The best long arm quilting machine delivers a large throat space, advanced controls, and a strong motor. If you’re a passionate quilter, you’re probably searching for a long arm quilting machine.
Although a long arm quilting machine costs a lot, it makes quilting a breeze. However, choosing the right model can be hard. Let’s review the best long arm models and pick the right one for you.
What is Long Arm Quilting Machine?
Quilts involve multiple layers and fabric pieces. It’s possible to make quilts by hand or with a sewing unit for home use. However, both ways take a lot of time and effort, especially hand quilting.
A long arm quilting machine allows you to layer those materials at once, stitching them together simply and quickly. You can choose between a seated model and a quilting machine with a frame.
The seated models utilize a large attached table to provide extra room to work while frame models use a separate frame with clamps and rollers to keep everything intact while you move your machine along a track. You can even pick a computerized long arm unit that connects to your computer.
This allows you to choose or make a sewing pattern. Then, push a button and your longarm quilting unit does the rest of the job for you. Let’s check out some of the best long arm quilting units.
What Are The Best Long Arm Quilting Machines?
It depends on your quilting needs and preferences. Just like automobiles, quilting units also have various models. And different quilting machines have different characteristics, benefits, and flaws.
However, when shopping for a long arm quilting machine, you can never go wrong with Handi Quilter or Tin Lizzie.
They’re known for their powerful motors and large throat space just like Kind Quilter.
If you’re searching for a budget-friendly long arm quilting machine then Pfaff, Grace, and Juki have good options for you. They’re also known for their durability, large working space, and affordability.
- Best Overall: Husqvarna Viking Platinum 3000 Longarm Quilting Machine
“Effortless quilting, bright LED lights, onboard bobbin winder, multiple pre-programmed stitch modes.” - Best Budget: Pfaff Powerquilter 16.0 Long Arm Quilting Machine
“Full control, powerful, compact, advanced features for precise quilting, professional size workspace.” - Best with Table: BERNINA Q 20 Longarm Quilting Machine with Table
“Ideal for large quilts, easily adjustable tension, requires minimal maintenance, inbuilt stitch regulator. “ - Best for Home Use: King Quilter II ELITE Long Arm Quilting Machine
“Two-piece computer numerical controlled casting, 18 inches of throat space, stitch regulation system. “ - Best with Frame: Tin Lizzie Floor Model Long Arm Quilting Machine
“Precise stitch regulation, large bobbin capacity, LED screen with easy touch keys, convenient handles.” - Best Computerized: Juki Kirei HZL-NX7 Long Arm Sewing and Quilting Machine
“Great for both thin and thick fabrics, Juki industrial technology, interchangeable single needle system.” - Best Commercial: Handi Quilter Infinity 26-inch Long Arm Quilting Machine
“On-screen handwheel, bobbin thread cutter, needle-stop position control, integrated micro handles.” - Best Sit-Down with Stitch Regulator: Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen Long Arm Quilting Machine
“TruStitch regulator, responsive foot pedal, 30 inches x 36 inches table, interchangeable Handi feet.” - Best for Beginners: Juki TL-2200 Quilt Virtuoso Pro Long Arm Quilting Machine
“Foot control, thread stand, well-lit workspace, works for all levels, adjustable table, flawless results.” - Best Economical: Q’nique Long Arm Quilting Machine
“Powerful stitch regulation, adjustable quilting controls, feature-rich, compatible with many frames. “
Top 15 Best Long Arm Quilting Machine
Here’s a list that can help you choose the best long arm quilting machine for your needs. Go through the list and pick your most preferred option. Also, don’t forget to check the pros and cons below!
Best Long Arm Quilting Machine Reviews
The best long arm quilting machine is every passionate quilter’s dream come true! Although they’re not cheap and take a lot of space, a regular quilting machine can’t give you the same power and throat area as a long arm unit. That said, let’s review some long arm quilting machines!
