Top 15 Best Mid-Arm Quilting Machines

The best mid-arm quilting machine is the perfect solution for individuals who don’t have enough coins or space to accommodate a long arm quilting machine.

Therefore, if you want to improve your quilting skills and take your projects to the next level, purchase a mid-arm quilting machine. They cost between $5K and $10K.

If you want to learn more about mid-arm quilting units, what is the key difference between mid-arm and long-arm models, and find a match for you, read on.

What Is a Mid Arm Quilting Machine?

I can say that a mid-arm quilting machine is a godsend for the home quilter. Quilting a baby blanket on a regular sewing machine is achievable. However, it’s almost impossible to quilt a twin or king-sized quilt on your home sewing machine because of the small arm.

This is where a mid-arm quilting machine kicks in. A sewing unit’s arm is the pocket area from the inside of the sewing foot inwards. The arm length can differ in size.

You can find a sewing machine with a throat space of 18 inches. Keep in mind that the longer the sewing machine’s arm, the better. You will have more space to work with.

If you plan to stitch large amounts of fabrics, opt for a sewing machine with a larger throat area. They’re simply perfect for stitching larger costume pieces and larger quilts.

But here’s the kicker. Not only does a high-grade mid-arm quilting machine provide more space to work on your quilts, but it also offers more stitches and settings.

What Are The Best Mid Arm Quilting Machines?

Computerized mid-arm quilting machines, especially from Juki, Janome, Brother, and Singer make great choices for people who prefer machine quilting over hand quilting,

These brands make some of the best mid-arm quilting machines. They’re known for their durability and affordability. That said, let’s review some of their best-selling units.

• Best Overall: Husqvarna Viking Platinum 16 Mid Arm Quilting Machine
  “A powerful motor, TruStitch module, 16 inches of throat space, ideal for king-sized quilts, feature-rich.”
• Best Budget: Pfaff Powerquilter 16.0 Mid Arm Quilting Machine
  “You can finish your projects faster, accurate, powerful, compact, efficient, 16 inches of throat space.”
• Best with Stitch Regulator: HQ Sweet Sixteen Mid Arm Quilting Machine
  “A built-in stitch regulator for flawless, consistent results, ideal for sit-down free-motion work, reliable.”
• Best with Frame: Handi Quilter Simply Sixteen Mid Arm Quilting Machine
  “Robust design limits vibration, designed to make quilting easier, a user-friendly computerized system.”
• Best for Home Use: Juki Kirei HZL-NX7 Mid Arm Sewing Quilting Machine
  “Affordable, sturdy construction, improved stitch patterns, a wide sewing space, touch screen interface.”
• Best for Industrial Use: Singer 191D-30 Commercial-Grade Mid Arm Quilting Machine
  “Heavy-duty motor, wide table, comes semi-assembled and can handle several layers of thick fabrics.”
• Best Brother: Brother Dream Quilter Mid Arm Quilting Machine
  “High-grade unit, ideal for big patterns and blocks, 2 handles with rotating settings, stitch regulation.”
• Best Baby Lock: Baby Lock Tiara BLTR16 Mid Arm Quilting Machine
  “Super fast and powerful, table included, compact design, stitch regulation, user-friendly sit-down unit.”
• Best Sit-Down: Janome 1600P-QC Straight-Stitch Mid Arm Quilting Machine
  “Ergonomic knee lift, reliable, economical, it comes fully assembled, sideloading bobbin, lovely design.”
• Best Janome: Janome 3160QDC Computerized Mid Arm Quilting Machine
  “Intuitive LCD control panel, Superior Feed System, extension table for big projects, 60 built-in stitches.”
• Best Juki: Juki HZL-F600 Full Sized Computer Mid Arm Quilting Machine
  “Wide extension table, excellent for quilting, Box Feed Technology, generous throat space, affordable.”
• Best Qnique: Grace Q’nique 15R Mid Arm Quilting Machine
  “Perfect for king-sized quilts, comfort-grip adjustable handles with control buttons, stitch regulation.”
• Best Mechanical: Juki TL-2010Q Mid Arm Quilting Sewing Machine
  “Sewing space extension, compact and portable, can be utilized in different ways, a single-needle unit.”
• Best Computerized: Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 Computerized Mid Arm Quilting Machine
  “Sturdy construction, 600 built-in stitches, top drop-in bobbin system, lightweight, perfect for designers.”
• Best Heavy-Duty: Juki TL-2000Qi 9″ Mid Arm Quilting Machine
  “Firm construction, ideal for tailoring and dressmaking, longer bed and arm for easy handling of quilts.”

