People who are into free motion quilting are having a hard time deciding which sewing machine to buy. There are around 24 popular brands that manufacture quality sewing machine. To make sure you will end up buying the sewing machine for free motion quilting focus on the different features. To help you shortlist your choices we have reviewed 8 of the popular brands in the market today. The review focuses on features such as stitching rate, stitch function, vibration, and others.
5 Best Free Motion Quilting Sewing Machine Comparison
10 Best Sewing Machines For Free Motion Quilting Reviews 2020
The following sewing machines possess all the features you might be looking for. Different features are enumerated to help you in deciding which is the best and worth buying for.
1. SINGER Computerized Quantum Stylist 9960
- SINGER COMPUTERIZED SEWING MACHINE: The SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960...
- AUTOMATIC NEEDLE THREADER: Threading the machine is so easy that you...
- BEST SEWING MACHINE: The SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960 sewing machine...
- HIGH-SPEED SEWING MACHINE: The SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960 sewing...
- SEWING MACHINE ACCESSORIES: A variety of presser feet are included...
Singer is a popular brand when it comes to the sewing machine. The company offers not just quality product but also at the best budget. This Quantum Stylist 9960 Computerized Sewing Machine offers 600 different stitches. Some of the stitches include decorative, stretch and the basics.
Aside from the stitches, it also has five fonts. Thus, if you want to stitch your name on your work, this can be done with this machine. Another feature worth mentioning is the 16 buttonhole creator stitches. It produces perfect buttonholes each time you need one. Different designs can be created with its stitch elongation feature and mirror imaging features.
Other Features
Mirror imaging and stitch elongation
Foot or hand operation
Easy stitch selection
Pros
✔️ Easy to use
✔️ 600 stitches to choose from
✔️ Creates perfect straight stitches
✔️ Extended table
✔️ Can be operated using food and hand
Cons
???? Had some issues with bobbin being jammed
2. Brother XR9500PRW Project Runway Limited Edition
- METAL FRAME: The Brother Designio DZ1234 is a durable 3-4 thread...
- High performance: a high performance 3-4 thread serger with an...
- 1,300 stitches per minute: create more in less time with the dz1234's...
- Easy to thread: easy-to-use with color-coded thread guides, numbered...
- Included accessory feet: the dz1234 comes with 3 accessory feet...
If you need a versatile machine that can sew clothes and at the same time produces lovely quilts, the Brother XR9500PRW is a good choice. The transition from creating a dress to quilt is easy.
Its free arm feature is very helpful for sewing sleeves or pant cuffs. Its eight style buttonholes make repairs much easier. This machine can handle 45 x 60-inch quilt if you plan to free motion quilt. Others were able to quilt blankets up to 55 x 72 inches.
The sewing machine smart feature can help you sew clothes and quilts much easier. Although it does not have other features that others have it helps you get the job done.
Other Features
Super wide zigzag and decorative stitches
Built-in sewing font for basic monogramming
A compartment on the arm of the machine to store the accessories
Sewing light
Different speed control
Pros
✔️ Includes an oversize table to manage the fabric
✔️ Easy to transform function from sewing a dress to quilting
✔️ Versatile machine
✔️ Has a metal frame
✔️ Simple clean design
Cons
???? It lacks the automatic thread cutter
3. Brother Project Runway CE7070PRW Sewing Machine
- 70 UNIQUE BUILT-IN STITCHES: The Brother CE7070PRW Project Runway...
- AUTOMATIC NEEDLE THREADER AND DROP-IN TOP BOBBIN: This sewing and...
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: The CE7070PRW includes a wide table, 7 sewing...
- LCD SCREEN: Easily view your stitch selections on the LCD display and...
- AT YOUR SIDE SUPPORT: The CE7070PRW sewing machine comes with Brother...
This Brother Project Runway comes with many impressive features that you usually find on expensive sewing machines. With the help of this sewing machine, you can create professional sewing projects.
One of its impressive features is the 70 built-in stitches and 1100 stitch function for quilting, heirloom, garment construction, and decorative sewing. The sample stitches are conveniently displayed in front of the machine to serve as your reference when needed.
This Brother Project Runway offers seven automatic one-step buttonholes. If you are not familiar with this, it is a convenient feature that helps you creating buttonholes fast and easy.
Other Features
Easy bobbin winding
Automatic thread cutter
Presser’s feet included
Accessory storage
year limited warranty
Pros
✔️ Affordable
✔️ Lots of automatic features recommended for beginners
✔️ Lightweight and quiet
✔️ Wide table to handle your fabric
✔️ Lots of accessories included
Cons
???? It does not include carrying case or cover
???? No automatic needle position
4. Brother DZ2400 Designio Quilting and Sewing Machine
- 185 BUILT-IN STITCHES: The DZ2400 computerized sewing and quilting...
