Best Sewing Machine For Quilting: An All-Inclusive Guide

In a world full of screens and fast-paced lifestyles, quilting provides a pleasant escape. The very act of quilting and thinking about different shapes and colors can benefit your brain growth. If you are dwelling over trying your hand at quilting, the first item on your checklist should be a quilting machine. After scouring the internet, we have selected the best sewing machines for quilting.

Although there are long-arm machines available that specialize in quilting, they can be very tedious to work with. For starters, they take up a lot of room, and secondly, you have to operate them while standing up. This can be a problem for anyone experiencing joint pain. So the next best option is to buy a small sewing machine that also serves as a quilter.

Even when you look for multipurpose sewing machines, the endless sea of options can overwhelm you quickly. For your convenience, we have done all the hard work and provided you with only the best sellers and time-tested machines. You can settle upon any of the following, and you won’t regret your purchase.

How to Pick The Best Sewing Machine For Quilting

Even simple sewing machines can cost a lot of money. So it is wise to do your research beforehand to avoid any bad purchases. We have cataloged some of the most common expectations from quilting machines. You should read through these and make a rough sketch of what exactly you want from your future device.

• Budget

Deciding on a budget is always the first step of making any purchase. You should settle on a budget while keeping in mind that an expensive machine does not always mean it will be of good quality. In a market as diverse as this, you can find affordable options for any features you desire.

• Throat Space

The most important factor when choosing a quilting machine should be its throat space. A more expansive throat space is a basic need for any quilter. A vast work surface is what separates an ordinary sewing machine from a quilter. Try to pick a device that offers an ample work area.

• Decorative Stitches

Decorative stitches aren’t a necessity for quilting, but they definitely help to spice up your designs. A machine that offers various decorative designs is always preferred.

• Automatic Needle Threader

Manually threading a needle can cause a lot of strain on your eyes and be more challenging for aged users. Nowadays, most machines have the auto needle threader mechanism, so try to choose one of those machines. This threader is not always accurate but can still provide support most of the time.

• Easy to Operate

This goes without saying, but a simple machine can benefit beginners more than a complicated machine with over-the-top features. You should try to pick a device that can be used effectively at your level of expertise. This will help stop you from throwing away a lot of money for no reason and allow you to grow as a quilter naturally.

Now that you have an idea of what to look for in a sewing machine, let’s jump right into our top dogs for the best sewing machine for quilting.

List of 13 Best Sewing Machine For Quilting in 2023

Brother XR9550 Quilting and Sewing Machine

Best Overall Sewing and Quilting Machine

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Brother XR9950 quilting and sewing machine has a myriad of particular characteristics. It has 165 inbuilt stitching options, including 110 decorative patterns, 8 buttonholes, and 55 alphanumeric stitching patterns. All this variety will allow you to create exclusive and one-of-a-kind quilts.

This device is also super easy to use. Its simple threading system and convenient drop-in bobbin from the top give you a hassle-free experience. Additionally, it is fitted with a bobbin threader that threads your bobbin swiftly and accurately. This also makes it the ideal choice for anyone who wants to try quilting.

The state-of-the-art LCD screen allows you to choose whichever stitch design you want. It also suggests which type of foot to use with specific stitches. Furthermore, it will enable you to adjust your stitching speed.

Even though the Brother XR9950 has all these unique features, it still comes at an astonishingly low price. Most computerized machines in the market cost a pretty penny. However, this device has all the bells and whistles while still being affordable. This makes it the best all-rounder sewing and quilting machine. It is suitable for beginners and professionals alike.

On the other hand, it has a few drawbacks too. First of all, it is challenging to stitch thick materials like fleece with this machine. And secondly, the automatic needle does not work most of the time. If you struggle to pull the thread through the hand, unfortunately, this machine will do little to assist you.

