Grace Company Quilter's Evolution Elite Assembly & Use
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Grace Company Quilter's Evolution Elite Assembly & Use

12 foot frame
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E L I T E - F R A M E
12 Foot Frame Assembly & Use
Version 1.0
Copyright July 25, 2022

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  • Page 1 E L I T E - F R A M E 12 Foot Frame Assembly & Use Version 1.0 Copyright July 25, 2022...
  • Page 2 My Frame Details Use this page to record information about your frame. This will be helpful if you ever need to call a Grace Company support technician. Quilter’s Evolution Elite 12-Foot Frame Type: ________________________________________ Date of Purchase: ____________________________________ What Machine are You Using? __________________________ Select Which Frame Accessories You Have Purchased: •...
  • Page 3 The Quilter’s Evolution Elite-Frame has a one-year limited warranty on all parts. The Grace Company will repair or replace, at its discretion, any part with problems due to our manufacturing or defects in materials. This warranty does not cover parts damaged through misuse, improper storage, improper assembly, loss, natural events, and willful destruction.
  • Page 4 Thank you again for choosing us to help your quilting projects. We look forward to working with you. - The Grace Company Start Here: Frame Manual: Part One •...
  • Page 5 Frame Manual: Part Two • Install the channel lock on the machine or top plate. Quilting Machine Manual: Part Three • Install the wheel covers, display, handles, thread mast. • Install the upper encoder. Frame Manual: Part Three • Install the rails and fabric bungees. •...

  • Page 6: Table Of Contents

    Contents Welcome to Your Quilter’s Evolution Elite .................ii Included Parts and Tools ......................v Animated Instructions ......................xiv Part One ..................1 Task 1 - Setting the Frame Height ..................2 Task 2 - Assembling the Tracks ....................6 Task 3 - Installing the Table ....................16 Task 4 - Attaching the Braces ....................22 Task 5 - Installing the Take-Up Rail Towers ................27 Task 6 - Installing the Side Rail Assemblies ................29...

  • Page 7: Included Parts And Tools

    Included Parts and Tools Your kit comes with boxes 1, 2, 4, 6, and 7. This frame setup does not use boxes 3 or 5. Box 1 Left Side Leg Right Side Leg Bottom Carriage Assembly Assembly Assembly QEF-09-16529 QEF-09-16563 CNT-09-13523 BOX 1: INNER HARDWARE BOX Large Hand Wheel...
  • Page 8 Included Parts and Tools (continued) BOX 1: INNER HARDWARE BOX (continued) Allen Wrench Allen Wrench Allen Wrench T-handle Allen 6 mm 5 mm 2.5 mm Wrench 4 mm HDW-03-10742 HDW-03-10741 HDW-03-10165 HDW-03-13114 Open End Wrench Open End Wrench 3-Wing Knob Hand Wheel 10 mm and 13 mm 14 mm and 17 mm...
  • Page 9 Included Parts and Tools (continued) BOX 1: INNER HARDWARE BOX (continued) SBHCS SBHCS M6 x 20 mm (x2) Washer (x4) M8 x 55 mm (x4) HDW-03-10733 HDW-03-10088 HDW-03-10726...
  • Page 10 Included Parts and Tools (continued) Box 2 5 ft Table with 5 ft Star Rail Front Rail Tracks Assembly Assembly Clamp (x2) ACC-09-16567 QEF-05-16505 QEF-09-16576 viii...
  • Page 11 Included Parts and Tools (continued) Box 4 BOX 4: INNER BOX 1 5 ft Round Rail Square Side Rail Square Side Rail Assembly (x2) Assembly - Left Assembly - Right QEF-09-17068 QEF-09-17058 QEF-09-17044 BOX 4: INNER BOX 1: HARDWARE BOX Start Right Cloth Frame Reference 38 mm...
  • Page 12 Included Parts and Tools (continued) Box 6 5 ft Table Assembly Middle Leg Star Rail - 5 ft - 5 ft Extension QEF-09-17102 QEF-09-17087 QEF-04-15537 Round Rail - 10 ft Middle Table 5 ft (x2) Plastic Track Brace (x2) PLA-05-10560 CNT-04-1105 QEF-04-15545 Rail Coupler...
  • Page 13 Included Parts and Tools (continued) BOX 6: INNER HARDWARE BOX SBHCS Socket CSS Washer M10 (x2) Nylock Nut M10 (x2) M10 x 100 mm (x2) M6 x 6 mm (x16) HDW-03-14602 HDW-03-10952 HDW-03-16817 HDW-03-16818 Track Support SBHCS Connector (x4) M8 x 16 mm (x16) CNT-04-11041 HDW-03-10951 The instruction manual for the 10 foot frame assembly...
  • Page 14 Included Parts and Tools (continued) Box 7 2 ft Table 2 ft Rail (x2) Middle Leg Assembly MET-04-11397 QEF-09-17151 QEF-09-17102 Middle Table Rail Coupler Star Rail - 2 ft Brace (x2) Assembly (x2) QEF-04-15545 QEF-04-15538 CNT-09-11865 Front 12 ft Star Rail Coupler Rail Clamp Plastic Track QEF-09-17096...
  • Page 15 Included Parts and Tools (continued) BOX 7: INNER HARDWARE BOX SBHCS Socket CSS Washer M10 (x2) Nylock Nut M10 (x2) M10 x 100 mm (x2) M6 x 6 mm (x8) HDW-03-14602 HDW-03-10952 HDW-03-16817 HDW-03-16818 SBHCS Track Support M8 x 16 mm (x16) Connector (x2) HDW-03-10951 CNT-04-11041...

