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USER MANUAL

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1. BACK LL a ae e EE dir ier Un Figure 13 1 Place a cone or spool of thread on the spool pin Pass the thread through the thread mast eyelet from back to front continuing to thread guide A Figure 13 2 Continue to the three hole thread guide B Wrap all three holes from back to front hand wheel side to needle side see Figure 14 Note The purpose of the three hole thread guide B is to prevent loops of thread coming off the thread cone from going into the top tension as a knot causing thread breakage and bad tension For most threads on a cone it is important to thread all three holes for consistent results and to make adjustments at the top tension assembly An exception to this rule is when working with very delicate threads such as holographic or threads that are prone to breakage in which case you may try skipping one or two holes on thread guide B Page 12 Figure 14 Note See HQ Quilting Machines Getting Started DVD included with your machine for videos showing threading and other tips These videos are also available on www HandiQuilter com HQP Avant User Manual DETAIL 2 Figure 15 HandiQuilter com 3 Thread continues through thread guide C and then down to the tension assembly see Figure 15 NOTE It is important that the thread is flossed up between the two tension discs If the thread is not firmly in place between the two tension discs the thread rests on
2. Avant USER MANUAL QM30235 version 2 0 Handi Quilter owa eem em es Seer eem wm ef 04 18 14 2014 Handi Quilter Inc Congratulations on your purchase of the HOT Avante from Handi Quilter You haven t just purchased a quilting machine Set up your own Handi Quilter Glog a combina you ve joined the Handi Quilter family and we wel tion blog and photo gallery where you can share come you your own quilting story Your new quilting friends are already there waiting for you Handi Quilter is committed to innovation reliability customer service and education Our machines are Remember if you ever have questions your local Designed by a Quilter for Quilters and we are Rep can help you If the Rep is not available contact committed to your quilting success Handi Quilter directly at techsupport HandiQuilter com or by calling us at 1 877 697 8458 Monday With that in mind we invite you to bookmark our Friday 8 5 MST website www HandiQuilter com and invite you to visit to learn more about the art of quilting We ve posted tips tricks and tutorials on subjects as di verse as Oiling Your Machine to Loading a Quilt to Making Perfect Feathers We ve got videos to watch pdf files to print out for reference and forums for asking questions Package Contents Please keep your original box and packaging Contents of Package Optional Accessories 1 Bobbins 5 pieces one in machi
3. turning the threaded end to achieve your desired focal size Clamp Adjustment The laser attaches to a mounting post The post may be vertical or horizontal The clamp is designed to articulate in any direction by rotating the clamp on the post and pivoting the laser up or down To make an adjustment simply loosen the black thumbscrews position and retighten Location of Laser Labels The label is attached to the case of the laser and contains an arrow which indicates the direction the laser light will shine when energized The label must remain in place on the laser Removal of the label will void the laser s warranty HQ Avant User Manual Installing the Laser Stylus Figure 11 For use at front of machine Begin by locating the laser stylus post the laser holder and the laser stylus To attach the laser stylus to the top of the machine 1 Locate the threaded hole on top of the machine near the front see Figure 2 20 page 6 The laser stylus guide post comes with the washer and nut Installing the Thread Mast GE EU m ENS V GR BER e rt E u Eel Ka SA WW E b U 3 g i KAS k Figure 12 HandiQuilter com on it Remove the nut and washer replace the nut onto the post and then place the washer under the nut and onto the machine painted surface The washer protects the painted surface when the nut is tightened Tighten the post clockwise until it is secur
4. 100 0 Yards A thread the preset represents Put a new bobbin with the same thread into the machine and press the Bobbin Thread Capacity Presets New Bobbin button Then press the Alarm button e E fm As you quilt the remaining bobbin thread value will 100 0 130 0 200 0 estimate how much thread remains on the current Back Main bobbin and when you reach the capacity value an alarm will sound warning you that your bobbin is nearly out of thread Figure 37 Figure 36 When operating in Manual mode the low bobbin function assumes you will stitch at approximately Low Bobbin Alarm the last SPI setting you had on the regulated screen Bobbin Thread Capacity If the SPI setting was below 8 stitches per inch the function will assume you will quilt at 10 stitches per q gt E Hands inch It is advisable therefore to set the stitches per _ inch that you will be quilting on the regulated screen Remaining Bobbin Thread before you change to manual mode New Bobbin A0 Yards Lu Bobbin Thread Capacity Presets values one for each of three different types of ET ef EY thread Simply go through the record process with a 100 0 130 0 2000 full bobbin of that type of thread and then store the Back Main capacity as a preset When you switch to using that type of thread press appropriate preset button Insert a full bobbin with that type of thread press New Figure 37 Bobbin and all of the settings
5. Pressing and moving back and forth across the Sliding control will change the volume up as it is moved left to right and down as it is moved from right The Over Speed Alarm box allows the user to turn the alarm on and off Figure 39 Press the Main button to return to the Regulated or Manual menu screen or the Back button to return to the More menu screen Calculator A basic calculator is provided This function has been found to be especially convenient for customers with machines that have the HQ Pro Stitcher Figure 40 Press the Main button to return to the Regulated or Manual menu screen or the Back button to return to the More menu screen HQ Avant User Manual Lighting Light Power Group Man Lights _ O Center UV O AILLights Bac Man Figure 41 Systen Message Do not use All if UV lights are installed Long term exposure to UV is not advisable P c OK Figure 42 NOTE When you turn on the machine after it has been off only the main lights will come on Return to the Lighting screen to turn on other light groups HandiQuilter com Lights The HQ Avant comes equipped with six white LED lights and two UV lights in the center row on each side of the front handlebars There are three open lighting positions on each side of the handlebars that provide room for two additional white lights and one UV light on each side in the ce
6. are warranted to be free from manufacturing defects for one year from the date of purchase If any defect is reported within this period manufacturer will provide free replacement parts customer pays for labor and shipping The 2 year elec tronic electrical warranty will be invalid if the machine is left plugged into a power source when not in use The limited warranty stated in sections b c and d above shall be limited solely to the replacement of parts which in the opinion of HQ are defective in workmanship or material and are returned to HQ or an authorized repair facility or such other point or place that may be designated by HQ All other costs including cost of freight and shipment for repair under this warranty shall be the customer s costs This warranty shall be in force only for the original purchaser The machine registration card must be completed and received by HQ before warranty is valid Warranty Exclusions HQ shall have no obligation for any claim under this warranty if the machine has been misused abused neglected damaged in transit or has been altered from the standard specifications established by HQ or if proper maintenance and lubrication have not been timely performed No warranties extend beyond the express warranty offered HQ disclaims all other warranties express or implied regarding the Products including any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose In the United Sta
7. indicator to determine when general machine maintenance should be performed by an authorized Handi Quilter Representative Figure 43 Press the Main button to return to the Regulated or Manual menu screen or the Back button to return to the More menu screen Set Language The HQ18 Avant screens can appear in English French German or Spanish On the More Screen press the lower left button to cycle between English Francais Deutsch and Espanol After selecting your preferred language press Main to return to the Main Screen Diagnostics Screen Six different diagnostics tests can be performed on the machine These functions test the motion encoders the motor control functions the key switches and the internal position sensors Figure 44 Press the Main button to return to the Regulated or Manual menu screen or the Back button to return to the More menu screen HQ Avant User Manual Motor Sensor Test Rotate the hand wheel SLOWLY Regular pulsing beeps as you rotate the hand wheel A solid tone or no beeping at all as you rotate the hand wheel Figure 47 Needle Sensor Test Rotate the hand wheel Solid beep for 1 3 of a stitch cycle no beep for the rest of the cycle No beep or solid beep as you rotate the hand wheel one full revolution Pe Main Figure 45 X Motion Sensor Test SLOWLY push machine left and right Pulsing beep increasing in frequency as you pu
