Mid-Arm Quilting Machine and Frame Rental

Back in the summer I made the exciting decision to purchase a mid-arm quilting machine and frame. I have really enjoyed getting to know it and playing around the various methods that can be used with it. My current preference is probably free motion quilting, but I have two pantographs and a number of pattern perfect tiles (these allow you to follow a set pattern and it is impossible to deviate from the pattern). All of these options will be available to my customers when they book a session with me. 

The Little Rebel is a 13" Quilting Machine from the Grace Company. They are also the makers of the Cutie Breeze Frame that goes with it. This combination allows you to quilt a 9" x 32" section of your quilt before you need to adjust your quilt on the frame. There is no limit to the size of the quilt you can work on with this quilt.

In your first session I will show you how to load the sandwich onto the frame (the beauty of the frame is that you don't need to pin baste your quilt. I have spray basted some of the quilts, because I like the added security, but it is not essential). It is not difficult to load your quilt onto the frame and therefore it is not hard to reposition the quilt once you have quilted your first section. 

I will show you how to do a basting stitch along the side of your quilt and then you will be away to go on your practice sandwich. You can bring your own material to practice on, or I can provide the practice sandwich (for a fee). 

When you feel confident enough to move on you can begin to work on your quilt. I have had customers feel ready after just ten minutes practice, I, myself, practised for a few weeks before I felt ready! 

To begin quilting you will need your quilt top, wadding (which you can purchase from me, but just let me know in advance how much you need) and backing fabric. I have white/ivory/grey/navy threads, as well as some more colourful variegated threads that you are welcome to use. If you prefer a colour that I don't have here then I will ask you to bring your own thread on the day, but I can advise what type etc. 

Usually when you are using a quilt frame you need to make sure your wadding and backing is at least 4" wider on each side, but I do have leaders that I can loan to you and you can attach to the sides of your quilt in advance of our sessions. Again this is something we can discuss when you contact me to book your session. 

**** The Little Rebel has a stitch regulator built in, which is really great, but it is not compatible with textured or dark backing fabric. You can still quilt on the machine with fleece/minky/dark fabric, but they require turning off the stitch regulator, so it might take more practice getting evenly spaced stitches ****

As you can see there are lots of different things to consider before you start your first session so please feel free to message me any questions you may have. I have been delighted so far with my customers’ efforts - and more importantly, they have been delighted!

Once I have helped you get started I will always be in the vicinity to help you when required. 

If you are considering purchasing a long-arm yourself, this is a great opportunity to try out a similar machine. 

Machine Hire £15.00 per hour 

At present I have sessions available between 10-2 on Mondays, 12-2 on Tuesdays and 10-12 on Fridays, but if you would like a different time slot just let me know and we'll try to work something out. 

Look forward to hearing from you and seeing your creations!