  • Page 16: Animated Instructions

    Animated Instructions To provide the best possible customer experience, we also offer animated video instructions for setting up this product. To view the animated instructions, visit our website at: https://l.ead.me/QEelitestart You can also use your smartphone to scan this QR code:...

  • Page 17: Part One

    Part One Part One Complete Part One of these instructions before assembling your quilting machine or any accessories. At the end of each part, you will be instructed to switch to specific sections of your machine manual, QuiltMotion manual, or other accessory manuals, if you are preparing to assemble them at this time. If you have not made those purchases, simply skip those steps.

  • Page 18: Task 1 - Setting The Frame Height

    Part One Task 1 - Setting the Frame Height Parts & Tools Needed: Right Side Leg T-handle Allen Left Side Leg Assembly Middle Leg (x2) Assembly Wrench 4 mm (Box 1) (Box 1) (Box 6 and Box 7) (Box 1: Hardware Box) Allen Wrench Open-End Wrench Tape Measure...
  • Page 19 Part One Task 1 - Setting the Frame Height (continued) Use the 13 mm open-end wrench to hold the nut and use the 5 mm Allen wrench to unscrew the height screw. Remove both sets of height screws, washers, and nuts from the leg. Washers (x2) Height Screw (x2) Nuts (x2)
  • Page 20 Part One Task 1 - Setting the Frame Height (continued) Find the hole number closest to your elbow height in the chart. Then pull out the bottom part of each leg to align its two screw holes with the hole you’ve chosen in the bottom part of the leg. Set all legs to the same hole.
  • Page 21 Part One Task 1 - Setting the Frame Height (continued) Tighten the two set screws with the 4 mm On both middle legs: Remove the height T-handle Allen wrench. screw, washer, and nut from the middle leg with the 5 mm Allen wrench and the 13 mm open-end wrench.

  • Page 22: Task 2 - Assembling The Tracks

    Part One Task 2 - Assembling the Tracks Parts & Tools Needed: 2 ft Table 5 ft Table with 5 ft Table Assembly 12 ft Plastic Track Assembly Tracks Assembly - 5 ft Extension (Box 7) (Box 7) (Box 2) (Box 6) Allen Wrench Track Support...
  • Page 23 Part One Task 2 - Assembling the Tracks (continued) Flip over the 5 ft table with tracks assembly. Use the 4 mm Allen wrench to remove the ten connector bolts, separating the 5 ft metal tracks from the table. Connector Bolt (x10) 5 ft Table With Tracks Assembly...
  • Page 24 Part One Task 2 - Assembling the Tracks (continued) Unscrew the four connector bolts in the 2 ft table assembly with the 4 mm Allen wrench to uninstall the 2 foot metal tracks. Connector Bolt (x4) 2 ft Table Assembly 2 Foot Metal Tracks (x2) Align the 3 foot metal tracks to the left of the 5 foot metal tracks.
  • Page 25 Part One Task 2 - Assembling the Tracks (continued) Place a track support connector halfway into each of the 3 foot metal tracks. Track Support Connector (x2)
  • Page 26 Part One Task 2 - Assembling the Tracks (continued) Carefully flip the 3 foot metal tracks to ex- Use the 3 mm Allen wrench to install two pose the screw holes at the bottom. M6 x 6 mm Socket CSS into each of the 3 foot metal tracks.
  • Page 27 Part One Task 2 - Assembling the Tracks (continued) Align the 2 foot metal tracks to the right of the long metal tracks. Note the orientation of the metal extrusions. 3 Foot Metal Track (x2) 5 Foot Metal Track (x2) 2 Foot Metal Track (x2) Place a track support connector halfway into the end of the 5 foot metal tracks.
  • Page 28 Part One Task 2 - Assembling the Tracks (continued) Carefully flip the long metal tracks to expose Use the 3 mm Allen wrench to install two the screw holes at the bottom. M6 x 6 mm Socket CSS into each of the 5 foot metal tracks.
  • Page 29 Part One Task 2 - Assembling the Tracks (continued) Align the 2 foot metal tracks to the right of the long metal tracks. Note the orientation of the metal extrusions. 3 ft Metal Track (x2) 5 ft Metal Track (x2) 2 ft Metal Track (x2) 2 ft Metal...
  • Page 30 Part One Task 2 - Assembling the Tracks (continued) Carefully flip the long metal tracks to expose Use the 3 mm Allen wrench to install two the screw holes at the bottom. M6 x 6 mm Socket CSS into the long tracks.
  • Page 31 Part One Task 2 - Assembling the Tracks (continued) Flip the assembled tracks over again and slide two 12 ft plastic tracks into each metal track assembly. 12 ft Plastic Track Result: The 12 foot tracks are fully assembled.

