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Best Sewing Machine for Free Motion Quilting: An All-Inclusive Guide

Are you looking for Best Sewing Machine for Free Motion Quilting? Most people do not have the financial means or space to purchase a long arm quilting machine in our sewing rooms. Longarm machines are complex on the body since you must stand while working and push and drag a 20 to 50-pound quilting machine head. Working like this day after day might cause a slew of joint problems. It is why many quilters use Free Motion Quilting machines.

Free-motion quilting is when a quilt sandwich is stitched without the use of feed dogs on a regular sewing machine. It works by using a sewing machine and moving the cloth “freely” under the needle to achieve diverse designs with your quilt stitching. For free-motion quilting, you will need a sewing machine with specific features. The device would be unworthy if it lacked these features, so finding the ideal sewing machine for this job might be difficult.

Sewing machines have evolved throughout time, and there are now a lot of great models available that are ideal for at-home quilters. Finding a suitable quilting machine should be simple, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned quilter. Below are some of the top quilting sewing machines for beginners and experienced quilters. We’ve included models in every price range, so whether you’re looking for something low-cost or high-end, you will be able to discover the finest sewing machine for free-motion quilting that meets your demands. We hope you find our list of the finest quilting machines helpful.

Buying Guide

The potential to make your imagination a reality is a true gift. When it comes to free-motion quilting, you’ll need a sewing machine that can handle the unique requirements of the craft, so there are a few features to look for. These include:

  • Thread Tension

The thread tension system is essential when it comes to quilting with a sewing machine. It is because quilting requires a different tension than other textiles. Some machines come with an automatic or manual thread tension controller, depending on which machine you purchase.

 Quilt sewing thread tension differs from stitching thread tension. You’ll need to adjust the thread tension settings when sewing quilts, especially if you’re using free-motion mode.

  • Speed

When looking for the sewing machine for free-motion quilting, consider two aspects of speed: first, the maximum speed. With a fast machine, you’ll be able to finish larger quilting tasks quickly and move on to other ones. You’ll save a lot of time and work with this fast speed. Second, there needs to be a means to regulate the speed. Speed control capabilities can come in handy if you’re a beginner who isn’t used to working at high speeds or want to slow down for more precise work.

  • Feet

You may only have a one-foot option with some sewing machines. You should think about whether or not the machine can accommodate additional feet. Having more foot options for your quilting projects can improve your experience. If you don’t have any of them, you can always buy them as an add-on to make free-motion quilting easier.

  • Quilting Table

Easy free-motion quilting necessitates a large workspace; the larger the workspace, the better it is for you. Quilting larger designs may require extra throat space, even if you have a machine with a big neck area. In these situations, a quilting table is the best option. This attachment often comes as a detachable unit that you can simply set just when needed in various variants.

  • Quilting Stitches

Stitches are one of the most important parts of quilting with a sewing machine. It would be best if you chose a sewing machine with quilting stitches. Many machines come with several different quilting stitches with which you can experiment and be creative.

List of 10 Best Sewing Machines for Free Motion Quilting

Brother CS6000i Sewing and Quilting Machine

Best Overall Sewing Machine For Free Motion Quilting

Brother CS6000i Sewing and Quilting Machine

(image credit: Amazon)

Specifications:

Brand: Brother | Item Weight: 5896 Grams | Material: Aluminum | Item Dimensions: 16 x 6.7 x 11.4 inches | Power Source: Treadle Powered

Pros

  • Has 60 unique built-in stitches
  • Unique seven styles of auto-size buttonholes
  • Includes a hard protective case
  • Backed by a 25-year limited warranty
  • LCD Screen to select stitches easily

Cons

  • LCD screen quality is poor.

Review

Brother CS6000i Sewing and Quilting Machine is our #1 choice! Brother is a beautiful alternative for you if you’re looking for a user-friendly and small sewing unit. It’s the CS6000I sewing and quilting machine, which comes with 60 built-in stitches.