Best Mid-Arm Quilting Machine Comparison Chart

Mid arm quilting machines cost a lot less than long arm quilting machines. They’re intended for average quilters who don’t have enough space, coins, or quilting experience.

The following chart contains some of the best-selling mid-arm quilting machines available in the market. Without further ado, let’s find the best mid-arm quilting machine for you.

Top 15 Best Mid Arm Quilting Machine Reviews

Mid arm quilting machines can be utilized for making unique art on cushions, curtains, warm clothes, or whatever else you have on mind. You can make different handwork on different fabrics.

However, finding the best mid-arm quilting machine for your needs can be a daunting task with so many models available on the market. Hopefully, these reviews can help you make a wise pick.

Husqvarna Viking Platinum 16 Mid Arm Quilting Machine 

(Best Overall)

Husqvarna mid-arm quilting machine is a popular machine with 16 inches of throat space. It has a lot of advanced features for successful machine quilting you will enjoy.

The reason why I included this machine is that it can make 1,500 stitches per minute. Also, the big throat space enables quilters to complete king size quilts. There’s also a smooth surface.

There’s also a powerful motor that adds to the value of the machine. You can choose your three favorite speed customizations on the color touch screen and your unit will memorize everything.

But here’s the kicker. The TruStitch module is also incorporated for steady stitch regulation. What I love most about this model is the illuminated workspace. It comes with LEDs for a clear view.

Other features include a large capacity M-size bobbins, extension table, 4 spool thread stands, separate bobbin winder, needle up/down with a single tap of the foot control, etc.

Key Features:

• Bright LEDs
• TruStitch module
• 16 inches of throat space
• Large capacity M-size bobbins
• Needle up/down with a single tap of the foot control
• User-friendly color touch screen
• 1,500 stitches per minute
• A powerful motor
• Extension table

Product Specifications:

Brand:	Husqvarna Viking
Type:	Computerized
Throat space:	16 inches
SPM:	1,500
Warranty:	20-year limited warranty

Watch this video to get the in-depth information:

Pfaff Powerquilter 16.0 Mid Arm Quilting Machine 

(Best Budget)

If you’re searching for a commercial quilting power in a small and efficient machine, then Pfaff mid-arm quilting machine is a perfect choice for you. It will not only meet your needs in full.

This unit is the ideal solution for quilters who have been struggling to complete their projects in a small space. It’s also loaded with advanced features that will make your quilting a lot easier.

Some great features include 8 inches of vertical space and 16 inches of throat space. With this machine, you will be able to complete quilting projects of different sizes. It’s powerful and precise.

The speed of this beast is 1,500 stitches per minute. The best part? It also includes LEDs for a clear view of your projects. The good lighting enables quilters to take a good look at every small detail.

There’s also a large workspace that will provide complete support for projects of many sizes. What I love most about this unit is the full control you get thanks to the intuitive color touch screen.

It gives access to the stitch counter, calculator, and diagnostics program. Extras include needle up/down with a single tap of the foot pedal, large M-size bobbins, and four spool thread stands.

Key Features:

• Stitch counter and calculator
• Professional size workspace and powerful motor
• 16 inches of throat space and 8 inches of vertical space
• LEDs, color touch screen, 4 spool thread stands
• 1,500 stitches per minute

Product Specifications:

Brand:	Pfaff
Type:	Computerized
Throat space:	16 inches
SPM:	1,500
Warranty:	20-year limited warranty

Watch this video to get the in-depth information:

Baby Lock Tiara BLTR16 Mid Arm Quilting Machine

(Best Baby Lock Mid-Arm Quilting Machine)

Babylock is a relatively new company. However, they make some of the best quilting machines available at the moment. Their Tiara mid-arm quilting unit is perfect for serious quilters.

