Best Sewing Machines for Quilting – Top Reviews for 2023

Most of us don’t have the money or the space in our sewing rooms to own a long arm quilting machine. Not only do they take up enormous amounts of room, these machines can also be hard on your body as you have to stand while working and push and pull a 20 to 50 pound quilting machine head.

Working like this day after day can lead to numerous joint issues. This is why many experienced quilters use a regular home sewing machine for quilting.

Sewing machines have improved over the years and there are now a number of excellent models that are perfect for the at-home quilter. You should have no trouble choosing a suitable quilting machine whether you are a beginner or more advanced quilter.

Below you will find our list of the best quilting sewing machines for beginning or even experienced quilters. The sewing and quilting machines recommended are range in price, have excellent reviews without losing any of the must-have features or accessories the avid quilter would desire.

Best Overall: Brother CS7000x Computerized Sewing Machine

Highlighted Features:

• Speed: 850 spm
• Throat Space: 5.25″
• Product Weight: 17 pounds
• 70 built-in stitches
• 7 styles of 1-step buttonholes
• Auto thread cutter
• Easy bobbin winder
• LCD touchscreen stitch selector
• 10 sewing feet
• Extended quilting table
• Built-in LED light to illuminate your working area

The Brother CS 7000x computerized machine is an extremely popular first sewing machine with many advanced features you can take advantage of over time. It has been the #1 seller on Amazon for a number of years and is great for beginner quilters. It is affordable and packed with features and accessories that usually only come with more expensive machines. This is an excellent model for beginners.

Many reviews consider this option to be one of the best quilting machines for beginners because it is easy to use and inexpensive. The table is a nice touch and makes it much easier when creating  your quilt. Thicker quilts are also a breeze to work with thanks to walking feet and the handy quilting guide will space out your stitching evenly.

The Brother CS7000i is also an easy computerized machine to use. If you ever attend quilting shows and sign up for any workshops, you’ll find that this handy machine is often used in their classrooms and for good reason. Beginners have an easy time getting up and running with this machine, is very fun to use, easy to learn, versatile and very reliable.

If you want an inexpensive sewing machine that can do almost anything, then this one is easily one of the best sewing machines for beginner quilters you can buy today.

Threading is easy with the auto-threader function. The backlit LCD view screen makes stitch selection simple. This machine is also light and portable, making it easy to take with you to your sewing or quilt making class. You can even create new stitch combinations to use on your quilting projects.

Pros

• Impressive amount of features
• Auto-needle threading
• Inexpensive
• Easy to use beginner sewing machine
• Light and portable

Cons

• Lighter than some more expensive machines so may tip if working on very large quilts

The Brother CS7000x is the best sewing for machine on a budget or for kids or other users just starting out. This is a great machine for quilters of all levels. You can learn more and read our full review of the previous model CS6000i here.

Best Large Throat: Juki TL-2000qi

Highlighted Features:

• Sewing Speed: 1500 spm
• Large Throat Space: 8.5 inch
• Product Weight: 36 pounds
• Straight stitch high speed quilting machine – great for quilting
• Automatic needle threading
• Updated LED lights
• Aluminum die cast arm and bed for low vibration operation
• Extension table with large sewing area
• 3 quilting presser feet
• Knee lift lever
• Stable thread tension when you free motion quilt
• Perfect for expert quilters
• and aluminum die cast frame

For sewing enthusiasts that is serious about purchasing a great quilting machine, then you should seriously consider the impressive Juki TL-2000qi. Juki is known for making quality sewing machines and the TL-2000qi isn’t any different. This perfect sewing machine has a larger sewing space that as it is ideal for quilting. Juki makes great machines is one of our favorite quilting machine brands.

This Juki is a powerful machine and is a true workhorse. It achieves speeds of 1500 stitches per minute and its aluminum die cast frame reduces vibration while you work. You will find that the stitch quality this machine consistently delivers will surpass even your biggest expectations. It produces flawless results with any stitch you ask it to perform and does so quickly and efficiently. The instructions are a bit sparse for this machine, but I found tons of videos on YouTube that were great in helping to learn the functions of this machine.

When looking for an advanced, quality quilting machine that is able to handle all types of fabric and thicker fabrics then you really do get what you pay for. This Juki model is able to handle anything you throw at it and is a great buy for anyone who is serious about making quilts.