Moreover, this variant comes with nine presser feet and seven different one-step buttonholes. The huge removable table for larger tasks, such as quilts, will, nevertheless, be the most attractive feature. Your sewing machine is transportable due to the sturdy case. It also prevents dust from accumulating on your stitching companion.

In addition, there are eight quilting and stitching feet to choose from. As a result, intermediate users have a wider range of alternatives when sewing or quilting. It also includes an automatic needle threader. It’s a great tool that allows you to focus on stitching while saving time. Because of the table’s more excellent dimensions, you’ll have more room to work on quilts.

It is, nevertheless, useful for novices as well. What’s even better? It has a lighted LCD and automated threading, among other things. You will also have access to a well-lit work environment, which is fantastic. We appreciate how they included an LCD with information on your chosen stitch. This feature makes identifying the sort of stitch you’re using and avoiding mistakes much more accessible.

Finally, the Brother CS600i is the ideal option, regardless of whether you have prior expertise with free motion quilting machines. You have complete control over the sewing machine. With this machine, you can sew as quickly or as slowly as you desire.

Brother XM2701Sewing Machine

Best Runner Up

Brother XM2701Sewing Machine

(image credit: Amazon)

Specifications:

Brand: Brother | Item Weight: 12.6 Pounds | Power Source: Treadle Powered | Material: Metal

Pros

  • Includes 27 unique built-in stitches
  • An automatic needle threader pushes the thread through the needle
  • It comes with a 3-piece needle set and instructional DVD
  • Also has a versatile free arm
  • Ergonomic design

Cons

  • The foot pedal is challenging to utilize

Review

Brother has an attractive choice for you if you’re looking for a lightweight sewing machine for quilting. It’s the XM2701, a quilting machine designed for expert and novice quilters. It’s incredibly adaptable and cost-effective.

What’s even better? It has ornamental and quilting stitches among its 27 built-in stitches. A one-step buttonhole and numerous snap-on presser feet are also there. Smaller projects, such as sleeves, cuffs, pant legs, baby clothes, and so on, will benefit from the free arm included. Beginners will love it, but expert quilters will also appreciate the sophisticated features.

The Brother XM2701 model comes with an LED light that makes it easy to view the area you’re stitching in. We also liked how there’s a system for making specific-size buttonholes. The top drop-in bobbin is jam-resistant and is also there in this compact unit. For easy threading, there’s a built-in needle threader. The single-step auto-size buttonhole feature is simple to operate and produces precise results.

The machine comes with 27 stitches, including blind hems, quilting, decorations, and other stitches, making this machine best for experts. You can also use the dial for the various options making switching between the different stitching options incredibly simple. You can count on this machine to make threading the needle a breeze. An automatic needle threader is available, which allows you to thread the needle in seconds by simply pressing a lever.

Finally, the system for using the bobbin has a Quick-Set Top Drop-In feature that keeps the bobbin in place securely. As a result, stitching quickly and accurately becomes second nature to you.

SINGER 9960 Sewing & Quilting Machine

Best Bang for the Buck

SINGER 9960 Sewing & Quilting Machine

(image credit: Amazon)

Specifications:

Brand: SINGER | Color: White | Item Weight: 20 pounds | Material: Metal | Power Source: Corded Electric

Pros

  • Quantum Stylist portable sewing machine
  • Variety of stitches including stretch, basic, and decorative stitches
  • Has 600 Built-In Stitches and 13 built-in 1-Step Buttonholes
  • High-speed sewing machine; 850 stitches-per-minute
  • Allows you to fulfill your creative dreams

Cons  

  • Changing the needle is much more tricky

Review

The Singer Quantum Stylist is a popular choice among beginner and intermediate quilters for various reasons. This machine is perfect for beginners with a quick auto-needle threader and drop-in bobbin system.