  • Page 32: Task 3 - Installing The Table

    Part One Task 3 - Installing the Table Parts & Tools Needed: Right Side Leg 5ft Table Assembly Left Side Leg Assembly Middle Leg (x2) Assembly (tracks removed) (x2) 2 ft Table Assembly Allen Wrench Open-End Wrench Allen Wrench (tracks removed) 5 mm 14 mm and 17 mm 6 mm...
  • Page 33 Part One Task 3 - Installing the Table (continued) Instructions With help from a friend, take the following steps to assemble the frame table: Use the 5 mm Allen wrench and two M8 x 20 mm SBHCS to loosely connect one side of a 5 ft table assembly to the left side leg assembly.
  • Page 34 Part One Task 3 - Installing the Table (continued) Loosely attach a middle leg to the other end of the 5 ft table with two M8 x 16 mm SBHCS and the 5 mm Allen wrench. Middle Leg SBHCS M8 x 16 mm (x2) Use the 5 mm Allen wrench and two M8 x 20 mm SBHCS to loosely connect the second 5 ft table assembly to the right side leg assembly.
  • Page 35 Part One Task 3 - Installing the Table (continued) Loosely install two M8 x 55 mm SBHCS and two M8 washers with the 5 mm Allen wrench. SBHCS M8 x 55 mm (x2) Washer M8 (x2) Loosely attach a middle leg to the other end of the 5 ft table with two M8 x 16 mm SBHCS and the 5 mm Allen wrench.
  • Page 36 Part One Task 3 - Installing the Table (continued) Line up the two assembled tables so there is about 2 feet of space between the middle legs. 2 Feet Place the 2 foot table assembly onto the middle legs, between the two 5 ft table assemblies. 2 ft Table Assembly With four M8 x 16 mm SBHCS and the 5 mm Allen wrench, secure the 2 foot table assembly to the middle legs.
  • Page 37 Part One Task 3 - Installing the Table (continued) Attach the 5 ft table assemblies to the 2 foot table assembly with four M10 x 100 mm SBHCS, four M10 washers, and four M10 nylock nuts. Loosely tighten these with the 6 mm Allen wrench and 17 mm open-end wrench.

  • Page 38: Task 4 - Attaching The Braces

    Part One Task 4 - Attaching the Braces Parts & Tools Needed: Middle Open-End Wrench Corner Brace A (x2) Corner Brace B (x2) Table Brace (x4) 14 mm and 17 mm (Box 1) (Box 1) (Box 6 and Box 7) Allen Wrench Allen Wrench SBHCS...
  • Page 39 Part One Task 4 - Attaching the Braces (continued) Loosely attach a corner brace A to the front left corner of the frame using four M8 x 16 mm SBHCS and the 5 mm Allen wrench. Corner Brace A SBHCS M8 x 16 mm (x4) Loosely attach a corner brace B to the back left corner of the frame using four M8 x 16 mm SBHCS and the 5 mm Allen wrench.
  • Page 40 Part One Task 4 - Attaching the Braces (continued) Loosely attach a corner brace B and the reference card hook to the front right corner of the frame using four M8 x 16 mm SBHCS and the 5 mm Allen wrench. Reference Card Hook SBHCS...
  • Page 41 Part One Task 4 - Attaching the Braces (continued) Attach two middle table braces loosely to the back of the frame, where the 5 ft and 2 ft table assemblies meet. Use twelve M8 x 16 mm SBHCS and the 5 mm Allen wrench. Do not tighten. Middle Table Brace SBHCS...
  • Page 42 Part One Task 4 - Attaching the Braces (continued) Tighten the four M8 x 20 mm SBHCS you left loose in task 3 with the 5 mm Allen wrench. Use the 5 mm Allen wrench to tighten all forty M8 x 16 mm SBHCS used to attach the braces. Result: The frame is sturdy and aligned.

  • Page 43: Task 5 - Installing The Take-Up Rail Towers

    Part One Task 5 - Installing the Take-Up Rail Towers Parts & Tools Needed: Allen Wrench 3-Wing Knob Take-Up Rail Take-Up Rail 5 mm M8 x 16 mm (x2) Tower Left Tower Right (Box 1: Hardware Box) (Box 4: Inner Box) (Box 4: Inner Box) SBHCS M8 x 16 mm (x4)
  • Page 44 Part One Task 5 - Installing the Take-Up Rail Towers (continued) Place the take-up rail tower left into the slot in the left side of the frame, with the lever toward the back. Secure with two M8 x 16 mm SBHCS and the 5 mm Allen wrench. Take-Up Rail Tower Left Lever...

