Quilting has had a long and rich history throughout the ages with significance to different communities the world over and is one of the most prominent examples of upcycling. From African American quilts to the South Asian practice, this art has survived and evolved as different groups adapted it. Today, quilts are given to mark significant life events such as marriage, the birth of a child, or graduations. They are also no longer used exclusively as bedding and clothes and can be found on tablecloths, table runners, or displayed to showcase their exquisite artistry. You need the best long arm quilting machine for home use to bring forth your quilting creativity in that regard.
Longarm quilting is becoming more and more popular as the world moves from traditional quilting to machines. The time-saving factor is also a massive reason for the shift towards machine quilting. Long-arm sewing machines typically consist of a sewing machine head, a frame, and a table with a pantograph. Though you can have your quilting done at a quilt shop, here are some of the best long-arm quilting machines if you prefer to do it by yourself in the comfort of your home.
Table of Contents
The Best Long Arm Quilting Machine for Home Use
1. Brother PQ1500SL Sewing and Quilting
The Brother PQ1500 is a mechanical, semi-industrial workhorse from a trusted brand that will seamlessly carry you through all your quilting projects. It has a sewing rate of 1500 stitches per minute, which is well above average sewing machines’ speed making it the best long arm quilting machine for home use. The quality of the stitches produced is excellent, with each stitch looking neat and consistent. However, this machine has a shortfall in stitch variety as it does not have the zigzag, buttonhole, and other stitches that are common in other models.
Automated features on this model make it a dream to use. You will no longer need to strain your eye to thread the needle, as there is an integrated needle threader and an automatic thread cutter to cut the upper and lower threads at the push of a button. The threads’ tension is also manageable by using a dial to make sure your stitches are precise as you envisioned them with no loops or puckers. The PQ1500SL has a pin feed mechanism, which is preferable when working with multiple fabric layers as it ensures their smooth movement.
Other great features included in this machine include the fabric extension table for working on larger projects and the LED lights for working in low-light conditions. The Brother PQ1500SL may not do too much, but what it does, it does well.
Summary of top features
- Integrated needle threader
- Automatic thread cutter
- Sewing rate of 1500 stitches per minute
- Adjustable presser foot tension
Pros
- Fast sewing speeds
- Heavy-duty and durable
- Automated features
- Works quietly
- Gives value for money
- Easy to maintain
Cons
- It only has straight stitches.
- No features for automatic speed control
2. Juki HZL-F600 Full Sized Computer Sewing and Quilting Machine
The perfect blend of power and reliability, Juki’s HZL-F600, is a computerized machine that will work superbly for intermediate, advanced, and professional sewers. It comes with 225 stitches, including decorative and buttonhole stitches. These stitches will carry you through most, if not all, your various sewing projects. Finding the right one for you can seem like a daunting task with so many stitches, but this machine has you covered. The keyboard for this machine will allow you to search for the stitch you want by name and view it on the large LCD screen.
In contrast to many other sewing machines that use the oval-feed, the JUKI HZL-F600 uses the box-feed feeding mechanism. This mechanism prevents your fabric from shifting or shrinking whenever you are sewing. This accurate feed system gives stitches that are superior in quality and look professional. The sewing speed at 900 stitches per minute is also nothing to scoff at.
The HZL-F600 comes with a Snap-On work surface (8’’x12’’) to attach to your work are whenever you plan to work on larger projects. This machine’s automatic features include the needle threader to prevent eye strain and the bobbin winder, which winds your thread neatly and efficiently for fast rethreading. You will also not need to move your hands away from your work to lift the presser foot as you can do that with a knee-lift lever.
Summary of top features
- Knee lifting lever
- Box feed system
- Large sewing space
- 225 sewing stitches
- Four lettering fonts
- Large LCD screen
Pros
- Wide sewing area and an extra Snap-on surface
- Numerous sewing stitches
- Comes with several accessories
- Drop-in bobbin system
- Sturdy and durable
Cons
- Costly
3. Janome Memory Craft Horizon 8200QCP Special Edition
From Janome, the company that pioneered sewing machines’ accessibility in the home, comes the Memory Craft 8200QCP. With an 11” arm space, this machine is perfectly positioned to handle more significant projects such as large quilts and bridal dresses. It also comes with 170 built-in stitches to compliment you on your various projects, as well as three alphabet stitches for when you want to do monogramming. Ten automated one-step buttonholes will be correctly sized to the size of your button. Accessing the stitches has also been made convenient by the numbering system and the arrangement into six different modes.