Pros

• For serious quilters
• Single need straight stitch
• Large extension table
• Even feed foot
• Heavy frame – no tipping or bouncing while you work

Cons

• May not fit into some budgets

If you want a quality domestic sewing machine that is perfect for any quilting project, the Juki TL-2000 is the best quilting sewing machine you can buy today. We love this machine! If you are an avid quilter, this will be an excellent tool for your quilting journey.

Janome MC6650 Sewing Machine

Highlighted Features:

• Sewing Speed: 1000 spm
• Throat Space: 10″
• Product Weight: 34 pounds
• 170 built-in sewing stitches
• Jam Proof Easy-Set Top-Loading Bobbin System
• 10″ seamless extension table
• Thread cutter button
• Automatic needle threader
• Easy-To-Use Control Panel and backlit LCD Screen

The Janome MC6650 computerized quilting sewing machine comes with an extension table, a quilt kit and many advanced features. With dozens of built-in stitches, an easy-to-use LCD display control panel and a load of accessories, this is a machine that you’ll enjoy using for years to come.

Janome quilting machines are known for their high quality construction and this one is no different. The Janome Memory Craft 6650 quilting sewing machine has 170 built-in stitches and 6 built-in buttonholes to help you tackle any sewing project you take on.

The easy-to-use control panel features a backlit LCD display screen to make sewing a breeze. The jam-proof top-loading bobbin system makes it easy to change bobbins. Just follow the track, and the machine will bring the bobbin thread up automatically.

The control panel also features some convenient function buttons. There’s a automatic thread cutter button that cuts both the top and bottom thread. There’s also the reverse stitch button to help reinforce your stitching, and the lock stitch button finishes the stitch. The start/stop button allows you to sew without the foot control, and the needle up/down button brings the needle up or down with the touch of a button.

Janome includes a hard cover and 10 sewing feet, including: open-toe even feed, open-toe darning, zig-zag “A,” zipper “E,” satin stitch “F,” blind hem “G,” 1/4″ seam, zig-zag “F2,” and automatic buttonhole “R.”

Pros

• Large stitch variety
• Automatic needle threader feature
• Jam-proof bobbin loading system
• Thread trimmer button
• Versatile machine

Cons

• None that we know of

The extension table and quilt kit make the MC6650 sewing machine an excellent choice for serious free motion quilting and who also want a machine that can tackle everyday sewing projects.

Brother HC1850 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine

Highlighted Features:

• Sewing Speed: 850 spm
• Throat Space: 5.75″
• Product Weight: 10 pounds
• Large stitch variety
• 8 presser feet
• Extra wide sewing table
• Automatic needle-threader
• Large Backlit LCD display screen
• Adjustable sewing speed
• 25 year warranty

The Brother HC1850 is another step up from the previous Brother XR9500PRW sewing machine. The features are again, a bit more advanced and therefore a bit more expensive.

This Brother HC1850 includes 130 stitches, spring action quilting foot, 8 styles of 1 step buttonholes and also includes an over-sized quilting table. This machine can sew, quilt and embroider with ease. For quilters, the decorative stitches, like the feather stitch can be used over seams or to appliqué along edges.

Like the Brother machines before, this one is very easy to use as well. Also, for the money (usually under $200), this machine is outstanding. You get a ton of features and accessories that are equal to machines much more expensive.

Pros

• Many stitch and embroidery machine patterns
• Detachable wide table
• Great for quilting and other diy projects
• Light and portable sewing machine
• Nice overall beginner machine

Cons

• Very light so may tip when working with larger quilting or other sewing projects

This is an amazing machine that is great for beginners. This lightweight machine is also handy to bring to a sewing class. You can see our sewing and embroidery machine review of this model here.

Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 Sewing Machine

Highlighted Features:

• Sewing Speed: 850 spm
• Throat Space: 5.5″
• Product Weight: 20 pounds
• Large stitch variety
• Automatic needle threader
• 13 built-in 1-step buttonholes
• 13 sewing feet
• Drop-in bobbin system
• Extension table
• Electronic twin needle settings
• Metal frame

For such an inexpensive machine (often well under $400), you sure do get a lot. The Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 is a favorite for beginners and intermediate quilters for many reasons.

Great for beginners, this machine is very easy to use with a fast auto-needle threader and bobbin system. The Singer Quantum Stylist includes 600 stitches and 13 styles of automatic 1-step button holes and you will also get 5 different fonts for those that are interested in monogramming your creations. You have amazing control of your stitch elongation, width, length and even mirror imaging that allow to you customize the stitching to suit your project’s needs.

