seams to connect the front, back, and batting. the binding is probably the trickiest part but there's a ton of great tutorials online for that too. give it a shot, it's fun and you get either a cozy blanket or a cool piece of art out of it, it's not just a grandma hobby!

I've been working on a transgender flag quilt to hang over my desk since June! here's a video :)