For most of us, quilting is an activity we’ve decided to take up for leisure or a handcraft we plan to list on Etsy. Making quality quilts, however, requires a solid sewing machine, which is probably why you are here.
Taking a recommendation of the best sewing machine for quilting from an experienced person is the first and right step for any prospective buyer, and that’s why I’ve put together this text.
Brace yourself; it’s going to be a little bit of a long read considering that I’ll be going in-depth on choosing a sewing machine for quilting. I hope this text will help you make an informed choice in your buying decision as it’s paramount you consider such things as durability, functionality, and of course machine cost. Grab a cup of your favorite beverage and enjoy this read.
The road to choosing a high-quality sewing machine for quilting…
Before opting for any quilting sewing machine, you should already know what user category you fall under, are you a beginner quilter or an advanced quilter? With a plethora of choices available for each category of quilters, you can make a mistake in your choice of a sewing machine for quilting, grabbing one that doesn’t suit your needs.
In this text, I’ll be reviewing 15 of the best sewing machine for quilting, which will, of course, include many of the top sewing machine brands like Brother, Singer, Juki, Janome and more. If you have been pondering on what quilting machine will be perfect for you, taking into account the multiple-choice available on the market today, this text will help you make an informed decision.
The below table is a list of the best quilting sewing machines. In this text, I have further talked about their features and what makes them stand out from the hundreds of options on the market.
Table of Contents
Here Are The Best Sewing Machines for Quilting:
Since many of us don’t have the time to run through comprehensive reviews, I have highlighted several top options you should consider. If you’re not in a rush, be sure to skim through their pros and cons in the review section before going through with your order.
- Best Overall: Brother CS6000i Sewing & Quilting Machine
“Easy to use, LCD display, noiseless operation, automatic needle threader, hard protective case, great value for money.” - Best Portable: Brother HC1850 Sewing & Quilting Machine
“Portable and lightweight, has 130 built-in stitches, free-motion quilt, automatic threader system, LCD display.” - Best Budget: Brother XR3774 Sewing & Quilting Machine
“Auto-sized buttonhole, 37 built-in stitches, capable of 800 stitches per minute, affordable, solid value for money.” - Best Free Motion: Janome 2212 Sewing Machine
“Beautiful aesthetics, 4-step buttonhole, snap-on presser feet, adjustable stitch length, and width.” - Best Advanced: Juki HZL-F600 Sewing Machine
“A box feed system, extensive table, powerful motor, large LCD, works for both lightweight and thick material.” - Best Home: Ever Sewn Sparrow Sewing Machine
“50 decorative stitches, 80 built-in stitches, drop-in hook automation, easy to start and stop, LCD display.” - Best Computerized: Brother XR9550PRW Sewing Machine
“Large LCD display, heirloom, 110 built-in decorative stitches, automatic needle threader, jam-proof drop-in bobbin.” - Best Sturdy/Heavy Duty: Janome JW8100 Sewing Machine
“100 preset stitches, detachable free arm, adjustable speed, noiseless operation, memory function.”
Best Sewing Machines for Quilting Comparison Chart
Interested in a quick peek at some of the features of the best sewing machines for quilting? Our below comparison table guide looks at important parameters like SPM rate and weight.
Top 15 Best Sewing Machine for Quilting Reviews 2023
Let’s take a moment to dig into some of the best sewing machines for quilting available on the market today. These products are tried, tested and fan-favorites for their respective features. If you’re considering making an informed buying choice, hopefully, this review will guide you. Read on:
Brother CS6000i Quilting & Sewing Machine
(Best Overall)
“Welcome to the new age of quilting” is what this contemporary tech machine screams. From the stables of Brother, this easy-to-use quilting machine comes with an automatic needle threader and a feature for taking control of your quilting speed. It means you can make a stitch of 5mm in length at its maximum sewing speed of 850 stitches per minute.
This CS6000i from Brother is built with a separate free arm that’s useful in the stitching of cylindrical cloth items like pant legs, sleeves and more.