The LCD for this device is large enough for clear viewing and displays all the vital information such as the stitch patterns, width and length, and the recommended presser feet. The pressure of the presser foot is also adjustable with this machine to control the pressure you want to put on fabric when sewing. It is also useful when working on materials of different thicknesses. Suppose you need to lift the presser foot when sewing; a knee lifter is included, so you don’t have to take your hands from the machine. Some of the accessories that come with the memory craft 8200 QCP include 16 Snap-On presser feet, an extension table, spool holders’ bobbins, and needles.
Summary of top features
- 170 integrated stitches
- Ten one-step buttonholes
- 11’’ arm space
- 1000 stitches per minute speeds
- Extra-high presser foot lift
Pros
- Fast sewing speeds
- Adjustable knee lift
- Large working space
- Stitch editing capability
Cons
- Costly
4. Elna Elnita ef72 Sewing and Quilting Machine
Elna sewing machines, though not as old as many other brands, are also distinguished by their high quality. This quality is partly because Janome factories manufacture them; hence you can expect the same finished product quality. The frame and outer body of this machine are made from heavy-duty Aluminum giving it a sturdy build that can handle almost all fabrics for a long while to come. The machine sports a 10” flatbed, which will allow you to work on relatively large projects.
This machine uses a 7-piece feed dog mechanism to provide smooth feeding of whatever fabric you are using. This system makes sure that the stitches come out consistent and look professional. Rethreading this machine is also relatively easy as it has an automatic bobbin winder that winds thread neatly and stops when full. The automatic thread cutter also makes this task easier. You can also manage the thread tension to avoid loose stitches or loops on your project.
Apart from having adjustable pressure, the presser also has an extra-high foot lifter when you stitch over more rigid fabrics. The great thing about this machine’s fast speeds of 1000 stitches per minute is that there is a slider to help you either slow down or speed up, as you so desire. The display is easily navigable, and the lights help you when working in low light.
Summary of top features
- The machine has a sewing rate of 1000 stitches per minute.
- 172 stitches
- Sturdy Aluminum build.
- 7-piece feed dog
- Bright LED screen
Pros
- Adjustable stitch width up to 9mm
- Fast sewing speeds
- Heavy-duty, durable build
- Automated thread cutter and bobbin winder
- Easy to change needle plates
Cons
5. Juki TL-2200QVP-S Sit Down Longarm Machine
A sit-down machine stays stationary when you sew and requires you to move the fabric. Among sit-down machines, the Juki TL-2200QVP-S is a class leader. Weighing in at 150 pounds and with dimensions 33x23x11 inches, you would be hard-pressed to carry this machine anywhere, even if you wanted to. It is a sturdy heavy-duty machine that will give you decades of excellent service.
The most prominent visible feature of this machine is the size of the sewing space. The working area is 18” long by 10” high, extending up to 50 inches with table extensions. The sewing speeds of 2,200 stitches per minute will see you blazing through your projects in no time and starting new ones. These fast speeds do not mean sloppy work; on the contrary, the JUKI TL-2200QVP-S comes with a stitch regulator to ensure accurate, precise, and consistent stitches throughout your sewing.
But what makes this machine stand out among others is the perfect blend of mechanical and electronic features. If you feel you may not be that proficient with the computerized features, you can access your machine controls using an auxiliary handwheel even when the machine is not turned on. Add to that the automated features, the well-lit workspace, the multiple stitch modes, and the included accessories; this machine could not get better.
Summary of top features
- Sewing speeds of 2,200 stitches per minute
- Secondary handwheel
- Integrated bobbin-winder
- 18’’x 10’’ wide workspace
- Integrated thread trimmer
- LCD screen
- Four stitching modes
- 5-year warranty for mechanical parts and 2-years for electronic ones.