For quilters, you get a nice sized quilting table and sturdy frame as well as 18 different presser feet. For those just starting out or when you need very precise stitching, you can adjust the sewing speed level with by simply moving a lever. With the Quantum Stylist you also get: 25 needle positions, 7mm stitch width, automatic reverse, horizontal threading and even a 25 year warranty.

Pros

• 600 stitches!
• Automatic needle threader
• 25 needle positions

Cons

• Unable to use the quilting bar with the walking foot

If you want a machine that does everything, but doesn’t break the bank then you can’t go wrong with the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960. We really love this machine as it is great for beginners and experienced users alike. Many users consider this the best quilting sewing machine you can buy today.

You can see my in-depth sewing machine review of the Quantum Stylist here.

Brother PQ1500SL Quilting And Sewing Machine

Highlighted Features:

• Stitch Speed: 1500 spm
• Throat Space: 8 3/4″ x 6 1/2″ high
• Product Weight: 32 pounds
• 4 feed dog settings
• Heavy-duty frame
• Automatic thread trimmer
• FAST needle threader
• Built in knee lifter and extension table
• Up to 7mm stitch length
• Fabric extension table
• Presser foot pressure adjuster
• Precision pin feeding system

The Brother PQ1500SL High Speed Quilting and Sewing Machine is a powerhouse straight stitch machine that was designed specifically for quilters. You’ll be pleased with some of the features on the PQ1500S like the auto needle positioner and knee lever for lifting the presser foot. This is so handy when you need a bit more room and want to keep your hands free to move the fabric.

It is also nice and heavy, which is a must if you work with large quilts or lots of heavy fabric. You’ll have no trouble working with multiple layers of fabric as the motor is powerful and can sew up to 1500 stitches per minute.

One thing I really liked about this machine was the ability to control the feed dog. You have 4 levels of adjustments you can make that will control the feed dog and pressure foot pressure. This is a popular sewing machine for quilting and has tons of great reviews online and is perfect for any quilting project.

Pros

• Industrial level quilting machine
• 4 feed dog settings
• Strong power
• For serious quilters

Cons

• More expensive
• Basic features

Unlike the other machines on this list, the PQ1500SL is strictly a quilting machine. The PQ1500SL is a premium machine that won’t disappoint new and more experienced quilters. You can read our full review of this machine here.

Juki HZL-F300

Highlighted Features:

• Sewing Speed: 900 spm
• Throat Space: 8″
• Product Weight: 29 pounds
• 106 quilting stitch functions + 3 alphabet fonts
• 16 automatic buttonholes
• One-touch automatic needle threader
• Large LCD display (33mm x 66mm)
• Large variety of patterns and stitches – decorative/utility/alphabet
• Precision feeding system
• Immediate needle stop button

The JUKI HZL-F300 is a full-size premium machine that offers more than 100 embroidery stitch patterns and automatic features that make sewing a breeze. While this machine doesn’t come with a wide extension table, you can buy one as an accessory.

One thing we really like about the HZL-F300 is that it has more than 100 stitch embroidery patterns, including decorative, applique and quilting. With so many patterns to choose from, the sky is the limit when it comes to creativity.

The machine also has a random stitches feature that’s interesting for quilters. The HZL-F300 will automatically and randomly select the width of certain quilting stitch function patterns to give your project a beautiful look without the hassle of having to make manual adjustments.

The Direct Select mode allows you to quickly and easily select frequently used stitch patterns. This great machine also includes features that make your life easier. The one-touch needle threader saves you from eye strain. Dual LED lights illuminate your work area for better material handling.

One thing that sets the HZL-F300 apart from other machines is that it allows you to work with a wide range of materials, from lightweight to heavy. The wider underarm gives you more room to work on big diy projects, like quilting or making collars. You can also play with the free motion quilt function and enjoy stable thread tensions.

One extra feature that we really like: a built in knee lifter lever. For those times when you just don’t have a free hand, the presser foot can be lifted and lowered using the knee lift lever.

Pros

• High quality construction
• Easy to use design
• Quiet
• Quilter friendly features
• Lots of button holes to choose from
• Stable thread tension while free motion quilting

Cons

• Extra-wide extension table not included

The HZL-F300 comes with lots of accessories, including: 4 bobbins, hard case, seam ripper, cleaning brush, spool caps, and needle set. You will be able to make beautiful quilts with this machine.