You’re almost definitely going to appreciate the oversized table which ensures you can take on a larger amount of quilting projects, plus a walking foot, quilting foot and a quilting guide which allows you to have great and near-perfect quilts right in your home!
Key Features:
- 8 quilting and sewing feet
- Free arm for sleeves and/or cuffs
- Automatic needle threader
- LCD for displaying speed and selected stitch.
- LED light for illuminating the fabric being worked on
- Hard protective case for storage
- lexible sewing speed
Pros
- Adjustable speed allows you to control your quilting
- A wider table means the ability to be one step ahead of others
- It has a hard case so you can rest assured your machine is safe when not in use
- Automatic settings just make using this machine easy
- Noiseless operation
- Value for money
Cons
- The machine is prone to tension problems
Check out this video overview:
SINGER 9960 Sewing Machine
This fully computerized sewing machine provides an unparallel quilting experience. One of its selling points is its portability.
The machine allows for an array of basic, stretch and decorative stitches all of which spring into tireless activity with the push of a button. With an automatic needle threader and an LCD which displays customizable fonts, the 600 in-built stitches, and 5 numeric fonts SINGER can make up to 850 stitches in one minute!
It is also equipped with a 1-step buttonhole alongside a buttonhole under-plate which is exclusive to the product.
As if that isn’t enough, SINGER 9960 is several miles ahead in mirror imagining, little wonder why it has become so popular in the industry and market.
Key Features:
- Variety of presser feet
- 13 built-in buttonhole
- In-built needle threader
- Considerable extension table
Pros
- Fast sewing – 850 stitches per minute
- Easy to carry around and use
- A large selection of different stitches for numerous stitch effects
Cons
- Often very difficult for beginners to use
- Sometimes, there is a problem with the quality control
Brother XR9500PRW Quilting & Sewing Machine
There are over 130 stitch features and more than 100 integrated stitches that come with this machine. If you are looking at a machine with quality, plenty of decorative stitches, and heirloom, then this Brother XR9500PRW is about the best choice you can make.
You want to do some quilting on a thick fabric? This machine is equipped to only work on lighter fabric so steer clear. However, be ready to get the best output when working with compatible fabrics.
The Brother XR9500PRW comes with 7 presser feet including one for zigzag, buttonhole, monogramming, zipper and others. With this machine, you can make plenty of designs and undertake larger projects because of the spacious table attached to the machine.
Key Features:
- Oversized table for undertaking more quilting jobs
- Computerized machine with an LCD screen to monitor work choice of tools and progress
- 7 presser feet
- 1-step automatic buttonhole
Pros
- Automation makes the machine easy to operate
- Any specialty level can make use of this machine whether beginner, intermediate or an expert
- Hardcover keeps the machine safe when not in use
- The machine is pocket-friendly considering its numerous features
Cons
- Heavy fabrics are not suitable here
- Any voltage above 120AC can ruin the machine
SINGER Confidence Quilter 7469Q Sewing Machine
The Singer Confidence 7469Q is equipped with 98 built-in stitches with 7 1-step buttonholes. SINGER has decided to clamber upon itself and compete for best-computerized quilting and sewing machine and this idea was born.
Besides an automatic threading system, there is a stitch programmer to make quilting an activity to look forward to. If you want to get creative, the adjustable stitch can be made wider or longer to allow for a little bit of novelty.
However, if you live outside of Canada or the United States, there are possibilities that you’d never get access to use this machine as its exclusive to these countries.
Key Features:
- 7 automated 1-step buttonholes
- 98 built-in stitches
- An automated system of needle threader and drop & sew bobbin
Pros
- The machine is portable and easy o use because of its automated systems
- The width and length of stitches can now be adjusted
- The needle is programmable, goes up/down and drops position
- Because it is so easy to use, beginners will find it really motivating
Cons
- The work area light is dim, making it difficult to use in poor lighting
- You can’t have this product except you’re in the US or Canada
Brother HC1850 Quilting & Sewing Machine
(Best Portable Quilting Machine)
Brother hardly disappoints when it comes to sewing machines for quilting and all of their products find its way to the heart of the market.