8. machine head has been Check that the machine is threaded correctly threaded incorrectly or Inspect for accidental double wrapping of thread on thread guides thread spools are not Inspect the thread mast making sure the eyelets of the mast are directly over the spools positioned correctly Inspect the vertical positioning of the thread cones Tipped cones can dramatically affect thread tension and can cause breakage Particles in tension discs Inspect for particles and remove any fuzz or debris Bobbin rotation is not smooth Change the bobbin The slightest hesitation of the bobbin rotation can be the cause of dramatic tension change and thread breakage Needle is burred bent or dull Change the needle at least once per quilt Make sure the needle is installed to the top of the or installed incorrectly stop hole in the needle bar Needle not suited for thread Replace the needle to one better suited for the thread Use the proper size needle Hesitating too long at one Move more quickly so stitches don t overlap or build up When starting the machine begin point in pattern moving immediately Sewing in one place too long will cause the thread to break Improper needle hook Timing of the machine is improper Consult a repair technician relationship Damage or Burr at needle If thread is shredding at the throat plate check for burrs or jagged edges Gently rub with metal hole of throat plate or other cloth to remove the sharp edge Co
9. must be pulled up or flossed between the tension discs or it will stay outside the discs and float without tension causing serious ten sion problems and or thread nests It is also possible to bend the needle while it is threaded if care is not taken while moving the machine around the quilt be cause the top tension is never released Page 13 Optional Horizontal Spool Pin Bobbin and Thread Tension Adjustments Figure 16 Figure 17 1 An optional horizontal spool pin is available for metallic and specialty threads wound on a spool not a cone 2 The horizontal spool pin mounts on the laser stylus guide post on the top of the machine see Figure 146 3 When using threads on the Horizontal Spool Holder skip thread guide A Thread the top hole only of the three hole thread guide B back to front 4 Continue threading the machine as described in steps 3 through 7 on page 13 Figure 18 Inserting the Bobbin Note Turn off the power switch while inserting the bobbin case or anytime your hands are near the needle area 1 Place the bobbin in the bobbin case so that the thread pulls off clockwise when viewing the open Note See HQ Quilting Machines Getting Started side Figure 17 DVD included with your machine for videos show 2 Slide the thread through the slot Figure 18 and ing adjusting bobbin tension and other tips These under the tension spring leaving 5 6 inches of videos are also available o
10. return completed and signed certificate by FAX 1 801 294 3011 or MAIL Handi Quilter 445 N 700W North Salt Lake UT 84054 Retain a copy for your records 12 20 2013 Page 37 This page was intentionally left blank Page 38 HQ Avant User Manual This page was intentionally left blank Page 38 HQ Avant User Manual Handi Quilter eo em em o e e S em a e Se wm ep e Designed by a Quilter for Quilters Handi Quilter Inc 445 N 700 W North Salt Lake UT 84054 1 877 697 8458 www handiquilter com b 2009 Handi Quilter Inc All rights reserved Printed in the USA 04 18 14
11. slowly move the carriage left and right you should hear a pulsing beep that pulses faster as you move faster A solid beep no beep or periods of irregular beeping with constant motion indicate a problem with the X encoder The most likely cause of a problem is a stitch regulator wheel that is not making consistent contact with the track Check the spring tension on the sensor assembly on the carriage to assure that it will easily return to the fully extended position after being compressed Also assure that the track is straight with no dips or indentations and that it is clean and free of contamination Other causes are an unplugged or damaged cable or possibly an issue with the main control board Figure 47 Page 25 Press the Main button to return to the Regulated or Diagnostics Manual menu screen or the Back button to return to the More menu screen Remove bobbin case and top thread Motor Speed Sensor Test Clear all objects from the needle area The Speed Sensor test can help you determine whether Press Start Stop on Handle or not there is a problem with the HOI Avant speed l sensor Before performing this test remove the bobbin Passing Test E case and the top thread Press the Start button and the The value stabilizes at 100 machine will begin slowly rotating The white box will show a number that should stabilize at 100 if the sensor is functioning properly Pressing Start again will stop th
12. stirrup or tension spring are all threaded correctly Replace or correctly change the needle Make sure that the needle is pushed up into the needle bar clamp until it can go no farther visually check that it is up to the top of the stop sight hole above the needle bar clamp screw Failure to do so can cause damage in the bobbin area and throat plate Correctly position the needle throat plate or hopping foot Replace with a new needle Stitches are Puckered gt The tension is not balanced Needle too large for material Stitch Quality is Poor gt The tension is not balanced Bobbin case is damaged corroded dirty etc Moving the machine too fast for needle speed selected Encoder wheels do not consistently touch the track HandiQuilter com gt Balance the tension of the needle thread after ensuring the bobbin tension is adjusted correctly see page 12 Replace the needle with a size better suited for the fabric Corrective Measure Adjust the tension of the needle thread after ensuring the bobbin tension is adjusted correctly see page 12 Since thread slides over the surface of the bobbin case at a high speed make sure the case is free of any lint or foreign matter that could impede thread passage through the machine Synchronize machine movement and needle speed to get roughly 8 10 stitches per inch Elongated stitches are an indication of moving the machine too fast for the current speed Cle
13. that your machine is turned on and that the power cord is plugged into the machine as well as a power source Installing the Power Cord Figure 6 Page 8 Insert the cord into top power connector on the rear of the machine Plug the three prong end into a power source see Figure 6 The lower power connector is for powering other attachments developed by Handi Quilter Not yet available HQ Avant User Manual Inserting or changing the Needle Figure 7 1 Check that all power is turned off 2 Move the needle bar to the highest position by turning the hand wheel or by pressing the needle up down control on the handles prior to turning the power off 3 Loosen the needle bar clamp thumb screw see Photo 3 4 With the scarf small ground out section dip on the back side of the needle just above the needle eye facing the rear hand wheel side of the ma chine and the long groove down the front of the needle facing the bobbin case side see Figure 7 push the needle all the way up into the needle bar until it can go no farther Look into the sight hole to verify that the butt of the needle reaches the top of the sight hole 5 Carefully tighten the needle bar clamp screw Over tightening the needle clamp screw will result in damaged threads stripping the hole Stripped holes are not covered under warranty Another side ef fect of damaged threads from over tightening that the needle may be very
14. tight when inserted up into the needle bar To avoid over tightening the screw finger tighten only Note Changing the needle is recommended for each new quilt loaded on the machine or any time the needle becomes bent dull or burred Important Check the needle to confirm that it is fully inserted The needle bar has a stop sight hole above the needle bar clamp screw make sure the needle HandiQuilter com is touching the top of the stop sight hole Figure 7 If itis not the machine timing will be off and it may be possible for the needle to collide with internal parts causing damage not covered by warranty Changing the Handi Feet Your machine came with two Handi Feet a ruler foot and an open toe foot Use the ruler foot for ruler work and everyday quilting and the open toe foot when you need greater stitch visibility such as micro quilting Other Handi Feet are available such as the Handi Feet Couching Kit 1 Remove the foot that is on the mount by using the 2 5mm hex wrench to loosen the mounting screw far enough that you can slide the foot off of the mount Slide the desired foot onto the mount figure 8 Note that the opening on the side of the foot is lined up with the screw hole Push the Handi Foot up as far as it will go 3 Ensure the foot is centered with the needle when the foot is fully tightened with the 2 5mm hex wrench If it isn t properlycentered loosen the lock