Brother XR3774 Full-Featured Sewing Machine

Highlighted Features:

• Sewing Speed: 800 spm
• Throat sewing space: 5.75″
• Product weight: 18 pounds
• 37 built-in stitches, including decorative stitch functions
• 74 specialty stitching functions
• 1-step, auto-size buttonholer
• 8 sewing and quilting feet
• Quilting table
• Automatic threading system

The Brother XR3774 entry level sewing quilting machine that is easy to use, packed with features, and designed to tackle a wide range of projects – including quilts. Thanks to its modern design, this affordable sewing machine looks great on your sewing table. With a maximum sewing speed of 800 stitches per minute, this mechanical machine can keep up with any project.

One thing you’ll love about this machine is that it offers a lot of convenient features that you normally find on some of the best sewing machines. There’s a built-in needle threader, a brightly-lit LED work view area, and a jam-resistant top drop-in bobbin.

Free Motion makes it easy to sew a quilt, cuffs, pants legs and sleeves, and there’s also a wide table that’s ideal to sew quilts. Stitch selection is easy thanks to the dial, and all stitching functions are numbered for even easier selection.

This premium machine comes with 8 sewing feet, including zipper, zigzag, buttonhole, blind stitch, narrow hemmer, button sewing, quilting and walking. There’s also an instructional DVD that makes it easy to get started with your sewing machine.

Pros

• Very inexpensive
• Automatic threading system
• 74 specialty stitches
• Large table for creating quilts
• Light and portable sewing machine

Cons

• No automatic thread cutter
• Fewer features

The Brother XR3774 won the 2018 Women’s Choice Award and has excellent reviews. It’s one of the best and most affordable sewing machines for quilting, and while it may not be heavy-duty enough to sew denim, it’s powerful enough to tackle just about any other project. This is one of our favorite sewing machines for beginners.

Juki HZL-F600 Sewing and Quilting Machine

Highlighted Features:

• Sewing Speed: 900 spm
• Large Throat Space: 8″ long and 4.5″ tall
• Product weight: 32 pounds
• 225 embroidery machine stitch patterns included
• 4 embroidery machine fonts
• Box Feed Technology for accurate fabric feeding
• Knee Lifting Lever up to 12mm
• 16 professional buttonholes
• Sensor Method Buttonhole
• One-touch threading
• Special steel feed dog 

The Juki HZL-F600 is an advanced machine that has all the features you want. This modern sewing and quilting machine is a step up from the JUKI HZL-F300. It offers more embroidery stitch pattern selections and an extra LED light to illuminate your work area.

The HZL-F600 is virtually the same as the F300 as far as size and weight are concerned. They also share many of the same functions and features, but the HZL-F600 has more than double the number of stitch patterns and an extra font. This is one of the most popular quilting and embroidery machines on the market.

Automatic needle threading makes your life easier, and the bobbin winding/preparation features save you time. There’s an independent motor just for winding the bobbin, so you won’t put extra wear and tear on your machine’s main motor.

The random stitches feature is great for quilting. The machine will automatically and randomly adjust the width of certain quilting stitch patterns. This feature will help bring your projects to life without the hassle of having to make manual adjustments.

Pros

• Wide extended work table – great for bigger quilts
• High quality construction
• Handy LCD selection screen
• Manual thread tension control when free motion stitching
• Powerful computerized quilting sewing machine

Cons

• Expensive

Computerized machines like this one may be a good option for you if you want more embroidery stitch patterns than the JUKI HZL-F300 quilting sewing machine offers. We love this sewing machine and I feel this is a great value. With a lot of great reviews, it may be the best machine for quilting and embroidery on the market today.

Juki HZL-LB5100 Sewing and Quilting Machine

Highlighted Features:

• Sewing Speed: 700 spm
• Throat Sewing Space: 6″
• Product Weight: 16 pounds
• 100 stitch and embroidery patterns included
• 1 step buttonhole
• 7-point feed dog system
• Automatic needle threader
• Backlit LCD screen
• Needle Up / Down Positioning
• Drop in style of Bobbin

The Juki HZL-LB5100 isn’t advertised as a quilting machine, but it has the right features and options to make a good fit for quilting. The machine’s compact size makes it ideal for smaller crafting rooms and homes.