The Brother HC1850 is excellent for the most basic monogramming and quilting experience, especially for beginners!
This 130 built-in stitch machine has 8 designs for its 1-step buttonhole, something that is rare amongst machines of the same price.
The computerized HC1850 has an 8-presser foot, stitch selector, automatic threader system, and an LCD display system for monitoring progress of projects plus a large table for bulky quilting.
And what is more? The HC1850 has adjustable speed and can run up to 850 stitches in one minute!
Key Features:
- Large detachable table
- 8 presser foot
- 130 built-in stitches
Pros
- Portable and lightweight
- Feed system has exceptional working efficiency
- It has a free- motion quilt
- It also has an in-built reference chart
Cons
- Professionals can make nothing much with this machine
JUKI TL-2000Qi Sewing & Quilting Machine
(Best Professional Sewing Machine for Quilting)
The JUKI TL-2000Qi was made with professionals in mind. If not how can you explain its 1500 stitches per minute speed?
The power of this machine is bound to cause vibrations which have been dealt with by an attached bed. The aluminum cast dies arm ensures the machine is lightweight and durable at the same time.
You are surely going to like the LED lights which make sewing with the one pedal operation practically fun. The machine also has an automatic threader system and a straight stitch for several creative works.
The icing on the cake is the large table attached, so there is room for as much quilting as possible!
Key Features:
- Updated LED lights
- Large extension table for extra work
- Low vibration bed
- 6mm stitch length
- Automatic needle threader system
Pros
- The machine sews at a whopping 1,500 stitches per minute
- The extra-large table makes bigger projects easy
- LED lights can make working late to be fun
- Professionals are delighted with this machine
Cons
- Pricey
- Not advisable for beginners
- Bobbin case might pose frequent problems
Brother XR3774 Quilting Sewing Machine
(Best Budget-Friendly Quilting Sewing Machine)
To acquire a sewing machine for quilting, you do not have to blast a hole through your wallet. Brother satisfies that statement with this low cost but efficient sewing machine for quilting.
I introduce to you, Brother XR3774.
The award-winning machine is a full-featured that offers an opportunity for you to delve into larger-scale quilting with its large table. It has 37 built-in stitches and a 1-step buttonhole, garnished with a feature for making as many creative designs as your mind can cook up.
The Brother XR3774 machine is versatile and is equipped with an 8-presser foot for designs like a zigzag, blind stitch, zipper, button sewing, walking, and quilting feet and more, plus it is relatively speedy – around 800 stitches per minute.
Key Features:
- 37 built-in stitches
- 1-step auto-sized buttonhole
- Easy stitch selecting knob
- Automatic needle threader
Pros
- 800 stitches per minute
- LED workspace is bright and can be used in areas of low lighting
- Large table for larger projects
- Has a jam-resistant bobbin system
- Pocket-friendly
Cons
- The casing is poorly built
- A thread cutter is absent
Janome 2212 Sewing Machine
(Best for Free Motion Quilting)
The Janome 2212 is an impressive machine for quilting and sewing. Its 12 built-in stitches may not be much but its 4-step buttonhole and a free motion quilting capability are worth complimenting.
The Janome 2212 is equipped with a knob and dial for easy stitch selection, and an adjustable stitch length and width.
Did we mention that this machine is built also for aesthetics? It’s hard not to fall in love with the beauty of this machine; however, if you live anywhere besides the United States, you may never be able to have this machine as its allowed voltage is 110V, for use in the US only.
