handi quilter Avante QM30235 User manual

USER MANUAL
04/18/14 © 2014 Handi Quilter, Inc.
Avanté
18
© 2009 Handi Quilter, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA. 04/18/14
QM30235, version 2.0

Page 2 HQ18 Avanté User Manual
Congratulations on your purchase of the HQ18 Avanté from Handi Quilter!
You haven’t just purchased a quilting machine,
you’ve joined the Handi Quilter family and we wel-
come you.
Handi Quilter is committed to innovation, reliability,
customer service and education. Our machines are
“Designed by a Quilter, for Quilters®” and we are
committed to your quilting success.
With that in mind, we invite you to bookmark our
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 les to print out for reference and forums
for asking questions.
Set up your own Handi Quilter“Glog” (a combina-
tion blog and photo gallery) where you can share
your own quilting story. Your new quilting friends
are already there, waiting for you!
Remember, if you ever have questions, your local
Rep can help you. If the Rep is not available, contact
Handi Quilter directly at techsupport@HandiQuilter.
com or by calling us at 1-877-697-8458, Monday-
Friday, 8-5 MST.
Package Contents
Please keep your original box and packaging
Contents of Package
1. Bobbins (5 pieces, one in machine)
2. Needle (135x5) size 16 (pack of 10)
3. Needle (135x5) size 18 (pack of 10)
4. Bobbin Case
5. Thread Mast
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. HQ18 Avante Quilting Machine
Optional Accessories
1. Micro Handles
2. Ruler Base
3. Horizontal Spool Pin
4. Groovy Board Stylus and Adaptor
5. HQ Pro-Stitcher

Note: A set of Handi Quilter “Getting Started” DVDs is included with your HQ18 Avanté machine. Review the DVDs and
these instructions to better understand how to set up and use the HQ18 Avanté.
Table of Contents
Package Contents....................................................................Inside Front Cover
Safety Section ........................................................................................5
Components (Front Side View) ........................................................................6
Components (Back Side, Rear and Front Views) ........................................................7
Installation (Frames) ..................................................................................8
Installation (Handlebars, Power Cord)..................................................................9
Inserting Needle ......................................................................................9
Changing the Handi Feet..............................................................................9
Installation (Laser Stylus) ............................................................................ 10
Installation (Thread Mast) ........................................................................... 11
Threading the Machine ............................................................................. 12
Horizontal Spool Pin ................................................................................ 14
Bobbin and Thread Tension Adjustments ............................................................ 14
Top Thread Tension Adjustment ..................................................................... 15
Maintenance (Oiling and Lubricating)................................................................ 16
Touch Screen Displays............................................................................... 17
System Information ................................................................................. 24
Diagnostics Tests.................................................................................... 24
HQ Stitch Regulator Operation ...................................................................... 27
Getting Started Quilting............................................................................. 28
Troubleshooting .................................................................................... 29
Warranty Information ............................................................................... 33
Warranty Registration Card .......................................................................... 35
Installation and Training Checklist ................................................................... 37
Page

Page 4 HQ18 Avanté User Manual
Safety Section
General Specications
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 HQ18 Avanté®
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 HQ18 Avanté is very heavy. Never attempt to
lift it alone – always use two people when lifting.
2. Always unplug the HQ18 Avanté from the electrical
outlet when performing any maintenance,
changing the needle, removing thread locks, or
when left unattended.
3. Keep ngers 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 o 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 HQ18 Avanté should only be used indoors
away from moisture.
8. The HQ18 Avanté should not be stored or used in
extreme temperatures.
9. Use the HQ18 Avanté 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 o position, then remove the
plug from outlet pulling from the plug, not
the cord. Never operate the HQ18 Avanté if the
cord is damaged or not working correctly. If a
mechanical or electrical problem is encountered,
return the HQ18 Avanté to the nearest
authorized service center or the manufacturer
for examination, repair, electrical or mechanical
adjustment.
The HQ18 Avanté utilizes high-tech electronics and an
innovative touch-pad user interface to oer greater
functionality and ease of operation to home quilters
than ever before conceived in the quilting industry.
The HQ18 Avanté quilting machine is a high quality
machine that incorporates very robust design
features and is very easy to service.
Disclaimer
Handi Quilter and its Representatives are in no
way legally responsible or liable for damage to the
HQ18 Avanté 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.
12. It is not recommended that the HQ18 Avanté
Quilting Machine be used with any machine
quilting frame other than those recommended by
Handi Quilter.
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 Stroke:
Take-Up Stroke:
Lubrication, main components:
Lubrication of hook:
(245 mm X 610 mm)
8.25” X 18”
Manual Mode:
Min 90spm, Max 1800spm
Regulated Mode:
Min 0spm, Max full speed
4spi – 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
8 W
5 mm
35.3 mm
73 mm
Kluber Lube, permanent
Velocite 10, Texaco 22