Pros

• Almost 170 inbuilt stitches
• Affordable price
• Drop-in bobbin from the top
• Easy to operate
• Recommended for beginners
• Advanced LCD screen

Cons

• Automatic needle threader seldom works
• Not suitable for stitching thick materials like fleece

Brother PQ1500SL Quilting and Sewing Machine

Best Throat Space Sewing and Quilting Machine

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If you are in pursuit of a machine to help you quilt on a larger scale, look no further! Because the Brother PQ1500SL is the ideal machine for you. It has almost 8 inches of throat space which is much broader than standard quilting and sewing machines. The roomy work surface allows you to easily make projects as big as you want.

This machine stitches at the remarkable speed of 1500 stitches every 60 seconds. High speed paired with the vast throat space allows you to complete your quilts swiftly and without unnecessary delays.

Another noticeable feature of this machine is that it has a knee-lifter which you can use to lift the feet of the sewing machine. This leaves both of your hands free, and you can focus more on moving your fabric through the machine and making intricate free-hand designs. Isn’t that great?

While we are talking about moving fabric through the machine, this device is also fitted with 4 different positions for the feed dogs. The pressure dial also works with the feed dogs to allow smoother stitching. The various positions are color-coded for convenience. The red is for the pin feed, the blue is for featherweight fabrics, and the green can be used for heavy and medium weight fabrics.

The only negative aspect of the device is that some people find it challenging to adjust the tension of the thread. This is a common grievance of many beginners and can be overcome by practice and experience. A minor reason like this should not stop you from buying the exceptional machine.

Pros

• High stitching speed
• Wide throat space
• Convenient knee-lifter for lifting feet
• Automatic thread cutter
• 4 different inbuilt positions for feed dogs

Cons

• Tension adjustment can prove to be troublesome

Brother CS7000i Quilting and Sewing Machine

Best Bang For Buck Sewing and Quilting Machine

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The Brother CS7000i is the ideal machine for every beginner and professional alike. It has up to 70 distinctive stitching designs, including decorative stitches, buttonholes, and quilting stitches. You can incorporate all these different patterns into your quilts and set them apart from the crowd.

This machine only weighs an astonishing 17 pounds. Hence it is much lighter than any standard machine on the market. This feature makes it easier to transport the device, which can be very helpful if you are a novice who takes quilting or sewing classes. But this feature can also cause problems when sewing large-scale projects as it gets difficult to hold the machine in place.

The automatic bobbin winding mechanism and the convenient drop-in bobbin make this device very effortless to operate. The drop-in bobbin makes it easier to check the thread on the bobbin.

Another distinguishing feature of this device is that it comes with various accessories. These include a wide table, a hard case to protect the machine, and 10 different sewing feet. Various sewing feet aid in making different stitches. With this much variety, you won’t have to separately purchase feet at all!

There is also a free arm option to stitch the hems on sleeves and cuffs etc. All these unique features and the Brother CS7000i still comes at a very affordable price. So you definitely get your money’s worth!

The tension is difficult to get the hang of, but it is easier if you thread your machine with the needle and foot in the up position. So make sure you are threading your machine accurately before trying to adjust the tension.

Pros

• Lightweight and easy to transport
• 70 different inbuilt stitching patterns
• Various accessories
• Free arm for hemming sleeves and cuffs
• Drop-in bobbin
• Affordable price

Cons

• Adjusting thread tension can be problematic
• May trip over when working with larger projects

Brother HC1850 Quilting and Sewing Machine

Best Stitching Options Sewing and Quilting Machine

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The Brother HC1850 is the most diverse sewing and quilting machine on the market. With an impressive 165 unique inbuilt stitching designs, it is in its own league. Out of these 165 patterns, 130 are different decorative designs that can be used in both stitching and quilting fabrics. It even provides you with 8 exceptional styles of buttonholes and 55 special font stitches. Thus there are no limits to what you can create with this machine.

The drop feed mechanism of the device also allows smooth free-motion quilting. Now all your original designs can finally come to life with the help of the Brother HC1850!