Key Features:
- 12-built in stitches
- 4-sep buttonhole
- Maximum stitch dimension length and width is 4mm and 5mm respectively
- Snap-on presser foot
- High foot lift
- 5-piece feed dog
Pros
- Useful for free motion quilting
- Stitch can be adjusted to different length and width
- Experience with this machine is easy and is good for a beginner
Cons
- Rather limited number built-in stitches (12)
- Just 3 presser feet
- Absence of automatic needle threader is inconvenient
Juki HZL-F600 Quilting Sewing Machine
(Best Advanced Machine for Quilting)
Now we seem to have passed rookie stuff. The HZL-F600 sewing machine is specifically for advanced users. It’s multifunctional and can perform excellent quilting and sewing tasks. The almost silent-hum of this sewing machine means you can afford a quiet working environment which is important to get your creative juices flowing!
Whether you’re working with thick fabrics, light ones or want to do a free motion quilting, Juki HZL-F600 makes the job easier.
As said earlier, the HZL-F600 by Juki is for advanced users, if you are just setting out into the world of quilting, you might consider rethinking opting for it. The large table allows for larger quilt projects and this machine is yours to have if you have the cash to splash!
Key Features:
- Box feed system
- Extensive sewing table
- Industrial type buttonholes
- Large LCD with 4 fonts
- A large array of stitches and patterns
Pros
- Can work for both heavy-duty and light materials
- Powerful motor that simplifies free-motion sewing
- Large table for larger projects
Cons
- Pricey
- Beginners wouldn’t find this useful
10. Ever Sewn Sparrow Sewing Machine
(Best Quilting Machine for The Home)
The Ever Sewn Sparrow comes with an impressive 80 built-in stitches and several other necessary features. The machine is portable and lightweight.
I think from my experience, the Ever Sewn machine is an upscale product for yet a downscale pricing. Most machines come with several unwanted features but this machine is a product of careful research on what is common amongst home users and a few additions here and there just in case.
The Ever Sewn is so easy to assemble as long as you pay attention to the instruction manual. So from the comfort of your home, you can make beautiful quilts with such a lightweight beast.
Key Features:
- This machine has a computerized sewing system
- 80 built-in stitches
- Drop-in hook automation system
- LCD display
- Adjustable stitch length and width at a maximum of 7mm and 4.5mm respectively
- 50 different decorative stitches
Pros
- Start/stop button for easy control
- Has a needle up/down stop
- Very versatile and portable, not to mention affordable
- Great quilting experience especially for rookies
Cons
- Advanced users may not appreciate the lack of technical features
SINGER 7258 Sewing Machine
Beginners will definitely find this computerized quilting machine from SINGER useful. The SINGER 7258 is easy to use, all you have to do is push buttons, and the 100 built-in stitch powerful machines will carry out all your quilting tasks with efficiency.
While some machines have tension problems, especially one of the SINGER product lines, this is recompense as it has an automated tension feature.
For more options, the machine is equipped with 7 1-step buttonholes plus a 25-year warranty.
As a beginner, everything you need to learn about quilting is provided by this machine.
Key Features:
- Button for stitch selection
- Size – 14.5 x 7.5 x 12 inches
Pros
- Easy to use, especially for beginners because of the push-button stitch selector
- A 25-year warranty means you can rest assured you can easily get pro solutions if your machine has problems
Cons
- Only for use in Canada and America
- Loud noise the machine makes can be inconvenient sometimes
Brother XR9550PRW Quilting & Sewing Machine
(Best Computerized Sewing Machine for Quilting)
This is a limited edition computerized quilting and sewing machine from Brother. The Brother XR9550PRW is especially cherished by beginners because of the ease of usage.
The large LCD display is nothing compared to the 110 built-in decorative stitches utility and an heirloom.
I don’t want to get started on the features of this machine because they are much. Automated threader, jam-proof drop-in bobbin, about 8 1-steps automatically sized buttonholes, you just name it!
No wonder both beginners and advanced users are clamoring for this machine – they know its worth!
Key Features:
- Extensive table
- Large LCD display
- 8 1-stitch buttonholes
- 110-built-in stitches
- Automated needle threader
Pros
- Can take a larger quilt project because of the wide table
- Easy usage means beginners and professionals can make use of it
Cons
- Accessories for this machine tend to be limited
Janome JW8100 Sewing Machine
(Best Sturdy/Heavy Duty Quilting Sewing Machine)
This is another machine that’s capable of delivering all your quilting needs. Janome has a reputation for building sewing machines that are roughed, regardless of their price range.