BERNINA Q 20 Longarm Quilting Machine with Table
(Best Long Arm Quilting Machine with Table)
If you’re looking for a sit-down machine with stitch regulation, look no further than the Q20 quilting unit with a table.
The generous free-arm height and depth provide a larger space for completing larger quilts. The best part? It comes with a Bernina stitch regulator.
This will help you learn hand-guided quilting quickly. It’s easy to customize and simple to activate using the machine’s touch screen. It keeps the stitch length consistent at different speeds.
You can also choose from three stitch regulation modes, including a fully manual mode or basting mode. What I like most about this machine is the speed. It can make 2,200 stitches per minute.
Customizable, this Bernina model includes useful functionalities like a built-in tutorial and stitch counter. Threading is a breeze thanks to the semi-automatic needle threader.
Key Features:
- LED lighting
- Unique tension control
- Bernina long arm stitch regulation
- Unique threading path and integrated bobbin winder
- 2,200 stitches per minute
- Built-in needle threader
- Unique interface
Pros
- Perfect for larger quilts
- Easily adjustable tension
- Requires minimal maintenance
- Intuitive and easy to utilize
- Built-in stitch regulator
Cons
- Noisy
- No automatic thread cutter
- No feed dogs
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Bernina |
| Stitches per minute: | 2,200 |
| Throat space: | 20 inches |
| Warranty: | 20-year limited warranty |
| Color: | Black and white |
Pfaff Powerquilter 16.0 Long Arm Quilting Machine
(Best Affordable Long Arm Quilting Machine)
The Pfaff Powerquilter is a budget-friendly long arm quilting machine. It provides maximum control and precision quilting. This machine will get your creative juices flowing!
If you’re looking for a compact and efficient long arm quilting machine, look no further than this model. It’s the perfect solution for small spaces. It packs some advanced features.
You will get 16 inches of throat space and 8 inches of vertical space. Precise and powerful, this machine can produce up to 1,500 stitches per minute. It also comes with bright LEDs.
The whole workspace is lit for maximum visibility of your task. There’s also a 36 inches x 30 inches table included. Lastly, the color touch screen gives easy access to your settings.
Key Features:
- 4 spool thread stand
- 1,500 stitches per minute
- Large-capacity M-size bobbins
- Needle up/down with one tap of the foot pedal
- Quick access to the stitch counter, calculator, etc
- 36 inches x 30 inches table included
- 16 inches of throat space
- Separate bobbin winder
Pros
- Complete control
- Powerful and compact
- Advanced features for precision quilting
- Professional size workspace
- 4 spool thread stand
Cons
- Threading is difficult
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Pfaff |
| Stitches per minute: | 1,500 |
| Throat space: | 16 inches |
| Warranty: | 20-year limited warranty |
| Color: | White with violet details |
Baby Lock Tiara 3 Long Arm Quilting Machine
The user-friendly, smooth operating Baby Lock Tiara 3 long arm quilting machine includes a table so you can quilt right away. It’s a sit-down compact and super-versatile machine.
If you don’t have much space in your sewing station, opt for this long arm quilting machine. It uses little sewing room space making it possible to work in almost any quilting station.
This model provides 16 inches of throat space and 8.25 inches of vertical space. Thus, you will have a lot of space to complete quilts of different sizes. It also includes long-lasting LEDs.
They’re high-intensity lights that will illuminate your workspace, so you can notice every small detail on your quilting project. There’s also a black LCD screen. It’s super easy on the eyes.
And provides easy access to your hardware and software settings. When utilizing the optional TruStitch stitch regulator, a touch is all it takes to set manual modes and stitch regulator.