This device is also effortless to operate. It has an automatic bobbin winding system at the top of the machine to help you tightly thread your bobbin. The top drop-in bobbin is also very convenient to use. Likewise, this device offers an automatic needle threader for anyone who doesn’t want to strain their eyes every time they try to pull the thread through the needle. And this threader actually works and gets the job done, unlike other machines.

Another advantageous characteristic of this device is that it is incredibly lightweight. It only weighs 10 pounds and is perfect to accompany you to your sewing classes. And it doesn’t even cost too much! All these features, but it still comes at a buyer-friendly price.

One thing this machine struggles with is that it moves around a lot during quilting. Its light weight does not anchor it to the desk enough. The LED lighting is also very dull, and you need a good lamp if you want to use it in the dark. So keep these factors in mind when you’re thinking of buying this machine.

Pros

• Lightweight
• Includes 165 different stitching patterns
• Allows smooth free-motion quilting
• Automatic needle threader
• Budget-friendly price

Cons

• Moves around too much while stitching
• LED light isn’t bright enough

Brother XR3774 Sewing and Quilting Machine

Best Traditional Sewing and Quilting Machine

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The Brother XR3774 is an exceptional traditional quilting machine in a sea of computerized machines with bells and whistles. But it does not fall short in any way. It offers up to 37 particular stitching patterns for you to choose from. It also has a one-step buttonhole which saves a lot of time.

This machine also comes with a free arm. You can use this to hem sleeves and cuffs effortlessly. The drop-in bobbin mechanism makes it very simple to load and unload bobbins. Likewise, the threading system of this machine is also breezy and straightforward. Thus this device is recommended to anyone who wants to learn how to quilt.

Additionally, the Brother XR3774 comes at a meager and affordable price. So it is much easier to invest in and start learning how to sew.

Since this is not a computerized machine, it has limited options in what you can do. But all that glitters is not gold. Its simplicity is its greatest strength. It allows you to focus on your project more and not overwhelm you by providing endless options. Limited stitching patterns can actually help you grow and be more creative rather than being spoiled. You can step up to a more advanced machine anytime once you are confident enough in your skills. 

The only dilemma is that there is no automatic bobbin winder. This might seem like a minor setback, but manually wrapping thread around a bobbin every time you run out can become mundane and troublesome. So if this kind of inconvenience bothers you, you can look at other quilting machines listed here,

Pros

• 37 inbuilt stitches
• Suitable for beginners
• Handy free arm
• Drop-in bobbin
• Inexpensive

Cons

• No automatic bobbin winder

Juki TL-2000Qi Quilting and Sewing Machine

Best Heavy Duty Sewing and Quilting Machine

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The Juki TL-2000Qi has a very sturdy and durable frame. It is equipped with a unique aluminum bed and arm that absorbs most vibrations produced while quilting or stitching. This allows the machine to easily glide through thick and heavy fabrics while keeping the noise to a bearable level. The loud, jarring sound of most heavy-duty quilting machines can be very detrimental to your hearing. Thus this machine has been branded the best heavy-duty quilting machine on the market because of this.

The Juki TL-2000Qi also has a surprisingly fast stitching speed. It can stitch 1500 stitches every 60 seconds. Isn’t that amazing! Now you can finish your quilts faster without worrying about skipping any stitches.

On the flip side, you can not adjust the speed. If you are a newbie or you are trying to make intricate free-motion patterns on your quilts, this might prove to be bothersome.

This device is also very effortless to operate. The automatic needle threader is a lifesaver for anyone who has eyesight issues and finds it challenging to pull the thread through the narrow slit of a needle. Furthermore, the bright LED lights installed in this machine perfectly illuminate the work surface. Hence you can comfortably make quilts even in dim light.

Additionally, the Juki TL-2000Qi comes with an extension table. This helps increase the working area, and you can simply take it off and easily store the machine. Hence you can get the best of both worlds.

This machine costs a little more than the standard quilting machines we have discussed already. But if you are willing to make an investment, the Juki TL-2000Qi should be your first choice.

