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Note from the Editor: This Handi Quilter HQ18 Avante review was originally written in 2013, and has been revised and updated in 2023. We have added similar alternatives such as King Quilter Elite II, Baby Lock Coronet, and Handi Quilter Amara.
I was pleased to be able to review something very different… the Handi Quilter. This is a specialized machine, built for heavy duty quilters. The only place I’ve seen this type of machine is in places where quilts are made professionally.
Although some avid home sewers may have a quilting machine and frame in their homes, I feel confident in saying that they are few and far between.
Handi Quilter HQ18 Avante Overview
Handi Quilter Avante
The Handi Quilter HQ18 Avante is a sophisticated quilting machine equipped with advanced features designed to enhance your quilting experience. This machine boasts a generous 18-inch throat space, perfect for accommodating large quilt designs. Its precision stitching and adjustable speed control offer unparalleled accuracy and control, while the ergonomic handlebars provide a comfortable grip for extended use. With an intuitive LCD display and user-friendly controls, navigating through the machine's settings is effortless. The HQ18 Avante's innovative thread break sensor and bobbin winder make for seamless operation and increased efficiency. Overall, the Handi Quilter HQ18 Avante is a top-of-the-line quilting machine that delivers exceptional performance, precision, and versatility for quilters of all skill levels.
View Deal Buy on eBay (Pre-Owned)
I had seen quilt frames before – to be truthful, more than I can count. I had not, however, ever had an opportunity to operate one.
Although I had experimented with machine quilting a little while back and produced some beautiful freehand machine quilted appliqués, I do not fit my definition of a quilter by any stretch of the imagination.
At last, I was going to get a chance to actually work on a real quilter – frame and all – not a sewing machine with quilting stitches and features. The Handi Quilter comes in three different sizes, all based upon the length of the arm.
The Sixteen has a 16 inch throat; the throat on the Avante is 18 inches long and the Fusion is the largest with a 24 inch throat. I reviewed the middle sister… the Avante, with its 18 inch throat.
What are some alternatives for the Handi Quilter HQ18 Avante?
We have reviewed and come across several long arm quilting machines similar to the Handi Quilter HQ18 Avante, and here are some that we highly recommend.
King Quilter Elite II Long Arm Quilting Machine
4.7
The King Quilter II ELITE Long Arm Quilting Machine is a high-performance, industrial-grade machine designed for quilting enthusiasts and professionals. It features a 18 inch throat space, a maximum stitching speed of 3,000 stitches per minute, and a built-in stitch regulator that ensures precise stitch control. The machine also includes an adjustable LED lighting system, an easy-to-use touch screen display, and a built-in bobbin winder. Other features include automatic thread tension, a large 21 inch color touchscreen display, and a convenient USB port for easy firmware updates. With its powerful motor and durable construction, the King Quilter II ELITE Long Arm Quilting Machine is a top-of-the-line option for quilters who demand the very best in performance and functionality.
View Deal Buy on SewingMachinesPlus
Baby Lock Coronet Long Arm Quilting Machine With 5 Foot Coronet Frame and Bobbin Winder
4.8
The Baby Lock Coronet Long Arm Quilting Machine is a high-quality machine designed for quilters who need extra space and power to complete their projects. It features a 16 inch throat space, which provides plenty of room to maneuver large quilts, and a maximum stitching speed of 1,500 stitches per minute. The machine also includes a built-in stitch regulator that ensures consistent stitch length and control, as well as an adjustable LED lighting system that illuminates the work area. The Baby Lock Coronet Long Arm Quilting Machine has an easy-to-use touchscreen display that allows users to select and adjust stitch settings, and also includes an automatic thread cutter and a large capacity bobbin. With its sturdy construction and advanced features, the Baby Lock Coronet Long Arm Quilting Machine is an excellent choice for quilters who want a machine that is powerful, versatile, and easy to use.
View Deal Buy on SewingMachinesPlus
Handi Quilter Amara | HQ Long Arm Quilting Machine
4.8
The Handi Quilter Amara 20 inch Sit Down Longarm Quilting Machine is a strong and flexible quilting machine that is ideal for quilters of all skill levels. The Amara delivers accurate and consistent stitching for even the most elaborate patterns, thanks to its huge 20-inch throat area, built-in stitch regulator, and user-friendly color touchscreen display. The ergonomic design of the machine, as well as the adjustable seat and table height, guarantee that you can work comfortably for extended periods of time. Furthermore, the Amara includes built-in functions like as a bobbin winder, thread break sensor, and stitch counter, as well as a multitude of stitch choices such as stitch regulation and a variety of stitch patterns. The Amara, with the option of adding the Pro-Stitcher computerized quilting system, also gives a sophisticated tool for generating and altering quilting patterns on your computer before submitting them to the machine for automated quilting. Overall, the Handi Quilter Amara is a dependable and flexible quilting machine with a wide range of functions and capabilities suitable for quilters of all skill levels.