It’s a sit-down quilting unit with 16 inches of throat space. It also includes a table. Thus, you can finish a project straight out of the box. It’s super-fast (1,500 stitches per minute) and user-friendly.

But here’s the kicker. It’s also loaded with amazing features such as a stitch regulator, LED touch screen, bright LED lights, manual modes, and large capacity M-size bobbins. I especially love TruStitch.

You will enjoy this module despite your skill level. The package also includes a Tiara table overlay to stop fabrics from sticking while doing free-motion work, 3 packs of metal bobbins, etc.

Key Features:

• Bright LEDs
• Manual modes
• LED touch screen
• Large M-size bobbins
• 1,500 stitches per minute
• TruStitch stitch regulator
• Horizontal spool pin
• Table included

Product Specifications:

Brand:	Babylock
Type:	Computerized
Throat space:	16 inches
SPM:	1,500
Warranty:	10-year limited warranty

Watch this video to get the in-depth information:

Handi Quilter Simply Sixteen Mid Arm Quilting Machine

(Best Mid-Arm Quilting Machine and Frame)

Combined with the small foot frame mechanism, this quilting machine enables quilters to complete any size projects without stressing about space. It’s incredible!

The integrated technology and engineering provide the functionality and power that professional users require combined with the greatest stitch quality that you have ever seen.

Handmade in the United States, this workhorse is all you need as a beginner or intermediate quilter. It’s covered by a good warranty and a massive network of local representatives.

Other interesting features include ergonomic front handlebars, LEDs, and 1,800 stitches per minute. It’s fast and efficient. The handlebars provide touchscreen control. There’s also a high-speed rotary hook, a feet mount with quarter-inch ruler foot, and needle-stop positioning control.

The machine also provides a manual mode with 2 speeds, a quilting timer, alarm, inbuilt diagnostics, and consistent and superb stitch quality (4-18 stitches per inch).

Key Features:

• LED light ring
• Handmade in the USA
• Quilting alarm and project timer
• Ergonomic front handlebars with touchscreen control
• Needle-stop positioning control
• 1,800 stitches per minute
• Integrated USB port
• Built-in diagnostics
• 5 ft little frame

Product Specifications:

Brand:	Handi Quilter
Type:	Computerized
Throat space:	16 inches
SPM:	1,800
Warranty:	10-year limited warranty

Watch this video to get the in-depth information:

Juki Kirei HZL-NX7 Mid Arm Sewing Quilting Machine 

(Best Mid-Arm Quilting Machines for Home Use)

Juki Kirei HZL-NX7 has a wide sewing space, a touch screen interface, and other options that make it one of the best mid-arm quilting machines available at the moment.

If you’re looking for a computerized sewing machine for home quilting, look no further than this one! It’s perfect for quilters who’re on a budget but also want a reliable quilting machine.

It’s affordable, versatile, and sturdy. You can utilize the buttonhole sensor mechanism for optimal feed on various fabrics. There’s also a one-step buttonhole. You will love it because it sews and measures on both the right and left sides evenly. It performs automatically for flawless results.

The buttonhole sewing presser features a clamping plate. Thus, you can feed materials by keeping them between the plate and presser foot with confidence. Other amazing features include a presser foot pivot function, 20 different styles of buttonholes, improved stitch patterns, etc.

There’s also a box feed. As you can notice, Kirei is a feature-rich sewing and quilting machine. It’s perfect for different types of projects. It handles any type of fabric with ease.

Key Features:

• Wide sewing space
• Touch screen interface
• Presser foot pivot function
• 20 styles of buttonholes
• New stitch patterns

Product Specifications:

Brand:	Juki
Type:	Computerized
Throat space:	12 inches
SPM:	1,050
Warranty:	5-year limited warranty

Watch this video to get the in-depth information:

HQ Sweet Sixteen Mid Arm Quilting Machine 

(Best Mid-Arm Quilting Machine with Stitch Regulator)

If you’re a fan of free-motion quilting, opt for this sewing unit. It comes with a large throat space which enables quilters to make king-size quilts. There’s also a smooth surface.

This surface enables projects to glide underneath the needle. The powerful motor performs well without issues and can produce 1,800 stitches per minute. There’s also a stitch regulation.

What I like most about it is the variety of adjustments you can make on the touch screen. Furthermore, it memorizes everything. It’s suitable for both experienced quilters and newcomers.