Pros

• High stitching speed
• User-friendly
• Automatic needle threader
• Produces less noise
• Bright LED lights
• Suitable for heavy fabrics

Cons

• Stitching speed can not be adjusted
• A little on the pricey side

Juki HZL- F600 Computerized Quilting and Sewing Machine

Best Advanced Features Sewing and Quilting Machine

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The Juki HZL-F600 is a step ahead of all its competitors. With a high stitching speed of 900 stitches every 60 seconds and a durable and robust motor, this device is as good as it can get. Other than being long-lasting and durable, this machine has a myriad of different special features.

Firstly, it offers up to 225 different stitching designs. These include decorative patterns, regular stitching, stretch stitches, quilting stitches, and even alphanumeric stitches. You can choose whichever format you want by simply pushing a button and looking at the LCD screen. Now you can fully unleash your creativity and incorporate as many designs as you want into your quilts.

Secondly, this machine has a drop feed mechanism too. This allows you to smoothly make any free-motion quilting patterns you want. Thus the possibilities of designs are endless.

Thirdly, the Juki HZL-F600 has ample throat space. This allows you to comfortably stitch as many large-scale projects as you like without having to worry about your fabric getting in the way. Furthermore, there is also an automatic needle threader that does not jam up when you use it.

Another exceptional attribute of this device is that it has an inbuilt storage space. Hence inside the machine, you can store all your accessories and reduce the clutter on your desk.

Since the Juki HZL-F600 is from Juki’s premium line of quilting machines, it costs more than a simple Brother machine. But this device earns its price in every way. It is a deserving investment, and you will not regret it.

Pros

• 225 unique inbuilt stitching patterns
• Automatic needle threader
• High stitching speed
• Intuitive LCD screen
• Storage space for accessories
• Allows free-motion quilting

Cons

• More expensive than standard machines

Juki TL-2010Q Quilting and Sewing Machine

Best High-Speed Sewing and Quilting Machine

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If you want to effectively utilize your time while making your quilts, you need a machine that can keep up with your swiftness. The Juki TL-2010Q rises to the occasion and provides you with a lightning-fast speed of 1500 stitches every 60 seconds. You can also adjust this speed to go as slow as 200 stitches every minute. Thus you can comfortably make intricate motifs and also complete your projects at an unbelievably fast pace. All this yearns the Juki TL-2010Q the title of best high-speed quilting machine.

In addition to having such a fast stitching speed, this machine also has ample throat space. Thus you can work on larger scale projects with no trouble at all. Likewise, the automatic thread cutter mechanism cuts off excess thread while leaving enough allowance that prevents stitches from opening up. That’s one less thing to stress about!

This machine also allows free-motion quilting. Hence you can quilt in any design you like! This machine also holds well against heavier fabrics. It eliminates all possible limitations in your choice of fabric and quilting design. It gives you absolute creative control over what you want to make.

It is even equipped with a beaming LED light that perfectly lights up your stitching area. You don’t have to be stressed about buying an extra lamp for stitching at night, nor do you have to trouble anyone else in the room while you sew.

This device is also quite like a mouse. Say goodbye to the loud, jarring sounds of quilting machines giving you headaches and enjoy working in blissful silence. But make sure to keep it oiled, or it will start making noise.

This machine is from a premium line of quilting machines, so naturally, it costs more than average devices. But all its advanced features make it worth the buy.

Pros

• High stitching speed
• Wide throat space
• Can sew heavy fabrics
• Free-motion quilting
• Automatic thread cutter
• LED lighting

Cons

• Needs to be oiled often
• Expensive

Singer 9960 Quantum Stylist Sewing Machine

Best Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine

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In today’s day and age, every aspect of our lives has been computerized. From our juicers to doors, everything is digital. So why should your sewing machine follow a mechanical design? The Singer 9960 Quantum Stylist is the ideal choice for stepping up your quilting game.

