Every Quilter has their expectations of what they consider the best sewing machine for quilting. Sometimes, these expectations bring disappointments. Luckily, after deep research, we have brought you our top 10 picks that might turn out to offer you the machine you have been looking for.
A good quilting machine will have a bigger working space, work using a straight ditch only, and have a powerful motor. Quilting machines may look like the typical sewing machine but have advanced features that allow quilting.
Why Buy a Quilting Machine
If you are a beginner in quilting, you might still be doubting the importance of this skill. Like any sewing machine made explicitly for specific sewing, sewing machines for quilting has unique features. One of the things that make these machine outstanding is their high speed.
Besides, quilting machines are reliable and cost-effective. With a single stitch, you can get used to your machine and produce fabulous works in the long run. Most of these machines also come with expert support. Since they work at greater speeds, sewing machines for quilting are usually sturdy. They also have a flat and spacious working area.
Best Sewing Machines For Quilting 2022
Without taking much time, let’s dive into our top 10 picks of the best sewing machines for quilting.
1. Janome HD1000BE HD1000 Black Edition All Metal Body Sewing Machine, one size
Janome HD1000BE HD1000 is, without exaggeration, the best sewing machine for quilting. The machine comes with outstanding features that not only make your work easier but also offer you service for an extended time.
With the Janome HD100BE HD1000 Sewing Machine, you get an all-metal machine with 25 years limited warranty. The Aluminum machine is easy to use with its easy threading and front-loading bobbin system. The machine also comes with 14 stitches and a 4-step buttonhole.
The machine’s automatic needle threader and adjustable stitch length and width are full proof when it comes to convenience. Quilting features that you can expect from this machine include a drop feed and a free arm for free-motion sewing and cuffs and sleeves, respectively. It also comes with several accessories. This machine measures 15.6 x 6.3 x 12.4 inches with a weight of 16.8 pounds.
View at Amazon: Janome HD1000BE HD1000 Black Edition All Metal Body Sewing Machine, one size
Pros
- Durable
- Easy to use
- Convenient
- Comes with several accessories
Cons
- Some users had issues with the clutch
2. Brother XR9550PRW Sewing and Quilting Machine, Project Runway, 165 Built-in Stitches, LCD Display, Wide Table, 8 Included Feet
This is the best sewing machine for quilting you will not want to overlook if you like Brother products. The Brother XR9550PRW is uniquely built to cater to your quilting needs. One of the features that might impress you is the multiple built-in stitches, including those specifically meant for quilting.
Among the 165 stitches, you get 110 utility, heirloom, and decorative stitches. You also get 8 styles of auto-size buttonholes and 55 alphanumerical sewing stitches. Another feature that you may like in this best sewing machine for quilting is its automatic needle threader that quickly takes care of your threading.
You also enjoy the drop-in top bobbin for resisting jamming. Besides, this machine features an LCD screen and reliable support. This item measures 7.01 x 16.26 x 12.48 inches. It weighs 8.96 pounds.
View at Amazon: Brother XR9550PRW Sewing and Quilting Machine, Project Runway, 165 Built-in Stitches, LCD Display, Wide Table, 8 Included Feet
Pros
- Comes with several stitches
- Automatic needle threader
- Resists jamming
- Easy to use
- Reliable support
Cons
- Not suitable for thick material
3. SINGER | 9985 Sewing & Quilting Machine With Accessory Kit – 960 Stitches – Drop-In Bobbin System, & Built-In Needle Threader
Singer | 9985 Sewing & Quilting Machine is one of the Best quilting sewing machines you can get in the market. If you want a computerized tool, take a look at this machine. The machine features a wide range of stitches for every project you might want to undertake.
The best part is that you can easily select your favorite stitch on the color touchscreen LCD. Other features that make this tool the best sewing machine for quilting are its high speed of up to 850 stitches per minute and the wide selection of accessories, including the all-purpose foot and the zipper foot.
In addition, its metal frame guarantees durability. The item measures 17.25 x 8.5 x 12.5 inches. It weighs 20 pounds.
View at Amazon: SINGER | 9985 Sewing & Quilting Machine With Accessory Kit – 960 Stitches – Drop-In Bobbin System, & Built-In Needle Threader
Pros
- Large selection of stitches
- Multiple accessories
- Color touchscreen LCD for easy operation
- Automatic threader
- High speed
Cons
- Some users had an issue with the tension
4. Heureux Sewing Machine Computerized and Quilting, 200 Built-in Stitches, LCD Display, Z6 Automatic Needle Threader, Twin Needle
If you have little money in your pocket, you might be interested in the best sewing machine for quilting under $500. The Heureux Sewing machine comes with 200 unique built-in stitches. If you like those embroidery decorations, buttonhole stitches, and alphanumeric sewing stitches, this can be an excellent choice.
The machine is easy to operate, making it the best sewing machine for quilting for beginners. Thanks to its top-loading bobbin, automatic needle threader, stretch stitch, adjustable needle position, and feed dog height.