- BACKLIT LCD DISPLAY: Advanced technology is infused into the Designio...
- ADVANCED NEEDLE THREADING: Never struggle with threading the needle...
- VARIABLE SPEED CONTROL: The Brother DZ2400’s stitch speed slide...
- SUPER BRIGHT WORK AREA: An LED lighting system brightly illuminates...
If you want to put your sewing and quilting talents into a higher level, it is best to do it with Brother Designio Series DZ2400. This computerized sewing machine will help you bring out your hidden talent.
With 185 built-in stitches, it is a value-oriented quality machine. Buttonholes are professionally done with its 8 styles built-in, one-step buttonholes that are sized automatically to fit your desired buttons.
Other Features
LED display monitor
12 Interchangeable feet for sewing and quilting
Stitch selection and adjustment
Drop-in bobbin
Bobbin Winder
Pros
✔️ Lightweight and portable
✔️ Easy to switch to manual mode
✔️ Adjustable presser foot pressure
✔️ Stitch selection at the touch of a button
✔️ Automatic threader for the needle.
Cons
???? Thread spool is not as durable as it could be
???? It lacks thread cutter
5. SINGER Futura XL-550 Embroidery and Sewing Machine
- SINGER EMBROIDERY SEWING MACHINE: The SINGER Futura XL-550 sewing and...
- SEWING MACHINE WITH LED OPTIONS: Fills the sewing surface with light,...
- AUTOMATIC NEEDLE THREADER: Simply guide the thread directly from the...
- COMPUTERIZED EMBROIDERY SYSTEM: Customize your embroidery on your...
- BEST SEWING MACHINE: The SINGER FUTURA XL-550 sewing and embroidery...
Singer Futura XL-550 is a sewing machine designed for all types of sewers. It is easy to use and you don’t have to go through complicated steps of handling it. This sewing machine has 125 built-in embroidery designs and built-in sewing stitches up to 215.
Singer Futura XL-550 is recommended for designing dresses or tablecloth. It has a hyper font, advanced editing software, and auto punch. These features are very helpful in enhancing the creativity within you. All you need to do is to push the button and the next thing you will notice is that you are embroidering.
Other Features
LED lights with the Staybright Technology
Handy tray for all accessories
Built-in Spool Pins
Foot lifter with extra high presser
Advanced software for editing
Hyperfont Software
Pros
✔️ This is recommended for both professional and advanced users
✔️ It includes an advanced editing software
✔️ Higher quality stitches it does not matter what type of fabric you use
✔️ With the help of this machine, you will achieve a professional finish
✔️ Versatile with computerized embroidery system
Cons
???? Thread breaking problems
???? No knee lifter included
6. Janome 8077 Computerized Sewing Machine
The Janome 8077 is a sewing machine recommended for both novice and professional sewers. It has lots of helpful features making your project much easier. You do not have to worry if this is your first time to use a sewing machine as it is easy to use.
One of the common problems of many sewers is threading a needle. With Janome 8077 this is not a problem at all. It has an automatic needle threader. It includes 30 built-in stitches with six one-step buttonholes. You can easily choose one without worrying about size.
Other Features
With a 2-digit LED display
Auto declutch bobbin winder
Free arm stitching
Extra high presser foot lift
Locking stitch button
Easy reverse button
piece feed dog
Superior feed system
Pros
✔️ Easy to operate
✔️ Convenient automated functions
✔️ Free arm stitching great for coll and cuff stitching
✔️ Has jam-proof bobbin system
✔️ Automatic bobbin winder for precise thread tension
Cons
???? Complex settings protocol
7. Janome MC-6300P Professional Quilting Sewing Machine
The Janome MC-6300P is one of the quilters dream to have. It is also one of the most expensive quilting sewing machines in the market. This machine possesses all the required features for free motion quilting. If you are looking for a heavy duty sewing machine this is a good option.
It does not have a huge number of built-in stitches but it can handle heavy duty projects without a break. This machine has 60 built-in stitches with four buttonholes. It has a detachable extension table so you can conveniently spread a large piece of fabric or quilts.
Other Features
Automatic thread cutter
Drop feed control
Speed dog adjustment
Independent bobbin winding system
Memorable needle up/down
Knee lifter
Foot pressure adjustment
Backlit LED screen display.
