This article promises to give you the most thorough review of the best quilting sewing machine. Each of these models boasts many extraordinary features, which makes them worth every cent.
You might not know this, but there are endless sewing machines with quilting capabilities on the market. It may sound nice, but the problem is that not all machines will meet your needs, skills, and preferences.
A quilting sewing machine for professionals is certainly not suitable for a beginner. Also, some models are exclusively designed for making embroidery and another complicated patchwork.
And that’s why we’ve prepared this article to help you buy the most suitable one as well as avoid wasting money for nothing. Without further adieu, let’s check out.
Best Quilting Sewing Machine – Quick Comparison
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Best Quilting Sewing Machine Per Category
#1 Brother CS6000i Sewing And Quilting Machine – Best Overall
The winner in our top list is the Brother CS6000i Sewing And Quilting Machine. We give it the first place for many of its distinctive features.
What we love about this machine is that it includes 60 built-in quilting stitches. Not only that, the product allows you to make multiple decorative stitches as well as 7 different styles of auto-size buttonholes.
There is a wide range of accessories included when buying the sewing machine. They are a hardcover, an extended table, 10 sewing feet, a set of needles including twin needles, and 3 bobbins. Enjoy doing your craft projects with so many tools!
And you know what – the manufacturer offers 25 years of limited warranty. You can rest assured about the technical support they provide for your machine.
This product is the best brother sewing machine, so we have no complaints about it. The quality is out of this world – you won’t regret it at the very least.
Pros
- 60 built-in stitches
- Accessories included
- 25-year warranty
Con
- None
#2 Brother CS7000X Sewing And Quilting Machine – Best For Beginners
If you are still wondering what is the best quilting sewing machine for a beginner, here is the answer. The Brother CS7000X Sewing And Quilting Machine is a very easy to use sewing machine.
For those who are novices at sewing and quilting, this product is truly a lifesaver. Specifically, the table is extra-large, making it a breeze to work on your quilts. Also, the useful walking foot and the handy manual enable you to deal with thick, tough quilts in no time. Thus, it is safe to say that this is the best sewing machine for beginners.
With the 70 built-in stitches the model offers, you can do a great variety of craft projects. From utility, quilting, decorative to heirloom stitches, it would be no problem with the machine.
Another extra benefit of the product is the LCD screen and the LED light. The backlit LCD gives you complete control over the stitch selections, meanwhile, the LED light helps illuminate your working area.
The only downside is that it is a little lighter than most quilting machines. If the quilts you’re creating are too large, the machine might tip over.
Pros
- Easy to use
- 70-built-in stitches
- LCD screen and LED light
Con
- A little too lightweight
#3 Brother PQ1500SL Sewing And Quilting Machine – Best Sewing Speed
Do you have tons of craft projects waiting to be done? If so, a professional sewing machine like the Brother PQ1500SL Sewing And Quilting Machine will solve your problem.
What makes this model stand out from its competitors is its impressive speed. It allows you to sew and quilt up to 1,500 stitches in a very short period of time – just a single minute. With such an amazing feature, you won’t find yourself staying up all night, doing the quilts in a hurry!
The product earns another plus point for its heavy-duty feature. The dimensions are 7.9 x 12.6 x 19.3 inches, with 29.8 pounds in weight. Now that you work on super large quilts without worrying the machine will tip over.
Plus, with the advanced needle threading system, everything suddenly becomes a lot easier. The thread will be automatically pushed through the needle and the drop-in top bobbin, saving you a lot of time and effort. It would not be an exaggeration to claim that this is the best sewing machine.
There is one problem with the machine, however. Since most of the components are oriented from the left, right-handed quilters may have difficulty using it.
Pros
- 1500 stitches per minute
- Heavy-duty
- The advanced needle threading system
Con
- Not suitable for right-handed people
#4 Janome 2212 Sewing And Quilting Machine – Best Budget
We have some good news for those on a tight budget. The Janome 2212 Sewing And Quilting Machine is the best cheap sewing machine on our recommended list.
Despite its affordable price, the quality is superb. It still retains many outstanding features that promise not to let you down.