Pros
- Bright LED display
- Extra-fast sewing speeds
- Sewing precision
- Extendable table
Cons
- The electronics may require upgrades.
- Few assembly instructions
6. JUKI TL-2000Qi Sewing and Quilting Machine
The Juki TL-2000Qi is a semi-industrial mechanical powerhouse designed with quilters in mind. At 25 pounds, the machine is heavy enough to be sturdy and stable when working while also being relatively easy to move around. This machine comes with several stitches from basic to decorative and buttonhole stitches. One drawback for many is that the stitches are all straight. This feature may make it easy to use for beginners but not so attractive for intermediate or advanced level sewers.
This device’s maximum stitch length is 6mm, which average compared with other machines but trumps them with sewing speeds of 1,500 stitches per minute. You can work through a more extensive project at high-speed and move on to others. This speed can be controlled by a microcomputer that adjusts the speed when you are working with more delicate fabrics, a feature that is often lacking in most machines. The needle stops in the needle down position for you to quickly move your work around without sacrificing accuracy.
Some of the automatic features incudes in this machine include the needle threader, which will save you from eyestrain, and the thread trimmer to snip the upper and lower threads with ease. You can also man the thread tension to avoid loops and have neat, precise stitches.
Summary of top features
- Speeds of 1,500 stitches per minute
- An automatic needle threader
- Extension table for widening the working area
- 6mm maximum stitch length
- Automatic needle trimmer
- Knee-lift lever
- Adjustable presser foot pressure.
Pros
- Quick sewing speeds
- Sturdy and durable
- LED lights when working in low light
- Automatic needle threader and trimmer
- Provision for adjustments of sewing speeds
- A broad working area which is extendable
Cons
- Only has straight, built-in stitches.
7. SINGER | Quantum Stylist 9960 Computerized Portable Sewing Machine
The SINGER name is by no means new to the sewing space. They have attracted a loyal and steady following for their high-quality machines, and the Stylist 9960 is no different. The heavy duty metal frame makes this machine durable, and at 20 pounds, it is relatively simple to carry around. This machine is powered by a DC motor that provides consistent power for all your projects.
This machine’s remarkable feature is the 600 built-in stitches, which are enough to keep even the most versatile enthusiast busy for some time. Twelve are utility stitches, 91 sewing stitches, 34 decorative stitches, 13 buttonhole stitches, and 450 letters, characters, and number stitches in 5 fonts. There is also a reference chart at the top of the machine, so you will not be overwhelmed by that large number. If the sewing space is not sufficient, you can adjust it by adding a table extension. The sewing rate of 850 stitches per minute will work well though it is on the low side compared to other machines.
The pressure of the presser feet is not adjustable, and this is done entirely by the machine, but it does come with an extensive array of 13 presser feet for different sewing occasions. The twin needle capability also works well for sewers who want two rows of stitches to have an exact match.
Summary of top features
- Sewing rate of 850 stitches per minute
- 13 integrated 0ne-step buttonholes
- Five alphanumeric fonts
- 600 stitch applications
- Built-in needle threader
Pros
- Twin needle setting
- Heavy-duty, durable frame
- Well-lit working area
- Affordable when compared to other quilters
- Comes with 13 presser feet
Cons
- The presser foot pressure is not adjustable
- The letter sizes cannot be changed
8. Brother Sewing and Quilting Machine, XR3774
The Brother XR3774 is an entry-level sewing and quilting machine that works superbly for beginners. It comes with selecting 37 pre-programmed stitches, a decent enough number to work with without overwhelming a beginner. The stitches are not hard to navigate thanks to the stitch selection dial on the machine’s front. Apart from the decorative and utility stitches, a one-step buttonhole makes buttonholes that are perfectly sized in one easy step.
The broad table is excellent for quilters and offers sufficient space to work on relatively large projects. There is also a free arm on this machine that makes the sewing of cuffs, sleeves, collars, and other tiny areas significantly easier. Another feature that is almost always in Brother machines, including this one, is the bobbin system. The bobbin is loaded on the machine by conveniently dropping it in, preventing tangling or jamming.