The LB5100 offers a maximum sewing speed of 700 stitches per minute, so you can sew through projects more quickly. The automatic needle threader makes your life easier, and the LCD screen allows for a quick selection of your desired stitch. Not sure which stitch to choose? The stitch chart drawer depicts all of the machine’s stitches.

A one-step buttonhole feature allows you to quickly add buttons to your projects, and the 7-point feed makes it easy to work with all types of fabric.

Pros

• Variable sewing speed override
• Able to do free motion quilting
• Easy to use
• High quality construction

Cons

• LED light not bright enough

The Juki LB5100 is more of a basic machine, but it offers just the right features to make it a good fit for quilting. Plus, there’s the option of buying a wide table accessory to make quilting even easier.

Brother XR9550PRW Project Runway

Highlighted Features:

• Sewing Speed: 850 spm
• Throat Space:  5.75″ x 3.9″
• Product Weight: 18 pounds
• 110 stitches and embroidery machine patterns
• Automatic needle threader
• 8 one-step buttonhole styles
• 8 sewing presser feet included
• Extra-wide sewing table
• Large LCD screen
• 25 year limited warranty

If you’re looking for a computerized sewing machine, the Brother XR9550PRW may be a good fit for you. This model is a Project Runway Limited Edition machine with a backlit LCD screen and 110 built-in stitches, including heirloom and decorative stitches. It has all the features you want in an advanced sewing machine.

The wide table gives you a large work space to make it easier to create bigger quilts. There’s a free motion option, too, so that you can sew cuffs, sleeves and pant legs. The XR9550PRW has an automatic needle threader. With the touch of a lever, the needle threader pushes the thread through the needle’s eye.

The LCD display is large enough to read clearly, and it’s backlit for easy viewing even in low-light situations. The push-button stitch selectors make it easy to select your stitch, and all of the settings are clearly displayed on the display screen.

The XR9550PRW comes with eight quick-change presser feet, including zipper foot, overcasting, buttonhole, zigzag, spring action quilting, monogramming, button sewing and blind stitch.

This sewing machine comes with everything you need to get started: bobbins, spool caps, needle set, ball point needle, twin needle, instructional DVD, accessory pouch, seam ripper, eyelet punch and hard case.

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Great sewing machine for beginners
• Tons of stitches and features
• Light and portable

Cons

• Lighter than other quilting machines so may tip when working with large quilts

The Brother XR9550PRW can handle large quilting projects and offers additional features, like monogramming capability, that make it a fun machine to work with. It can tackle just about any project you throw at it, and the computerized functionality makes your life just a little bit easier.

Janome 2212 Sewing Machine

Highlighted Features:

• Sewing Speed: 860 spm
• Throat Space: 7″
• Product Weight: 15 pounds
• 12 built-in stitches
• 5 piece feed dog
• 4-step buttonhole
• and free arm drop

The Janome 2212 features a user-friendly basic design and offers simple features that make this model a good option for beginners. Instead of having dozens (or hundreds) of stitches, this sewing machine only has 12. There’s also a four-step buttonhole.

This mechanical machine may not have a plethora of stitches to choose from, but the quality of the machine and its performance more than makes up for the lack of stitch options. Truthfully, you’ll probably only use a handful of stitches for most of your projects.

You do have the option of adjusting the stitch width and length, and there’s a drop feed for free motion quilting and sewing. The reverse lever allows you to easily lock your stitches, and the free arm makes it easy to sew sleeves and pant cuffs.

The stitch selector dial helps you to choose your stitch with ease, and the chart helps you determine which one to choose. The snap on presser feet makes it easy to switch presser feet whenever you need. The Janome 2212 comes with blind foot, buttonhole and zipper feet.

Pros

• Basic user-friendly manual sewing machine
• Free arm
• Perfect for beginners

Cons

• Limited stitches
• Fewer features

Janome is known for its quality, and this is a machine that can easily give you years of use if you take care of it. In our experience, the Janome 2212 is best for beginners, is intuitive to use, and can sew through just about anything.

Eversewn Sparrow 20 Sewing Machine

Highlighted Features:

• Sewing Speed: 850 spm
• Throat Space: 7″
• Product Weight: 19 pounds
• 80 built-in stitches
• Drop-in hook system
• 7mm max stitch width and 4.5 max stitch length
• 15 needle positions
• 6 sewing presser feet
• Bright LED display
• Start/stop function

The Eversewn Sparrow 20 is ideal for quilting projects. Offering a simple, sleek and modern design, the Sparrow 20 looks just as good as it performs.

