By Diane Harris, HQ Stitch Brand Ambassador
A few weeks ago, my HQ Capri stationary longarm arrived in two boxes. I had been concerned about setup because I am new to longarm quilting and I have a lot to learn.
![](https://hqstitch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/capri-box-2.jpg)
So I thought I’d share how everything came together and some of the things you should know in order to get started using the HQ Capri.
![](https://hqstitch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Capri-the-space-you-need.jpg)
The Handi Quilter website has a diagram like the one above for every longarm quilting machine they offer. This is critically important information because it helps you determine if you have the space you need.
![](https://hqstitch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/capri-blank-room-1.jpg)
I have a former bedroom that has been used most recently for storage, so I cleared out the junk to make way for the Capri.
![](https://hqstitch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/capri-table-only.jpg)
There is plenty of room for the table even if I add the 18-inch by 32-inch table extensions to each side, which I plan to do soon. They will help support the weight of larger quilts and I’m excited to get the extensions.
The table went together without a hitch. Only one tool was needed and my husband located it easily because he’s organized! But even if I had been on my own, I could have assembled the table without problems.
![](https://hqstitch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/capri-with-table-1.jpg)
Above you can see that I made a warmup sandwich for a couple of test runs, just to get the feel of the machine. Always a good idea! I will keep this quilt sandwich nearby and use it over and over.
I lifted the machine into place according to the instructions and attached all of the cords and hookups. Easy peasy. I started out with the table adjusted for standing, but after a few days I lowered it for sitting and I have been enjoying that a lot. It’s really nice that you have both standing and sitting as options for your quilting.
Now Put Your Feet Up
![](https://hqstitch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/capri-videos.jpg)
Handi Quilter is known for its education, so I put my feet up and prepared to watch the YouTube videos from Handi Quilter on the Capri. Everything I needed was covered in short, clear videos and before long I was ready to go.
![](https://hqstitch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/xmas-album-1.jpg)
Ready, Set, Go!
For my first real quilting on the Capri, I decided on a little Christmas quilt called My Christmas Album. It was designed by Tina Curran, and while I love it, I have had a devil of a time getting it quilted.
I’ve had machine quilting in it no fewer than three times (all done on a domestic machine) and have taken it all out for different reasons. It is time to get this one finished and off my plate.
![](https://hqstitch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/xmas-album-5.jpg)
The problem is that I don’t know what to quilt. Applique isn’t my strong suit and I have zero ideas for how to quilt it.
![](https://hqstitch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/xmas-album-3.jpg)
I have already anchored everything down by stitching a grid around the blocks on my HQ Stitch 710. It’s the free-motion part that has me flummoxed.
![](https://hqstitch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/xmas-album-4.jpg)
Quilter’s Preview Paper
Not long ago I was introduced to Quilter’s Preview Paper, a clear film on which you can draw with a dry-erase marker.
![](https://hqstitch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/xmas-album-6.jpg)
It’s helpful to try out ideas before you commit with thread, and to practice any motifs you’re unsure of.
![](https://hqstitch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/xmas-album-9.jpg)
You can plan your stitch path and feel confident before you start quilting.
![](https://hqstitch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/xmas-album-8.jpg)
Sometimes it becomes evident what you do not want to do. There is no harm in trying out every idea you have.
![](https://hqstitch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/xmas-album-7.jpg)
Block by block, I got the Christmas album done. I ripped some quilting out here and there but it was always because I got lost. There’s a blog post coming on that.
![](https://hqstitch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/xmas-album-11.jpg)
It isn’t perfect but it is finished. I learned one big lesson that I’ll share down the road. And continuing with the theme of the last post, here is:
Lesson #3
Audition and practice designs on Quilter’s Preview Paper.
Doing this one thing has totally changed my machine quilting experience. I can’t wait to share with you what came next!
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