  • Page 45: Task 6 - Installing The Side Rail Assemblies

    Part One Task 6 - Installing the Side Rail Assemblies Parts & Tools Needed: Square Side Rail Square Side Rail SBHCS Logo Plate (x2) Assembly - Right Assembly - Left M8 x 16 mm (x12) (Box 4: Inner Box) (Box 4: Inner Box) (Box 4: Inner Box) (Box 6: Hardware Box) Allen Wrench...
  • Page 46 Part One Task 6 - Installing the Side Rail Assemblies (continued) Attach the square side rail assembly - left on to the left side of the frame with four x 16 mm SBHCS and the 5 mm Allen wrench. SBHCS M8 x 16 mm (x4) Square Side Rail Assembly - Left...
  • Page 47 Part One Task 6 - Installing the Side Rail Assemblies (continued) Result: The side rail assemblies and logo plates are installed.

  • Page 48: Task 7 - Attaching The Tracks

    Part One Task 7 - Attaching the Tracks Parts & Tools Needed: T-handle Allen Connector Bolt Allen Wrench Bottom Carriage Wrench 4 mm M6 x 10 mm (x24) 3 mm (Box 1) (Removed in Task 2) 12 ft Track Assemblies (x2) (Assembled in Task 2) Instructions Attaching and properly aligning the tracks will ensure your bottom carriage can ride smoothly across...
  • Page 49 Part One Task 7 - Attaching the Tracks (continued) Place the 12 ft track assemblies along the frame so the 3 ft section of the tracks are on the left of the frame and the 2 ft track sections are on the right. 3 ft Track Sections 2 ft Track Sections Point the lip...
  • Page 50 Part One Task 7 - Attaching the Tracks (continued) Use twenty-four M6 x 10 mm connector bolts and the 4 mm T-handle Allen wrench to loosely attach the tracks to the frame. Do not tighten. Connector Bolt M6 x 10 mm (x24) Align the back tracks so they are flush with the back of the frame and then fully tighten the 12 connector bolts in the back.
  • Page 51 Part One Task 7 - Attaching the Tracks (continued) Place the bottom carriage onto the frame, so that all eight bottom carriage wheels rest on the frame tracks. Bottom Carriage Note: The bottom carriage has stickers labeling the front side and the back side. Press down firmly on the bottom carriage and slowly slide it back and forth across the frame.
  • Page 52 Part One Task 7 - Attaching the Tracks (continued) Move the carriage to the right and stop to tighten each front connector bolt as you pass over it. Result: The tracks are installed, aligned, and secured.

  • Page 53: Task 8 - Installing The Carriage Channel Lock

    Part One Task 8 - Installing the Carriage Channel Lock For instructions on using the channel Parts & Tools Needed: locks, see page 107. Dual-Wheel T-handle Allen SBHCS Channel Lock Wrench 4 mm M6 x 20 mm (Box 1: Hardware Box) (Box 1: Hardware Box) Instructions The carriage channel lock holds the bottom carriage in place on the frame, which helps with stitching...
  • Page 54 Part One Task 8 - Installing the Carriage Channel Lock (continued) Place the dual-wheel channel lock onto the M6 x 20 mm SBHCS followed by the wheel. Place the wheel with the wheel hub facing away from the channel lock. Wheel Hub Dual-wheel Channel Lock...
  • Page 55 Part One Task 8 - Installing the Carriage Channel Lock (continued) If the rubber foot doesn’t fully reach the track or its grip on the track seems loose, twist the rubber foot clockwise to extend it. Note: If twisted too far, the handle will start to open and eventually the foot...
  • Page 56 Part One Congratulations! You have completed Part One of the assembly instructions for your frame. Before continuing to Part Two of these instructions, complete any of the following that apply to you: • Wheeled quilting machine users: Complete Part One of your instruction manual and follow the instructions provided at the end of Part One to determine what manual to go to next.

  • Page 57: Part Two

    Part Two Part Two Before completing the tasks in Part Two, please ensure you’ve completed the applicable items listed below. Progress Checkpoint Have you: • Installed the lower encoder onto the bottom carriage (machine manual Part One) OR assembled your top plate? (Note: If you’ve assembled your top plate, skip ahead to Part Three on page 45.) •...

  • Page 58: Task 9 - Installing The Machine Channel Lock

    Part Two Task 9 - Installing the Machine Channel Lock If using a top plate, see top plate instructions for Parts & Tools Needed: installing the channel lock. For instructions on Dual-Wheel SBHCS T-handle Allen using the channel locks, Channel Lock M6 x 20 mm Wrench 4 mm see page 107.
  • Page 59 Part Two Task 9 - Installing the Machine Channel Lock (continued) 1. Close the channel lock handle and test it out. The rubber foot should press firmly against the bottom carriage tracks and prevent the machine from moving front to back on the carriage. Rubber Foot If the channel lock doesn’t fully reach the track, or its grip on the track seems loose, twist the...
  • Page 60 Part Two Congratulations! You have completed Part Two of the assembly instructions for your frame. Before continuing to Part Three of these instructions, complete any of the following that apply to you: • Wheeled quilting machine users: Complete Part Three of your instruction manual. Note: If your machine manual is not broken into parts, complete the following in order: 1.