The Sparrow 20 offers 80 stitches, which includes 49 decorative stitches and 10 quilting stitches. You also have the option of adjusting the stitch width and length (7mm max. for width and 4.5mm max. for length). There are six one-step button holes, too.

The start/stop button allows you to start and stop sewing without having to use the foot control pedal. The LCD display shows the stitch number, and the control panel makes it easy to choose your stitch.

The Sparrow 20 has a drop-in hook system as well as a needle stop up/down function. Eversewn includes seven presser feet, including zigzag, zipper, sliding, buttonhole, overlock, blind hem, applique and button.

The Sparrow 20 is a durable, beautiful machine that sews like a dream. It can sew through most materials with ease, and its user-friendly design makes this machine a good option for beginners. There are plenty of stitches to choose from, but none of the features are too complicated for novice users to figure out.

Pros

• 10 quilting stitch options
• Easy to use computerized sewing machine
• Lightweight

Cons

• Lighter than other quilting machines

Easy to learn, fast and fun. One of the best looking sewing machines out there; you will love this machine if you are want to craft or make a quilt.

Singer Confidence Quilter

Highlighted Features:

• Sewing Speed: 700 spm
• Throat Space: 6.5″
• Product Weight: 22 pounds
• 98 built-in stitches
• Automatic needle threader
• 4 sewing machine feet
• Extension table
• 7 automatic 1-step buttonhole options
• Heavy-duty metal frame
• Adjustable stitch length and width

The Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter is a feature-rich machine that is a great value for its price.

The Confidence Quilter includes 98 stitches, 7 styles of 1-step buttonholes, auto-needle threader and drop-in bobbin system. One of the nicest things about this machine is that it was put together with quilters in mind. You get 4 different feet and a large quilting table to work from. The programmable needle up/down feature makes appliqué and quilting much easier for free motion sewing.

The frame is solid metal so it won’t go tipping on you when working with a large quilt pattern or other big craft projects.

Pros

• Large quilting table

Cons

• Small sewing area (3″)

For the money, you can’t go wrong with this machine. It is perfect for a beginner, but has enough features to keep you interested when you become more experienced.

If you are a more advanced quilter you will want something powerful, reliable and carries all of the quilting features and conveniences you desire. Then you need to spend a bit more money to get the best quilting machine. The machines in this list are all great choices, but do have varying features and capabilities so make sure to read as much information and reviews as you can before making your decision.

Janome MC-6300p Computerized Sewing Machine

Highlighted Features:

• Sewing Speed: 1000 spm
• Larger Throat Space: 9″ x 5″
• Product Weight: 45 pounds
• 66 built-in stitches and specialty patterns included
• Knee lift and drop feed control
• Automatic thread trimmer
• 5 different blanket stitches for applique
• Advanced fabric feed system
• Drop-in 15 class bobbin system
• 4 automatic buttonhole options

The Janome MC-6300P is one of the best all-round sewing machines you can buy without breaking the bank. Many professional, high quality machines will cost anywhere from $2000 to $3000. The Janome MC-6300 quilting machine can often be found for under $1000, which is a steal.

This quilting sewing machine was built for quilters, it comes with 66 stitches, 4 buttonholes, knee lifter, large sewing area, 5 stitches for applique, adjustable speed controller, advanced feed (used for very thick materials) and built in thread cutter. This is just a small sample of what you get with this machine.

In every test I tried with the Janome MC6300p quilting sewing machine it passed with flying colors. It can work best with the thickest of quilts without slowing or missing a beat. It is consistent and powerful and best of all fun to use. I can’t recommend this high quality machine enough.

Pros

• Lots of sewing power
• Sturdy frame
• Large quilting space

Cons

• Have to purchase a separate bobbin case specifically for free motion quilting

You can read our full review of this model here.

Buying Guide – What Should You Look For?

Want the best quilting machine but don’t know where to start? This guide should help get you started.

Here is a list of what you should consider when purchasing your machine.

1. Throat Sewing Space

The sewing space should be large enough for a quilt. You’ll find that this area will determine if the machine is long-, mid- or short-arm in size. The larger the space the better especially for sewing a quilt top and will make quilting easier. A general size chart is:

• Short-arm – 12″ or less
• Mid-arm – 12″ – 17”
• Long-arm – 18″ or greater

Short-arm machines are the least expensive compared to the others. Mid and Long-arm can handle bigger quilts.

