Mid-arm Machine, More Information

I have received some requests for more information on my new mid-arm machine, and some closer camera views. Again, it is an "extended" Brother PQ-1500S machine which has a speed of 1500 stitches per minute. It runs very smoothly, like a well-engineered, well-made machine. There is no clickity-clack noise from this machine.

The dimensions without the extension table: 18" arm, 27 1/2" long, 12 1/2" tall, 7" deep.

Here is the extension table...

Of course, because the machine is extended specifically for mid-arm quilting, the feed dogs have been removed and the "reverse" has been disabled. The needle-down still works as does the needle threader. If you'd like to see the machine before it is extended, visit this site: http://www.brother-usa.com/HomeSewing/ModelDetail.aspx?ProductID=PQ1500S .

One difference between this machine and other mid-arm machines, which does not matter to me at this time, is that is has a "regular" size bobbin. If you are interested in the very large bobbin, it did not come with this machine, although I'm not sure if it can be ordered with the larger bobbin case, etc.



I can change my bobbin without removing the extension table, which is very handy.

The extension table fits the machine even after the machine is extended, but the hole for its right foot is out of place. My solution: I just borrowed the center foot from another extension table and placed it under the right side of the table. Works fine! If you buy this machine, simply ask for another foot.

Below, the thread arm telescopes when needed.

This is the foot that came with my machine. My husband drilled the center so that the original hole was larger.

All in all, I am very happy with my machine. It did not come with a quilting frame, which is exactly what I wanted, the price was almost $1,000 less than other mid-arm machines, and I like the smooth sound of this machine better than the competition.

I purchased my machine from Southeast Sewing Products in Atlanta, Georgia. Their address is 228 Ottley Dr. NE, Atlanta, GA 30324. Phone number (404) 261-4240. My machine was purchased from their booth at the Georgia Quilt Show in Duluth in November, so they may have another booth and another machine for sale at the Sewing and Quilt Expo in Duluth the first weekend of March 2009.

I hope this was helpful.

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