Key Features:
- Lighted workspace
- Large M class bobbin
- 1,800 stitches per minute
- Programmable needle positioning
- Adjustable table included
- LCD black touch screen
- 16 inches workspace
Pros
- High-speed rotary hook
- TruStitch stitch regulator available
- External electric bobbin winder with variable speeds
- Smooth table surface assures even quilting
- Adjustable speed control
Cons
- None
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Baby lock |
| Stitches per minute: | 1,800 |
| Throat space: | 16 inches |
| Warranty: | 10-year limited warranty |
| Color: | White |
Tin Lizzie Floor Model Long Arm Quilting Machine
(Best Long Arm Quilting Machine and Frame)
If you’re searching for a floor model, then Tin Lizzie has a great option for you. Their 26 inches long arm quilting machine provides the latest available long arm features and hardware.
It’s loaded with extra-large, ultra-light LED lighting that will illuminate your quilts and working space like no other. It also has “Rams Horn” ergonomic handlebars and rear LCD handlebars.
They will add comfort and ease to your quilts. The LCD screen has easy-touch keys, UV backlight lighting for white on white quilting, locking cable connectors, and 26 inches of throat space.
If you want to take your quilting to new heights, opt for this model. It’s ideal for avid quilters who want a larger quilting space. Plus, you can enjoy the same benefits of the Tin Lizzie 18LS.
Key Features:
- New UV LED lighting
- Large bobbin capacity
- Locking cable connectors
- LED screen with easy touch keys
- Convenient rear handles
- Ergonomic controls
Pros
- Precise stitch regulation
- Built-in bobbin winder with large bobbin
- Fixable light and oil reservoir
Cons
- None
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Tin Lizzie |
| Stitches per minute: | Not specified |
| Throat space: | 26 inches |
| Warranty: | 5-year limited warranty |
| Color: | White |
Husqvarna Viking Platinum 3000 Longarm Quilting Machine
(Best Long Arm Quilting Machine for the Money)
The Husqvarna Viking Platinum 3000 long arm quilting unit features a 7-inch touch-control LCD screen. It makes 3,000 stitches per minute, so you won’t outrun the stitch regulation.
Thanks to the screen, you can easily access settings and menus. You will also get bright LEDs inbuilt right into the handles. They will illuminate your workspace for maximum visibility.
There’s also a built-in black light. It’s perfect when utilizing flow in the dark threads. This model includes pre-programmed stitch modes, a comfort grip handle design, and a calculator.
The spring-loaded encoders stay firmly on the track to deliver precision-guided stitch control for perfect results. The inbuilt bobbin winder allows you to wind a bobbin while working.
Key Features:
- Bright LED lights
- Spring-loaded encoders
- Comfort grip handle design
- Multiple pre-programmed stitch modes
- 7-inch touch-color LCD screen
- 3,000 stitches per minute
- Built-in black light
Pros
- Built-in calculator
- Onboard bobbin winder
- Effortless quilting
Cons
- None
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Husqvarna Viking |
| Stitches per minute: | 3,000 |
| Throat space: | Not specified |
| Warranty: | Not specified |
| Color: | White |
Consew Premier Single Needle Long Arm Quilting Machine
The Consew Primer is a single-needle long arm quilting machine with a bunch of features at your service. If you’re looking for a high-quality lockstitch unit, look no further than Consew.
Impressive features include a walking foot, needle feed, drop feed, a long arm with 18 inches of working space, an upright axis hook, and a pump mechanism with customizable oil move.
You will also get a large top-loaded bobbin locking stitch regulator, upper oil glass sight, a customizable take-up thread guide for thread loop timing, and quick tension release.
Key Features:
- 2,000 SPM
- 18 inches of throat space
- Single-needle quilting machine
- Fully-assembled working table
- Large top-loaded bobbin
- Servo motor
Pros
- Affordable
- Altering presser feet
- Centralized arm lubrication
- High presser foot lifter
- Reverse feed
Cons
- None
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Consew |
| Stitches per minute: | 2,000 |
| Throat space: | 18 inches |
| Warranty: | Not specified |
| Color: | White |
Handi Quilter Infinity 26-inch Long Arm Quilting Machine
(Best Commercial Long Arm Quilting Machine)
The creative possibilities of quilting with this long arm quilting machine seem endless! This quilting unit can produce up to 3,100 stitches per minute and provides amazing features.