This machine is excellent when it comes to handling the thick fabric. With the zig-zag width stitch and the stitch length adjustment, thick quilts are no longer your nightmare.
Unlike many quilting sewing machines, this model is very easy to carry. Thanks to the innovative design and the lightweight ness, you can easily transport it as you wish.
This product has a drawback, though. Since it doesn’t have an automatic needle threader, many beginners find it challenging to use the machine.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Suitable for thick fabric
- Easy to carry
Con
- Not suitable for beginners
#5 SINGER Confidence 7469Q Sewing And Quilting Machine – Best For Free Motion Quilting
The next product on our list is the SINGER Confidence 7469Q Sewing And Quilting Machine. This model is considered the best sewing machine for free-motion quilting.
The magic lies in its special components which makes the process of free motion quilting a piece of cake. Specifically, the programmable needle up/down feature allows you to do the appliqué and quilting with tremendous ease. Plus, the drop feed aids a lot in free-motion sewing.
And you know what – you can create endless craft projects with this machine. Thanks to 98 built-in stitches and 7 automatic one-step buttonholes, the hard job becomes merely child’s play. The manufacturer deserves praise for the heavy-duty metal frame. It can hold the mechanisms perfectly, ensuring optimal performance for skip-free sewing.
We do give this product one minus point for its small throat space – 3 inches. If you plan to work on larger quilts, we recommend looking for another machine.
Pros
- Suitable for free motion quilting
- 98 built-in stitches
- Heavy-duty metal frame
Con
- Small throat space
Related: Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter Sewing Machine Reviews
#6 JUKI TL-2000Qi Sewing And Quilting Machine – Best Throat Space
For those who need to create super large quilts, this machine is the perfect option. The JUKI TL-2000Qi Sewing And Quilting Machine offer extra-large throat space.
As written above, the throat space of this machine is immensely large – 8.5 inches. Thus, it allows you to work on big craft projects without any difficulty.
Another worth mentioning feature is the low vibration when operating. Unlike most of its competitors, this machine rarely vibrates owing to the aluminum die-cast arm and bed.
The heavy frame also counts a lot for the desirability of this product. You can work comfortably as it will neither tip over nor bounce.
But it is quite a hassle to carry the machine, as it weighs 36 pounds.
Pros
- Extra-large throat space
- Low vibration operation
- Heavy frame
Con
- Difficult to carry
#7 Juki HZL-F600 Sewing And Quilting Machine – Best For Embroidery
Last but not least, have a look at the Juki HZL-F600 Sewing And Quilting Machine. We could say with confidence that this is the best sewing machine for quilting and embroidery.
Anyone can become a professional at embroidery with this magical machine. It offers 225 embroidery stitch patterns as well as 4 embroidery machine fonts.
This product comes with one unique function – the random stitches feature. It works like this: the machine adjusts the width of some quilting stitch patterns by itself. Thus, it can save you from the drudgery of making the adjustments by hand.
And the sewing speed is rather impressive – 900 stitches per minute. Very convenient, isn’t it?
The only thing to complain about is the manual. It is not very well written, so novices may have difficulty using it.
Pros
- Ideal for embroidery
- Random stitches feature
- 900 stitches per minute
Cons
- The manual not being informative
What Is A Quilting Sewing Machine?
To put it simply, a quilting sewing machine is one that allows you to do both tasks, namely quilting and sewing.
Specifically, such machines enable quilters to make blocks as large as 4 – 6 inches. Here’s how it works: the fabric is first pinned, then hand-fed into the hybrid machine. When you finish, the pins will be neatly removed.
Long-arm machines are also classified as quilting sewing machines. Technically, these function the same way as the models mentioned above, except that the quilts they produce are larger – 10 to 14 inches. Long-arm machines are more expensive, though.
What Type Of Sewing Machine Is Best For Quilting?
Generally speaking, there is no valid claim about which sewing machine is best for quilting. Rather, you should look for certain features below to get the best sewing machine for quilting.
- Throat space: This part must be very large as you can create large craft projects.