LED bulbs in this machine light up the working area, allowing you to sew even in low-light conditions, and the storage area keeps you from losing small items such as needles and bobbins. There are also many accessories included with this machine, including eight sewing feet. The XR3774 is genuinely a machine suitable for beginners as it comes with an instructional DVD that shows you how to set-up and use the machine.
Summary of top features
- 37 built-in stitches
- Sewing speeds of 800 stitches per minute
- Drop-in bobbin
- Automatic needle threader and bobbin winder
- Free arm option
- One-step automatic buttonhole
Pros
- Low price
- Automatic needle threader
- Wide working area
- Drop-in bobbin
- Instructional DVD
- 25-year warranty
Cons
- Small throat
9. Brother Sewing and Quilting Machine, CS6000i
Another excellent quilting machine from Brother is the CS6000i. Setting up this machine from threading to sewing is very simple. It comes with a numbered diagram on threading and a guide on how the automatic bobbin winder works. The CS6000i comes with selecting 60 stitches, including overcasting stitches, blind hem, seven buttonhole stitches, stretch, quilt, basic, patchwork, applique, bar tack, and 20 decorative stitches. There is a wide variety for a beginner without being overwhelming.
This machine has speeds of 850 stitches per minute, which is moderately fast. The speed can be adjusted to one of three settings; slow, medium, and fast. Starting with the slow speed will help you gain confidence as a beginner and keep you from losing control, and you can gradually sew faster as you gain experience. The stable and detachable table is wide enough to make your quilting easier, as well as the quilting stitches that are included. The thread tension is adjustable manually using a dial to give neat and precise stitches, and the machine comes with nine types of presser feet for various projects.
There is also a built-in free arm to make tiny sewing areas such as sleeves, cuffs, and pant legs. The bobbin is loaded by dropping in, which is a jam-proof system and makes rethreading easy. This machine’s warranty is 25 years on the chassis casting, one year for parts, labor, and accompanying accessories, and two years for electrical components.
Summary of top features
- 60 built-in stitches
- Automatic needle threader
- Free arm and extension table
- Adjustable stitch length and width
- Seven one-step buttonholes
Pros
- Very affordable
- Simple machine set-up
- It may be used with or without a foot pedal
- Stable stitching table
- Operates quietly
Cons
- The light is not bright enough
10. Grace Q’nique 21 Longarm Quilting Machine with Continuum 8.’
The Grace Q’nique is the perfect machine for quilting enthusiasts, bringing professional features into the home at an affordable price. Among the most attractive features of the machine is the 21” throat space. This large space offers a large enough space for sewing large quilts and working on large projects.
This machine also has a powerful motor that gives a top speed of 1,800 stitches per minute. This high speed will allow you to work quickly, save time, and accomplish more. This machine’s screen is a vivid full-color OLED that is easy to navigate and large enough to display all primary functions and settings. A high-speed automated bobbin winder is integrated into the machine. Thread is wound into the bobbin neatly, and the winding stops automatically when the bobbin is full.
Q’nique 21’s handles are adjustable to the most comfortable position when gripping and can be rotated into a ‘micro-handle’ for control over fine stitching. Integrated LED lights illuminate your working area to enable you to work in low-light conditions. The no-baste frame has been designed to make your quilting project more comfortable and is sturdy, long-lasting, and available in many configurations. Other features on this machine are the positionable hopping foot, six quick access buttons to control the machine quickly, and four stitch modes.
Summary of top features
- 21’’ throat space
- Full-color OLED display
- Four stitch modes
- LED work lights
- Six quick access buttons
- Adjustable handles
Pros
- Fast sewing speeds
- Stitch regulation
- Full-color OLED screen
- Automatic bobbin winder
- Large throat space
Cons
- Costly
Best Long Arm Quilting Machine for Home Use Buyer’s Guide
In this section, I’m going to discuss some of the most important aspects of these types of quilting machines that you should have at your finger points before shopping. That way, you can rest assured that you will be landing the very best product in the market.
Why You Should Purchase the Best Long Arm Quilting Machine for Home Use
- Speed
Hand quilting cannot dream of holding a candle to quilting machines when it comes to speed. With speeds that can reach and surpass even 2,000 stitches per minute, working with a long-arm quilting machine will have you save the time you would have spent slaving away and move on to other projects faster.
