Gammill Quilt Machine

Authorization for Use of Gammill Quilting Machine

We have a Gammill Premier Plus machine - 18-8 (with stitch regulator) with a Vision 2.0 12’ fixed arm quilting frame

The machine is not computerized.  To do that we would need to add a Statler Stitcher.  It has a ruler table, as well as a laser guide for patterns/pantographs.  We have several rulers and a number of pantographs that are available for use.  

None of the materials may be removed from the makerspace.  Availability of the machine is based on reservation which is not to exceed 5 days without prior approval.  Machine is for use by members only.

Considerations regarding use of the machine:

1. Confirmation that the member has sufficient sewing and basic quilt top construction knowledge to prevent damage to the machine.  This includes cutting, piecing, seam width and pressing.  Peer review by lead or assistant lead will be required.

Note:  Quilting Classes including Piecing 101 which includes proper cutting and assembling techniques will be offered if requested.

The Authorization Class

1. Introduction to the machine and table.
2. Resources:  
   1. YouTube videos.  Linda’s Electric Quilters - a great source. 
   2. ‘Gammill Quilting Machine Company Service Manual’ (has photo on the front), referred to at the “Manual” below
   3. “Sewing Machine Maintenance Topics” by Creative Designer Lines.
3. Discussion of machine use:
   1. Two sides of machine and their uses
   2. Modes:  Manual and stitch regulator (include size and speed of stitch).  Both manual (continuous stitch) and regulated stitch (stitch only when moving) and parking the head.  Chapters 11 and 12 of the “Manual”
   3. Maintenance
      1. Regular maintenance - cleaning of head, table and tracks
      2. Discussion of Oiling after 6-8 hours of quilting.  Also refer to section 9 of the “Manual”.
   4. Error resolution
      1. Tangled threading, needles, lint and bobbin issues.
4. Discussion of threads (see pages 5-1 to 5-4 of “Manual”), Introduction to threading diagram (including instruction on how to use tie off threading) and the bobbin as well as the bobbin winder. Threading the machine - (Chapter 6 in manual)  Reference single sheet “Threading Guide”.
5. Needles - Note the recommendation to change the needle after each quilt.  This assumes larger quilts.  For smaller ones every other quilt might be enough.  (6-10 in the manual - Note the photo of the properly inserted needle.  Pay careful attention to this.  Improper insertion can damage both needle and shank.  
6. Loading the quilt - there are as many ways to load a quilt as there are quilters - you will develop your own style.  Just remember that the rollers are marked and the designated materials need to be attached to the appropriate roller. See manual pages 4-1 - 4-7. Stabilizing the quilt is important for many applications..  There are many YouTubes that will tell you more. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmj2KbTtclI&ab_channel=THEQUILTSHOWTHEQUILTSHOW
   1. Show attaching backing to roller, attach top to roller then backing to take up, set batting, stitch and then top.  Include side clamps.
   2. Already assembled backing, batting and top.
   3. Floating the quilt.
   4. Note:  battings, backings should all be as “square” as possible.
7. Test load using the user's quilt or test materials.  Include the side clamps.
8. How to Start the machine - pull up thread
9. Directionality of sewing, patterns and quilting space - beginners markings with tape
   1. See Chapter 13 in the Manual regarding stitching patterns/pantographs
10. Sample stitching.  Talk about patterns, rulers and pantographs.  There are many YouTube Videos that explain the process.  This is one
11. Consumables:  
    1. Provided by MakeICT - not to leave the space
       1. Oil
       2. Bobbin Winder
       3. Instructions
       4. Florist Pins
    2. To be provided by Member - or purchased from space as indicated
       1. Needles - 135x5 DPX5 specialized needles $2.00 per needle
       2. Thread - Machine is set for Signature - QT Tex 40
       3. Bobbins - Size M Gammill Slotted bobbins -  $.50 each or bobbin may be borrowed from the bobbin box if empties are available.  It must be returned after use, however.
       4. Backing
       5. Batting
       6. Top
    3. Test and practice materials for authorization classes will be provided.