It has almost 600 different stitching applications. Think of how many exciting combinations you could come up with! The possibilities are endless. You can switch between styles without a hitch simply by pressing the appropriate button. The most popular designs are placed at the front of the device for your convenience.

The complete metal skeleton of this machine gives it enough power to cut through many layers of fabric like butter. You don’t need to torment yourself over your fabric bunching up or anything either. You can simply sit back and enjoy quilting designs with exceptionally fast and accurate stitches.

Do you still need more convincing? Well, this machine also comes with more than 12 different presser feet! Hence it has all the feet you will ever need in your quilting adventures all in one place.

Although the automatic needle threader of most machines leaves much to be desired, the needle threader of this machine works like a charm. It rarely jams up and gives consistent results every time.

Because this device has all these features, it is a little on the pricey side. It’s not as expensive as the options from Juki we’ve discussed already, so it should not be much of a problem. It is a wise investment because this machine will last you a lifetime.

Pros

• 600 different stitching applications
• Sturdy metal frame
• Stitching speed of more than 800 stitches every 60 seconds
• Automatic needle threader
• Various included accessories

Cons

• A little on the pricey side

Singer 7258 Computerized Quilting and Sewing Machine

Best Portable Sewing and Quilting Machine

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Are you a novice quilter who wants to invest in a worthwhile quilting machine? Well, your search ends here because the Singer 7258 is the perfect fit for you. It is the best portable quilting machine on the market right now. With its featherweight build and conveniently placed handle at the top, it is elementary to carry to and from quilting classes. You don’t have to bother bringing a bulky machine with you ever again!

Despite weighing only 14 pounds, it makes no compromises in its features. With more than 200 stitching applications and 76 unique decorative stitches, you can add your personal flair to every project you create. You don’t even have to ponder which length and width of stitch you should use because the process is automatic. But if you still want to modify it according to your preferences, you can do that too.

Like many Singer machines, the Singer 7258 has a very straightforward and effortless threading system. The manual that comes with the device perfectly explains every step in detail and streamlines the entire process.

Additionally, it comes at a meager price too. Hence you don’t have to overthink about spending a handsome amount of money on a quilting machine when you are still learning how to use it.

This machine is a dream come true for any beginner. But it has one negative aspect too. It can not accurately stitch through heavy fabrics or multiple layers of medium fabrics. Due to its light build does not have enough strength to drive the needle through these materials without making errors.

So if you want a machine that stitches both heavy and light materials, the Juki TL-2000Qi would be the better choice.

Pros

• Affordable price
• 203 different stitching applications
• Automatic stitch width and length
• Easy to set up
• Lightweight and easy to transport

Cons

• Not suitable for heavy fabrics

Janome 2212 Sewing Machine

Best Low-Price Sewing Machine

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The Janome 2212 is a simple sewing and quilting machine. It does not have infinite stitching options, nor is it computerized in any way. But you should not underestimate it. This machine may be fun-sized as compared to others, but it still packs a punch.

For starters, it has a stitching speed of 860 stitching per minute. It does not skip stitches at all and guarantees a consistent and swift quilting experience. The free arm allows you to comfortably stitch tricky parts like the sleeves or cuffs of a dress. You can also use it to design unique quilts.

Secondly, it has a conveniently placed reverse lever on the front of the machine. Using this, you can lock your stitches without a hassle. Additionally, you can also store small accessories like bobbins and feet in the compact storage space that is built in the machine. Although you have to remove the front part of the device to access it.

Another attractive feature of this device is its meager price. Granted that the Janome 2212 does not have many unique features but a low-priced simple machine is much more fruitful in teaching beginners how to quilt. And once you get the hang of quilting, you can absolutely upgrade to a more intricate machine.

The only thing this machine can not do is stitch through thick materials. Due to its delicate frame lacks the power to drive the needle into heavy fabrics without making mistakes. So do not forget this fact when you are buying this machine.

