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Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen review was originally written in 2014, and has been revised and updated in 2023. We have added alternatives such as Juki TL-15, Brother PQ1500SL , and JUKI TL-2000Qi.
I had an opportunity to review the Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen, a home quilting machine that is mounted on its own table.
Although I’m not a quilter, I can certainly appreciate a great home quilting machine when I see one.
Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen Overview
Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen has quite a few impressive features, one of them being a stitching speed of 1500SPM, which is an uncommon number for any device. It packs over a hundred inbuilt stitches of all kinds and has thrice the amount of quilting space than any other quilting machine in ths market. Needless to say this model is quite heavy and bulky, but also very sturdy and durable at the same time. There is also an additional 18” table extension on both sides of the table. This machine accommodates lots of thick fabrics and even multiple layers of them.
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When I first saw the Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen for my review, I wasn’t absolutely certain if it was a quilter or some other sort of specialty sewing machine.
Rather than the traditional frame that I had become accustomed to seeing with a quilting machine, this one was mounted on a cabinet table.
It threads on the right hand side and when it’s time to access the bobbin, you can remove part of the table and there’s a tiny red button that engages a motor to raise the machine to facilitate changing the bobbin without having to bend down or reach under the table.
The optional stitch regulator is mounted on the left side of the machine while the moveable fabric holder is placed beneath the fabric and is moved about as needed.
When not in use, the same red button can lower the machine all the way into the table and the doors closed, making your quilting table a convenient cutting table.
What are some alternatives for Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen?
Long arm quilting machines are expensive and long-term purchases. Here are some alternatives you may look at if you are considering buying.
A superior sewing and quilting machine is the Juki TL-15. It is a compact machine with a lock stitch and one needle. Its aluminum die-casting design guarantees expert outcomes even while in motion. For sewing, quilting, and other home design chores, the TL15's spacious 23-inch work area with an optional table added makes it the perfect choice.
The arm and bed of the Juki TL-15 are made of aluminum die-casting. Because of this sturdy body, sewing and quilting can be done more accurately and with less vibration. The several beneficial characteristics of the TL-15 enable it to accommodate a wide range of industrial presser foot.
A slider for regulating the machine's speed, a beautiful white LED light, a serial and industrial sub-tension system, and other essential features are all included in this high-tech equipment. The TL-15 comes with a foot switch stopper that enables you to turn off the automated cutter, as well as an 1/4-inch quilting foot for free motion quilting, a quilting foot with a front open toe, an upper feed presser foot with quilt guide, and a zipper attaching foot.
The Brother PQ1500SL Straight Stitch Sewing and Quilting Machine is a versatile and powerful machine designed to meet the needs of sewing enthusiasts and quilters alike. Whether you're working on intricate quilting projects or tackling heavy-duty sewing tasks, this machine is engineered to deliver exceptional performance and precision.
Featuring a straight stitch-only functionality, the PQ1500SL is perfect for achieving professional-grade stitching on various fabrics. With its high-speed sewing capability of up to 1500 stitches per minute, you can complete your projects quickly and efficiently. The machine's advanced features and robust construction make it suitable for both home use and professional settings.
One of the standout features of the PQ1500SL is its generous workspace. The extended 12x18-inch wide table provides ample room for maneuvering larger quilts and fabrics, giving you the freedom to create larger designs with ease. The table also features a convenient storage compartment for keeping your essential tools and accessories within reach.
Precision and control are paramount in quilting and sewing, and the PQ1500SL delivers on both fronts. The automatic thread trimmer allows you to neatly cut threads at the end of each seam, saving you time and effort. The built-in knee lifter enables hands-free raising and lowering of the presser foot, allowing you to pivot and manipulate fabric effortlessly.
Equipped with a durable feed dog system, the PQ1500SL ensures smooth and consistent fabric feeding, preventing fabric shifting or bunching during stitching. The adjustable pin feed mechanism adds to its versatility, allowing for precise fabric management, particularly when working with heavyweight materials or multiple layers.
The machine offers an array of adjustable settings, including stitch length and thread tension, allowing you to fine-tune your stitches according to your specific requirements. The intuitive control panel and LCD display make it easy to navigate through the different options and settings.
Brother has incorporated several user-friendly features into the PQ1500SL. The needle threader simplifies the threading process, saving you time and reducing eye strain. The included accessory kit provides a range of helpful tools such as a walking foot, free-motion quilting foot, and multiple specialty feet, expanding your creative possibilities.
In summary, the Brother PQ1500SL Straight Stitch Sewing and Quilting Machine is a reliable and versatile companion for sewing and quilting enthusiasts. Its high-speed stitching, ample workspace, and advanced features make it an excellent choice for those seeking precision and efficiency in their projects. Whether you're a hobbyist or a professional, this machine is built to meet the demands of your creative endeavors.
More and more sewists are purchasing Juki TL-2000Qi Quilting Machine. Why? Because the features compel you to do so. The machine flaunts its speedy and hefty aluminium die-cast body that prevents excessive vibration, even if you are using it at its maximum capacity of 1500 stitches per minute. You can make the most out of the straight-stitch-only design as it provides you with exceptional results when quilting, constructing garments, or sewing home decoration projects.
What are the features on Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen?
