Bernina Q 24

One huge advantage the Q24

One huge advantage the Q24 has over competitors that I haven’t seen mentioned is the superior ergonomics of the Bernina frame design for doing custom work, especially ruler work, from the front of the machine. Several of your competitors’ frames are equally sturdy, but have the quilt top roller positioned at the top of the frame, above the surface of the quilt and just inside… read more where the backing roller is positioned. This creates two problems. First, the quilter is always reaching over the quilt top roller to operate the machine, and during ruler work, reaching over the quilt top roller to hold a ruler puts the quilter’s wrist at an unnatural angle that could lead to aches, pains, and even carpal tunnel syndrome after long hours operating the machine. Second, the position of the quilt top roller above and inside the backing roller on competitors’ frames also creates a “dead zone” of about 6” all along the front of the frame between the back edge of the backing roller and the furthest reach of the needle before the throat of the machine hits the pickup roller at the back of the frame. Not only does that require the quilter to reach farther away from the body than is comfortable (resulting in additional body aches and visits to the chiropractor), but the quilter also has less control of the machine when having to reach and quilt an area farther away from their center of gravity. I wish these frame differences had been pointed out to me when I was comparing longarm machines prior to purchase — then I might have a Bernina Q24 in my studio right now instead of the brand I ended up purchasing!

I have the Q24 with the longest rods-144″

I have the Q24 with the longest rods-144″. I can honestly say it is the sturdiest piece of machinery I have ever seen. I have tried other quilting machines and they are flimsy compared to this one. I have had it for over two years and love it. I am actually now adding the Qmatic computer as I am disillusioned with pantograph. There is nothing wrong with pantograph but it is difficult… read more with human hands behind the machine to get smooth copies of the design. I do much better if I freehand from the front. The machine runs like a dream, handles well, and does perfect stitching. I wouldn’t have anything else.