A Guide to Choosing the Perfect BERNINA Q Series Machine
Congratulations on saying “YES” to a BERNINA Q Series Longarm quilting machine!
This is a big day and I’m so excited for you. While you have made the first step by deciding on a BERNINA, there are several more decisions to make. The BERNINA Q Series machines are extremely versatile and can be used with either a table or a frame, or you can move your machine back and forth between table and frame with a few easy adaptations. And we can’t forget the accessories which allow you to create a personalized quilting system that works best for you.
With all these options, let me be your guide to explore all the possibilities. And as always, if you want to learn more and see any of these products in person, visit your local BERNINA dealer.
Step 1: Table or Frame or Both?
BERNINA offers a versatile line-up of tables and frames for you to select from. Let’s start with BERNINA’s four table options for those who prefer a sitdown or stationary longarm quilting experience.
If your quilting area doesn’t have a lot of space, then the foldable table may be perfect for you. The sides extend up to give plenty of quilting space when needed and fold down for space-saving storage when not in use.
If you prefer a more elegant custom furniture style, then the Horn Standard Cabinet is a perfect option. It features two storage drawers, hinged side leaves, and an optional leaf set for extra quilting space.
The final two options are both “lift” or power height-adjustable tables, which allow you to easily adjust the height with the touch of a button.
In addition to the hinged leaves, the Q Series Lift Table had four integrated storage bins located on the top for convenient storage of thread, rulers, and other quilting supplies.
The Horn Lift table is equipped with casters, two storage drawers, hinged leaves and, just like the Horn Standard Cabinet, it has an optional leaf set for even more quilting space.
Now let’s talk about frame options. BERNINA has two styles of frames for your longarm: the Studio frame and the PRO frame. The size of machine that you are purchasing affects the frame style since not all Sewheads fit all frames. Think about what type of quilting you do and the size of quilts that you make as this relates to the size of frame too.
If you are a hobbyist who just quilts a few quilts a year, then the Studio frame may be the perfect option for you since it is available in either 5-foot or 10-foot lengths.
If you prefer a frame with more features or are considering quilting professionally, then the PRO frame is an excellent choice. Available in three lengths, the PRO frame has one-piece rails and optional hydraulics, batting bar, storage shelf, and zippered leaders.
Step 2: Which Sewhead?
BERNINA offers four different Sewheads in three different sizes: the Q 24, Q 20, Q 16 and Q 16 Plus. While the throat depth is the same for the Q 16 and Q 16 Plus, the Q 16 Plus has the ports and interface needed to add automation, if desired. This is important if you plan to quilt on a frame with Q-matic, BERNINA’s Longarm Automated Quilting System software.
Regardless of size, the Sewheads all offer the same features and functions including stitch regulation for perfect stitches, unique digital thread tension adjustment, front facing ergonomic operation including threading and bobbin winding, and a simple-to-navigate touch screen interface.
As you narrow your selection of table or frame, it’s important to remember that not all Sewheads fit on all tables or frames. This chart shows how they pair together.
Regardless of whether you prefer a Studio or PRO frame, you can add Q-matic to any Q 16 Plus, Q 20, or Q 24 Sewhead.
Step 3: What Are the Must-have Accessories?
There are so many accessories, it can be hard to know where to begin. This isn’t an all-inclusive list of available accessories but a highlight of the ones that I consider must-haves and that I personally use.
If you selected a sitdown combination, then the BERNINA Chair is the perfect addition. It is designed to reduce sewing fatigue and has multiple adjustments for maximum comfort.
While we are talking about sitdowns, Gripper Rings are another favorite. The set includes two different sizes and gives you more control and provides more precise guiding for your free-motion quilting.
For the two larger sized PRO frames, hydraulics is helpful to raise and lower the frame to the ideal height while quilting. I love being able to reduce fatigue by easily re-positioning the height of the frame while I’m doing rulerwork or free-motion quilting.
Zippered leaders allow you to change the quilt on your frame by unzipping and re-zipping the leader instead of pinning and un-pinning. This saves time and keeps the layers aligned.
The Needle Point Laser is mounted onto the Sewhead so a red laser light is aligned with where the needle inserts into the fabric, assisting with accurate placement of your quilting stitches.
For the frame machines, the Rulerwork Kit is a frequently purchased accessory as it contains the ruler base, a straight line ruler and Ruler Foot #96.
Instead of purchasing accessories in an ala carte method, BERNINA offers accessory boxes for both the Sitdown and Frame. Each box is a curated collection of extra bobbins, frequently used presser feet, needles, rulers, and other accessories.
Wow! That is a lot of decisions. But don’t worry, you don’t need to make them all on your own. Your dealer can assist you in putting together the quilting system that best meets your personal quilting needs. Don’t be afraid to ask them for their recommendations as you dream big!