- Table: An extended table will be preferable as it allows you to work more freely and efficiently.
- Quilting stitches: These stitches include tie-off stitches and stay stitches, making it easy to do the job.
The three features are the most important aspects of any quilting sewing machine.
How To Set Your Sewing Machine For Quilting
You must do a few proper settings before doing the job. If you don’t, you’ll end up wasting your time for nothing even if you are a professional.
- Oiling: No matter how good the machine is, its productivity will be greatly reduced if you don’t oil it well.
- Putting the machine in a large space: A too-narrow space can adversely affect the quality of your quilts.
- Readjusting the stitch speed: Before diving into your craft projects, remember to readjust the stitch speed accordingly.
- Choosing the right quilting machine foot: There are three types of them: darning, hopping, and free-motion foot. Technically, they are the same, but you should read the manual beforehand to select the right type.
- Lowering the feed dog: Use a lever or a button on the machine to lower it.
- Decreasing the stitch’s length: It’s best to set the length to zero, as it will now correspond accordingly to how fast the needle moves.
- Turning off the thread cutter: You should disable this part when quilting. But for sewing, it is recommended.
- Stopping the down needle: With this, you can turn and reposition the quilting blocks easily.
- Choosing the right stitch plate: A straight stitch plate usually works well with a straight stitch pressure foot.
- Checking the walking foot pressure: This factor depends on what your sewing machine is. In this case, check the manual.
- Disabling the fix stitch: This tool is excellent for sewing, but it will be a disaster for quilting as it creates tie knots on the quilts.
Buying Guide
Buying sewing machines is never an easy task. Here are some guidelines to help you get what is the best sewing machine for quilting:
Throat Space
This part should be large enough for a regular quilt. The larger the throat space, the better the results. From this aspect, sewing quilting machines are divided into three types, namely long-arm, mid-arm, and short-arm. The sizes are less than 12 inches, 12 to 17 inches, and more than 18 inches respectively.
The price also varies between types. While long-arm models cost quite a lot, short-arm ones are usually easy on the wallet.
Responsive Stitch Regulator
You can control the stitch speed as you wish with such stitch regulators. There is no need to purchase an additional stitching regulator, as the equipment allows you to control the needle speed using your hands. Having complete control over the stitch speed will ensure optimal performance on your craft projects.
Needle Speed Or SPM
Most companies boast about how many stitches per minute (SPM) their models can produce to make customers fall for the misapprehension that they offer better performance. Meanwhile, what counts is the precision of speed control. It will be fruitless if you can not control the needle speed, no matter how great the machine is.
In this case, you can rely less on the machine’s foot pedal and quilt at a decent speed thanks to precise speed control.
Thread Path
This characteristic should be as simple as possible. Otherwise, if your thread path is too complicated then you will have trouble retreading it later.
The Table And Free Arm Area
These parts must be large enough for the quilts. In this case, a long-arm model is a perfect choice because it offers sufficient throat space.
Additionally, extended tables are ideal as most quilters want a flat, large table area. This factor allows for easy free motion quilting as well.
Bobbin Winding And Needle Threading
No matter which model you choose, the two parts are indispensable. Particularly, self-threading and automatic bobbin winding machines not only produce better results but also save you a lot of time and effort.
Vibration
When you’ve been working on a quilting sewing machine for a long time, there are many chances that you will notice some kind of uncomfortable vibration. The stitch regulators can also add to your frustration as the vibration becomes worse. When the vibration gets too extreme; however, it will prove difficult to do the job. You will have a hard time following the path for the new quilt.
One method to solve this problem is to use felt pads. The usage is quite simple: all you need to do is to put the pads under the edge of the machine. Fortunately, there are many vibration pads available on the market which you can purchase easily.
Also, heavy-duty machines can efficiently reduce the vibration as they usually stay in place.
Well-known Brands Will Have Options For Everyone
Quilting sewing machines are not a rare product, so you can purchase them from a lot of manufacturers as well as companies. Some of the best sewing machine brands include Brother, Husqvarna, Janome, Kenmore, and Singe.