HandiQuilter.com Page 5
1. Thread Mast
2. Thread Guide A
3. Three Hole Thread Guide B
4. Thread Guide C
5. Tension Assembly
6. Stirrup Thread Guide E
7. Take-Up Lever
8. Thread Guide F
9. Front Casing/Frame
10. Handwheel
11. Side Laser Stylus Post Hole
HQ18 Avanté Components
Front Side View
3
1
2
10
4
5
6
7
8
9
11
3
1
2
10
4
5
6
7
8
9
11
3
1
2
10
4
5
6
7
8
9
11
3
1
2
10
4
5
6
7
8
9
11
3
1
2
10
4
5
6
7
8
9
11
Figure 1

Page 6 HQ18 Avanté User Manual
12. Ruler Foot
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
25. Front Threaded Handle Holes
26. Top Laser Stylus Post Hole
Back Side View
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
32. Rear Threaded Handle Holes
33. Accessory Power Outlet
34. Power Cord Connector
35. On/O Switch
36. Power Pod (P-Pod)
37. Spool Pin 2
38. Bobbin Assembly
Rear and Front Views
15
13
14
12
18
16
DETAIL A
25
26
24
23
21
22 4x 20
19
17
35
37
36 26
27
33
28
29
30
31
32
34
35
37
36 26
27
33
28
29
30
31
32
34
Rear Front
Figure 2
Figure 3

HandiQuilter.com Page 7
1. 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).
2. 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
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 (Studio Frame)
Figure 5
Figure 4
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.
Installation
(Portable Professional Frame)
used with HQ Adjustable table or
HQ QuilTable

Page 8 HQ18 Avanté User Manual
Note:Afterthe handleshavebeencompletelyinstalled and plugged in, test them byturning the HQ18 Avanté on/
o switch to“on”. If nothing is displayed, check that the handlebar cable on the side of the machine is plugged
in securely, that your machine is turned on, and that the power cord is plugged into the machine as well as a
power source.
Caution: Unplug the HQ18 Avanté from the electrical
outlet. All power to the machine must be turned o
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 handles 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 Front Handlebars
Check that the HQ18 Avanté is unplugged from the
electrical outlet. All power to the machine must
be turned o 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.
Installing Rear Handlebars
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)
Installing the Power Cord
Figure 6

HandiQuilter.com Page 9
Inserting (or changing) the Needle
Figure 7
1. Check that all power is turned o.
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 o).
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 tight when inserted up into
the needle bar. To avoid over-tightening the screw,
nger 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 conrm that it is fully
inserted. The needle bar has a stop/sight hole above
the needle bar clamp screw – make sure the needle
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 o of
the mount.
2. Slide the
desired foot
onto the mount
(gure 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
nut; center the
foot with the
needle; hold the
foot in position;
and rmly tighten
the lock nut
(Figure 9).
Changing the Handi Feet
SIGHT
HOLE
is touching the top of the stop/sight hole (Figure 7). If
it is not, the machine timing will be o and it may be
possible for the needle to collide with internal parts
causing damage not covered by warranty.
Figure 8
Figure 9

Page 10 HQ18 Avanté User Manual
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/o switch for the laser.
Power is supplied to the laser when it is plugged into
the HQ18 Avanté . Be sure the laser is attached to the
HQ18 Avanté 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 rmly seated into the HQ18 Avanté
laser port.
Caution: Use of controls or adjustments or
performance of procedures other than those specied
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
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.
Laser Stylus Safety and Use Guidelines
Figure 10

HandiQuilter.com Page 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 Laser Stylus
Figure 11
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
securely 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, #11, 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).
Installing the Thread Mast
Figure 12

Page 12 HQ18 Avanté User Manual
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 o 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.
Threading the Machine
B
C
D
E
A
BACKFRONT
2
TENSION ASSEMBLY
TAKE UP SPRING
1
E
C
D
DETAIL 2
B
DETAIL 1
Figure 13
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.
DETAIL 2
F

HandiQuilter.com Page 13
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 “ossed”
up between the two tension discs. If the thread is
not rmly in place between the two tension discs,
the thread rests on 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 ossed between
the tension disks. If it is properly ossed 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.
Figure 15
Important notes: The HQ18 Avanté 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
theHQ18 Avantéquiltingmachinewherethetoptension
is always tight and the tension discs are never open.
Therefore, the thread must be pulled up or“ossed”
between the tension discs or it will stay outside the
discs and oat 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.
E
C
D
DETAIL 2
F

Page 14 HQ18 Avanté User Manual
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.
Optional Horizontal Spool Pin
Inserting the Bobbin
Note: Turn o 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 o clockwise when viewing the open
side (Figure 17).
2. Slide the thread through the slot (Figure 18) and
under the tension spring leaving 5-6 inches of
thread hanging loose (Figure 19, next page).
Bobbin and Thread Tension
Adjustments
Figure xx
Note: See “HQ Quilting Machines Getting Started”
DVD (included with your machine) for videos show-
ing adjusting bobbin tension and other tips. These
videos are also available on www.HandiQuilter.com.
Figure 16 Figure 17
Figure 18

HandiQuilter.com Page 15
Figure 19
TENSION
SPRING
3. Turn o 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 t 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.
Figure 20
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 rmly 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 up. Wrap the thread around your
index nger and while pulling up on the thread and
gently wiggling the nger 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, it is too loose and if it lifts
out of your hand, it is 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 bobbin is
inserted.
Figure 21