Incredible features include a height-adjustable table, DVD instructions, a user manual, low-bobbin alarm and estimator, interchangeable feet, easy-set tension,  and 4 basting-stitch choices.

There’s also a bobbin winder, quilting timer and alarm, 20 additional needles, and 4 bobbins. The table can be adjusted between up to 42 inches. There’s also a selection of languages.

Key Features:

• Height-adjustable table
• 16 inches of throat space
• 3 different speed adjustments
• Interchangeable Handi feet
• 1,800 stitches per minute
• A variety of languages

Product Specifications:

Brand:	Handi Quilter
Type:	Computerized
Throat space:	16 inches
SPM:	1,800
Warranty:	10-year limited warranty

Watch this video to get the in-depth information:

Juki TL-2000Qi 9″ Mid Arm Quilting Machine

(Best Heavy-Duty Mid-Arm Quilting Machine)

If you like Juki machines and want a mid-arm quilting machine by this company, consider the TL-2000Qi model. It provides 9 inches of throat space and other impressive features.

It’s a quilting machine with a speed of 1,500 stitches per minute. Thanks to the sturdy aluminum die-cast frame and strong construction, the vibration is decreased. The machine is super quiet.

This beast has automatic thread cutting and large working space. There’s also a bed and arm made from die-cast aluminum, automatic bobbin winder, HA-type needles, and standard options.

Those options can be manipulated by a foot pedal. You will also get other accessories like even feed dog, extension table, and LEDs, etc. The stitch quality is superior and consistent.

Key Features:

• 1,500 stitches per minute
• Aluminum-cast bed and arm
• A consistent and superior stitch quality
• A large illuminated workspace
• Automatic bobbin winder

Product Specifications:

Brand:	Juki
Type:	Electronic
Throat space:	9 inches
SPM:	1,500
Warranty:	5-year limited warranty

Watch this video to get the in-depth information:

Grace Q’nique 15R Mid Arm Quilting Machine 

(Best Qnique Mid-Arm Quilting Machine)

If your future projects involve large quilts, you will need a big quilting machine to do the job hassle-free such as the Grace Q’nique 15R mid-arm quilting machine with 15 inches of throat space.

It’s built to handle king-sized quilts. It features comfort-grip adjustable handles and can be utilized on a standard or compact quilting frame that can be utilized with almost any quilting frame.

The adjustable handles provide control of the quilting machine. They can be placed down into a micro-handle state when handling fine details. Each handle features three quick-control buttons.

They enable quilters to control stitch speed, stitch regulation, and other key settings with ease. This unit can make 1,800 stitches per minute. You can also implement Quilter’s Creative Touch software but keep in mind that the software is sold separately. Lastly, there’s a built-in stitch regulator.

Key Features:

• 15 inches of throat space
• Can be utilized on a standard or compact frame
• Comfort-grip adjustable handles with control buttons
• A built-in bobbin winder for quick bobbin loading
• 1,800 stitches per minute

Product Specifications:

Brand:	Grace
Type:	Computerized
Throat space:	15 inches
SPM:	1,800
Warranty:	1-year limited warranty

Watch this video to get the in-depth information:

Juki TL-2010Q Mid Arm Quilting Sewing Machine 

(Best Mechanical Mid-Arm Quilting Machine)

If you’re searching fora a lockstitch, single-needle quilting machine, then Juki has a great option for you. It’s their TL-2010Q unit for straight stitching and quilting.

It can be utilized as a tabletop machine, attached to cabinets. However, you can also utilize this unit on machine quilting frames. The unit includes a carrying handle and a sewing table.

The machine is portable and provides 8.5 inches of throat space. Other features include LEDs, one pedal foot control, sliding speed control, and 6mm stitch length.

Key Features:

• 6mm stitch length
• Sliding speed control
• 1,500 stitches per minute
• Lockstitch, single-needle machine
• Sewing space extension
• Bright LED lights

Product Specifications:

Brand:	Juki
Type:	Mechanical
Throat space:	8 1/2 inches
SPM:	1,500
Warranty:	5-year limited warranty

Watch this video to get the in-depth information:

Brother Dream Quilter Mid Arm Quilting Machine

(Best Brother Mid-Arm Quilting Machine)

This quilting machine by Brother is created with high-grade materials and includes advanced features. It makes a perfect choice for serious quilters on a budget because it’s affordable.