Moreover, the Singer Quantum Stylist has 13 automatic 1-step buttonhole styles and five different fonts for monogramming. You’ll have lots of stitching possibilities with 600 stitches already incorporated into the machine. This feature has been quite popular since it allows you to be creative with your creations. You have great control over stitch elongation, width, length, and even mirror imaging, allowing you to tailor stitching to your project’s requirements.

Quilters will appreciate the large quilting table and heavy-duty frame, as well as the 18 presser feet included. It is simple to extend the sewing table. As a result, you’ll be able to expand your workspace, allowing you to work on bigger projects. The threading technology is also quite simple to operate, allowing you to thread the entire machine in seconds. As a result, you’ll be able to devote more time to sewing your textiles.

Also simple to utilize is the bobbin system. The bobbins can be loaded into a section at the top to make insertion easier. Buttonholes are also simple to make with the machine because there is only one stage to the procedure. Simply place the button in the buttonhole area, and the sewing machine will sew a hole in the style you specify.

Finally, you can’t go wrong with the Singer Quantum Stylist if you want the most extraordinary sewing machine for quilting that does everything. This machine is our favorite since it is suitable for both novice and advanced users.

SINGER 7258 Sewing & Quilting Machine

Best Sewing Machine for Dedicated Quilters

SINGER 7258 Sewing & Quilting Machine

(image credit: Amazon)

Specifications:

Brand: SINGER | Item Weight: 14.6 Pounds | Material: Plastic, Metal | Power Source: Corded Electric

Pros

  • Backed by 25 Years Limited Warranty
  • Affordable and durable
  • lets you choose the stitch you want with only a click of a button
  • Best simple sewing machine

Cons

  • Limited features

Review

This Singer model is ideal if you’re looking for a user-friendly, computerized sewing machine with an extensive stitch size range. You’ve already chosen the stitch size. This feature is exceptionally time-saving! You can, however, alter your stitches as needed and monitor your progress on the screen. A speed control lever is also there to regulate the speed. You’ll also get 100 stitches with this machine if you buy it.

In addition, there are six different types of buttonholes to choose from. It also features an easy-to-use top drop-in bobbin system. Because of the automatic needle threader, threading this device is simple. The transparent bobbin cover is particularly appealing because it keeps track of thread supply, which is helpful.

The SINGER 7258 delivers consistent, high-quality stitching, and the top-loading, transparent drop-in bobbin is simple to thread. The machine determines the optimal stitch width and length for you, resulting in consistent quality and time savings.

You can change the stitch length and view them on the LCD screen of the SINGER 7258 to personalize creations. It’s a fantastic feature to choose the maximum sewing pace. Adjusting the speed control lever, you may go quicker for longer seams and slower for more elaborate designs.

Finally, quilting and sewing are possible with the SINGER 7258 Quantum Stylist sewing machine. Quilters will like the Singer 7258 automated sewing machine created to help seasoned and dedicated quilters.

Brother HC1850 Sewing and Quilting Machine

Best Display Sewing Machine for Free Motion Quilting

Brother HC1850 Sewing and Quilting Machine

(image credit: Amazon)

Specifications:

Brand: Brother | Material: Metal | Weight: 10.14 pounds | Power Source: Treadle Powered

Pros

  • 185 Unique built-in stitches
  • Great 55 alphanumeric sewing stitches
  • Advanced needle threader and drop-in top bobbin
  • Includes 8 feet wide table
  • LCD Screen to view your selections

Cons

  • There is no simple needle threading method on the Brother HC1850. It also has a propensity for jamming.

Review

Unlike some free-motion quilting machines, the Brother HC1850 is lightweight and portable, making it easy to bring to a quilting party or class. The Brother HC1850 computerized sewing machine is an upgrade over the other Brother sewing machines that came before it. The features are a little more complex this time, and as a result, they are a little more pricey.