Other features that make this tool the best quilting sewing machine are easy to use and read LCD screen, durable aluminum interior frame, foot pedal for easy control of speed, embroidery foot for using it for embroidery tasks, and great accessories that make it multi-purpose.
In addition, with this machine, you get free after-sales technical support. The 12 pounds machine measures 15.7 x 7 x 12.2 inches.
View at Amazon: Heureux Sewing Machine Computerized and Quilting, 200 Built-in Stitches, LCD Display, Z6 Automatic Needle Threader, Twin Needle
Pros
- Easy to use
- Multi-purpose
- Durable
- Great accessories
- Several stitches
Cons
- Some bobbin issues
5. Brother CS7000i Sewing and Quilting Machine, 70 Built-in Stitches, 2.0″ LCD Display, Wide Table, 10 Included Feet
Brother CS7000I Sewing and Quilting Machine is another best sewing machine for quilting under $500. The machine features 70 unique built-in stitches, including quilting, decorative, utility, and heirloom stitches. With its automatic threader, you will be sure to cut preparation time.
It also features a drop-in top bobbin that resists jamming. The best sewing machine for quilting also comes with a backlit LCD screen for easy making and viewing stitch selections. Besides, this machine comes with unique accessories, including a protective case.
If you are worried about troubles after buying this item, you should stop your worries as the machine comes with manufacturer support through various channels. The machine measures 16.02 x 6.69 x 12.09 inches with a weight of 17 pounds.
View at Amazon: Brother CS7000i Sewing and Quilting Machine, 70 Built-in Stitches, 2.0″ LCD Display, Wide Table, 10 Included Feet
Pros
- Comes with an automatic needle threader
- Resists jamming
- Backlit LCD
- Several useful accessories
- Multiple stitches
- Offers free technical support for life
Cons
- Some users had issues with the threader
6. Janome MC6650 Sewing and Quilting Machine
If you are looking for the best quilting sewing machines for beginners, you will want to check on Janome MC6650. The sewing and quilting machine offers you easy threading with its built-in needle threader.
Besides, it comes with 172 built-in stitches, including quilting, utility, direct stitches, and 9 automatic one-step buttonholes. You might also like its block and script alphabet that you get both in upper and lowercase.
The basic quilting sewing machine comes with a top-loading bobbin for easy operation. You can also easily change the needle plate with a single push on the button. With its pressure foot, you can easily regulate the pressure on your fabric.
Other notable features include LED lights, an aluminum interior frame, an outer body, and an automatic programmable thread trimmer. The tool also comes with multiple accessories for all your quilting needs. This machine measures 9 x 20 x 12 inches. It weighs 24.25 pounds.
View at Amazon: Janome MC6650 Sewing and Quilting Machine
Pros
- Easy to use
- Durable
- Multiple stitches
- Built-in needle threader
- LED lights for adequate illumination
Cons
- Lacks a walking foot
7. Brother PQ1500SL Sewing and Quilting Machine, Up to 1,500 Stitches Per Minute, Wide Table, 7 Included Feet
If speed matters to you, take a look at Brother PQ1500SL. The sewing machine has a speed of up to 1500 stitches per minute, allowing you to complete your project in the shortest time possible.
The machine also comes with an advanced needle threader to save your time. Besides, it features a drop-in top bobbin that resists jamming. Precision pin feeding is another feature that makes this tool to be regarded as the best sewing machine for quilting.
With it, you can sew various materials of different thicknesses. This machine also comes with several accessories and reliable manufacturer support. The machine measures 7.9 x 12.6 x 19.3 inches. It weighs 29.8 pounds.
View at Amazon: Brother PQ1500SL Sewing and Quilting Machine, Up to 1,500 Stitches Per Minute, Wide Table, 7 Included Feet
Pros
- High speed
- The advanced needle threading system
- Multiple accessories
- Reliable support
- Can sew materials of different thickness
Cons
- Comes with poor instructions
8. JUKI HZL-F300 Sewing and Quilting Machine , White
For those who want a high-performing and straightforward sewing and quilting machine, take a look at JUKI HZL-F300. The machine has 106 stitch patterns. It also has 3 fonts for versatility.
Besides, the machine is simplified for use with a free arm. JUKI HZL-F300 features 16 buttonholes that are Automatic electronic sensor controlled. Besides, it features an automatic thread cutting for a simplified operation.
Another feature you might like in this machine is the automatic one-touch needle threader that reduces your preparation time. Moreover, with its wide extension table, you will not worry about having enough working space.
This item measures 17.5 x 8.3 x 11.4 inches. It weighs 25 pounds.
View at Amazon: JUKI HZL-F300 Sewing and Quilting Machine , White
Pros
- Simplified for easy operation
- Versatile
- Automatic needle threader
- Wide extension table that offers enough workspace.
Cons
- Some users had issues with the foot controller
9. Janome 4300QDC-B Sewing and Quilting Machine with Bonus Quilt Kit!
This is another quilting machine from Janome that you might be interested in. The Janome 4300QDC-B Sewing and Quilting Machine is unique compared to most quilting sewing machines. Once you buy this machine, you get a Bonus Quilt Kit.