Pros
✔️ Automatic threader cutter with memory function
✔️ Has a special lever that enables you to control the presser foot position
✔️ Easy to adjust from thin to thick fabric even while stitching
✔️ It has a low bobbin indicator light
Cons
???? No free arm option
???? Quite expensive
8. Juki HZL-F600 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine
- SIMPLE-TO-USE SEWING AND QUILTING MACHINE: 255 built-in stitches...
- USER-FRIENDLY DESIGNED LCD SCREEN: The stitch selector switch allows...
- AUTOMATIC NEEDLE THREADER: This sewing machine includes an automatic...
- SEWING MACHINE ACCESSORIES: A variety of accessories are perfect for a...
- LCD SCREEN: The intuitive LCD display allows you to easily choose your...
This computerized quilting and sewing machine is manufactured by trusted brand Juki. For serious quilters, this is one machine they dream to own. It is lightweight at 21 pounds. It can handle different layers of thick fabric with up to 900 SPM speed rate. This machine has lots of great features designed primarily for projects that require large quilting area.
One of its best features is the box feed system that provides lovely seams and impressive feed performance. The feed system is oval motion, while the box feed system moves the feed dog in a square motion. It prevents material from shrinkage and shifting. Juki manufactured this machine for users who are looking for a superior quality sewing machine. It has the features and power to quilt, sew and create home decor.
Other Features
Knee lifting lever
Easy bobbin winding
Automatic and manual tension control
Foot controller with thread trimming function
Dual LED lights
Large LCD display
Pros
✔️ Wide working area
✔️ Can conveniently sew lightweight to heavyweight materials
✔️ Customizable
✔️ Easy to use
✔️ Can be used to monogram
Cons
???? It is not recommended for beginners
???? Quite expensive
9. Brother Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine
- 185 Unique built-in stitches: The HC1850 includes 130 sewing stitches...
- Advanced needle threader and drop-in top bobbin: This sewing and...
- Included accessories: The HC1850 quilting and sewing machine includes...
- LCD Screen: Easily select your stitches with the touch of a button and...
- At your side support: The HC1850 quilting and sewing machine comes...
If you are looking for a machine that will satisfy your sewing needs, then this is the right one to have. It is built perfectly for customer satisfaction all the client needs. One of the best thing about this particular machine is that it is computerized meaning that it does a programmed standardized work well. Another great feature is that it combines both the sewing and the guilting jobs all at a go.
With 130 built in stitches, this machine presents a fantastic work, which is so decorative to the best desire of the client.
This sewing machine also comes with several accessories. It’s 8 specialty feet is built with a zigzag foot included in it, monogramming foot, blind stitch foot, overcasting foot, zipper foot, quilting foot, button sewing foot and buttonhole foot which is the perfect machine for any given buyer.
The good news is that this sewing machine comes at a cheap price which is not inhibitive. The machine also has a long lifespan with a guarantee of more than 25 years of operations.
Pros
✔️ Handles a lot of work in a short time
✔️ Produces standardized work because of programming
✔️ Highly efficient
✔️ Has a long lifespan
Cons
???? When programmed, it may produce undesired work
10. Brother Quilting and Sewing Machine
- 1,500 Stitches per minute max sewing speed: Maximum stitching of up to...
- Advanced needle threading system: This sewing and quilting machine...
- Included accessories: The PQ1500SL longarm sewing and quilting machine...
- Precision pin feeding system: It's so easy to sew a wide variety of...
- At your side support: The PQ1500SL quilting and sewing machine comes...
Built with the customer satisfaction in mind, this sewing machine is the best to have. High speeds in quilting and sewing makes this machine unique, with over 1000 stitches per minute, a retractable drop feed dog control and an automated needle threader; it presents itself as a fantastic machine for any kind of sewing job.
This equipment comes with an incredible feature which has the same function as an automatic thread trimmer. This helps in automating most of the work it does. It is also very fast and can sew up to 1,500 stitches in a minute. It helps in finishing the sewing tasks in a short time and at a high speeds. Everyone would love this!
It has an in-built needle threader which makes the loading of threads fast, easy and less complicated.
It also comes with multiple settings such as the 4 feed dog settings for maximum fabric control, a knee lifter, and a bed extension for quilting and sewing.
The cost of this sewing machine is quite low, and it has a long lifespan.
Pros
✔️ Very efficient and fast
✔️ Has a high productivity
✔️ Very durable with a long lifespan
✔️ Easy to use
Cons
???? May not be so efficient when handling small amount of work
???? Requires some skills to operate
Things To Consider Before Buying Best Sewing Machine For Quilting
Important Features to Consider
To be able to find the most appropriate sewing machine for you, you need to know what are the important features you should focus on when buying. Below are the vital features you need to check before deciding
Stitch Function or Built-in Stitches
The higher the stitch function the more complex and fancier design you can produce. Advance sewing machine these days offer around 100 stitch function. Although stitch per minute is important it is not the only factor that determines everything.