The Brother HC1850 has 130 stitches, eight varieties of one-step buttonholes, an auto-needle threader, and an oversized quilting table. Sewing, quilting, and embroidery are all simple tasks with this machine. Quilters can use ornamental stitches like the feather stitch to applique along edges or over seams. The LCD lit up your workstation.

Moreover, the automated bobbin winding function on the Brother HC1850 is excellent. The top-of-the-line feed mechanism makes quilting on any fabric a breeze and results in accurate, high-quality stitches. The drop feed function is there for free motion quilting, and transitioning from FMQ mode to regular mode is a breeze.

The Brother HC1850 is a fully-featured computerized sewing and quilting machine. It’s a dependable and consistent machine made of high-quality materials. It’s ideal for quilting, but you can also use it for monogramming and stitching. Like the others from Brother, this machine is straightforward to operate. This machine is also excellent value for money. You get a slew of features and accessories that rival devices cost much more.

Finally, quilters will be able to stitch on practically any cloth with the HC1850’s sophisticated feed mechanism due to 55 alphanumeric sewing stitches, eight presser feet, an automated threading system, and a detachable foot controller making this machine simple to use.

Brother XR3774 Sewing and Quilting Machine

Best Beginners Sewing Machine for Free Motion Quilting

Brother XR3774 Sewing and Quilting Machine

(image credit: Amazon)

Specifications:

Brand: Brother | Power Source: AC | Material: Metal | Weight: 15.87 Pounds

Pros

  • Easy Threading
  • 37 Unique built-in stitches
  • Fantastic 1-step buttonhole
  • Perfect for quilting projects

Cons

  • There is no thread cutter

Review

Because of easiness of its use, the Brother XR3774 Free Motion Quilting Machine is a great choice for both beginners and intermediate quilters. It’s also a more economical choice, making it a fantastic place to start for beginners learning how to free motion quilt with sewing machines.

Moreover, there are 37 stitches included, each of which is different. You also have 74 stitching functions to choose from. Beginners can benefit significantly from these features. A one-step auto-size buttonholer is available to assist you in achieving high-quality buttonholes.

Additionally, a DVD is there to teach you how to begin free-motion quilting. There are step-by-step demonstrations included. People have praised the sewing machine’s inclusion of an LED light. This feature allows you to stitch in the dark without losing sight of the area you’re sewing.

The Brother XR3774 entry-level sewing quilting machine is simple to operate, packed with capabilities, and intended to handle various projects, including quilts. Thanks to its trendy design, this inexpensive sewing machine looks fantastic on your sewing table.

Surprisingly, this entry-level machine can keep up with any job with a maximum stitch speed of 800 stitches per minute. This machine has a lot of useful functions that you’ll discover on the most fantastic sewing machines.

Finally, the Brother XR3774 is not only one of the most incredible and most economical sewing machines for quilting, but it’s also capable of tackling just about any other project. This sewing machine for beginners is one of our favorites.

Brother PQ1500SL Sewing and Quilting Machine

Best Larger Tasks Sewing Machine for Free Motion Quilting

Brother PQ1500SL Sewing and Quilting Machine

(image credit: Amazon)

Specifications:

Brand: Brother | Weight: 29.76 Pounds | Material: Metal | Power Source: Treadle Powered

Pros

  • Easy-to-use quilting machine
  • Max sewing speed 1,500 Stitches per minute
  • Jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin
  • Brother’s Pin Feed system makes it easy to sew a wide variety of fabrics
  • It comes with 25 years warranty

Cons

  • Although the Brother PQ1500SL produces excellent straight stitches, it lacks decorative stitches.

Review

The PQ1500SL Quilting and Sewing Machine from Brother is a higher-end model. The Brother PQ1500SL makes quilting more in less time easier with 1,500 stitches per minute. It comes with an automated needle threader and a jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin.