The Janome 4300QDC-B has 300 built-in stitches with the American alphabet. It also has an LCD screen that offers easy navigation. Like most sewing machines for quilting in our list, the Janome 4300QDC-B comes with a built-in needle threader for quick threading.
Besides, it consists of an easy reverse button and a locking stitch button. In addition, its memorized needle up/down, foot pressure adjustment, and extension table offer convenience. The item measures 7.2 x 16 x 17.7 inches with a weight of 22.4 pounds.
View at Amazon: Janome 4300QDC-B Sewing and Quilting Machine with Bonus Quilt Kit!
Pros
- Multiple stitches
- Easy navigation
- Comes with a reverse button
- Offers a wide working area
Cons
- Not suitable for thick fabric
10. Elna Elnita ef72 Sewing and Quilting Machine
The Last but all the same best sewing machine for quilting on our list is the Elna Elnita ef72 Sewing and Quilting Machine. The machine offers smooth fabric feed with its 7-piece feed dog system.
With its auto declutch bobbin winder, you will also be sure of feed winding the bobbin moderately. Another unique feature is the adjustable thread tension, high presser foot allowing sewing, and quilting thicker fabric.
This machine comes with 3 LED lights, an aluminum interior and outer body, and a 25-year limited warranty. Besides, you get 5 years warranty on electronics and 1 year on labor. In addition, you get several accessories for convenience and high performance. The 33 pounds machine measures 16 x 26 x 21 inches.
View at Amazon: Elna Elnita ef72 Sewing and Quilting Machine
Pros
- Offers smooth fabric feed
- Auto declutch winder
- Convenient operation
- LED lights for adequate illumination
- Comes with several accessories
- 25 years limited warranty
Cons
- Lacks a knee lifter
Buying Guide
Enough working space and special feet are two of the things most quilters look at when looking for the best sewing machine for quilting. However, there are still a good number of things that are all the same important to consider before going for your favorite tool. So, if you wonder what is the best sewing machine for quilting, take a look at the considerations below to help you choose your machine wisely.
1. Features
The best sewing machine for quilting will make your work easier and more effective. A few of the features that most people will look at before settling on a machine are automatic thread cutter, built-in needle threader, drop-in bobbin, buttonholes, automatic bobbin winding, weight, and computerized machine. You might also prefer a quicker machine to help you complete your tasks faster.
2. Cost
Sewing machines for quilting have a wide range of price points. This means you should prepare well before deciding the kind of quilting machine you want. If you are a beginner, you might want to go for the sewing machines for quilting under $500. This will eliminate any loss if you get disinterested or give you room for sharpening your skills.
Machine with multiple stitches is also suitable for beginners to test and learn various techniques in sewing. If you are sure about your skills and purpose for the machine, don’t shy about spending on advanced and high-quality machines.
3. Accessories
Most machines will come with accessories and bonus kits to make your sewing more convenient and enjoyable. Things like a cover, carrying case, and special feet are a few of the accessories you can consider before buying your favorite machine.
4. Working Space
You need a flat surface and ample working space to make a perfect quilt. Before making that order, check on the working area of your machine. Some machines may include a table extension which is an excellent idea.
5. Durability
The period your machine will last will significantly depend on the material used to make it. Keeping in mind that these machines work very fast, you need a powerful machine probably made from metal. Checking on the warranty is also crucial.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is a walking foot worth for quilting?
Yes. This feature is great for making your project run smoothly with the best results. With a walking foot, you can easily add another set of feed dogs over your quilt. If your machine lacks a walking foot, that is not the end of quilting. The downside of lacking this feature is bulk work, and if you are not careful, you can create a rumpled and bunched-up quilt.
2. Can I add a walking foot on my sewing machine?
Yes. Don’t settle on a machine without a walking foot if it matters to you. You can buy the accessory separately and fix it on your machine. However, keep in mind that not all walking feet are compatible with every machine. Ensure you find the one that fits your machine.
3. Can I use any machine for quilting?
Yes. You can quilt with the common sewing machine by piecing the quilt top then binding the quilt. However, this may not produce the best results as a machine specifically meant for quilting.
4. What is a quilting stitch?
These are special stitches such as decorative and free-motion sewing stitches meant for making quilts. Some machines will come with several quilting stitches while others a few.
5. Is quilting the same as knotting?
No. you might have heard statements like “quilt it” or “knot it”, but these terms mean different things. With quilting, you use lines of stitches to fasten the 3 layers of fabric together. On the other hand, knotting involves going through the 3 layers of fabric, coming back up, and tying the ends together to make a square knot. Knotting can be quick but not strong enough to last long like quilting.
Conclusion
Whether you are replacing your old sewing machine for quilting or looking for a new one, you can now easily select your favorite machine. Our top picks above consist of machines from various manufacturers, different price points, and multiple features.
You can also check on the pros and cons to help you know the machine that will work best for you. In addition, we have included the buying guide and the FAQs for a broader understanding of these machines. All the best as you order your best sewing machine for quilting today.
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