View Deal Buy on SewingMachinesPlus
What are the features on Handi Quilter HQ18 Avante?
All Handi Quilter machines can be fitted with the following standard features:
- Tru stitch technology
- Needle stop up or down
- Sturdy metal construction
- Freehand sewing
Optional features, designed to enhance the quilting experience include:
- Pro stitcher computer system [includes full color monitor with screensaver]
- Ability to program quilt designs from one edge of the frame to the other
Working on the Handi Quilter HQ18 Avante
I must admit, at first I was a bit intimidated by the sheer size of the Handi Quilter frame and the dual handlebars that looked more like they belonged in an airplane co*ckpit than a sewing machine dealership.
The first steps to operating any sewing machine, winding the bobbin and threading the machine are much easier than I thought. In fact, threading the Handi Quilter is easier than threading most computerized sewing machines.
The thread stand is mounted on the back of the machine. A series if thread guides carry the thread in a straight line along the top right side of the machine and down to the needle.
The bobbin winder is located on the back of the Handi Quilter and is loaded onto the race hook beneath the needle plate.
The particular model that I reviewed was fully equipped with a 10 foot frame, a Pro Stitcher computer system and a double set of handle bar controllers which are used for freehand sewing.
The upper handlebars are used to create regular stitches while the lower set is used for micro-stitching. Each set of handlebars has matching control touch pads.
Start/stop and speed buttons are on the right and the needle up and down and stitch length adjustment buttons on the left.
When the Pro-Stitcher is in use, the handlebars are really not necessary. All you have to do is scroll through the design menu to determine which stitch pattern you want, select it, determine the size, the number of times you want the design to be repeated and press the start/stop button.
The Handi Quilter will automatically go on its own from one end of the frame to the other until your programmed design is completed.
When it is time to advance the frame, merely stop the machine, turn the wheel at the end of the frame until you have exposed the next section of unsewn fabric and return to the controls to resume sewing.
Which fabrics work on the Handi Quilter HQ18 Avante?
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Upholstery Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Canvas/Twill Denim Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers Plastic/Rubber | Leather/suede Fur Reptile skin Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Knits(Medium to heavyweight only) |
What are the accessories that come with the Handi Quilter HQ18 Avante?
- 10 or 12 foot frame
- Handlebar controls
- Micro handlebars which enable you to work on miniature designs within your larger design
- Assortment of quilting rulers and guides
How ton maintain the Handi Quilter HQ18 Avante?
| Maintenance activities | After each use | Monthly | Once each year | As needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clean race hook and feed dogs | Yes | No | No | No |
| Wipe head with soft dry cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Wipe head with soft damp cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Lubricate | No | No | No | No |
| Service by sewing machine repair professional | No | No | No | Yes |
Handi Quilter HQ18 Avante Summary
Although I have never before in my life worked with a quilting machine and frame, I found that working on the Handi Quilter was not at all difficult.
I wouldn’t recommend that anyone who does not already have good sewing skills even attempt to use the Handi Quilter or any other quilting machine of this type.
Since this is the first machine of its type that I reviewed, I do not have a reference point from which to form any comparisons. I can, however, tell you that the Handi Quilter is a good, solid machine.
The stitch quality is excellent and the process for identifying stitch designs is very user friendly. Perhaps my ease in understanding how to operate the Handi Quilter can be attributed to my many years experience on sewing machines.
The bottom line is regardless of the model you select, the Handi Quilter is, in my opinion, a user friendly, easy to operate quilting machine that would be an asset to anyone who has the space and is interested in heavy duty machine quilting.
An additional asset to having a Handi Quilter is that owners have the ability to download software updates, access tutorials, attend webinars and much more via the Handi Quilter website.
Each of the attachments, the handlebars, the computerized Pro-Stitcher system and the frames can be sold separately or as part of a package.
I encourage anyone in the market for a dedicated quilting system and quilting frame to give the Handi Quilter very serious consideration. All of the package details and pricing information are available for review and comparison on the Handi Quilter website.
Handi Quilter HQ18 Avante Review
Vernelle from SewingInsight.com
Availability
Features
Output Quality
Ease of Use
Price
Summary
The Handi Quilter HQ18 Avante is a longarm quilting machine that has a 17.5″ throat space, which is a good size for most quilting projects. It also has a variety of features that make it a versatile machine, such as an automatic needle threader, a free-motion quilting foot, and a built-in walking foot.
It is a good option for those who are looking for a longarm quilting machine with a variety of features. However, it is important to note that it is a large and expensive machine.
Overall, the Handi Quilter HQ18 Avante is a good longarm quilting machine for those who are looking for a machine with a variety of features. However, it is important to note that it is a large and expensive machine.
4.2
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