With the JW8100, you get a mixture of build and functionality. It has a heavy-duty metal framework, which should improve its durability. There are several features on the sewing machine which should make quilting as easy as possible.
Key Features:
- 7 different buttonhole styles
- 100 preset stitches
- Automated needle movement
- User-friendly one-touch functions
- Memory function
- Distinct feed dog system
- Adjustable speed
- Variable thread tension
- LCD display
- Drop-in Bobbin
- Locking stitch function
- Detachable free arm
- Several preset stitch settings
Pros
- Noiseless operation
- Immense value for money
- Easy to use
- Uses the standard bobbins rather than specialized ones that are hard to find
Cons
- It’s not ideal for thicker fabrics
- No storage provision
Brother SE400 Sewing & Embroidery Machine
The name might imply that it’s for sewing and embroidery but it offers a wonderful experience for quilting.
The Brother SE400 is here to bring to reality, any creative design you can dust-up in your mind. The 67 preset stitch powerhouse has an LCD for sewing control with another 70 built-in stitches specialized for embroidery and about 5 different fonts.
If you want more designs, you can simply connect the SE400 to a computer via a cable, download the latest designs, and update them onto your machine.
Another huge selling point of this machine is the automated thread cutter and the 25-year warranty that comes with the purchase of this product.
Key Features:
- Backlit LCD touch screen
- Computer connectivity in case you want to import a design online
- Automatic thread cutter
Pros
- It comes with a bilingual user manual
- It has a speed of 710spm
Cons
- While the machine needs about 120V to operate, its LCD screen is disappointedly in black and white
Singer Heavy Duty 4423 Quilting Machine
This machine right here is a medium machine than can sew and quilt perfectly. Although it has about 23 built-in stitches only, its speed is superb – running up to 1100 stitches in one minute! At such speed, even most professional models cannot compete with this 110V machine.
The 4423 has a turning dial that easily selects pattern, adjustable stitch size (length and width) and other accessories for free motion quilting.
This machine will easily sew every kind of fabric but it turns out that production laws make it unable to be spread outside America.
Key Features:
- 23 built-in stitches
- Automated threader system
- Heavy-duty casing
- Several sewing accessories
Pros
- One of the fastest quilting and sewing machine there is
- Heavy casing makes it safe when not in use
- Dial system for easy pattern selection
- Adjustable stitch
Cons
- Not computerized
- Presser foot pressure makes it over sensitive
- Can only be used in the US
Buying Guide
The major aim of putting together this buying guide is to assist you in making an informed buying decision. As you’ve gone through the table and the reviews proper of the top 15 recommended products, I expect that you have zeroed your mind on why the products listed are some of the best types of sewing machines for quilting available.
That said, this extensively covered buying guide is an open book on features I pointed out in the summarized product reviews, touching intricate details about what you should look out for before opting for that sewing machine for quilting.
Why Opt for a Sewing Machine for Quilting?
You might be wondering if buying a specialized quilting sewing machine is worth it, or if you can still quilt with the regular sewing machine. The answer is yes, it’s recommended to purchase a quilting sewing machine if you would be quilting most of the time and don’t want to be limited in options/capabilities.
For instance, say your Etsy shop is booming and you are trying to grow your quilting project by trying out several other fabric types. Having a standard/regular sewing machine will limit your options as you’d only perform basic quilting tasks when compared to a specialized quilting machine.
There are several features that specialized quilting sewing machines have which would improve your quilting tasks. Some of these include easy threading procedures, wider tables, customized options and more. Grabbing a sewing machine specifically made for quilting will see that you get fascinating results and can quilt easily no matter the length or thickness of the material.
How to Care for a Quilting Sewing Machine?