  • Page 61: Part Three

    Part Three Part Three Before completing the tasks in Part Three, complete Part Three of your machine manual. Progress Checkpoint Wheeled quilting machine users: Have you: • Completed Part Three of your machine instruction manual: • Installed wheel covers (applicable machines only)? •...

  • Page 62: Task 10 - Assembling The 12 Foot Rails

    Part Three Task 10 - Assembling the 12 Foot Rails Parts & Tools Needed: 5 ft Star Rail Assembly 5 ft Round Rail Assembly (x2) (Box 2) (Box 4) Star Rail - 5 ft Round Rail - 5 ft (x2) (Box 6) (Box 6) Star Rail - 2 ft...
  • Page 63 Part Three Task 10 - Assembling the 12 Foot Rails (continued) Place the 5 ft star rail assembly onto a long table, with the ratchet end hanging off the edge of the table so the rail is flat against the table’s surface. Work on a raised flat surface as much as possible for these steps.
  • Page 64 Part Three Task 10 - Assembling the 12 Foot Rails (continued) Slide the star rail - 2 ft onto the rail coupler so the screw holes align with the coupler screws. Star Rail - 2 ft Rotate the two screws counterclockwise with the 4 mm T-handle Allen wrench until they press firmly against the rail and the entire rail is secure.
  • Page 65 Part Three Task 10 - Assembling the 12 Foot Rails (continued) Slide the other star rail coupler halfway into the open end of the rail so the first two screws in the coupler line up with the two holes in the rail. Turn the screws counterclockwise with the 4 mm T-handle Allen wrench until they press snuggly against the rail.
  • Page 66 Part Three Task 10 - Assembling the 12 Foot Rails (continued) Use the 4 mm T-handle Allen wrench to tighten the last rail section in place by turning the coupler screws counterclockwise until they are tight against the rail. Coupler screws are turned counterclockwise.
  • Page 67 Part Three Task 10 - Assembling the 12 Foot Rails (continued) Repeat steps 1-10 using the 5 ft round rail assemblies, rail coupler assemblies, 2 ft rails, 5 ft round rails, and 38 mm tube caps to make two 12 foot round rails. 38 mm Tube Cap (x2) Round Rail - 5 ft (x2) Rail Coupler...

  • Page 68: Task 11 - Installing The Front Rails

    Part Three Task 11 - Installing the Front Rails Parts & Tools Needed: 12 Foot Star Rail 12 Foot Round Assembly Rail Assembly (Assembled in Task 10) (Assembled in Task 10) Allen Wrench 2.5 mm (Box 1: Hardware Box) Instructions Take the following steps to install the frame’s rails.
  • Page 69 Part Three Task 11 - Installing the Front Rails (continued) Use the 2.5 mm Allen wrench to remove the two M4 x 20 mm SBHCS and the M4 x 12 mm SBHCS on the top of the rail holder. Then lift the top away. SBHCS SBHCS M4 x 12 mm...
  • Page 70 Part Three Task 11 - Installing the Front Rails (continued) Replace the cover of the rail holder and screw it back into place with the 2.5 mm Allen wrench. Use the two M4 x 20 mm SBHCS and the M4 x 12 mm SBHCS removed earlier. SBHCS SBHCS M4 x 12 mm...
  • Page 71 Part Three Task 11 - Installing the Front Rails (continued) Slide the side of the 12 foot round rail with the press-in cap into the bottom left rail holder. 12 Foot Round Rail Place the other end of the rail into the open rail holder. Place the top back onto the open rail holder.
  • Page 72 Part Three Task 11 - Installing the Front Rails (continued) Result: The quilt-backing rail and quilt-top rail have been installed. Note that the steps for adjusting these rails to the proper height and distance is covered later in this manual. Quilt-Backing Rail Quilt-Top Rail...

  • Page 73: Task 12 - Installing The Take-Up Rail

    Part Three Task 12 - Installing the Take-up Rail Parts & Tools Needed: 12 ft Round Rail Hand Wheel Collar Hand Wheel Assembly (Box 1: Hardware Box) (Box 1: Hardware Box) (Assembled in Task 10) SBHCS Shoulder Bolt Hand Wheel Hand Wheel M10 x 55 mm Knob...
  • Page 74 Part Three Task 12 - Installing the Take-up Rail (continued) On both take-up rail holders: Open the lever, and then loosen the 3-wing knob enough that the rail holder can move freely up and down. 3-Wing Knob Lever Lever On both take-up rail holders: Raise the take-up rail holder until the printed 3 is visible. On both take-up rail holders: Close the lever to keep the holder at that height and then tighten the 3-wing knob.
  • Page 75 Part Three Task 12 - Installing the Take-up Rail (continued) Press in the tab on the right take-up rail holder to open it. Insert the end of the 12 foot round rail with the press-in cap through the throat of the machine, toward the left take-up rail holder.
  • Page 76 Part Three Task 12 - Installing the Take-up Rail (continued) Place the other end of the rail into the open take-up rail holder. Close the take-up rail holder. 1. Use the 6 mm Allen wrench and the M8 shoulder bolt to attach the hand wheel knob to the hand wheel.
  • Page 77 Part Three Task 12 - Installing the Take-up Rail (continued) 1. Attach the hand wheel to the end of the take-up rail with the hand wheel collar, washer, and M10 x 55 mm SBHCS. Tighten with the 6 mm Allen wrench. Hand Wheel Collar Washer...