15. to the More menu screen Figure 49 Press one of the handlebar keys Passing Test Keypad Test The name of the key is shown below The Keypad test allows the user to press any of the four keys on the front or back handles to verify that the HO Avant is reading the buttons as they are pressed When a key is pressed the name of the key that is pressed will appear in the white box When it is released the name will disappear Perform this test on the rear display for the rear keys and the front display for the front keys Figure 50 No name or the wrong name below Press the Main button to return to the Regulated or Figure 50 Manual menu screen or the Back button to return to the More menu screen Page 26 HQ Avant User Manual HQ STITCH REGULATOR OPERATION Choose from Two Types of Stitch Regulation Cruise or Precision In regulation mode the status box at the top left of the screen should say Regulated If it says Manual simply press the Regulated button on the touch screen to switch from Manual mode to Regulated mode IMPORTANT NOTES ABOUT TURNING STITCH REGULATION ON OR OFF You can stop the machine at any time by pushing either the Start Stop or the Needle Up Down key on the handles In Cruise Regulation mode if you don t move the machine after 3 or 4 seconds the machine will stop and position the needle In Precision Regulation mode
16. to take up lever hopping foot levers bushings bearings Handi Quilter Inc Customer Service Department 445 N 700 West North Salt Lake Utah 84054 12 17 09 HQ Avant User Manual Warranty Registration 11 08 10 Return this registration card within 30 days of purchase or if you prefer register online at erue EE EE MAIL TO Handi Quilter Inc Warranty Registration 445 N 700 W North Salt Lake Utah 84054 WARRANTY REGISTRATION CARD The HQ Quilting Machine warranty is 10 years manufacturer s warranty on casting and machining of the case 2 years medhanical and 1 year electronic electrical Check with your local HQ Representative for details on getting service or gang warranty claims stomer Name nipany Business Name if any dB 30 dys ofurcha Address State Zip With Ze omi Day Phone Evening Phone L c Fax Email d buitting Machine Model circle one HQ18 Avante HQ24 Fusion HQ Sixteen HQ Sweet Sixteen his r UN Order Number 5 digits E this o Ka c 3 oO lge Date Date Machine Received aca of Purchase City State pP of use intended LJ Home Personal LI Some commercial L Other Q Shared w Friends Q Mostly commercial Cut aldalg dottgd line an mail o Level of machine quilting skills Q Novice LJ Intermediate H Experienced Skill adjusting sewing machines U Novice H Intermediate L Experienced HandiQuilter co
17. up Wrap the thread around your index finger and while pulling up on the thread and gently wiggling the finger front to back not up and down which is not consistent the bobbin case should lift up on its side but NOT lift out of your hand If it will not lift up onto its side itis too loose and if it lifts out of your hand itis too tight The small screw in the center of the tension spring is where the adjustment is made see Figure 21 Turn clockwise to tighten and counter clockwise to loosen the bobbin case tension Check your bobbin tension every time a new bobbinis inserted Figure 21 Page 15 Top Thread Tension Adjustment Important Top tension should be adjusted only after the bobbin case foundation tension adjustment is made Puckering gathers and thread breakage occur when the top tension is too tight Loops and thread nests occur on the back when the top thread tension is too loose Tension may need to be adjusted depending on the fabric thread or batting you are using on each project To adjust the top tension tighter turn the tension knob clockwise To loosen the tension turn the tension knob counter clockwise Unlike the bobbin case adjustment which requires minute adjustments like the tick of a clock the top tension knob might need to be turned anywhere from 1 4 of a turn to 2 4 turns to achieve balanced tension Note Before adjusting your top tension remember to floss or pull the top thread
18. what the cruise speed is set to or you press the Stop button on the handles The Cruise speed can be adjusted using the and buttons that appear below the Cruise button when Cruise mode is selected Cruise speed can be adjusted between 396 and 5096 Figure 32 The start indicator box which is the box at the top center of the screen will change from red to green as soon as you press the Start button on the handles If you are in Precision mode the needle will not start moving until you start moving the machine so this green indicator shows that the Start command was accepted and the machine is ready to begin stitching In Cruise mode the red box will turn to green and the needle will begin stitching immediately at the set Cruise speed On Off Indicator If the machine does not sense that it has been moved in any direction after it has been started it will automatically stop regulation mode and the start indicator box will turn red When in Precision mode this happens when no movement of the machine has been detected for two minutes A system message will appear on the screen to warn the user the machine has stopped This box is cleared by pressing the OK button In Cruise mode the machine will stop stitching after about three seconds if no movement has occurred For information on other buttons on this screen please refer back to the Manual Mode screen Figure 33 More Menu The Mo
19. will be based on that type of thread Page 21 You can store three Bobbin Thread Capacity preset HandiQuilter com 6 GSAS P S Elz aa Figure 38 Volume Uu GR Overspeed Alarm O EON e Op Figure 39 Figure 40 Timers There are two useful timers The first top timer is a reminder timer It enables you to set an alarm to go off after a specific period of time similar to a kitchen timer Use the and buttons to set the time duration Then press the play button to activate the timer When the time duration has elapsed an alarm will sound and a message appears on the display Figure 38 The second bottom timer enables you to track how much time you spend on a quilt project When you begin a new project press the Reset button Then press the play button to begin recording your quilting time The timer records when the machine is quilting The time is saved even when the machine is turned off When you begin another quilting session quilting time is added to the timer Only press Reset when you want to zero out the timer and begin a new timing session Sound Screen The Volume portion of this screen has two buttons and a sliding control Pressing on the Mute button turns the alarm volume off Pressing the Max button turns the volume to its loudest level Pressing the sliding control in any position sets the volume to the level indicated in that control
20. 7 Note A set of Handi Quilter Getting Started DVDs is included with your HOI Avant machine Review the DVDs and these instructions to better understand how to set up and use the HQ Avant Safety Section This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules Operation is subject to the following two conditions 1 This device may not cause harmful interference and 2 this device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause undesired operation Please note Do not operate your HOI Avant quilting machine until you have completely read the information contained in this manual Please keep all packaging and order information for warranty purposes 1 The HQ Avant is very heavy Never attempt to lift it alone always use two people when lifting 2 Always unplug the HOT Avant from the electrical outlet when performing any maintenance changing the needle removing thread locks or when left unattended 3 Keep fingers away from all moving parts Use caution around the needle or sharp external components 4 Change the needle often Do not use bent or dull needles Every quilt deserves a new needle 5 Switch the power off when making any adjustments in the needle or bobbin area such as threading the needle installing the bobbin case or when oiling or cleaning 6 Never drop or insert foreign objects into any opening 7 The HQ Avant should only be used indoors away from moistur
21. M fabrics used in quilting may constrict or impede the thread e e a passing through the front groove of the needle This EEE diminishes the loop lift required for stitch formation Typically Overspeed Alarm a larger needle will solve the problem however it has been ge On found that certain smaller sizes of needles as well as the use M O Off of ball pointed needles solve some specific problems Position the needle properly to the needle bar Inspect the e position of the needle to make sure the needle is at the 6 o clock position see Photo 16 If you stand directly in front of the needle facing the bobbin case side of the machine you will see the entire needle eye directly facing you This is 6 o clock position Make sure 1 the needle is installed all the way into the needle bar to the needle stop hole in the needle bar 2 the long groove in the needle is toward the front bobbin case side and 3 the scarf scooped out part of the needle is toward the handwheel The needle can sometimes be rotated to 5 o clock slightly right or 7 o clock slightly left in order to adjust for a more positive thread loop pickup by the hook point Loosen pole tension on the frame Fabric that is rolled too tight causes the fibers to separate This reduces the needle friction on the thread resulting in a smaller thread loop Loosen top tension Re check top and bobbin tension see pages 12 13 Inspect that the thread take up lever thread
