Julkane
 Intermediate PA USA Member since 9/14/07 Posts: 442 |
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 1 member likes this. Date: 11/25/12 7:55 AM Well to make a long story short - I took a chunk out of my Elna bobbin case and it had to go to the repair shop. This left me sewing on my Janome 4900 which I have always adored and used for my travel machine. Well after a few days of sewing alot, I realized that my back up machine needed to have a bigger harp, dual feed and an auto cutter. So I took my quilt sandwich, pieces of jeans and scraps to test drive a few machines. I ended up buying a QE4. After a few days, 2 runners later, I think I made a very good choice. here is my first runner made as I explored the features of the QE4. Top pic shows a 9mm decorative stitch, which I did not think I needed but 9mm makes a bigger design indeed.

 -- Edited on 11/25/12 7:56 AM -- ------ Elna Excellence 740, Pfaff Quilt expression 4.0, Janome 300E, Brother 8500D, Janome 900CPX CoverPro, Brother 5234 Project Runway Serger, Singer Treadle
http://juliannasjourney.blogspot.com/ |
JanyceR
 Advanced CO USA Member since 2/3/07 Posts: 1006 |
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Date: 11/25/12 8:22 AM Congratulations on your new machine! Great table runner too. If you like decorative stitches those 9mm ones are really addicting! |
Julkane
 Intermediate PA USA Member since 9/14/07 Posts: 442 |
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Date: 11/25/12 8:27 AM Yep I can see that I am going to like that 9mm. Initially, on my list of features I did not want a 9mm due to conflicting reviews and comments on its pros and cons. Thus far, the 9mm has not caused me any issues. ------ Elna Excellence 740, Pfaff Quilt expression 4.0, Janome 300E, Brother 8500D, Janome 900CPX CoverPro, Brother 5234 Project Runway Serger, Singer Treadle
http://juliannasjourney.blogspot.com/ |
Cat n Bull
 Advanced NC USA Member since 2/17/06 Posts: 1919 |
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Date: 11/25/12 10:02 AM Quote: Julkane Yep I can see that I am going to like that 9mm. Initially, on my list of features I did not want a 9mm due to conflicting reviews and comments on its pros and cons. Thus far, the 9mm has not caused me any issues. I am so curious! What problems are there with 9mm stitches??
So far I have not had any, except the one time my timing was off, and NO stitch is going to work well if the timing is off! I always use them when quilting and for making blankets.
Congrats on your new machine!! Nice table runner!
I have been SERIOUSLY considering a travel/backup machine. But I don't want one without IDT (although now I know the PFAFF patent for IDT has expired so now other manufacturers have their own version-opens up possibilities for me!!) I just don't want to spend the $$ on a new one so I would definitely get a used one from my dealer. ------ Cathryn |
PortlandMaine
 Advanced Beginner ME USA Member since 1/29/11 Posts: 1629 |
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Date: 11/25/12 11:10 AM I love those deco stitches on the Expression machines! Great choice and great table runner! ------ Drag queen quilter! |
Julkane
 Intermediate PA USA Member since 9/14/07 Posts: 442 |
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In reply to Cat n Bull <<
Date: 11/25/12 5:26 PM I am not sure about the 9mm width causing issues with pieces but I have read several threads that the large width of the dogfeed doesn't allow good traction for 1/4 inch seams. Several mention having to use the ss plate. I will let you know if I agree about the 9mm after I do some more piecing. ------ Elna Excellence 740, Pfaff Quilt expression 4.0, Janome 300E, Brother 8500D, Janome 900CPX CoverPro, Brother 5234 Project Runway Serger, Singer Treadle
http://juliannasjourney.blogspot.com/ |
Cat n Bull
 Advanced NC USA Member since 2/17/06 Posts: 1919 |
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Date: 11/25/12 10:31 PM Quote: Julkane I am not sure about the 9mm width causing issues with pieces but I have read several threads that the large width of the dogfeed doesn't allow good traction for 1/4 inch seams. Several mention having to use the ss plate. I will let you know if I agree about the 9mm after I do some more piecing. Oh, OK!
Well, I have never had a problem with a true 1/4" seam. I just move my needle over, so the same amount of fabric is on the feed dogs.
I know some people think moving the needle is not something they want to do, they like to change their foot to a 1/4" foot.
I am just the opposite, I think changing feet is a PITA, I'd much rather just move the needle over!------ Cathryn |
Julkane
 Intermediate PA USA Member since 9/14/07 Posts: 442 |
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In reply to PortlandMaine <<
Date: 11/26/12 7:54 AM Yes PortlandMaine, I think I may become a fan of those 9mm deco stitches. ------ Elna Excellence 740, Pfaff Quilt expression 4.0, Janome 300E, Brother 8500D, Janome 900CPX CoverPro, Brother 5234 Project Runway Serger, Singer Treadle
http://juliannasjourney.blogspot.com/ |
quiltingwolf
Advanced MD USA Member since 12/15/02 Posts: 4994 |
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Date: 11/26/12 12:34 PM That looks like a really nice machine. Have lots of fun with it. Nice stitch package ------ quiltingwolf.blogspot.com |
Julkane
 Intermediate PA USA Member since 9/14/07 Posts: 442 |
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In reply to quiltingwolf <<
Date: 11/26/12 6:06 PM Thanks quiltingwolf. I am not sure which machine I like better now, the QE4 or the Elna 740. The Elna is quieter and has better lighting and better measure markings, both have Dual Feed but I have already fallen in love with the QE4 auto presser foot and pivot features. I bought the QE4 as my back up and travel machine so it will get used alot. ------ Elna Excellence 740, Pfaff Quilt expression 4.0, Janome 300E, Brother 8500D, Janome 900CPX CoverPro, Brother 5234 Project Runway Serger, Singer Treadle
http://juliannasjourney.blogspot.com/ |