  • Page 78: Task 13 - Positioning The Rails

    Part Three Task 13 - Positioning the Rails Do not skip these steps! Parts & Tools Needed: The rails must be positioned to correctly hold your fabric as you quilt. T-handle Allen Improperly adjusted rails create thread and Wrench 4 mm fabric tension issues.
  • Page 79 Part Three Task 13 - Positioning the Rails (continued) Loosen the 3-wing knob on the left take-up rail holder and open the lever. CAUTION: Hold the rail up when opening the lever so the rail doesn’t drop against your machine bed. 3-Wing Knob Lever Slowly lower the take-up rail holder until the take-up rail is a finger’s width of distance from the...
  • Page 80 Part Three Task 13 - Positioning the Rails (continued) After setting the take-up rail holder height, close the lever and tighten down the 3-wing knob. 3-Wing Knob Lever Roll your machine over to the right side of the frame. Loosen the 3-wing knob on the right take-up rail holder and open the lever. CAUTION: Hold the rail up when opening the lever so the rail doesn’t drop against your machine bed.
  • Page 81 Part Three Task 13 - Positioning the Rails (continued) Slowly lower the take-up rail holder until the take-up rail is a finger’s width of distance from the machine bed. This is about one-quarter inches. 0.25 inches or a finger’s width of space between rail and machine bed.
  • Page 82 Part Three Task 13 - Positioning the Rails (continued) Quilt-Backing and Quilt-Top Rail Position Instructions The front rails are adjusted according to the dimensions of your machine. Therefore, these rails will need to be adjusted whenever the machine is changed out or when accessories such as the ruler base alter the stroke of the machine.
  • Page 83 Part Three Task 13 - Positioning the Rails (continued) • If the throat of the machine hits the take-up rail first, skip to step 5 on page 70. Throat Take-up Rail • If the machine handles hit the quilt-backing rail, raise your handlebars so they no longer hit and then repeat this test.
  • Page 84 Part Three Task 13 - Positioning the Rails (continued) Loosen the set screws on the outside of the side rail assemblies using the 4 mm T-handle Allen wrench. Set Screw Set Screw The front rails can now be pulled forward to accommodate the stroke length of your machine. Pull the front rails out a few inches.
  • Page 85 Part Three Task 13 - Positioning the Rails (continued) Check that the front rail is square with the frame: a. Slide the machine all the way to the left, as far forward as it will go. Tip: Close the channel lock on the machine so your machine stays in the frontmost position on the bottom carriage.
  • Page 86 Part Three Task 13 - Positioning the Rails (continued) The height of the quilt-backing rail is critical for proper fabric tension and thread tension. The top of the rail should be level with the machine bed, as shown below. To adjust the height of the front rails, loosen the set screw on the inside of each of the rail arms with the 4 mm T-handle Allen wrench.
  • Page 87 Part Three Task 13 - Positioning the Rails (continued) Slide the machine all the way to the left. Raise the rail height so that the top of the quilt-backing rail is level with the machine bed. Close the lever once the height is set. Lever...
  • Page 88 Part Three Task 13 - Positioning the Rails (continued) Slide the machine over to the right as far as it will go. Raise the rail height so that the top of the quilt-backing rail is level with the machine bed. Close the lever once the height is set.
  • Page 89 Part Three Task 13 - Positioning the Rails (continued) Tighten each of the set screws with the 4 mm T-handle Allen wrench. Screw Screw Result: The machine has full stroke of the frame without colliding with the front rails, and the quilt-backing rail height is level with the bed of the machine for optimal quilt and thread tension.

  • Page 90: Task 14 - Installing The Bungee Clamps

    Part Three Task 14 - Installing the Bungee Clamps Parts & Tools Needed: Bungee Clamps (4 pack) (Box 1: Hardware Box) Instructions The bungee clamps hold the sides of your quilt smooth and taut while you’re quilting. Take the following steps to install the bungee clamps. 1.
  • Page 91 Part Three Task 14 - Installing the Bungee Clamps (continued) 2. Press in one of the bungee holders to hold it open. Slide the bungee clamp cable into the bungee holder. Bungee Clamp Cable 1. Repeat steps 1-3 with the other three bungee clamps in the other three bungee holders. 1.