- 16 inch throat space
- More than three times the quilting space of other sewing machines for home use
- More than 8 inches vertical space
- Sews up to 1500 stitches per minute
- High-speed rotary hook with large capacity M-class bobbin
- Half-stitch for basting or walking stitch
- 30” x 36” table surface assures even quilting
- Additional 18″ table extension available for both sides of the table
- Hopping foot prevents fabric movement during a full-stitch cycle
- Works with HQ rulers for perfect stitch-in-the-ditch and curved quilting lines
Working on the Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen
The Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen threads easily on the right side. This single needle, freehand quilting machine has a16 inch throat. The head doesn’t move about like its larger frame mounted counterparts. Instead, you sit at the Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen and move the fabric beneath the needle in any direction you choose.
The Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen is not at all noisy and there is virtually no vibration whatsoever.
The computerized Tru Stitch regulator measures movements on the worktable and guarantees even stitches while creating freehand designs. The stitches are not only even and well formed, they give your work the appearance of the hand made quilts my grandmother used to make.
Which fabrics work on Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen?
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Knits(Medium to heavyweight only) Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers Upholstery Leather/suede | Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber |
What accessories come with the Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen?
Standard accessories included with the Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen:
- 4 extra bobbins, 20 needles, sample thread pack
- Getting Started DVD
- Owner’s Manual
Optional accessories available for separate purchase:
- Tru Stitch Regulator
- Open-toe hopping foot
- Horizontal spool pin
- 18” x 30” table extensions
- Table overlay (recommended for use with TruStitch regulator)
- Quilters’ rulers and curves
How to maintain the Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen?
| 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 | Yes |
| Service by sewing machine repair professional | No | No | No | Yes |
Summary: Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen Review
The fact that you can raise and lower the Handy Quilter Sweet Sixteen when changing the bobbin or lower it all the way to close the table is a wonderful feature, making this one of the most functional additions to a sewing room I have seen in a very long time.
I watched the Sweet Sixteen move up and down quietly and smoothly and witnessed first hand how easy it is for a quilting enthusiast to add this machine to their home sewing room.
The swing out shelves and large storage space are ideal for storing all of your quilting supplies when the Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen is not in use. Quilting isn’t for everyone and I don’t believe this is a machine for beginners.
However, people who know their way around sewing machines and have mastered the basics of sewing machine operation might be very comfortable with the Sweet Sixteen, especially if they enjoy machine quilting. Working on this machine is not difficult at all.
I believe anyone over the age of 13 or so would be able to operate this machine with just a few hours training.
In fact, if they are really fast learners they could probably master the Sweet Sixteen after just a few minutes of training. It is so fast – 1500 stitches per minute – that I don’t recommend use by anyone younger than 13 years of age.
Creating freehand designs on the Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen, with or without the aid of a quilting ruler is as easy as sitting down and letting your imagination take control.
To conclude my review, if you are a quilting enthusiast, I believe the Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen might be a good choice for you. It is a real quilting machine, not a combination sewing and quilting machine.
The size is ideal for those machine quilting enthusiasts who do not have space in their homes for a quilting frame… and how many people actually have that luxury?
Although it isn’t as large as many other quilting machines, the Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen can handle just about any size quilting job. I could definitely see someone making a king size comforter on this machine with ease.
If you want to add the Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen to your sewing room, you have several options to choose from. You can buy it with or without the Tru Stitch regulator or without the cabinet/cutting table.
The people at Handi Quilter also offer another table that is smaller, and does not have the electronic lift feature. The choice is yours.
I think it’s great that anyone who wants the Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen can mix and match these features to suit their own personal tastes, needs, and budgets.
It is also possible to start with just the machine and add the other optional features when you are ready to do so. There are very few machines that offer so many options… another big plus for the Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen.
Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen Review
Summary
The Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen is a long-arm quilting machine that is known for its smooth, quiet operation and its ability to handle large quilts. It has a 16″ throat space, which allows you to quilt large quilts without having to piece them together. The machine also has a number of features that make it easy to use, such as a built-in needle threader and a top-loading bobbin. The Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen is a good option for quilters who want a machine that can handle large quilts and that is easy to use.
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Happy Stitching.
Hi Vernelle,
I just found your website a few days ago. Thanks for reviewing so many different models and types of machines. I am so glad you reviewed Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen. I have been looking at this machine in our local area shops. The price is quite a bit lower than some of the bigger machines and seems easy to use.
It is easy to use. I love mine and find it perfect for quilting any size quilt. The units must be sandwiched prior to stitching of course but I have found quilting to be quick and lots of fun with my sweet sixteen.
how do you compare this “16” to the babylock “tiara”!!!?????? please help me. I’m so confused, and am serious. saw the pfaff5.0 today, no stitch regulator…won’t I need that?? or, am I looking at a regular machine I don’t need ( I have three already)……please answer…. judy
Just read this year-old question and figure you probably have had it answered already, but The Tiara is made by Handi Quilter, so it and the Sweet 16 are identical. You don’t HAVE to have the stitch regulator, but it does make for even stitches that are more difficult to achieve without it. It is NOT a regular machine; there are no feed dogs. It is strictly for free motion.
I tried this Handi quilter sweet 16 at a show with no Stitch regulator and it worked out just fine, it was 4895 for the table the machine some needles a ton of thread $150 store credit for Notions Etc, are then tried the juki with the Stitch regulator the new one and for some reason I felt more comfortable with the Handi quilter
is this post still active…..There is a sweet 16 for sale that I am looking at….can I really add accessories later on….could I add a frame later on??? when i get really good at free motion???