Some of the features include handlebars that can be tailored to how you prefer to quilt, programmable presets, customizable settings, and intuitive software that’s super easy to utilize.
This is one of those quilting machines that grows with you! It’s strong, versatile, smart, and adaptable. If you’re looking for a unit that adapts along with you, look no further than HQ infinity.
This feature-rich, powerful, and innovative long arm quilting machine is every passionate quilter’s dream machine. You deserve a machine that looks as lovely in your home as your quilts.
Key Features:
- Front power switch
- On-screen handwheel
- Integrated micro handles
- Thread-break sensor with alarm
- Bobbin-use estimator with low-bobbin alarm
- Adjustable spool tray and thread mast
- Programmable handlebar buttons
- Needle-stop position control
- Pinpoint needle laser
- Bobbin-thread cutter
Pros
- Internal diagnostics
- Integrated, adjustable laser light for pantographs
- High-speed rotary hook with large-capacity M-class bobbin
- Easy needle change with ergonomic thumb screw
- Getting Started DVD
Cons
- Overwhelming for beginners
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Handi Quilter |
| Stitches per minute: | 3,100 |
| Throat space: | 26 inches |
| Warranty: | 10-year limited warranty |
| Color: | White |
Juki TL-2200 Quilt Virtuoso Pro Long Arm Quilting Machine
(Best Long Arm Quilting Machine for Beginners)
If you’re looking for a low maintenance long arm quilting machine made with professionals and newbies in mind, look no further than Juki TL-2200 Quilt Virtuoso Pro!
The direct-drive motor provides efficient and smooth operation with hook oiling when required. There’s an 18 inches throat space. And 10 inches vertical space for completing quilts of any size.
You will get a large quilting table with adjustable height and optional extensions. The best part? You can program your screen, needle up/down position, and screen brightness to match your style.
There’s also a foot pedal control. The speed of this quilting unit is variable. It can produce 2,200 stitches per minute. You can save your settings for micro stipples, ruler work, and free-motion.
What I like most about this model is the convenient handwheel. It’s placed on the right side of the head. You will also get dual-directional LED lighting for maximum visibility.
Key Features:
- Speed regulation
- Built-in bobbin winder
- Automatic needle positioner
- Ergonomically positioned auxiliary handwheel
- Thread cutter with auto set thread lock
- Foot control and thread stand
- Directional lighting
Pros
- Bright display
- Well-lit workspace
- Stable and long-lasting
- Professional finesse to all your projects
- 2,200 stitches per minute
- Works for all levels
- Adjustable table
Cons
- Little information on how to put it together
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Juki |
| Stitches per minute: | 2,200 |
| Throat space: | 18 inches |
| Warranty: | 5-year limited warranty |
| Color: | White with blue details |
HQ Fusion Package – 24″ Long Arm Quilting Machine
The Handi Quilter Fusion Package is one of the newest members of the Handi Quilter family. It combines integrated engineering and technology with all the quilting features.
Made and assembled in the United States, this machine includes a precision stitch-regulated system. It’s one of those quilting machines that enables you to accomplish your quilting vision.
This machine provides 20 inches of quilting space. Thus, you can quilt even the largest projects. It makes 2,200 stitches per minute and comes with a 10-year limited warranty.