22. an the track and the rubber wheel on each encoder Even a tiny speck on the wheel can cause problems with regulation Check the spring tension on the encoder assemblies If the retaining nut is even slightly too tight it can prevent the wheel from properly pressing against the track Page 29 Troubleshooting Tension is Poor Corrective Measure gt Fuzz caught under the If using short staple threads inexpensive or industrial threads or coated threads lint and other tension spring in the bobbin material will build up under the tension leaf spring and begin to lift the spring reducing the spring s ability to compress against the thread By inserting a needle under the spring and clearing out the lint the bobbin tension will return fairly close to its preset tension gt Poorly wound bobbin If the bobbin is wound too tight or too loose this can lead to poor and inconsistent tension Make sure when the bobbin is wound that the thread tension is not so tight that the wound bobbin thread feels hard and causes the bobbin to bulge when it is wound It should also not be so loose that the thread is spongy causing the thread to tangle as it is wound Hand Wheel Won t Corrective Measure Rotate gt Thread is entangled and gt Turn off the machine and unplug the machine from the electrical outlet Lubricate the hook caught in the hook strongly turn the hand wheel clockwise and if necessary counterclockwise several times and then remove th
23. ays sew a scrap piece as oil may cling to thread Over oiling can cause excess dripping from the bobbin assembly Lack of lubricant may be noticed by a change in the sound of the machine and will affect stitch quality Cleaning the Touch Screen Display Never use any chemicals to clean your display as this may adversely affect the touch screen response Use a soft rag dampened with isopropyl alcohol and gently wipe the display to remove any marks HQ Avant User Manual Using the Touch Screen Displays on the Handlebars Machine and Handlebar Menus _ Manual ees Presets Manual b im ff Needle Stop O Gates Down Figure 23 Needle Stop O Gates Down Figure 24 HandiQuilter com Note Review the Handi Quilter Welcome DVD for inter active instruction on the HQ Avant menu functions The HQ Avant has touch screen displays on the front and rear handlebars Settings may be changed at either of these locations Main Screen Manual Mode Screen Button Functions Pressing the Regulated button while in the Manual Mode Screen will toggle to the Regulated Mode Screen The current stitching mode is displayed at the top left corner of the screen Different options are available depending upon which mode the system is in Figure 23 Needle Stop When in Needle Up mode indicated by a white circle the needle ends in the Up position upon pressing the Stop button on the handle
24. can Its purpose is to maintain even stitches while quilting at an appropriate speed You can return to manual mode by pushing the Manual button below the Regulated button on the touch screen display Page 27 Getting Started Quilting Thread Requirements Threads have a tendency to dry rot over a period of time Be sure to choose high quality threads for your valuable heirloom quilts Most machine quilting threads on the market today are acceptable Needle Requirements For general quilting a size 16 100 needle will accommodate most threads and fabrics Heavier threads such as top stitch and some decorative threads require a larger needle such as 18 110 or 20 120 Lofty batts and heavier fabrics such as denim canvas or densely woven fabric may also require a larger needle To Prepare for Quilting With any quilting machine it is important to understand the basics of free motion quilting The HQ Avant Quilting Machine does not have feed dogs like domestic machines therefore the fabric does not automatically feed under the hopping foot The operator should synchronize the speed as well as the movement of the machine to get an even consistent stitch In order to become comfortable with the free motion of the HOI Avant users can begin with a few beginner techniques In Manual Mode Set the machine at a medium speed and begin moving it until you become accustomed to the resistance By moving the machine fa
25. certificate These representatives have been selected for their dedication to customer satisfaction and superior service They provide follow up advice training service accessories and other services Representatives may offer their own warranties in addition to those offered by the manufacturer but do not obligate the manufacturer HQ QUILTING MACHINE LIMITED WARRANTY Handi Quilter Inc hereinafter HQ offers a limited warranty on the HQ QUILTING MACHINE hereinafter Machine to be free of defects in workmanship and materials under normal use upon the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth a 90 day Limited Warranty During the first 90 days from date of purchase HQ will repair any manufacturing defect without charge for parts or labor All subsequent warranties include parts costs only b 10 year Limited Manufacturer s Warranty HQ warrants the sewing head is free of casting or machining imperfections causing product failure This warranty does not extend to mechanical or electronic electrical parts which are covered under a separate warranty or consequential damage to the head caused by mechanical or electronic electrical part failures beyond their warranty period c 2 year Mechanical Warranty For any mechanical failure within this period manufacturer will provide free replacement parts customer pays for labor and shipping See warranty exclusions d 2 year electronic electrical warranty The electric electronic components
26. e 8 The HQ Avant should not be stored or used in extreme temperatures 9 Use the HQ Avant only for its intended use as described in this manual 10 Use only attachments recommended by the manufacturer 11 To disconnect from the wall outlet push the switch to the off position then remove the plug from outlet pulling from the plug not the cord Never operate the HQ Avant if the cord is damaged or not working correctly If a mechanical or electrical problem is encountered return the HOT Avant to the nearest authorized service center or the manufacturer for examination repair electrical or mechanical adjustment Page 4 12 It is not recommended that the HQ Avant Quilting Machine be used with any machine quilting frame other than those recommended by Handi Quilter General Specifications The HQ Avant utilizes high tech electronics and an innovative touch pad user interface to offer greater functionality and ease of operation to home quilters than ever before conceived in the quilting industry The HQ Avant quilting machine is a high quality machine that incorporates very robust design features and is very easy to service Sewing Opening Dimensions Sewing Speed Stitches Per Inch Needle System Needle Sizes recommended Hook System Bobbin Type Bobbin Case Motor Type Needle Positioning Electrical Power LED Power Consumption Sew Foot Stroke Lift Needle Bar S
27. e machine Figure 48 Back Main Press the Main button to return to the Regulated or Manual menu screen or the Back button to return to the More menu screen Figure 48 Y Motion Sensor Test Use the Y Motion Sensor test to verify functionality of Diagnostics the Y stitch regulator encoder the encoder mounted to the rear power pod side machine wheel As you SLOWLY push machine front and back slowly move the carriage toward and away from you you Passing Test should hear a pulsing beep that pulses faster as you move faster A solid beep no beep or periods of irregu Pulsing beep increasing In frequency lar beeping with constant motion indicate a problem as you push the machine faster aihe omode The most likely cause of a problem is a stitch regulator No beep or solid beep as you move wheel that is not making consistent contact with the the machine forward and back track Check the spring tension on the sensor assembly on the machine to assure that it will easily return to the Back Main fully extended down position after being compressed Also assure that the track is straight with no dips or in dentations and that it is clean and free of contamination Other causes are an unplugged or damaged cable or pos sibly an issue with the main control board Figure 49 Diagnostics Press the Main button to return to the Regulated or Manual menu screen or the Back button to return
28. e thread caught in the hook Thread Nests Under Quilt Corrective Measure gt Not enough tension on top gt Check that the machine is threaded correctly Make certain that the thread is flossed snugly in thread place between the two tension discs If machine is threaded correctly tighten top tension by rotating the tension knob clockwise gt Improper threading Refer to threading diagram and threading instructions page 12 Hard to Guide Machine Corrective Measure Carriage wheels not centered Center the carriage wheels on top of the continuous track Check that the machine carriage has on track not jumped track gt Remove all thread or debris in wheels Check that the tracks are free of lint and threads gt Thread caught in wheels Motor Fails to Run Corrective Measure On Off switch turned off gt Turn the machine on by using the switch on the back power pod gt Machine not receiving power gt Check that the power connector is securely plugged into the back of the machine and the three prong end is plugged into the power source Uneven Quilt Design Corrective Measure Take up rollers may be gt Make certain the fabric is not rolled too tight causing the poles to bow Check that poles are bowed or bent inserted completely together with the push pin engaged so bowing won t occur gt Leaders are stretched worn gt If fabric is beginning to stretch or fray contact Handi Quilter f
