Planning to Buy a Longarm Machine? (Bernina Q24 Review)
Hello Quilty Friends! I am glad you are considering getting a longarm machine! It has been a wonderful addition to my studio, and I hope to give you some ideas for your big decision.
As you read this post, please note that I am not promoting or degrading any certain brands. This is purely my own opinion from my own experience. I believe all machines have pros and cons, and it is the buyer’s responsibility to search and consider before the big purchase.
Background Story
I got my first longarm in March 2021. It was the Coronet from Babylock, which is identical to Simply Sixteen from Haniquilter. Since I didn’t plan to run a longarm business, I felt little guilty to have a full size machine. At that time I was convinced that I could do large quilts on the Coronet using the hooping system thinking it should be a lot better than quilting on a domestic sewing machine. Then, soon I realized that it wasn’t that easy as it sounds, and it discouraged me from quilting bigger size quilts. My tops were just stored in the closet waiting for me to quilt them.
Then, I had a chance to upgrade it to a bigger size. See, the only reason I upgraded it is because I needed a bigger frame. I think if I had a bigger size frame, I could use that machine without any issues. It is true that the throat was shorter, but for a personal use I think it wouldn’t be a big problem. But, now that I changed the machine, let me share what I’ve experienced with you.
Bernina Q24
I am using the Bernina Q24, and there are lots of features that I like it about. Why don’t we start with some Pros?
Pros
1. Tension: This is one of the main reasons why I considered buying Bernina machine. Ever since I started using a sewing machine (I did hand piecing and quilting for long time), I only had machines with the Auto Tension feature! So, when I got the Coronet, getting the right tension was very challenging. But, this Bernina machine has digital tension control which is very similar to any other computerized sewing machine and easy to use. This has been a HUGE time saving for me. (Just to compare, with Coronet (or similar machines), you never know what your top tension is at. There is no number or mark to show. And, that was very frustrating to me.). But, with this digital tension system, I know how exactly tight/loose my tension is.
2. Easy Threading: Threading is very easy. Everything is set up front, and the needle threader is very helpful. With my old machine, I always got confused with the steps that I need to go through, that I had the manual in handy all the time. (It can be just me not so good with semi industrial type machines.. )
3. Foot Up/Down: I love this feature! It makes starting and ending the process a lot easier. There is not much to explain, but it is one of my favorite features on my machine. With my old machine, I had to hold the foot with my finger to lift. But, with Bernina, just like a sewing machine, a push button is all you need.
4. Integrated Bobbin Winder: I used to have a separate bobbin winder. Working in a small space, everything seems to take up space. Even the little bobbin winder took up my precious space. But, now I have the room back! Seriously, it is so convenient and handy.
5. Easy cleaning: With Bernina Q24, you can open up the stitch plate with a simple push! Cleaning and oiling couldn’t be easier. To be honest, with my old machine, I wasn’t even sure if I was oiling it in the right spot. I had to bend down somehow, and find the spot in the dark. I think the larger models have lights in that area, but not for the Coronet.
6. Sturdy Frame & Hydraulic lift: You can tell right away that the Bernina frame is totally different. It is sturdy and strong. Especially the bars, which are very stable. They don’t bounce or vibrate while loading or quilting. And, yes! Hydraulic lift! I love it! It was a bit of an investment. But, with my old machine sometimes I felt the frame wasn’t set at the right height. It varied depending on the type of quilting I did. Now, I can change the height whenever I need to. It's totally worth the money.
7. Over all, I think the Bernina Q24 has more intuitive and convenient features compared to the other models I looked into.
Cons
1. Stitch Regulator Lights: There are not many cons to this machine. But, one thing I really wish was different is the stitch regulator light. As you can see in the photo, it has two red lights on the stitching area that move along as you quilt. I am used to it now, but for the first few days, it was hard to ignore them.
2. Price: The machine is relatively expensive, in my opinion. I happened to buy this machine for a very personal reason. But if it weren’t for that, I wouldn’t even consider getting this machine because of the price. I probably would’ve purchased Regalia/Amara.
So, what do you think? I hope this post gave you some ideas for your longarm purchase plan. But, if you have any questions about the machine, please let me know!
Thank you!
Kate