If you buy this machine, you will get a large workspace that enables you to create big patterns or blocks. The machine provides consistent stitch quality thanks to the built-in stitch regulation.

You can also choose from four different types of stitch modes. Other impressive features include M-size bobbin, laser stylus, and handles with rotating settings that provide control over your fabrics.

Other features that add value to the machine include a 5-inch LCD screen display, 1,800 SPM, dual-cone thread keepers, a free motion quilting foot, and a built-in bobbin winder motor.

Key Features:

• Built-in stitch regulator
• 10 quilting machine needles
• Large capacity M-size bobbins
• Handles with rotating settings
• 1,800 stitches per minute

Product Specifications:

Brand:	Brother
Type:	Computerized
Throat space:	15 inches
SPM:	1,500
Warranty:	5-year limited warranty

Watch this video to get the in-depth information:

Janome 3160QDC Computerized Mid Arm Quilting Machine 

(Best Janome Mid-Arm Quilting Machine)

The Janome 3160QDC is a computerized quilting machine made with quilting newbies and professionals in mind. It comes with a large table for large quilting projects.

You will get this quilting machine programmed with 60 inbuilt stitches. They can all be personalized. You can finally add a personalized touch to your quilting masterpieces.

There’s also a needle up/down feature. It enables easy pivoting around corners and along seams. What I like most about this unit is the user-friendly LCD control panel.

Key Features:

• Intuitive LCD control panel
• A lot of handy function controls
• Jam-proof easy set top loading bobbin system
• Extension table for large projects
• 60 built-in sewing stitches

Product Specifications:

Brand:	Janome
Type:	Computerized
Throat space:	7 inches
SPM:	820
Warranty:	25-year limited warranty

Watch this video to get the in-depth information:

Janome 1600P-QC Straight-Stitch Mid Arm Quilting Machine 

(Best Sit-Down Mid-Arm Quilting Machine)

This unit by Janome is a straight-stitch, super-fast quilting, and sewing machine. It comes with features to help you achieve professional-looking results.

The machine is suitable for both newbies and professionals. It can create 1,600 stitches per minute. It’s a feature-rich machine with a beautiful design and wide working space.

It includes a darning foot with a plate, a ditch quilting foot, and a 1/4-inch seam foot. If you’re searching for a sit down mid-arm quilting machine, then this unit is perfect for you.

There’s also a side loading bobbin, ergonomic knee lift, a powerful motor, automatic thread cutter, etc. The unit comes fully-assembled with 4 extra bobbins but no walking foot.

According to customers, this is the only disadvantage. Regular maintenance is required. The machine is quiet and powerful. You can make lovely stitches on leather, denim, etc.

Key Features:

• Adjustable knee lift
• 1,600 stitches per minute
• 8 3/4 inches of throat space
• Beautiful design and wide working space
• Sit-down mid-arm quilting machine
• Built-in needle threader
• Sideloading bobbin

Product Specifications:

Brand:	Janome
Type:	Electronic
Throat space:	8 3/4 inches
SPM:	1,600
Warranty:	25-year limited warranty

Watch this video to get the in-depth information:

Juki HZL-F600 Full Sized Computer Mid Arm Quilting Machine 

(Best Juki Mid-Arm Quilting Machine)

Another full-sized quilting machine by Juki that’s worth your time and money is their HZL-F600. This unit comes with a presser foot that can be raised to 12mm with a knee lift lever.

It also has a set of stitch patterns that can be adjusted at various widths for a hand-stitched appearance. It also includes a wide extension table and a generous throat space for quilting.

Key Features:

• Box Feed Technology
• Generous throat space
• Wide extension table

Product Specifications:

Brand:	Juki
Type:	Computerized
Throat space:	8 1/2 inches
SPM:	900
Warranty:	5-year limited warranty

Watch this video to get the in-depth information:

Singer 191D-30 Commercial-Grade Mid Arm Quilting Machine 

(Best Mid-Arm Quilting Machine for Industrial Use)

The Singer 191D-30 is a quilting machine with industrial-level performance. It’s a straight stitch machine suitable for a variety of sewing and quilting projects.