29. eedle will not begin moving when you press the Start Stop key until you begin moving the machine When quilting relax your hands and maintain a light touch on the handlebars Gripping the handlebars too tightly may cause body tension resulting in poor quilting quality The HQ Avant combined with the Avant Frame system will give you a smooth even glide HQ Avant User Manual Troubleshooting Stitches are Skipping gt The needle is damaged dull bent or installed improperly gt Incorrect needle size gt The needle has not been positioned properly Fabric is too tight on the frame Thread tension too tight Improper threading The needle is bent or not installed properly gt The needle hits the throat plate Replace the needle often normally once or twice per day for continuous quilting or at least once per quilt Use HQ 18 Avant recommended needles Always change the needle if the needle has struck any hard object such as a straight pin etc The tip of the needle can become damaged or burred resulting in fabric damage as well as skipped stitches thread breakage or shredding Always change the needle if it has been hit bumped or pulled off center while maneuvering the machine about the quilt A slightly bent needle can be a major cause of skipped stitches Check for the proper size of needle for the work and thread Sond being applied to the quilting operation Some battings and U
30. ely in place Use the nut to secure the post to the machine 2 Be sure the laser stylus is inserted into the laser clamp 3 Slide the laser clamp over the post to the desired height 4 Plug the laser into the top port on the side of the front electronic control pod see Figure 11 For use at rear of machine To attach the laser stylus to the side of the machine 1 Place the nut on the laser stylus post with the washer under it and thread the laser post into the threaded hole see Figure 1 411 page 5 near the rear wheel base Turn until securely in place Lock in place with lock nut The washer will be under the nut to protect the machine paint An unused spool pin can also be used to mount the laser Follow steps 2 4 above Locate the threaded hole on top of the machine near the rear by the hand wheel The thread mast comes with the washer and nut on it Remove the nut and washer replace the nut onto the mast and then place the washer under the nut and onto the machine painted surface The washer protects the painted surface when the nut is tightened Tighten the mast clockwise until it is securely in place Use the nut to secure the mast to the machine Note The eyelets of the thread mast MUST be centered over the spool pins This ensures that the cone of thread will not pull turn or tilt causing thread tension problems see Figure 12 Page 11 Threading the Machine TAKE UP SPRING TENSION ASSEMBLY
31. ey to stop the machine the indicator will turn red showing that the needle will not move when you move the machine Always make sure the indicator is RED when you are in Precision Regulation mode prior to working with your hands near the needle changing the needle replacing the bobbin etc to avoid unwanted stitching in your quilt or your hands If you leave the HQ Avant in Precision Regulation mode with the start indicator box green and do not move the machine for two minutes the system will time out and a message box will appear This indicates that the system has stopped and you will need to press the Start button again to resume quilting When to Use Precision Regulation Mode Precision Regulation mode is especially useful for ruler work Stitch along the length of the ruler for the span of your hand and stop When you stop moving the machine the needle pauses Do not turn off the machine Move the ruler and commence quilting The Precision Regulation helps you avoid bobbles and uneven stitches Quilting Speed While in Stitch Regulation Mode It is important not to move the machine too fast since this will result in an OVERSPEED CONDITION during which the machine cannot maintain stitch regulation until you slow your motions to an appropriate speed The Overspeed Alarm will alert you to this condition giving you the signal to slow down Stitch regulation is not a license to move the machine as fast as you
32. m Page 35 This page was intentionally left blank Page 36 HQ Avant User Manual Cut along dotted line and mail or fax this registration information within 30 days of purchase HQ Quilting Machine Set upand Training Checklist amp Certificate You are entitled to a free Introductory Training Class on the use of your HQ Quilting Machine as well as free Za adjustments for 60 days and any repairs covered by the warranty Present this checklist to your Authorized ef Ss HQ Quilting Machine Rep to receive these free services Table Adjusting length Not applicable for HQ Sweet Sixteen Adjusting height Machine Set up Identify the main parts of the machine and where they are located Ensure machine is properly mounted to the carriage or table Check all cable connections Ensure power outlet is available and does not cause a trip hazard Recommend and explain the importance of a power strip with surge protection for the machine Leveling the table machine How to wind a bobbin including adjusting the tensioner and the capacity lever How to load a quilt E Machine Operation all machines How to turn the machine on and off How to thread the machine properly Setting the lower tension bobbin case teach the drop test Setting the upper tension Using the Menus Go through each menu and explai
33. n Go through HQ Workbook e Bringing Up Bobbin Thread e How to Tie Off e How to change the Handi Feet Machine Operation HOP Avant HQ Fusion HQ Sixteen only Changing from Stitch Regulation to Manual and back Setting the speed in Manual Setting the stitches per inch in Stitch Regulated Light settings Cruise Stitch known as Stitch Regulation in HQ Sixteen Precision Stitch not applicable for HQ Sixteen How to use the front and rear handlebars How to change the needle How to use the Laser Pointer stylus Use the included Pantograph HandiQuilter com Handi Quilter Designed by a Quilter for Quilters Sweet Sixteen cine How to use the foot control How to use the color touch screen Explain functions of touch screen displays How to set Presets and My Speed How to use Needle up down tie off button Machine Maintenance How to oil the bobbin hook where how and when How to clean the bobbin hook area How to clean wheels and tracks where applicable Customer Name Customer Signature Training Date Trainer Name Rep Signature HQ Rep Business Name Business City and State Province HQ Quilting Machine Model circle one HOP Avant HQ Fusion HQ Sixteen HQ Sweet Sixteen Machine Serial Number Representative To register training services provided
34. n damage your eyes Limit the use of the UV lights to avoid permanent eye damage Using UV A B blocking sunglasses will reduce eye strain and limit the effects of prolonged exposure to UV lighting CAUTION Users who have had cataract surgery should not use the UV lighting unless they have had UV A B blocking replacement lenses implanted as part of the surgery Page 23 System Information SEIEN oa HD108151976 Type Board Firmware Stitch Counters Min 000008375 zia 000000000 Figure 43 1 Needle Ja Keys Y Motion b Figure 44 SEV Motion M Page 24 System Information The serial number of the machine is displayed at the top of the System Information screen This number matches the one found on the label at the back of the machine under the rear handlebar Information contained in the white boxes below the serial number identifies the electronics board revision numbers as well as the firmware revision numbers of the HQ Avant and its handlebars The Lifetime and Trip or project stitch counters count the number of stitches the machine is performed The Lifetime count is the total number of stitches made since the machine was built The Trip Counter can be reset to keep track of the number of stitches made during a given project To reset this counter press the blue Reset button just to the left of the Trip box The Lifetime counter cannot be reset and should be used as an
35. n www HandiQuilter com thread hanging loose Figure 19 next page Page 14 HQ Avant User Manual game e SPRING Figure 19 Figure 20 3 Turn off the power switch while inserting the bobbin case or anytime the hands are near the needle area 4 Do not lift the lever on bobbin case When placing the machine fit the bobbin case onto the hook spindle in the machine Rotate the casing until the open throat keys into the alignment notch in the middle of the hook Push the casing in until it stops in place Push inward until it clicks see Figure 20 Note It is not suggested that the lever on the bobbin case be used for this installation The latch lever should be used only for removal of the bobbin case HandiQuilter com Drawing the Bobbin Thread to the Top of the Quilt 1 After the machine is threaded locate needle up needle down button on the left handle 2 While firmly holding the tail of the needle thread with the left hand press the needle up down button with right hand bringing the needle back to the up position 3 Pull the machine 3 4 inches away while holding the needle thread 4 Bobbin thread will pull up and through to the top allowing you to grasp the loop and pull it to the desired length Bobbin Tension The bobbin tension is the foundation tension for the entire machine To test that bobbin tension is correct hold the bobbin case in the palm of your hand with the open end facing