Moreover, the PQ1500SL is a longarm sewing and quilting machine with a large table, seven different sewing feet, and a knee-lifter that allows you to elevate your presser foot with your knee while still having both hands free to manipulate your fabric. You can also have more control over the thread tension. It is due to the installation of a thread tension management system. It allows you to have more accurate tension control, which you may adjust based on the assignment.

Furthermore, it has a fast needle threading system, which allows the machine to manage the needle threading procedure. It’s speedy and handy, allowing you to get right to work on your tasks. The pin feeding mechanism on Brother’s sewing machines also enables you to stitch with various fabric weights with ease. You can alter the height of the feed dog using the many colors offered. Users find this function extremely useful when sewing textiles with varying thickness levels.

We like the adjustable pin feed because it lets us replace the feed dogs, allowing us to move all of the quilt layers together or delicates without leaving traces. For the serious quilter, the knee lifter and extension table are necessary. The wide table guarantees that you can work with larger pieces of cloth effectively.

Finally, the Brother PQ1500SL has many fantastic features, including lifetime technical assistance. Technical help is available for free online through live chat or by phone. Overall, this machine is best for larger tasks which are much simpler to manage with its more spacious workplace.

JUKI HZL-F300 Sewing and Quilting Machine

Best Budget Sewing Machine for Free Motion Quilting

JUKI HZL-F300 Sewing and Quilting Machine

(image credit: Amazon)

Specifications:

Brand: JUKI | Item Weight: 25 Pounds | Material: Metal | Item Dimensions: 17.5 x 8.3 x 11.4 inches | Color: White

Pros

  • 106 stitch patterns for sewing and quilting
  • Three typefaces for diversity and ease of usage
  • Best for heavy quilting projects
  • 16 buttonholes controlled by an electronic sensor
  • Automated one-touch needle threader

Cons

  • Quality is a concern.

Review

JUKI’s full-size Exceed series includes the HZL-F300. Sewing and quilting are the focus of the 300 models. The JUKI name is well-known, recognized, and respected in the business, and this mid-range model will not let you down.

The JUKI HZL-F300 can handle heavier and more delicate materials, completing all operations without hurting your valuable project. It features over 100 thread embroidery patterns, including ornamental, applique, and quilting, which we appreciate.

Quilters will appreciate the machine’s random stitch option. The HZL-F300 will choose the width of specific quilting stitch function patterns at random to give your product a gorgeous look without having to make any modifications.  JUKI also has functions that make life easier for you. You avoid eye strain with the one-touch needle threader.  For easier material handling, dual-LED lights brighten your workspace.

Depending on the material you’re using, you can vary the presser foot pressure. You may deal with a wide range of materials with the HZL-F300, from light to heavy. You may also experience steady thread tensions using the free motion sewing feature.

Finally, the JUKI HZL-F300 is a durable machine that stitches consistently and can handle delicate and tough fabrics. The JUKI HZL-F300 is a good quilting machine that is also best for sewing, and it comes at a reasonable price.

Janome MC6650 Sewing and Quilting Machine

Best all Projects Sewing Machine for Free Motion Quilting

Janome MC6650 Sewing and Quilting Machine

(image credit: Amazon)

Specifications:

Brand: Janome | Item Weight: 24.25 Pounds | Material: Metal | Power Source: AC

Pros

  • Durable and long-lasting
  • It comes with all features you need to do jobs quickly
  • Provides professional power
  • User-friendly features

Cons

  • It takes a little practice to wind bobbins.

Review

Janome quilting machines are best for their excellent craftsmanship, and this one is no exception. Janome MC6650 is a sewing machine that you’ll love using for years to come, with hundreds of built-in stitches, an easy-to-use LCD control panel, and a plethora of accessories.

Now moving to feature; The Janome Memory Craft 6650 quilting sewing machine comes with 170 built-in stitches and six built-in buttonholes to assist you with any stitching job. A quilt kit and an extension table are also with the Janome MC6650 computerized quilting sewing machine.