2. Responsive Stitch Regulator

Stitch regulators that are responsive allow you to control your stitch speed. You can do this without a stitching regulator, by moving your hands with the quilt and controlling the speed of the needle. It is best when you can have tight control over your stitch speed.

3. Needle Speed or SPM

Stitches per minute, or SPM, is a gimmick that a lot of manufactures use to make consumers think that they can quilt faster. Precision speed control is needed for quilting, and you need to be able to adjust the needle speed to a speed that you can control.

Adjustable speed controls allow you to rely less on your machine’s foot pedal and continue quilting at a sufficient speed.

4. Simplistic Thread Path

When threading even a basic quilting machine, you want as simple of a thread path as possible. You’ll be able to thread the machine faster and rethread quicker.

5. Table and Free Arm Area

The table and free arm area need to be large enough for the quilt that you’re making. Table extensions are a great addition because quilters need a flat table area. This is essential for free motion quilting.

6. Bobbin Winding and Needle Threading

Always, no matter which machine you choose, look for ease of bobbin winding and needle threading. Self-threading machines are ideal, and an automatic bobbin winding machine will save you time and frustration.

While not a necessity, these two features will make it faster to start quilting.

7. Vibration

Vibration when quilting over a long period of time is very uncomfortable. You’ll find that stitch regulators can make this vibration worse. When vibration is high, it’s difficult to follow and one method to avoid this is felt pads.

A lot of people put felt pads under the edge of their machine to stop vibration.

When going through reviews, see if anyone mentions vibration from the machine. The vibration makes it harder to follow a path for the new quilter. You can also purchase vibration pads which are best when trying to reduce your machine’s vibration level. Heavy duty sewing machines will stay in place while you work.

8. Features

Key features that can help make your quilting experience better, include:

• Adjustable stitch speeds to slow stitches down to controllable levels
• Automatic threading options and bobbin winding
• Quarter inch foot
• Stitch length adjustments so that you can change the length to “0”
• Needle stop down feature to help with the repositioning of the needle
• Extension tables to allow for the large quilt area needed for larger projects
• Bed that reduces vibration when quilting
• Quilting stitches built into the machine to make quilting more versatile
• Start or stop buttons for the machine
• Stitch variety, such as, straight stitches and zigzag stitches
• Easy feed system that allows for quick feed dog changes

What is a Quilting Sewing Machine?

The best sewing machines for quilting allow a user to make blocks that are 4 – 6 inches and allows for fast, efficient quilting. Fabric is hand-fed into the quilting machine. The fabric is pinned before starting, and pins are removed from the layers of fabric as the sandwich is being sewn.

Long-arm machines are the best for quilting. They are allow for much larger quilts to be made with tables being 10’ to 14’ wide. However, they are very expensive. Quilting machines do not have to be expensive. Lots of the models listed in these reviews are inexpensive.

Fabric remains in place when using these types of quilting machines while the machine moves around.

Sewing machines can also be used for your favorite quilt patterns, and these hybrid machines require a unique set up process to ensure that the end-product comes out with the best results. They are a great entry-level option before you research quilting reviews and buy an expensive quilting machine.

Well-Known Brands

Some retailers offer only high-end sewing machines, or they have the high-end models from a certain manufacturer. Amazon and your local sewing machine dealer will have sewing machines for all price ranges.

A few of the best brands to consider (and this is not an exhaustive list) include:

• Bernina
• Brother
• Husqvarna
• Janome
• Kenmore
• Singer

You’ll find a lot of great models from all of these brands, and they stick by their products with superb warranties and quality.

You may also find some models that offer free classes online. Some models may also be sold at authorized dealers only, so you may not be able to find them at your typical, local dealer.

Speaking of warranty, you want to make sure that there’s a warranty offered on any quality quilting machine you purchase. The warranty will allow you to return the machine or have it fixed if something is wrong with it – sewing machines do have defects.

There should also be a repair policy, and this may require a call to the manufacturer. You want to know whether or not you need to send the sewing machine back to the manufacturer for a repair or if you can send it to a local repair center.

Technicians that aren’t factory-authorized may result in you voiding the warranty. We would also suggest to not purchase from a big box store as their service is usually lacking.

FAQs

I hope these quilting machine reviews have been helpful.

Happy quilting!