Key Features:
- Color LCD touch screen
- 20 inches of quilting space
- Built-in adjustable LED lighting functions with menu control
- Speeds up to 2,200 precision stitches per minute
- Built-in connection point for HQ Micro Handles
- Integrated, adjustable laser light
- Handi Quilter technology
Pros
- Quilt from crib to king size with ease
- Stitch regulation and automatic needle positioning
- Made and assembled in the United States
Cons
- Overwhelming for beginners
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Handi Quilter |
| Stitches per minute: | 2,200 |
| Throat space: | 24 inches |
| Warranty: | 10-year limited warranty |
| Color: | White |
Juki Kirei HZL-NX7 Long Arm Sewing and Quilting Machine
(Best Computerized Long Arm Quilting Machine)
The Juki Kirei HZL-NX7 is a long arm quilting and sewing machine with a large sewing space, user-friendly touch screen, and a great variety of other quilting and sewing features.
It’s a computerized sewing and quilting machine made with professionals in mind. If you’re searching for a high-quality, reliable unit, look no further than the Juki Kirei HZL-NX7 quilting unit.
It provides flawless straight stitches with the revolutionary single needle mechanism. Using the included t-screwdriver, you can “pop” the regular feed dog and throat plate to install the system.
Then, apply the presser foot for a great straight stitch experience and enjoy precise stitching known only to Juki industrial sewing machines. It’s perfect for precision, points, and quilt layers.
The best part? There’s a micro-lifter presser foot function. It lowers uneven sewing on velvets and quilts. You can also sew applique with the pivot function. It’s super versatile!
Key Features:
- 20 types of buttonholes
- New foot lift function and touch panel
- Electronic knee lifting control mechanism
- Juki dual feed, ease of access, and throat plate with guide
- Bobbin thread counter and thread tension setting
- New interchangeable single needle system
- Newly equipped with Juki smart feed (JSF)
- 1,050 stitches per minute
Pros
- Footswitch function
- Improved stitch functions
- Suitable for both thin and thick fabrics
- Juki industrial sewing machine technology
- High-performance sewing and quilting
- Presser foot pivot function
- Free-motion stitching
Cons
- The automatic thread cutter cuts the thread too close
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Juki |
| Stitches per minute: | 1,050 |
| Throat space: | 20 inches |
| Warranty: | 5-year limited warranty |
| Color: | White with black details |
Handi Quilter Sweet Sixteen Long Arm Quilting Machine
(Best Sit-Down Long Arm Quilting Machine with Stitch Regulator)
HQ Sweet Sixteen is a sit-down longarm quilting machine with stitch regulation. It’s perfect for newbies and professionals. This model features TruStitch, so you can make quilt designs with lovely even stitches and get professional-looking results. It’s JUST perfect for free-motion!
If you currently own a domestic sewing machine with a small throat space, this model by Handi Quilter is a perfect solution for you. It will allow you to make lovely quilts of any size.
This workhorse provides 16 inches of throat space. The smooth surface of the included table enables the projects to glide under the needle. The best part? It has a color touch screen.
You can choose your three favorite speed settings on the screen and memorize your previous settings. It also includes a double-stick tape for the permanent installation of the table.
Key Features:
- Table overlay
- Quilting alarm and timer
- Four basting-stitch options
- Low-bobbin estimator and alarm
- Interchangeable Handi feet
- A large color touch screen
- 1,500 stitches per minute
- TruStitch regulator
Pros
- LED area lighting
- Responsive foot pedal
- Easy setup and take-down
- Change needles easily with thumb screw
- Smooth 30 inches x 36 inches table
- Needle-stop position control
- Adjustable speed control
- Easy-set tension
Cons
- Overwhelming for beginners
- You still have to move the quilt yourself
- No plugin pantographs are available
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Handi Quilter |
| Stitches per minute: | 1,500 |
| Throat space: | 16 inches |
| Warranty: | 10-year limited warranty |
| Color: | White with pink details |
Q’nique Long Arm Quilting Machine
(Best Economical Long Arm Quilting Machine)
With extended throat space, increased stitch speed, stitch regulation, and advanced control settings, this machine by Grace makes a great choice for professional quilters.
It’s one of the most economical long arm quilting machines on the market. This unit provides 15 inches of throat space, so you can sew larger blocks and patterns with great ease.
