Welcome back everyone!
I’m going off script for this post. Last time I shared information on the Handi Quilter stationary longarm machines. This post I was supposed to continue with details on the Moxie and Simply Sixteen.
BUT … Rick, Tina, Jennifer and I just returned from Handi Quilter’s 2023 Retailers’ Academy. AND there’s just too much to share! (Back to machine details next post. I promise!)
The four of us spent four wonderful, busy days at Handi Quilter’s headquarters out in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Jennifer and Tina focused on skill building classes. (Yes, our staff continually works to improve their quilting expertise so they can offer the best possible experience to you!)
They attended several sessions focused on using the ProStitcher, Handi Quilter’s computerized quilting option.
If you ask Jennifer what she enjoyed most about Retailer Training, she’ll tell you it was “being with and learning from” other Handi Quilter longarm quilters. Plus, she and Tina got to share ‘The Quilting Connection way’ of using ProStitcher with others from across the country.
And guess what happened? Other attendees found out how we use the quilting space feature of ProStitcher, and suddenly Jennifer was an impromptu instructor at this national event! (See why we’re so proud of our staff and the level of knowledge they can share with you?!)
Rick and I focused most of our training on the business side of being Handi Quilter retailers.
‘Course, we had to have some fun (and maybe show off a little), too! As you know, when you purchase a machine from The Quilting Connection, setup of your system is included. So, we really have to know and understand how each piece is assembled and fits together.
During one of our sessions, Handi Quilter asked if I could put together an education frame with my eyes closed. I said YES! So, I was given a sleep mask and told, “GO!” Rick and another lady stood by and handed me parts.
Could I do it? You bet … and I even beat two teams of four people that were NOT blindfolded! (We really do have the expertise to set up and service your longarm systems!)
Now, it wasn’t all fun. We came away with a few updates to share with you, too!
New product news: Handi Quilter announced the introduction of the multiuse board. This tabletop feature can be added to the back of your machine. It will protect your machine’s rails while giving you an additional work surface.
Handi Quilter is also upgrading their studio frames. The Studio 3 frame offers a few modifications that will provide owners with increased functionality and a cleaner look.
Product support news: Did you know that Handi Quilter will replace your glide foot if you’ve encountered problems with it? If your foot is no longer usable AND you have proof of purchase, you can call Handi Quilter tech support at (877) 697-8458 option 2 for a replacement.
NOTE: If you need assistance with providing proof of purchase, we may be able to help if you made your purchase through us as of September 2021 or after.
Pricing news: The cost of the Moxie will be going up on September 1st. If you are interested in purchasing this longarm system, we must receive your order by August 31st to lock in our current pricing.
And finally, The Quilting Connection was awarded the honor of being the #1 Handi Quilter Retailer in the Midwest region for the seventh year in a row!
Obviously, this is huge for us. But it comes with a big thank you to YOU, our fantastic customers! It also demands that we provide the absolute best education and service to support your longarm quilting experience.
Well, time to wrap up, but I do have one favor to ask. We’d love to know how we can best stay in touch with you. Do you prefer email, Facebook, Instagram, or another media channel? If you could reply to our email, message The Quilting Connection on Facebook, or connect with me by some other means, I’d really appreciate hearing from you. Just respond with your preference!
As always, if you have any questions or want additional information, please call us at (262) 723-6775 or email us at info@QuiltingConnection.com.
You can also visit us online at QuiltingConnection.com or in person at 21 Adams Street in Elkhorn, WI (usually M-F 9-4, please call to confirm we’re open) or 1017 W. Northland in Appleton, WI (W, Th & F 10-4, S 10-3).
And finally, check out our blog at QuiltingConnection.com/blog and our Facebook posts.
Please share your thoughts and questions with us. We love to hear from you!
Angie