36. ndles to the top of the machine Insert and hand tighten the remaining two handlebar bolts Use the included 5 mm Hex wrench to securely fas ten the handles to the front of the machine Once the bolts are in place plug the 9 pin connector into the serial port located on the left hand side of the machine see Figure 2 18 page 6 Ensure the pins are lined up so they are not damaged when the plug is pushed in Push the plug securely in place Installing Rear Handlebars Check that the HO Avant is unplugged from the electrical outlet All power to the machine must be turned off when installing the back handlebar Failure to do so can result in damage to the machine The rear handle bar comes mounted with three screws to the L bracket Line up the two holes in the L bracket with those on the rear of the machine Slide the short bolts into holes until they stop Hand tighten and then use the 5mm wrench to securely fasten the handles to the back of the machine Once the two bolts are in place plug the 9 pin connector into the serial port underneath the rear handles Ensure the pins are lined up so they are not damaged when the plug is pushed in Push the plug securely in place Note After the handles have been completely installed and plugged in test them by turning the HOT Avant on off switch to on If nothing is displayed check that the handlebar cable on the side of the machine is plugged in securely
37. ne 1 Micro Handles 2 Needle 135x5 size 16 pack of 10 2 Ruler Base 3 Needle 135x5 size 18 pack of 10 3 Horizontal Spool Pin 4 Bobbin Case 4 Groovy Board Stylus and Adaptor 5 Thread Mast 5 HQ Pro Stitcher 6 Pin Oiler 7 Lint Brush 8 Screwdriver 9 Power Cord 10 2 5 mm L Allen tool 11 3 mm L Allen tool 12 5 mm L Allen tool 13 Laser Stylus and Clamp 14 Laser Stylus Post 15 Open toe Handi Foot 16 Extra encoder O ring 17 HQ Quilting Machines Getting Started DVD 18 User Manual 19 HO Avante Quilting Machine Page 2 HQ Avant User Manual Table of Contents Page Mie Cie ANO RIA CN Inside Front Cover Solely Seco Aere 5 Components Front Side View 6 Components Back Side Rear and Front Views 7 instalation Framas EE 8 Installation Handlebars Power Cord EE 9 Ier EE 9 Changing the Handi GEET 9 installation Laser StylUS EE 10 Installation d Hai Le RE 11 Threading the Machine EE 12 Horizontal SOOO PIN WEE 14 Bobbin and Thread Tension Adjustments 0 cece cece cece he 14 Top Thread Tension Adjustment sce e oar rene Rol a dieci E em ca uen e town De Hub td dec pe o de dowd es 15 Maintenance Oiling and Lubricating III 16 et ek eg en DI 9 ENEE 17 System Information EE 24 Bepe e LE EE 24 HQ Stitch Regulator Operation EE 27 Getting Started Quilting EE 28 Ree nee Lei EE 29 Warranty Information EE 33 Warranty Registration EC HE 35 Installation and Training Checklist EE 3
38. nsult a repair technician to polish any hard to reach or thread handling part delicate areas or if the burr is inside the throat Wrong type of needle Use needles recommended by Handi Quilter Using the wrong needle with a smaller shank diameter causes many problems For example a system 1738 or 287WH needle with a shank diameter of 1 64mm will fit loosely into the needle bar clamp This condition allows the needles to fit into the clamp at an angle which may cause problems including skipped stitches and the needle positioned too far away from the hook point Other possible problems Needle too close to hook causing friction and possible collision of hook point and needle broken thread Needle plate damage Hook damage Broken needles or damaged needle bar clamp No Visible Display Corrective Measure gt Cable unplugged Check the communication cable that connects the handlebar to the casing of the machine and make sure that the connections are secure If the troubleshooting above does not eliminate the problem please consult an authorized HQ Avant representative HandiQuilter com Page 31 445 N 700 W p North Salt Lake UT 84054 Handi J p Phone 801 292 7988 877 697 8458 P uilter Fax 801 294 3011 E mail sales handiquilter com Designed by a Quilter for Quilters WWW Hand iQu Ite rcom Warranty issues should whenever possible be first submitted to the Representative who completed your service training
39. nter row Turn lights on or off by touching the Light Power button Use the other buttons to indicate which light groups are on when the light power is on Figure 41 Touch Main Lights to enable the six white lights on each side of the handlebars Touch the Center UV button to enable the center row of lights on each side of the handlebars If UV lights are installed in the center row turn off the main lights when using them by pressing Main Lights Touch All Lights to enable all rows of lights You will be prompted that you shouldn t turn on all lights if UV lights are installed Note that you can replace the UV lights with white lights if you want more white lights for quilting Figure 42 UV lighting UV lighting can be very useful when trying to view white thread or white chalk on white fabric The best contrast is achieved when viewed in a dark or dimly lit room Although Handi Quilter has chosen to use UV lights which emit a light wavelength at the lowest end of the UV spectrum to minimize eye strain and damage constant or direct exposure to any UV lighting can cause eye strain and may lead to permanent eye damage Be careful and avoid looking directly at the UV lights which emit a violet colored light The UV lights should only be used when other lighting sources cannot produce the visual contrast necessary to achieve accurate quilting CAUTION Looking directly into the UV lights or prolonged exposure to the UV lights ca
40. nut center the foot with the needle hold the foot in position and firmly tighten the lock nut Figure 9 Figure 8 Figure 9 Page 9 Laser Stylus Safety and Use Guidelines Page 10 Figure 10 Theory of Operation The laser stylus projects a straight laser beam visible as a dot on surfaces it hits The laser dot is used as a guide or stylus allowing you to stitch the same pattern onto a quilt that is being traced with the laser dot Laser Operation and Use There is not a separate on off switch for the laser Power is supplied to the laser when it is plugged into the HOI Avant Be sure the laser is attached to the HQ Avant and pointed downward toward the table before connecting it to the port Never point it in a direction that would project the beam into someone s eyes If the laser should cease to operate check to ensure the plug is firmly seated into the HO Avant laser port Caution Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure Laser Focus Laser Image Size This high quality laser is focusable The laser is focused by simply grasping the threaded housing surrounding the lens and turning clockwise or counter clockwise see Figure 10 The laser image can be adjusted bigger or smaller The direction of rotation needed is determined by the distance of the laser from the intended focal plane Experiment by
41. oles 26 Top Laser Stylus Post Hole Rear and Front Views 27 Spool Pin 1 28 Electronic Control Pod C Pod 29 Laser Stylus Power Connector 30 Serial Port for Stitch Regulator 31 Rear Handle Bar Serial Port ob 32 Rear Threaded Handle Holes FA 33 Accessory Power Outlet 34 Power Cord Connector 35 On Off Switch 36 Power Pod P Pod 28 37 Spool Pin 2 38 Bobbin Assembly Rear 29 IS E 30 Page 6 DETAIL A 31 37 Figure 3 HQ Avant User Manual Figure 4 Figure 5 HandiQuilter com Installation Studio Frame Place the carriage on the table rails ensuring that the Carriage Encoder Assembly will be toward the back of the machine the power cord side of the machine The back side of the carriage has an encoder assembly attached to the rear cross piece Be sure to place the carriage on the frame cor rectly see Figure 4 Place the machine on the carriage 3 Plug the Ribbon cable into the Carriage Encoder Assembly The connector is keyed to assure cor rect alignment Make sure the keyed portion of the cable connector aligns with the keyed portion of the encoder connector Do not force 4 The remaining length of cable comes back under
42. or replacement leaders Thread Backlash gt Bobbin thread tangles within gt The bobbin should sit in the bobbin case such that one side is very minimally above the edge the bobbin case tangles and of the bobbin case and if you lightly press down on the bobbin it descends slightly into the case winds onto the hook spindle To adjust the backlash spring place the bobbin in the case and hold it with the bobbin facing up or occasionally forms loops Then use a tiny screw driver to adjust the screw on the outside front shiny surface of the bobbin on the bottom of the quilt case not the screw inside the bobbin case Turn the screw counterclockwise to raise the backlash spring and raise the bobbin or turn it clockwise to lower the backlash spring and lower the bobbin After making an adjustment reinsert the bobbin into the machine bring up the bobbin thread and test stitching Make additional adjustments if necessary Page 30 HQ Avant User Manual Troubleshooting Thread cones spools are Look for severe twisting of threads when approximately 12 to 15 inches has been pulled off poor quality or may have with the ends pinched together Cotton threads are particularly susceptible to dry rot which severe twisting or thread rot makes thread brittle Do not use poor quality thread or thread that is rotted or brittle Top and bobbin tensions not Check thread tension in top and bobbin for proper balance See pages 14 16 balanced The