You will also receive comfort grip handles, an OLED screen with an intuitive menu that includes 4 modes, and a large class M bobbin for longer quilting without changing your bobbin.
The best part? Every part has been fine crafted and tuned. This model makes 1,800 stitches per minute. There’s also a motorized bobbin winder and other amazing features.
Key Features:
- Comfort grip handles
- Powerful stitch regulation
- Adjustable quilting controls
- The LCD provides easy access to settings
- Customizable speed control
- 4 different stitching modes
- Integrated LED lights
Pros
- Easy adjustments
- Feature-rich machine
- Compatible with many frames
- Built-in stitch regulator
- Full-color LED display
Cons
- The frame is sold separately
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Grace |
| Stitches per minute: | 1,800 |
| Throat space: | 15 inches |
| Warranty: | 5-year limited warranty |
| Color: | White |
Handi Quilter Capri 18 Long Arm Quilting Machine
The Handi Quilter Capri is a large machine for small spaces. It’s perfect for free-motion quilting and you will get flawless stitch quality. There’s also a table with a built-in stitch regulation.
What I like most about this machine is that you can easily manipulate your bed-sized quilt within the 18-inch throat space. You can select from four-twenty two stitches per inch for all quilting motifs.
The HQ InSight stitch regulator makes things a lot easier. The best part? It packs a lot of LED lights so you can see your beautiful stitches. Other great features include a stand-alone bobbin winder.
There’s also a pack of 20 needles, bobbins, and a sample thread pack. If you buy a long arm quilting unit, you will get a quarter-inch ruler foot installed and a user-friendly color touch screen.
Key Features:
- 18 inches of throat space
- Five bobbins, 20 needles, sample thread pack
- 36-inch by 32-inch HQ InSight Table with HQ InSight Stitch Regulation
- Color touch screen with user-friendly icon display
- LED light ring, throat lighting, and bobbin light
- Stand-alone bobbin winder
Pros
- Responsive foot pedal
- Needle-stop position control
- Easy USB machine and software updates
- Four times the quilting space of the average home sewing machine
- Adjustable high-resolution touch screen
- Low-bobbin estimator and alarm
- Easy setup and assembly
Cons
- None
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Handi Quilter |
| Stitches per minute: | 2,200 |
| Throat space: | 18 inches |
| Warranty: | 10-year limited warranty |
| Color: | White |
King Quilter II ELITE Long Arm Quilting Machine
(Best Long Arm Quilting Machine for Home Use)
King Quilter 2 Elite is the future of longarm quilting! It delivers a 2-piece computer numerical controlled casting and state of the art stitch regulation system (2,200 stitches per minute).
This workhorse ensures top-notch performance at a great price. It takes everything you loved about the old King Quilter and takes it to new heights with more reliability and exciting features.
It’s sturdier than before, so you don’t have to worry about stability. This model is built to last and makes quilting feel like a breeze. It’s easy to service and provides robust design features.
Key Features:
- 18 inches of throat space
- 7-inch color touch screen
- Comprehensive stitch features
- Optional 10ft or 12ft frame add-on
- Front handlebars with control buttons
- Needle up/down control
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Sturdy and long-lasting
- 2-piece computer numerical controlled casting
- Stitch regulation system
- Effortless quilting
Cons
- Overwhelming for beginners
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | King Quilter |
| Stitches per minute: | 2,200 |
| Throat space: | 18 inches |
| Warranty: | 20-year limited warranty |
| Color: | White |
Janome Quilt Maker Pro 18 Versa Longarm Quilting Machine
Last but not least, Janome is another excellent long arm quilting machine made with both beginners and experienced quilters. It has 18 inches of throat space and 8 inches of vertical space.
The working space is 4 times the quilting space of the traditional home sewing machines. It doesn’t take much time to install and assembly. The best part? It makes 2,200 stitches per minute.