This machine comes with a presser foot that can be raised to 13mm. Therefore, you can easily finish a bulky project with this unit. It can handle multiple layers of fabric.

It also has a large working space to prevent overcrowding when completing larger projects. There’s also a single pedal table included. The motor is super powerful.

Key Features:

• Heavy-duty and powerful motor
• Knee lifter for hands-free lifting and decreasing of the presser foot
• A large working space for larger projects

Product Specifications:

Brand:	Singer
Type:	Mechanical
Throat space:	11 3/4 inches
SPM:	4,000
Warranty:	25-year limited warranty

Watch this video to get the in-depth information:

Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 Computerized Mid Arm Quilting Machine 

(Best Computerized Mid-Arm Quilting Machine)

The Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 is a top-rated mid-arm quilting machine with a good reputation. If you want a computerized yet affordable quilting machine, consider this model.

It comes with all the necessary features for quilting. The speed control enables precise performance. If you opt for this machine, you will also get 600 built-in stitches and an extension table.

The variety of stitches enables quilters to add a personalized touch to their projects. There’s also a lot of presser feet included and automatic features that will make your work easier.

Key Features:

• Study frame
• 600 built-in stitches
• One-touch stitch selection
• Electronic twin needle settings
• 13 built-in buttonhole styles
• Top drop-in bobbin system
• Built-in needle threader
• Extension table

Product Specifications:

Brand:	Singer
Type:	Computerized
Throat space:	6.5 inches
SPM:	850
Warranty:	25-year limited warranty

Watch this video to get the in-depth information:

Buying Guide: What Is the Best Mid Arm Quilting Machine?

Mid arm quilting machines come in small and big designs that match both industrial and residential use. Some include advanced features while others don’t.

Therefore, if you buy a low-end mid-arm quilting machine, you will have to buy extra accessories. Below, you will find a list of important features you need to pay close attention to when shopping for a mid-arm quilting machine. They will help you make a wise buy.

Type

You can choose from 3 types of quilting machines including computerized, mechanical, and electronic. Mechanical machines are controlled manually.

It requires quilters to manually perform things like replacing the bobbin. This type of quilting machine is suitable and highly-recommended for quilting newcomers.

Computerized and electronic machines provide extra features than mechanical ones. However, they’re expensive and recommended for experts. Opt for a computerized or electronic unit if you’re focused on more complicated, heavy-duty quilting projects.

Speed

The speed of your quilting machine determines how fast you will complete your projects. Quilting units with high speed like Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 and Q’nique Quilter 15 get more work done in no time. Also, the size of the bobbin matches the speed of your quilting machine.

The Q’nique Quilter 15R can make 1800 stitches per minute. This is higher than most machines present on the market. Opt for a machine with high speed and powerful motor.

Stitch Length

Mid arm quilting machines offer different stitch lengths that provide different results. The average stitch length goes from 0 to 3mm. You can also find units with 5 or even 6mm stitch lengths.

A machine with small stitch length provides small stitches while units with large stitch length offer larger stitches. Units with larger stitch length are favored by most quilters, especially professionals.

According to experienced quilters, small stitches can damage fabrics. They’re also hard to tear apart. Opt for a quilting machine with a large stitch length if your future tasks involve heavy fabrics.

Needle Type and Size

Mid arm quilting machines perform best with durable needles that don’t break or fray when quilting thin or thick fabrics. Professionals claim the regular size is 90/14. They also recommend testing many needle sizes in offline stores to get a match for creating perfect quilts.

Dimensions and Weight

The weight of a quilting machine affects storage and portability. The quilting units selected in this buying guide have different weights. Buy a heavy-duty machine for home or industrial use if you have space for it. Most quilters prefer lightweight units weighing around 15 to 25 pounds.

Warranty

Last but not least, pay close attention to the warranty. A warranty covers unexpected issues and defects a quilting unit can come with. For instance, the dealer can deliver a machine with a defective and broken knee lift or sideloading bobbins. The warranty ensures you get a replacement.

Watch this video to get the in-depth information:

How to Use a Mid Arm Quilting Machine?

