How to Bid on Quilting Sewing Machines
- 1). Define your needs and how you will use the quilting machine. For the casual hobby quilter, a small combination model of sewing machine with quilting capability is suitable. These machines offer a larger deck, or working area, to better support the size and spread of a quilt. For quilters looking to quilt commercially or produce dozens of quilts annually, a separate long arm quilting machine may make the actual quilting process quicker and easier. A standard sewing machine works well for piecing the blocks.
- 2). Calculate how much you can spend on this purchase. Auctions frequently include new and used models. A used model may allow you to upgrade to a better machine with more features. However, the home quilter would do better to buy a smaller new model rather than a larger model. For large quantity quilters, computerized and non-computerized models exist in long arm quilting machines.
- 3). Browse through the various on-line auction sources. Check with your local 4-H group to discover nearby auctions where you can look at the machines. Watch the auctions that interest you, noting models and manufacturers.
- 4). Visit a quilt store or contact the manufacturer to find out more about the models that interest you. Research the recommended retail price, age of the model, and its capabilities. Most manufacturers of long arm and high end machines offer DVDs detailing the prowess of newer models. Some of these can be obtained on-line through their websites.
- 5). Compare the retail price, age and asking price at the auction. If the machine meets your needs, works and falls within your budget, then consider bidding on it. Long arm machines tend to hold their value, so you will not see much difference between asking price and retail, even on a used one. General, or home-use, quilter's sewing machines tend to drop in value as most manufacturers bring out new models annually.
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