What I like most about this machine is the table. You can easily adjust the table from 25.5 inches to 39.5 inches. This model is paired with the Versa Table with a built-in Versa stitch regulation.
You can choose from 2 modes of stitch regulation. There’s also a customizable HD color touch screen. It provides easy access to all the settings. You will also get a quilting alarm and timer.
Key Features:
- Responsive foot pedal
- Low-bobbin estimator and timer
- Walking stitch plus five basting stitch options
- Presets for saving favorite manual mode stitching options
- Adjustable high-resolution color touch screen
- Janome longarm feet compatible
- Needle-stop position control
Pros
- Stitch counters
- Easy USB machine and software updates
- Built-in diagnostics
Cons
- None
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Janome |
| Stitches per minute: | 2,200 |
| Throat space: | 18 inches |
| Warranty: | Not specified |
| Color: | White |
Buying Guide: What Long Arm Quilting Machine is Best?
The market is overfull with long arm quilting machines. This can make your search for a suitable machine exhausting. Consider the next features to make a wise pick and save precious time!
Motor Speed
The motor speed reveals how many stitches a quilting machine can make per minute. It comes without saying, the higher the better.
The faster your unit goes, the quicker you will finish your projects. Opt for a long arm quilting unit that can make at least 1,500 stitches per minute.
Also, look for speed regulation. This option ensures that your stitch quality is consistent throughout your project.
Otherwise, you can mess up!
Stitch Functions
Pay attention to the stitches, stitch options, and buttonhole styles. Most long arm quilting models utilize only basic stitches, allowing you to use your patterns.
However, some quilting machines include a lot of inbuilt stitches including zigzag and straight stitch, plus a bunch of decorative stitches, quilting stitches, alphabets, fonts, etc.
Stitch options like these help you add some extra flair to your projects. Consider the buttonhole styles as well. They’re not necessary for quilts but can be helpful if you ever use your unit for clothing. A couple of buttonhole styles give you the right size for buttons simply.
Automatic Needle Threader
Threading the needle can be time-consuming, especially if you’re utilizing small needles with small eyes. That’s where automatic features like needle threaders kick in.
The automatic needle threader allows effortless needle threading. If you opt for a long arm quilting unit with automatic features, you will save a lot of time and nerves.
Workspace/Frame Dimensions
The workspace you need depends on your projects. If you’re aiming for smaller pieces, opt for a model with an attached table. It will give you a lot of areas to spread your work.
You can choose between square and rectangular. Some models include extenders to give an even bigger workspace. The frames enable you to move the unit in different directions.
And your fabric will stay intact at all times. However, they take up a lot of space. Therefore, opt for one that meets your needs and doesn’t take much space in your sewing room.
Physical Dimensions
The unit’s physical dimensions need to meet the space you have if you’re utilizing it on a table. If you’re utilizing a frame, check out the throat space.
The throat space represents the distance between the back of the unit and the needle). A smaller throat space makes a better option for smaller frames.
Large throat space needs a large frame that will be able to get the whole span of the quilt as you move it up and down. It depends on your preferences.
Warranty
Warranty is very important to consider when buying a long arm quilting unit. Most units aren’t covered by a warranty for the entire machine.
Certain parts have different coverage. Thus, make sure to check out what’s covered by the company and for how long before you make a choice.
Extras
If you’re searching for a portable long arm quilting machine, pay attention to the weight. Also, pay close attention to included accessories like extra needles, bobbins, feet, etc.
Another thing you need to consider is lighting. Make sure that your quilting machine has lights near the needle. A large LED or OLED screen to see your settings is also necessary.
What Brand of Long Arm Quilting Machine is Best?
It depends on your quilting needs and preferences. Just like automobiles, quilting units also have various models. And different quilting machines have different characteristics, benefits, and flaws.
However, when shopping for a long arm quilting machine, you can never go wrong with Handi Quilter or Tin Lizzie.
They’re known for their powerful motors and large throat space just like Kind Quilter.