  • Page 92: Task 15 - Leveling The Frame

    Part Three Task 15 - Leveling the Frame Tip: For the best quilting experience in the future, test and re-level your Parts & Tools Needed: frame every six months and any time the frame is moved. Open-End Wrench 14 mm and 17 mm Instructions Not all floors are even, and you don’t want your machine running away from you while you’re quilting! Take the following steps to level your frame:...
  • Page 93 Part Three Task 15 - Leveling the Frame (continued) After adjusting the leveling feet, make sure both channel locks are open so the bottom carriage and machine (or top plate) can move freely. Test how level the frame is: bring the machine to the left side of the frame, toward the center, and gently release it.
  • Page 94 Part Three Task 15 - Leveling the Frame (continued) Once the machine no longer drifts toward any of the feet on the left side of the frame, move the machine to the middle of the frame and repeat the test. Remember to turn the lower nut in small increments and re-test frequently.
  • Page 95 Part Three Task 15 - Leveling the Frame (continued) Once the machine no longer drifts toward any of the feet on the middle of the frame, move the machine to the right side of the frame and repeat the test. Remember to turn the lower nut in small increments and re-test frequently.
  • Page 96 Part Three Congratulations! You have completed Part Three of the assembly instructions for your frame. Before continuing to Part Four of these instructions, complete any of the following that apply to you: • QuiltMotion Part Three...

  • Page 97: Part Four

    Part Four Part Four Progress Checkpoint Have you: • Completed Part Three of QuiltMotion (optional)?

  • Page 98: Task 16 - Installing The Cloth Leader Velcro

    Part Four Task 16 - Installing the Cloth Leader Velcro Parts & Tools Needed: Start Right Cloth Note: These instructions are Velcro Tape (x3) Leader Set illustrated using the 8 foot version of the Evolution Elite frame. These instructions still apply to the 12 foot Evolution Elite frame.
  • Page 99 Part Four Task 16 - Installing the Cloth Leader Velcro (continued) 1. Unroll one of the Velcro tape rolls and fold it in half to find the center. Peel back an inch or two of backing from the center to expose the adhesive side of the tape. Center Velcro Tape Backing...
  • Page 100 Part Four Task 16 - Leveling the Frame (continued) 1. Go back to the center and work your way to the other side of the frame. 1. If there is excess Velcro on either side, trim it away and discard it. 1.
  • Page 101 Part Four Task 16 - Installing the Cloth Leader Velcro (continued) 1. Repeat steps 2-6 again to install the Velcro tape onto the quilt-backing rail. However, this time place the Velcro tape into tape into the rail’s groove. Use the edges of the groove to help keep the Velcro aligned as you go.

  • Page 102: Task 17 - Installing The Cloth Leaders

    Part Four Task 17 - Installing the Cloth Leaders Parts & Tools Needed: Fabric Marking Start Right Cloth Note: These instructions are Leader Set Pencil or Chalk illustrated using the 8 foot version (not included) of the Evolution Elite frame. These instructions still apply to Measuring Tape the 10 foot Evolution Elite frame.
  • Page 103 Part Four Task 17 - Installing the Cloth Leaders (continued) 1. Attach the medium-width cloth leader to the quilt-backing rail so the cloth drapes around the back of the rail. When attaching, start at the center of the rail and work your way outward one side at a time.

  • Page 104: Building Your Quilt Sandwich

    Part Four Parts & Tools Needed: Scissors or Quilt Backing Batting Rotary Cutter Fabric (not included) (not included) (not included) Quilt Top (not included) Instructions Your quilt top and quilt backing, with a layer of batting between them, make up the quilt sandwich. When quilting, you will likely wish to be able to sew all the way to the edges of your quilt top.