Sewing is a snap due to the user-friendly control panel with an LCD screen. There’s also an automated needle threader to save your eyes from strain. You just need to move the needle threader down, insert the thread into the hook, and pull back.

Moreover, there are other helpful function buttons on the control panel. The top and bottom threads are both cut by an automated thread cutter. The reverse stitch button reinforces your stitching, and the lock stitch button completes it.

Furthermore, changing bobbins is simple with the jam-proof top-loading bobbin mechanism. Simply follow the guide, and the machine will automatically raise the bobbin thread. The start/stop button and needle up/down button allow you to sew without using the foot control, and the needle up/down button raises or lowers the needle at the press of a button.

Finally, the Janome MC6650 computerized sewing machine is an excellent alternative for dedicated free-motion quilters who also desire a device that can do everyday sewing chores due to the extension table and quilt kit.

Juki HZL-LB5100 Computerized Sewing Machine

Best Basic Sewing Machine for Free Motion Quilting

Juki HZL-LB5100 Computerized Sewing Machine

(image credit: Amazon)

Specifications:

Brand: JUKI | Color: White | Dimensions: 19.02 x 14.49 x 10.51 inches | Item Weight: 12.32 pounds

Pros

  • Affordable price
  • Number one option for quilting
  • Sleek and trendy design
  • Easy to handle

Cons

  • Not enough light from LEDs

Review

Although the Juki HZL-LB5100 isn’t famous as a quilting machine, it includes all necessary capabilities and settings. Because of its modest size, the device is suitable for crafting areas and residences with limited space.

The Juki HZL-LB5100 is a computerized quilting and sewing machine with various capabilities. It’s tiny and easy to carry along. With a maximum stitching speed of 700 stitches per minute, the LB5100 allows you to complete jobs faster. The automatic needle threader makes life easier for you.  Automatic functions like the needle threader will help you save time and nerves.

Moreover, the one-step buttonhole tool makes it simple to add buttons to your designs, and the 7-point feed allows you to deal with various fabrics. You will be able to do all of your tasks much more quickly. A large and user-friendly LCD screen for quick and easy stitch selection is also there. There’s also a one-step buttonhole

Finally, the Juki LB5100 is a relatively basic machine, yet it has the necessary quilting capabilities. Plus, if you want to make quilting even easier, you may purchase a wide table accessory.

Conclusion

If you are a committed quilter, you will require a machine. When choosing a sewing machine, be sure it’s the Best Sewing Machine for Free Motion Quilting. Decide based on your requirements and comforts. These evaluations should undoubtedly assist you in your endeavor because you don’t encounter a free-motion quilting machine every day.

We’ve put up a list of the top ten Best Sewing Machines for Free Motion Quilting. The quilting and sewing machines on this list are budget-friendly, have good reviews, and include all necessary features and accessories. So, whatever your tastes, you’ll be able to find something that suits you. Finally, we’ve concluded!Brother CS6000i Sewing and Quilting Machine is a beautiful alternative for you if you’re looking for a user-friendly and small sewing unit. With this machine, you can sew as quickly or as slowly as you desire. So, buy it!

Related Article: Best 5 Adorable Baby Quilt Kits

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

It is possible! You may utilize it by switching to a free-motion quilt foot and removing the feed dogs from your standard machine. Even yet, if you can purchase a free-motion quilting machine, the process will become much easier, and you’ll save much time and effort.

The design and functioning of sewing machines and quilting machines are highly similar. Many devices can sew and quilt at the same time. The quantity of workspace on the machine is one of the significant distinctions between quilting and sewing machines. Quilting machines often have a wider work surface than sewing machines, making it easier to work on large projects.

Free motion quilting stitches come in a variety of lengths. The regular stitch length for free motion quilting is 2.5mm, suitable for most sewers. The type of thread you use will significantly impact how long your stitches are. Your thread weight will determine the ideal stitch size for free motion quilting.

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