If you’re searching for a budget-friendly long arm quilting machine then Pfaff, Grace, and Juki have good options for you. They’re also known for their durability, large working space, and affordability.
What Does a Long Arm Quilting Machine Look Like?
When purchasing a long arm quilting machine, expect a large unit with a large throat space. The size of the throat represents the distance from the back of the unit to the needle.
The size of a long arm quilting machine depends on the throat size. Usually, long arm quilting units have a length of up to 13 inches. Also, they weigh more than typical machines.
How Do Long Arm Quilting Machines Work?
Longarm quilting machines enable quilters to complete their projects without dealing with the hard and time-consuming process associated with the standard machine and hand quilting.
The two styles of quilting often done by long arm quilting machines include “edge-to-edge” and custom patterns. They also include computers that will produce photograph style patterns on the quilt’s surface with the quilter resetting the needle for every section of the design.
Custom Designs
Custom designs are created when the quilter prefers the quilt block to contain individual designs in each block or area of the quilt. This method is time-consuming and costly.
Pantograph Designs
A pantograph is a large design that unrolls the length of the work table. The quilter will grab this design and place it under the plastic layer of the table.
Then, trace it with a stylus or laser. The design extends the length of the quilt. This can be done in rows to create a complete pattern on the quilt surface.
How to Use Long Arm Quilting Machine?
Quilting with a long arm quilting machine is completed a lot faster than regular machine quilting or hand quilting. Longarm quilting is popular because it saves a lot of time.
How to Load Long Arm Quilting Machine?
Loading quilts on a long arm quilting machine is more simple and efficient than regular quilt basting. It’s not hard or time-consuming. You can do it in less than 15 minutes.
It’s a faster method than basting a quilt on a table. The greatest part about long arm quilting units is that they allow quilters to stand while quilting which is health beneficial.
How Much Do Long Arm Quilting Machines Cost?
Quilting machines can differ in prices from as little as $150 up to $40K and even more depending on any extras you may want to buy. The price also depends on the type and brand.
Longarm quilting machines cost more than standard quilting machines. They can be found for less than $5K and $40K. Longarm quilting units by different brands have different prices.
Where to Buy Long Arm Quilting Machine?
Longarm quilting machines are available in both in-person and online stores. Although some brands sell most of their units via dealers, you can also find some great deals online.
Consider Amazon and SewingMachinesPlus. They both sell several different long arm quilting machines including Tin Lizzie, King Quilter, Handi Quilter, Grace, Janome, Juki, etc.
What is the Best Computerized Long Arm Quilting Machine?
When looking for the best-computerized longarm quilting machine, consider Juki Kirei HZL-NXL and King Quilter 2 Elite. Juki suits quilters on a budget. King Quilter 2 Elite is more expensive.
However, they provide excellent features and performance for the money. For instance, Juki Kirei has a wide sewing space and a wide selection of quilting and sewing features. It’s feature-rich!
King Quilter 2 Elite, on the other hand, comes with a 2-piece computer numerical controlled casting. It’s also loaded with a state of the art stitch regulation system and other impressive features.
It’s also the best long arm quilting machine for home use. It’s sturdier than before, so you don’t have to worry about stability. This model is built to last and makes quilting feel like a breeze.
Final Verdict
Whether you’re a beginner or have been quilting for years, the best long arm quilting machine can save you time and effort. And make your quilting experience more enjoyable.
If you’re searching for a user-friendly long arm quilting machine with easy access buttons on the handles to control the different functions, consider Grace Q’nique long arm quilting machine.
However, if you’re on a budget, choose between Pfaff Powerquilter 16.0 and Juki Kirei HZL-NX7 long arm quilting machines. They’re reliable, durable, user-friendly, easy to utilize and maintain.
Hopefully, this buying guide can help you pick something that meets your needs and budget. Feel free to share your thoughts, experiences, suggestions, or questions in the comments!
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