Page 16 HQ18 Avanté User Manual
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 oss or pull the top thread up into the tension
discs or it will oat outside the discs providing little
or no top tension. This could cause signicant
tension or nesting problems on the bottom side of
the quilt.
Top Thread Tension Adjustment
Cleaning and Lubricating the Machine
Only use light sewing machine oil in the HQ18
Avanté. Internal oiling is not necessary on the
HQ18 Avanté 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 o 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
Maintenance
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, always 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 aect stitch quality.
Cleaning the Touch Screen Display
Never use any chemicals to clean your display as
this may adversely aect the touch screen response.
Use a soft rag dampened with isopropyl alcohol and
gently wipe the display to remove any marks.

HandiQuilter.com Page 17
The HQ18 Avanté 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. Dierent 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 handles. This
button does not move the needle, but simply
determines the nal 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 nal resting position of the
needle after “Stop” is pressed.
Using the Touch Screen Displays on the Handlebars
Machine and Handlebar Menus
Note: Review the Handi Quilter “Welcome” DVD for inter-
active instruction on the HQ 18 Avanté menu functions.
Regulated
Manual
Up
Down
Stitch Mode
Needle Stop
More
Avanté
18
Limit
Manual 10 %
5 %
25 %
35 %
Presets
Figure 23
Figure 24
Regulated
Manual
Up
Down
Stitch Mode
Needle Stop
More
Avanté
18
Limit
Manual 10 %
5 %
25 %
35 %
Presets

Page 18 HQ18 Avanté User Manual
Figure 25
Figure 26
Figure 27
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 eect as pressing the “+” and “-”but-
tons on the actual handles. The speed range is be-
tween 5% and 100%, 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
quickly switch between speed preferences. For
example, you may prefer a slower speed when
using rulers and a faster speed when doing all-over
meandering quilting. Use the“+” and “-” buttons to
adjust the speed percentage and then press one of the
record buttons next to the preset value to store that
speed as a preset. When you want to use one of the
preset speeds, simply press the speed. (Figure 26)
On/O Indicator
The box in the center of the top bar turns green
when you press the“Start” button on the handles
to indicate the needle is in motion. When you press
“Stop,” the box will turn red. (Figure 27)
Regulated Mode Screen Button Functions
Stitches Per Inch (SPI)
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
reected in the white indicator box at the top right
portion of the screen. This value can be adjusted
between 4 and 18 stitches per inch. (Figure 28)
Figure 28
Regulated
Manual
Up
Down
Stitch Mode
Needle Stop
More
Avanté
18
Limit
Manual 10 %
5 %
25 %
35 %
Presets
Regulated
Manual
Up
Down
Stitch Mode
Needle Stop
More
Avanté
18
Speed
Manual 94 %
Regulated
Manual
Up
Down
Stitch Mode
Needle Stop
More
Avanté
18
Limit
Manual 10 %
5 %
25 %
35 %
Presets
Regulated
Manual
Up
Down
Stitch Mode
Needle Stop
More
Avanté
18
SPI
Regulated 10
SPI
SR Style
Precision
Cruise
Regulated
Manual
Up
Down
StitchMode
NeedleStop
More
Avanté
18
SPI
Regulated 10SPI
SRStyle
Precision
Cruise

HandiQuilter.com Page 19
Figure 29
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:
• 0.5-inch baste (one stitch every half-inch
movement of the machine)
• 1-inch baste (one stitch every one inch movement
of the machine)
• 2-inch baste (one stitch every two inches of
movement of the machine)
• 4-inch baste (one stitch every four inches of
movement of the machine)
After selecting the basting stitch setting, 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 HQ18 Avanté
will not start stitching until you begin pushing the
machine. (Figure 31)
Figure 30
Regulated
Manual
Up
Down
Stitch Mode
Needle Stop
More
Avanté
18
SPI
Regulated 0.5”Baste
SR Style
Precision
Cruise
Regulated
Manual
Up
Down
Stitch Mode
Needle Stop
More
Avanté
18
SPI
Regulated 0.5”Baste
SR Style
Precision
Cruise
Regulated
Manual
Up
Down
Stitch Mode
Needle Stop
More
Avanté
18
SPI
Regulated 10
SPI
SR Style
Precision
Cruise
Figure 31

Page 20 HQ18 Avanté User Manual
Figure 32
Main
More
Low Bobbin
Sound
Lighting
English
Timers
Calculator
System Info
Diagnostics
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 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 3% and 50%.
(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/O 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 More screen provides access to other functions
available on the HQ18 Avanté (Figure 34).
Regulated
Manual
Up
Down
Stitch Mode
Needle Stop
More
Avanté
18
SPI
Regulated 10
SPI
SR Style
Precision
Cruise
3 %
Regulated
Manual
Up
Down
Stitch Mode
Needle Stop
More
Avanté
18
SPI
Regulated 10
SPI
SR Style
Precision
Cruise
3 %
Figure 33
Figure 34