- Design
Quilting machines can create elaborate and intricate designs and patterns that are impossible to duplicate by hand. Keeping in mind that most machines come with built-in stitch patterns and designs to suit different fabrics.
- Precision
To be human is to err, and quilting by hand will inevitably produce less than perfect work. On the other hand, machine quilting is equipped with features to ensure that each stitch is laid with the utmost precision to produce the exact design you envisioned.
Watch the video below on using a long arm quilting machine:
What to Consider When Buying the Best Long Arm Quilting Machine for Home Use
- Mechanical vs. computerized
Mechanical machines are manual and use knobs and settings to adjust settings. They are also cheaper than electronic or computerized quilting machines and come with fewer stitches, which are not as precise. On the other hand, computerized machines have multiple integrated stitches and can be connected to the internet to download new designs. They also have precise placement of consistent stitches.
Invest in a computerized machine if you are at an advanced level or are serious about sewing and maybe have plans to gradually shift into doing this professionally.
- Do you have space?
Nothing could be worse than finally buying a quilting machine and having your excitement put out since you have nowhere to put it. Longarm quilting machines have a large footprint. After settling on the machine, you want to buy, think of where you will put it and measure it. Then measure again. Be accurate and include space for you to move around the machine.
- Take it for a spin
While researching the machine’s specifications and features is undeniably essential, nothing can compare to trying it out for yourself. Test drive a long-arm machine for yourself to get a sense of how it feels, the ease of use, and if it meets your needs. Try out your friends’ machines if they own one, and if not, you can get opportunities to test drive a machine at your local quilt shop, tradeshows, or roadshows.
Weed out those you don’t like and create a list of possible options. Longarm quilting machines are a large investment that should be taken after sufficient deliberation and research.
- Throat size and quilting space
The throat size is the distance between the needle and the arm of the machine. The throat size of your machine will influence your design choices as the quilting shrinks when the finished quilt gets rolled up. Long-arm machines generally have large throat sizes, but if you plan to do the quilting for a long time and at an advanced level, go big.
You might think that say 20’’ is large, but you do not know what will change as you continue quilting. Machines with larger throats will allow you to work on elaborate, sprawling computerized designs with ease.
The quilting table is something else you should consider. How large is it? Can it be expanded? A larger table will make feeding fabric into the machine easier. You can invest in a machine that comes with a frame if you plan to work on large, professional quilts.
- Upgrading options
No matter how advanced your machine looks now, something better is always on the way. Invest in a quilting machine that is upgradeable easily when new technology components come out so that you get the latest features.
- Brand
Machine brands don’t become famous and have loyal customers for no reason. They do so by building up reserves of knowledge and experience in the field and customer satisfaction. If you already own a sewing/ quilting machine, think about whether it has been working great for you or whether you would like to move to another brand.
If this is your first time purchasing a quilting machine, research and read online reviews- both good and bad. Buying from a well-known brand has the distinct advantage of finding people to vouch for it and easily access spare parts, accessories, and repairs across their shops when you need it.
- Warranty
When dealing with electrical components, the warranty is especially important. Some brands will back their products with up to decades worth of warranty. You will need to double-check, though, the parts that are covered by the warranty. A 2-year warranty will cover most electrical components while a 1-year warranty will cover a mechanical component. Read and understand the terms before you buy to prevent any future misunderstanding and keep the receipt safe. Without it, you cannot claim a warranty.
Final Thoughts
Buying a longarm quilting machine is a long-term investment that requires careful deliberation prior. Research the machine you want to buy and choose the one that will fit your quilting needs. Your excitement to get a machine may lead you to become impulsive, but slow down and do your due diligence. Do not make this choice on a whim or passing fancy.
Remember, the process does not stop with buying the machine. You will need a company that will be there for you after the sale closes and offer support in terms of the warranty, repair, maintenance and servicing, instructional manuals, and upgrades. Even after purchasing your machine, the learning process never stops. Taking classes is an excellent way to ensure that you get the most out of what you paid for your quilting machine. Find a quilting class if you are a beginner or join a quilting group. These groups are a great way of getting insider tips and information.
And after you are done setting up? Have fun and quilt for all you are worth.