Mid arm quilting machines take less space than long arm quilting machines. They’re favored by quilters on a budget because they provide a decent throat space made for large projects.

These quilting machines make a great choice for intermediate quilters who don’t want to complete their projects with a large quilting unit. Let’s learn how to use a mid-arm quilting machine.

Specially Designed for Quilting

The best sewing machines provide a lot of functions including zigzag and straight stitches, various styles of buttonholes, specialty stitches, etc. However, mid-arm quilting units are specially created for quilting and have extra quilting features. They also include a table and enable free motion quilting.

Although they seem hard to use, it’s easy to master quilting on a mid-arm quilting machine because they come with instructions. You can also find a lot of YouTube or written quilting tutorials.

Generous Throat Space

Mid-range quilting machines have a generous throat space (16 inches to 22 inches) which is two or three times more than sewing machines for home use. There’s also extra vertical quilting space.

This enables you to maneuver quilts of any size. You can make from a lap to a king-sized quilt which is a very appealing feature. The larger throat space makes things easier for quilting beginners.

Stationary Needle

Unlike long arm quilting units where you move the needle throughout the quilt, mid-arm quilting units enable quilters to move the quilt under a stationary needle with ease. This is a great feature!

However, it has a learning curve. If you’re a professional quilter or serious home quilter, you’re probably used to completing projects on your standard sewing machine and have gained experience.

Front-on or Sideways Orientation

Mid arm quilting units can be placed in one of 2 ways. When the throat is positioned in a way that you’re looking at the needle straight on, the unit’s body is perpendicular to the user.

This orientation is similar to a long arm quilting machine and better for quilting bigger projects. This way the working space is easily visible right in front of you. However, it’s different from a sewing machine for home use. With these units, you must do quilting with the unit sitting sideways.

2 Bobbin Sizes

Mid arm quilting machines have two options for bobbin sizes. The M-size bobbin accommodates about 3 times as much thread. It’s usually found on long arm quilting machines.

The L-size bobbin, on the other hand, is the exact size utilized in a traditional sewing machine. Opt for a machine with a larger bobbin because it doesn’t require change that often.

Smaller bobbin needs to be changed more frequently. However, it’s a better option for detailed quilting projects. The bobbin in mid-arm quilting units is situated right under the table. This way, you don’t have to take off the quilt to replace a bobbin. Opt for a unit with a larger bobbin.

Optional Stitch Regulation

Most mid-arm quilting machines including HQ Sweet Sixteen and Baby Lock Tiara II provide an optional stitch regulation. This ensures accurate stitching and offers more speed control.

Although this is a great feature and most home sewing machines and long arm quilting machines include this option, a great number of quilters opt for a machine without stitch regulation.

They prefer to control the outcome of the patterns. If you want to give stitch regulation a chance, keep in mind that stitch regulation modules add around $1K to the price of the machine.

Extras

Extra bells and whistles on modern mid-arm quilting machines range from strong motors that can make 1,500 stitches per minute to color touch screens to extra feet and needle settings.

Opt for a mid-arm quilting machine with extra feet for better quilting visibility and high-grade elements such as the Pfaff Powerquilter 16.0. Or HQ Simply Sixteen mid area quilting machine.

Watch this video to get the in-depth information:

Conclusion

Mid arm quilting machines make a great choice for average quilters who aspire to become professionals in the future. It’s also a great choice for people who prefer something cheaper that doesn’t take as much space as a long arm quilting machine and has a generous throat space.

If you’re looking for something cheap and effective, look no further than the Janome 1600P-QC quilting unit. It’s a fully-assembled machine that makes lovely stitches on different fabrics.

It’s compatible with different quilting frames. However, if you want something faster and better, opt for Qnique Quilter 15R. This unit has 3 LEDs, OLED lights, adjustable tension, 1800 SPM, and 3 quick control buttons among other advanced features. It’s also budget-friendly and super-versatile.

My last pick would be the Juki TL-2010Q quilting machine. It’s perfect for tailoring and dressmaking. This model is suitable for home machine-quilting and produces up to 1500 stitches per minute.

What’s your favorite mid-arm quilting machine? Hopefully, this guide can help you find the best mid-arm quilting machine for you. Feel free to share your thoughts and questions below.