Pros

• Attractive price
• Maximum stitching speed of more than 850 stitches every 60 seconds
• Lightweight
• Includes a reverse lever
• Includes free arm and a compartment for storage

Cons

• Lacks advanced features
• Can not stitch through thick materials

Singer 7469Q Confidence Computerized Quilting and Sewing Machine

Best Control Sewing and Quilting Machine

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Control means everything when you are a quilter. Adequate control over your fabric is what allows you to make all those intricate patterns and pretty motifs. So if you are hunting on the market for a quilting machine that will give you better command, look no further. The Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter is the perfect solution to all your problems.

It has a stitching speed of 750 stitches every 60 seconds. So it is not too fast that you lose your grip over the fabric, nor is it so slow that each project takes an eternity to complete. It has the ideal balance of speed and control. Hence your material will move precisely how you want it to, and you will be more efficient.

The most notable property of this device is its programmable needle. You can either program it to be in an up or down position when you stop stitching. Likewise, you can move your fabric from underneath the needle quickly without manually lifting the hand.

Due to its petite and compact size, the Singer 7469Q is effortless to store. It does not even weigh too much and can easily be placed in a cabinet when not being used.

Even though this machine has 98 unique inbuilt stitching designs and a bonus extension table, it still comes at an affordable price. You can even adjust the width and length of stitches to your liking.

Although this machine gives you incredible power over your quilts and their designs, it is not very durable. But after all, the life of an appliance depends on how it is used. So if you take adequate care of the machinery and get it serviced often, it will last longer.

Pros

• Programmable needle
• 98 different inbuilt stitches
• Bonus extension table
• Stitching speed of 750 stitches every 60 seconds
• Easy to store

Cons

• Not durable

Janome Memory Craft 6650 Quilting and Sewing Machine

Best Premium Sewing and Quilting Machine

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After a thorough analysis, we have concluded that the Janome Memory Craft 6650 is the best premium quilting machine that money can buy. Its remarkable features are in a league of their own. Without further delay, let us dive right in.

The very first feature that catches your eye when you look at this machine is its vibrant red color at the top. The contrast between the pearly white of the rest of the device and the bright red at the upper half makes the machine look very appealing.

Moving on to its features, the Janome MC6650 has 170 different stitching designs. You can use up to 50 combinations too. All with the mere touch of a finger. You even have access to 9 different styles of buttonholes. Now you can jazz up your quilts in any way you want.

Another notable characteristic of this device is that it offers 10 whole inches of throat space. You can effortlessly fit as big of a project you want in this vast space. You won’t ever have to fret over your material dangling from the side of the machine ever again.

Even just by looking at this powerhouse of a machine, you can tell that it is very durable and robust. The actual test of a quilting machine’s strength is its ability to stitch heavy fabrics. The Janome MC6650 passes this test with flying colors.

This machine has many positives, but there is one slight drawback too. It does not have a free arm. Although free arms are not used in quilting, it is still an essential feature for some people. If you are one of them, it would be better to choose one of our other options.

Pros

• Wide work surface
• Industrial level power
• High quality
• Striking color
• 170 different stitches
• 9 buttonhole styles

Cons

• No free arm
• Expensive

Conclusion

Quilting can be a useful hobby if you are willing to invest in it. We admit that quilters can cost a pretty penny, but they are also worth it. If you choose any machine from our list of best sewing machines for quilting, we can assure you that you will not have any regrets.

Our personal recommendation is the Brother XR9550 Quilting and Sewing machine. It has all that you could ever ask for and more! With 170 inbuilt stitches, a bright LED light, and a drop-in bobbin, it still comes at such an economical price. It truly is the best all-rounder.

To conclude it all, we hope that you found this guide helpful. We also hope that you have chosen the perfect partner for your quilting adventures after reading till the end!

Related Article: How To Use a Sewing Machine – A Beginner’s Guide

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We have accumulated the most commonly asked questions about the best sewing machines for quilting and answered them in plain words. We hope that after this you will not have any queries left.