43. ove warranties may be obtained by returning the quilting machine with proof of purchase to the authorized Representative from whom the machine was purchased a local Representative or to Handi Quilter Customer Support Any product to be returned to the factory either by customers or Representatives must be accompanied by a Return Material Authorization Number RMA RMAs may be obtained by email sales handiquilter com or by calling customer support toll free at 1 877 697 8458 If it is determined that the Product may be defective an RMA number will be issued with instructions for Product return An unauthorized return a return without an RMA number will be shipped back to customer at customer s expense Authorized returns are to be shipped prepaid and insured in an approved shipping container The original box and packaging materials should be kept for storing or shipping Shipping Costs Shipping is the responsibility of the customer Product Service and Maintenance Page 34 Replace needles every 2 4 hours 1 2 per large quilt and lubricate bobbin hook every 3 4 hours of use Periodically check the thread tensioner Use a small brush to clean out all lint loose thread or obstructions from the bobbin hook Servicing is recommended annually from a qualified Representative Servicing will cover belt tensioning encoder positioning bearing retainers hook axial play and timing presser and needle bar adjustment and internal lubrication
44. re screen provides access to other functions available on the HQ Avant Figure 34 HQ Avant User Manual Low Bobbin Low Bobbin Alarm The HQ Avant includes a low bobbin capability Bobbin Thread Capacity so you can estimate how soon your bobbin thread will run out This Low Bobbin Capacity is based on CH ETT ZEN an estimate of how much of a particular thread can Remaining Bobbin Thread fit on a bobbin in combination with other quilting factors such as tension stitches per inch and how New Bobbin 100 0 Yards A much bobbin thread you pull up when beginning and ending your quilting Figure 35 and 36 on next Bobbin Thread Capacity Presets page Lin AL 100 0 430 0 200 0 To estimate how many yards of thread is on a Back Man bobbin place a full bobbin in the machine and under the heading Bobbin Thread Capacity press the Record button Figure 36 Quilt as usual Figure 35 When the bobbin runs out press the square Stop Recording button and note how many yards is Low Bobbin Alarm indicated under the Bobbin Thread Capacity Figure Bobbin Thread Capacity 36 perhaps 210 yards Since you want a warning as to when the bobbin is getting low use the button gt Ss 100 0 Yards to specify a lower number such as 195 yards Save e that as one of the Bobbin Thread Capacity Presets Remaining Bobbin Thread You might want to make a note as to which type of New Bobbin
45. rns green when you press the Start button on the handles to indicate the needle is in motion When you press Figure 26 Stop the box will turn red Figure 27 Figure 27 Regulated Mode Screen Button Functions 0 A Pressing the or buttons near the top right portion of the screen will increase or decrease the stitches per inch SPI setting The setting is reflected in the white indicator box at the top right Regulated portion of the screen This value can be adjusted between 4 and 18 stitches per inch Figure 28 Stitch Mode Regulated B tManual Precision Needle Stop el rv Down Figure 28 Page 18 HQ Avant User Manual Regulated 0 5 Baste HS LA Stitch Mode SR Style Figure 29 OR Style Precision Figure 30 Regulated I0 SPI Stitch Mode SR Style Figure 31 HandiQuilter com O se B Basting Stitches There are four basting stitch settings controlled by the stitches per inch function After the SPI reaches its lowest stitch setting of 4 stitches per inch pressing the button will activate the basting settings e 0 5 inch baste one stitch every half inch movement of the machine e 1 inch baste one stitch every one inch movement of the machine e 2 inch baste one stitch every two inches of movement of the machine e 4 inch baste one stitch every four inches of movement of the machine After selecting the basting stitch set
46. s This button does not move the needle but simply determines the final needle position after the machine has been stopped Figure 24 When in Needle Down mode the radio button is white when activated the needle ends in the Down position upon pressing the Stop button on the handles Again this button does not move the needle but sets the final resting position of the needle after Stop is pressed Page 17 Speed Pressing the Speed will increase the manual mode motor speed and pressing the Speed button will decrease the manual mode motor speed This has the same effect as pressing the and but tons on the actual handles The speed range is be tween 596 and 10096 or between 90 and 1800 stitch es per minute SPM The percent speed is displayed in the white box at the top of the screen Figure 25 Manual Presets Save up to three manual mode preset speeds to Stitch Mode quickly switch between speed preferences For example you may prefer a slower speed when Regulated using rulers and a faster speed when doing all over p meandering quilting Use the and buttons to VENEL J lac i adjust the speed percentage and then press one of the mmm e record buttons next to the preset value to store that Needle Ke 0 speed as a preset When you want to use one of the preset speeds simply press the speed Figure 26 On Off Indicator The box in the center of the top bar tu
47. sh the machine faster No beep or solid beep as you move the machine left and right Figure 46 HandiQuilter com Diagnostics Tests Motor Sensor Test The Motor Sensor test can help you determine whether they may be a problem with the HOT Avant motor Slowly rotating the handwheel should result in a pulsing audible beep If you get a constant solid beep or no beep at all this indicates a failed test and the machine should be inspected by a qualifed Handi Quilter repair technician Figure 45 Press the Main button to return to the Regulated or Manual menu screen or the Back button to return to the More menu screen Needle Sensor Test The Needle Sensor test will indicate whether the needle position sensor is functioning properly Rotating the handwheel should result in a beep for half of a stitch cycle followed by no beep for the other half Figure 46 If you hear a constant beep or no beep at all for a full 360 rotation of the handwheel this indicates a failed test and the machine should be inspected by a qualified Handi Quilter repair technician Press the Main button to return to the Regulated or Manual menu screen or the Back button to return to the More menu screen X Motion Sensor Test Use the X Motion Sensor test to verify functionality of the X stitch regulator encoder the encoder mounted at the rear of the carriage As you
48. ster the stitches begin to elongate The stitch speed can either be increased or the machine can be moved slower to get the stitches back to the desired length By moving the machine slower the stitches get shorter and can build up on top of each other breaking the thread or making it extremely difficult to unpick The stitch soeed can be decreased while maintaining a constant motion with the machine to bring the stitches back to the desired length Page 28 In Stitch Regulator Mode Set the machine to desired stitch length Begin moving the machine to become accustomed to the resistance The machine motor will slow down or speed up to maintain a consistent stitch length according to how quickly or slowly you move the machine Moving the machine too fast or in radical or jerky movements will defeat the stitch regulator function In MANUAL or CRUISE REGULATION mode when pressing the Start Stop key on the front or rear handle bars to begin quilting make certain to begin moving the machine immediately If the needle stitches in one place too long the stitches build up on top of each other causing a build up of thread or thread breakage When bringing the machine to a complete stop press the Start Stop key at the same moment the machine stops moving If the machine is still moving when the Start Stop key is pressed it can cause deflection in the needle possibly causing it to bend or break In PRECISION REGULATION mode the n
49. tes some laws do not allow the exclusion of the implied warranties Specific exclusions of warranty limitations include but are not limited to the following e General consequential incidental or special damages including damage to fabric or material the cost of rework or lost profits the cost of installation or removal of any Products and any inspection testing or redesign caused by any defect or by the repair or replacement of Products arising from a defect in any Product e Products which are received by HQ improperly packaged altered or physically damaged e Counterfeit or altered label s or stickers e Broken pins on connectors e Stripped screws or nuts e Connector s damaged cracked missing or broken e Missing torn or punctured seal s HandiQuilter com Page 33 e Any use besides machine quilting applications using customary fabrics threads and accessories e Operator error in the customary use of the Product e Internal adjustments tampering or parts replacement done by anyone except authorized Representatives or customers specifically authorized by Handi Quilter Customer Support or warranty repair personnel on a case by case basis The warranty does not cover and the user assumes the risk of and there is hereby excluded any liability to HQ for failure defects loss deterioration personal injury or damage which are due to 1 ordinary wear and tear or exposure 2 abuse misuse negligence or 3 use of par