  • Page 105: Attaching Your Quilt To The Frame

    Part Four Attaching Your Quilt to the Frame Note: These instructions are illustrated using the 8 foot version of the Evolution Parts & Tools Needed: Parts & Tools Needed: Elite frame. These instructions still apply to the 12 foot Evolution Elite frame. Front Rail Clamp (x5) (floating method only) Fabric Marking...
  • Page 106 Part Four Attaching Your Quilt to the Frame (continued) 1. Pin the edges together from the center out. 1. Roll the backing rail until the leader cloth is no longer visible. If attached correctly, the wrong side of the quilt backing should be facing up. Quilt Backing (wrong side facing up)
  • Page 107 Part Four Attaching Your Quilt to the Frame (continued) 1. Work from the center out and pin the edges together. You will need to tuck the backing under the machine foot. 1. Roll the quilt-backing rail until the quilt backing is smooth and free of creases. 1.
  • Page 108 Part Four Attaching Your Quilt to the Frame (continued) 1. Pin the top centerpoint of your batting about an inch below the top centerpoint of the backing, with the scrim side facing down. Scrim Side: The scrim side is a structural layer on some types of batting.
  • Page 109 Part Four Attaching Your Quilt to the Frame (continued) 1. Fold your quilt top in half to find the center. Mark the centerpoints on the top and bottom. Quilt Top 1. Pin the top centerpoint of your quilt top about an inch below the centerpoint on the batting, right side facing up.
  • Page 110 Part Four Attaching Your Quilt to the Frame (continued) 1. Pin the centerpoint on the bottom of the quilt top to the centerpoint at the bottom of the final cloth leader. 1. Pin down the bottom edge of your quilt top to the cloth leader the rest of the way. 1.
  • Page 111 Part Four Attaching Your Quilt to the Frame (continued) 1. To position the quilt top to the ideal spot for stitching, move the machine as far back on the frame as it will go. 1. Release the ratchet levers on both front rails. Ratchet Lever Ratchet...
  • Page 112 Part Four Attaching Your Quilt to the Frame (continued) 1. Close the ratchet levers on the front rails. Ratchet Lever Ratchet Lever 1. If needed, roll the front rails to eliminate any sagging in the quilt. Take care not to tension the layers too tightly.
  • Page 113 Part Four Attaching Your Quilt to the Frame (continued) Floating Method Instructions “Floating” the fabric is when one or more layers of the quilt are not attached to a rail. This method is less precise, but it is sometimes done to save time. Take the following steps to float your fabric: 1.
  • Page 114 Part Four Attaching Your Quilt to the Frame (continued) 1. Open the ratchet lever on the quilt-backing rail. Ratchet Lever 1. Roll the hand wheel until the quilt top is about a quarter inch from the machine’s needle. 1. Close the ratchet lever. Ratchet Lever...
  • Page 115 Part Four Attaching Your Quilt to the Frame (continued) 1. If needed, roll the quilt-backing rail to smooth out any slack in the quilt backing. 1. Smooth out any wrinkles and tuck the ends of the floating fabric layers under the frame, out of the way.

  • Page 116: Using The Bungee Clamps

    Part Four Using the Bungee Clamps Instructions Sometimes the sides of the quilt will sag a little when on the frame. The bungees secure the sides of your quilt and help tension the fabric there for proper quilting. Take the following steps to use the bungees: 1.
  • Page 117 Part Four Using the Bungee Clamps (continued) 1. Press the button on the bungee bar and pull the cord tight so the fabric is straight and smooth. 1. Repeat steps 1-3 for the other three bungee clamps. 1. You can adjust the bungees’ position by sliding the bungee cord holder along the bungee bar. The holders are very stiff.

  • Page 118: Tacking Down Your Quilt

    Part Four Tacking Down Your Quilt Tacking down the edges of your quilt helps keep the layers together and also prevents the layers from bunching up unevenly around your stitches. A line of large stitching about a quarter of an inch from the edge of the quilt top will do.

  • Page 119: Using A Test Fabric Swatch

    Part Four Using a Test Fabric Swatch Ideally, you will test your machine’s thread tension after every bobbin change, even when you’re using the same thread. A test swatch on the side of your quilt is a convenient place to test tension between bobbin changes.

  • Page 120: Rolling Your Fabric

    Part Four Rolling Your Fabric Instructions Once you’ve finished quilting the available space on your quilt, you will need to roll your quilt on the rails to the next zone. Current Quilting Zone 1. Remove the bungee clamps (if they are being used). 1.
  • Page 121 Part Four Rolling Your Fabric (continued) 1. Rotate the hand wheel counter-clockwise to pull the fabric up onto the take-up rail until the bottom edge of your previous quilting zone is at the top of the new quilting zone. Previous Quilting Zone New Quilting Zone...
  • Page 122 Part Four Rolling Your Fabric (continued) 1. Don’t forget to tack down the edges of the quilt. This reduces fabric shrinkage and bunching as you quilt. 1. Result: A fresh space is available for quilting.

  • Page 123: Using The Channel Locks

    Part Four Using the Channel Locks The channel locks restrict the movement of the bottom carriage and the sewing machine or top plate so that you can easily stitch a straight line. 1. To quilt a straight line horizontally across the frame, close the channel lock on the machine. 1.

  • Page 124: Getting Started

    Part Four Getting Started Instructions: Once you’ve attached your quilt to your frame and basted down the quilt top edges for the first quilting zone, here are some helpful things to consider. 1. Over time your quilting frame may settle into a slope. If you find the machine drifts or pulls to the side, you may need to re-level the frame.
  • Page 125 Part Four Getting Started (continued) While still tightly holding the top thread, move the machine several inches to the side. Your top thread should pull a loop of bobbin thread through the start point to the top of the fabric. Bobbin Thread Start Point Pull on the loop of bobbin thread until the loose end of the thread comes up from underneath...
  • Page 126 Part Four Getting Started (continued) To pull up bobbin thread at the end of stitching: Move the machine away from the tie-off Hold the loop and move the machine stitch. away from the tie-off again. Hold the thread to make a loop and Keep moving away from the tie-off until return the machine to the tie-off stitch.
  • Page 128 www.graceframe.com 1-800-264-0644...

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