Like standard sewing machines, servicing your machine regularly is important. To avoid having your machine breakdown or performing quilting tasks poorly, ensure it is serviced regularly. This will also help you avoid bigger/costlier problems in the unforeseen future.
You can either choose to service the machine (and all its parts) by yourself if you’re technically sound. Or you can have a professional handle the same for you.
Quilting Tips for Beginners
If you’re a beginner quilter, here’s a breakdown of what you should know so that it’s ready to produce beautiful quilts.
- Oil the machine: The first and most important thing is to oil your quilter to start smoothly.
- Setup appropriately and in the right position: Ensure you setup your quilter appropriately, placing on a flat, stable surface which would give you room to maneuver and ensure comfort during your session.
- Stitch length: A smaller stitch will hold better and look better, so consider decreasing the length.
- Lower SPM: Like most quilters, consider lowering your SPM (stitch per minute) before you begin quilting. The resultant effect is usually a better finish. If you’re using a sewing machine particularly, you should lower your SPM as they are mostly set at high SPM.
- Shut the thread cutter off: Before you begin quilting, shut off your thread cutter and once done, trim the threads.
- Apply to stop down needle: Doing is perfect when turning, as it’s used to stop machine progress when there’s still a needle in the quilt.
- Choose stitch plate: Since you’d be using one needle all through the process, use a one-hole stitch plate.
- Put off fix switch: This isn’t needed while quilting to avoid creating knots in your thread.
Let’s talk a little about features to consider before opting for any sewing machine for quilting:
Features to Lookout for Before Investing in a Quilting Sewing Machine
Stitches:
Your machine’s stitch per minute is an indicator of the turnaround time for each task. For quilting, however, you won’t need a high SPM rate especially if you’re just starting out. On average, quilting sewing machines have SPM of around 850. The number of stitches also is another thing. Averagely, most quilting machines have around 100 different types of stitch. However, the most important thing to consider is how they work with stitch width adjustment and stitch length.
Size and Weight:
You must consider the area size where you intend to set up your sewing machine before selecting any quilting machine. You might need extra room space if you’d be having an extension table.
Also, be sure that the surface where your machine will be placed will give up under the weight of your preferred machine. This is majorly if you would be opting for industrial-sized machines which can be really heavy. But generally, most machines are pretty lightweight with some models weighing less than 10 lbs.
Table:
You’ll need a larger area for quilting than you will require in other sewing tasks. This is why you should consider getting a table with a wide arm area and a suitable length. You want to allow the fabric flow freely to make the process of crafting seamless, and you can only do that with more room on the table. With certain models, you can get an extension table, while others allow you to purchase similar products tailored for your particular model.
Automatic Needle Threading:
While you don’t expect every quilting machine to have automatic threading. Since we’re reviewing the best sewing machines for quilting, the products reviewed here all come with this feature. It’s a feature that can make crafting a lot easier and even more fun. You want to save time, reduce stress and strain on your eyes (usually caused by manual needle threading), you should consider a machine with automatic needle threading feature.
Noise:
There are several sewing machines which can be a little too noisy to work with. Of course, a noisy sewing machine does not equate to better work experience. This is why we have carefully reviewed and focused on majorly computerized quilting sewing machines as they tend to be less noisy during use.
A Sturdy Quilting Machine:
You want to invest in a sturdy machine for quilting. Getting a solidly built machine means you won’t be getting vibrations while you quilt, which can ruin your craft. Give preference to machines with a sturdy frame, maybe made of metal, which while can still move freely if needed, doesn’t disrupt your productivity.
FAQs
Our Top Pick
Our top pick is the Brother CS6000i quilting sewing machine, which is a computerized machine with flexible sewing speeds (can go up to 850 SPM). It is lightweight at about 13 pounds and features an automatic needle threader. There’s an LCD display for stitch selecting, as well as an LED light for illuminating the fabric being worked on. It’s also equipped with a free arm and has a hard protective case for storage, making it a decent travel partner.
You can purchase the Brother CS6000i over HERE.