These brands offer excellent models at various prices. You can read our review above to decide on what sewing machine is best for quilting.
Choosing The Right Sewing Machine Type
To select the sewing machine type that best suits you, it is advisable to learn about different variations of them.
Manual
This type of sewing machine might be the least desirable as it is the most basic one. Using these machines is equivalent to a snail’s pace, but the upside is that you can avoid unexpected breakdown.
Electronic
An electronic sewing machine has a single motor that runs the needle. This machine allows you to adjust speeds and settings accordingly, but you still have to use the foot pedal by your strength.
Computerized
These models are more advanced as they are equipped with cutting edge technology. For example, some feature LEDs or LCDs.
Overlocker
An overlocker sewing machine can do multiple jobs, from seaming, hemming to edging. It can do many processes automatically, saving you time and frustration.
Features That You’ll Want To Consider
Below are some typical features that shouldn’t be missed in a good sewing machine.
Buttonholes
Making these things is quite troublesome, but luckily many models can do this automatically.
Built-in Needle Threader
Although this part is not necessary, you can benefit greatly from it – it allows you to thread faster with tremendous ease.
Drop-in Bobbin
Bobbin systems are extremely complicated, and that’s why you need a drop-in bobbin. It can reduce the many steps you’re supposed to take, making the job hassle-free.
Free arm
With this part, many difficult pieces such as hems and sleeves suddenly become no longer challenging.
Weight
The ideal weight for a quilting sewing is no less than 25 lbs, ensuring sufficient stability for you to work on.
How To Care For Your Sewing Quilting Machine
Maintenance is a basic requirement in any machine. Here is some advice on how to keep your quilting sewing well-functioned.
- Change the needle
- Use a cover to keep dust and dirt away
- Make sure all the screws and components are tightened up
- Clean the machine regularly
- Ensure the machine is well oiled
- Choose the right thread and needles
- Regular service is a must
By following these guidelines, we are sure your machine will give you optimal results and last for a long period of time.
FAQs
Q1: What’s the difference between a quilting machine and a sewing machine?
A: These two machines have many things in common, especially in design and functions. Actually, there are a lot of machines that can have the best of both worlds, doing both quilting and sewing.
One distinctive feature that distinguishes sewing machines and quilting counterparts is the amount of work area. Specifically, the latter usually have a larger workspace, so you can work on big craft projects with little to no difficulty.
Another feature that gives quilting machines the edge over sewing ones is faster sewing speeds and specialized presser feet. Thus, you can make quilts of multiple different sizes professionally.
Q2: Do you need a walking foot to quilt?
A: Of course. Your craft projects won’t go smoothly without a proper walking foot. Also, the walking foot must add one additional set of feed dogs on the quilt’s top.
Besides, a walking foot has this magic: it can give a regular sewing machine the same functions as a quilting model. If your machine doesn’t have one, the standard presser foot will push against the top layer. The ultimate result is that your quilt will be rumpled and bunched up.
Q3: What’s the difference between quilting and knotting?
A: If you are a novice in this field, you might not be familiar with the terms “quilt” and “knot.”
To put it simply, quilting is the process of fastening three layers of fabric together. Lines and stitches are applied in this case.
Knotting, on the other hand, is rather complicated. It works like this: The first thing you do is to go through the three layers of fabric. Then, you return to a nearby position. Finally, tie the two ends together using a square knot.
While knotting is less time-consuming, quilting offers more durability and efficiency in the long run.
Conclusion
So, what do you think? Have you made up your mind about the best quilting sewing machine to buy? We guess the answer is certainly a yes since our article has provided you a lot of helpful information.
If you are still wavering between different options, you can choose our top pick – the Brother CS6000i Sewing And Quilting Machine. We are sure it won’t be a letdown for you as it promises to offer optimal results.
Lastly, thank you for reading. We hope you will get the most suitable machine and have fun making quilts!
Further reading:
I’m Charlotte Jane, I love quilting. I provide my reviews of the best quilting tools. I hope to help beginners share their love of Quilting with the world.