50. the Power Pod from the Rear Encoder Assembly behind the machine and into the 9 pin serial port of the machine see Figure 5 5 REMEMBER that if the machine is to be removed from the carriage the cable must be disconnected from the Carriage Encoder Assembly The other two connectors on the cable should remain in place Failure to unplug the cable when remov ing the machine from the carriage could result in damage to the cable encoders and carriage Installation Portable Professional Frame used with HQ Adjustable table or HQ QuilTable 1 Follow the instructions as directed for the Studio Frame with the exception of the carriage encoder orientation On the Portable Professional Frame the carriage encoder is placed at the front of the frame closest to the needle of the machine 2 The ribbon cable routes from the machine encoder under the arm of the machine and plugs into the carriage encoder at the front of the carriage Page 7 Installing Front Handlebars Caution Unplug the HQ Avant from the electrical outlet All power to the machine must be turned off when installing the front handles Failure to do so can result in damage to the machine Locate the three long bolts and the 5mm Hex wrench To install the handlebar line up the holes on top of the handles with the pre drilled holes on top of the machine Slide a single bolt into one of the holes until it stops Hand tighten the bolt enough to secure the ha
51. the needle pauses when you stop moving the machine and will begin stitching again when you start moving the machine Press the Start Stop or Needle Up Down key in Precision Regulation mode to stop the needle completely and cause the needle to position itself in the Needle Up or Down position Cruise Regulation Mode When in Cruise Regulation mode the start indicator box in the top center of the Regulated screen is red When you press the Start Stop key to start the machine the indicator will turn green AND the needle will begin moving up and down The minimum speed of the needle is dependent upon the setting you choose from 3 to 50 Handi Quilter recommends beginning with a setting of 396 When to Use Cruise Regulation Mode The constant minimum stitching speed featured in the Cruise Regulation mode is used for precise placement of stitching when backtracking such as along the tops of feathers or when creating sharp points such as the point of a star or the bottom of a heart Precision Regulation Mode When in Precision Regulation mode the start indicator box in the top center of the Regulated screen is red When you press the Start Stop key to start the machine the indicator will turn green As you start moving the machine it will begin stitching HandiQuilter com When you stop moving the machine the needle pauses sometimes in mid stroke When you press the Start Stop or Needle Up Down k
52. the outside of the tension discs without tension and looping on fabric or thread nests may occur 4 Once the thread is in place be sure that the thread catches on the take up spring and then pull it down under the stirrup thread guide D 5 Bring the thread back up through the take up lever from back to front and then down through thread guide E Pull the thread at the take up lever to ensure that it is properly flossed between the tension disks If it is properly flossed in the tension disks you should feel some resistance as you pull the thread If it is not then the thread will pull freely 6 Pull the thread down to the needle thread guide and thread through the hole thread guide F 7 Make sure the thread is following the groove down the front of the needle and threads from front to back Be careful that the thread does not twist around the needle Important notes The HOT Avant quilting machine does not have a presser foot lever or top tension release like a home sewing machine On a home sewing machine the top tension is released when the presser foot is raised allowing the thread to come freely out of the machine When a home machine is threaded the presser foot is raised and the tension discs are released and open for the thread to easily fall between the tension discs This is not the case with theHQ Avant quiltingmachinewherethetoptension is always tight and the tension discs are never open Therefore the thread
53. ting begin quilting by pressing the Start button As you move the machine across the quilt it will perform a stitch needle down and then needle up every half inch one inch two inches or four inches according to your choice The basting stitch options are available in stitch regulation mode Cruise and Precision Figure 29 Stitch Regulation Style SR The SR Style box in the lower left hand corner of the screen indicates whether the machine is in Precision regulation mode or in Cruise regulation mode Figure 30 Precision If Precision mode is selected the HOI Avant will not start stitching until you begin pushing the machine Figure 31 Page 19 Regulated gen Ge SPil o Stitch Mode Regulated P s Manual Needle Stop x Regulated Low Bobbin Sound SR Style Precision Figure 32 Figure 33 Timers Calculator a eener cewwwhighting System Info mp y English Diagnostics Page 20 Mai 7 Figure 34 Cruise If Cruise mode is selected when you press Start on the handles the machine will immediately begin stitching at the percent speed indicated below the Cruise button The Cruise speed is the minimum speed the machine will stitch regardless of how slow you are pushing the machine This means that when you slow down to a stop the needle will continue stitching at the set cruise speed until you begin moving the machine faster than
54. troke Take Up Stroke Lubrication main components Lubrication of hook Disclaimer 245 mm X 610 mm 8 25 X 18 Manual Mode Min 90spm Max 1800spm Regulated Mode Min Ospm Max full speed Aspi 18spi 134 135 X 7 12 80 20 125 Rotary Vertical M class bobbin Aluminum Class M Type MF Brushless DC Up and down walking stitch 90 264 VAC 47 63Hz 300W peak 8W 5 mm 35 3 mm 73mm Kluber Lube permanent Velocite 10 Texaco 22 Handi Quilter and its Representatives are in no way legally responsible or liable for damage to the HOT Avant when used improperly or not in accordance with the guidelines stated in this manual or when used on Machine Quilting Frames not recommended by Handi Quilter HQ Avant User Manual HQ Avant Components Front Side View DO Figure 1 Thread Mast Thread Guide A Three Hole Thread Guide B Thread Guide C Tension Assembly Stirrup Thread Guide E Take Up Lever Thread Guide F Front Casing Frame 10 Handwheel 11 Side Laser Stylus Post Hole VD CON Oh UU SS LA M ch HandiQuilter com Page 5 Back Side View 12 Ruler Foot ae 13 Needle 14 Needle Bar Thread Guide 15 Needle Bar 16 Presser Bar 17 Handi Feet Mount 18 Needle Plate 19 Front Handlebar Connector 20 Ruler Base Position Guides 21 Front Wheel Base 22 Wheels 4 23 Back Casing Frame 24 Rear Wheel Base 24 25 Front Threaded Handle H
55. ts not authorized by HQ In no event shall HQ be liable to the purchaser of the Machine or to third parties for special or consequential damages including but not limited to death or personal injuries HQ does not assume or authorize any person to assume on its behalf any other obligation of liability other than that set forth herein some states do not allow exclusion of limitation of incidental or consequential damages so above limitation or exclusion may not apply This warranty gives the purchaser specific legal rights and the purchaser may also have other rights which may vary for State to State Exclusive Remedy Remedy is limited to the repair or replacement of the defective Product HQ may elect which remedy or combination of remedies to provide at its sole discretion and shall have a reasonable time after determining that a defective Product exists to repair or replace the defective product Replacement Product may be from new or serviceable used parts HQ s warranty applies to repaired or replaced Products for the balance of the applicable period of the original warranty or ninety days from the date of shipment of a repaired or replaced Product whichever is longer HQ s entire liability for any defective Product shall in no event exceed the purchase price for the defective Product This limitation applies even if Handi Quilter cannot or does not repair or replace any defective Product Warranty Claims Service under the ab
56. up into the tension discs or it will float outside the discs providing little or no top tension This could cause significant tension or nesting problems on the bottom side of the quilt Maintenance Cleaning and Lubricating the Machine Only use light sewing machine oil in the HO Avant Internal oiling is not necessary on the HQ Avant except when the machine is taken to a service technician for routine maintenance and cleaning The hook assembly however needs regular lubricating Failure to keep the hook assembly lubricated can cause severe damage to the machine To lubricate turn off the machine Remove bobbin and case before oiling Clean around the hook assembly with a soft brush to remove lint Put a very small drop of oil on the hook in the region where the bobbin basket assembly and the rotating hook meet see Figure 22 The bobbin basket is the portion of the hook that the bobbin case snaps into The bobbin basket remains stationary while the hook rotates Page 16 Figure 22 around the basket The oil lubricates the region where these two components interlock A drop of oil in the region indicated will work its way back into the interlocking area of the hook and bobbin basket The frequency of lubrication depends upon the usage of the machine Lubricating is recommended before running the machine if it has not been used regularly or every other bobbin change if used frequently After oiling alw

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