Generally, a new quilter starts at a low number but increases once you become a professional quilter. When quilting using a sewing machine, it is important that you consider the stitch length and width. If the stitch length is long, it is important that this feature is available.
If a machine offers font function, it means you can make your own marks on the design.
Stitch Per Minute (SPM) or Stitching Rate
Choosing a sewing machine with high stitching rate is recommended if you are after the swiftness on working on garments and bordering the quilt. For new users, it is not a good idea to choose a high SPM rate sewing machine. However, for intermediate or professional users it is best to choose the one with high SPM.
Free Arm and Table Area
The length of the table and the free arm area are two important issues. Since most of the quilting is done using thick cloth, it is impossible to handle them in a small area. If you choose a sewing machine with a shorter table, it will be hard for you to work on bigger pieces. It is best to choose the one with a bigger table and wide arm area.
Needle Threading System and Bobbin System
Inserting the thread in the eye is quite stressful. Bobbing winding, on the other hand, is time-consuming. Choose a quilting sewing machine with automatic needle threading system and automatic bobbin winding to make your life easier.
Control
You should also focus on controlling the machine. A sewing machine with lots of impressive features is useless if it does not have a good controlling system. This is important for smoothness in work and finishing the project fast. Therefore, it is important that you choose an easy to operate a sewing machine and not the one stuffed with useless features.
Frequently Asked Questions – (FAQs)
Can any sewing machine do free-motion quilting?
Yes, this type of quilting is possible with any regular sewing machine. You should, however, need to lower or disengage the feed dogs. If your sewing machine has a user manual, I would advise you to read it for more guidance on the same.
It should also guide you on whether your sewing machine can do free motion quilting or not. Quilting is not a complicated process, and in fact, it is similar to straight stitching.
What foot do I use for free-motion quilting?
The darning foot. It is an essential tool for free-motion quilting, and many people use it for stitching. When you are to do some decorative stitching, then this is the best foot to use. It helps to keep the fabric from coming up as the quilter is moving it around.
Using the darning foot for stitching comes with a lot of creations with the use of a thread!
What is the difference between a quilting sewing machine and a regular sewing machine?
It is important to note that they are all sewing machines. However, there are a few differences between them. They include:
a) A quilting machine has a wide range of add-ons than a regular one.
b) The throat measurements of a quilting sewing machine are large than that of a usual sewing machine.
c) A quilting machine uses darning foot for creative stitching.
What is the best stitch length for free-motion quilting?
I would advise you to set it at fifteen inches per stitch. The range can differ, as it is not static. If you are doing straight line quilting, you can always set it to between eight to twelve inches.
The range works well for most of the machines that are for this purpose. However, there are exceptions when you make a rule, and this may not be the standard for all sewing machines.
What is the best sewing machine for quilters?
All sewing machines can do the quilting. However, not all can perform the work as expected. Here is a list of some of the best brands in the market today:
a) Juki TL-2000qi Sewing and Quilting Machine.
b) Singer Quantum-Stylist 9960 Sewing Machine.
c) Brother CS7000i Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine.
d) Brother HC1850 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine.
e) Janome MC6650 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine.
All these machines can perform both quilting and usual sewing with a lot of precision. Try it and see the best results!
Why free arm is an important part of a sewing machine?
The free arm stitching involves access to the area under the needle conveniently. It is important since the part above the needle plate could affect your work as you do the stitching of collars, cuffs and thick seams.
This feature enables the needle plate and the needle to move away from the other components and gives you more room to move.
Why is my sewing machine not making any stitch?
One of the possible reason is that your bobbin is placed incorrectly. Also, make sure that the upper tension disks are threaded properly.
Check if the presser foot is up as you set the thread in the upper tension. If not, the needle thread will not meet the bobbin thread in time to make a stitch.
Why does my thread breaks on a sewing machine?
One reason is that the upper thread tension was set too tight. Make sure it is set at the right tension. Check if the spool of thread is installed properly.
Conclusion
Our top pick is Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 Sewing Machine. Its a best sewing machine for free motion quilting. One of its impressive features which makes it ahead above the rest is its stitch function with 600 built-in stitches. The automatic needle threading system is also exceptional making it one of the most popular quilting sewing machine.
As compared to the most expensive sewing machine, the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 has more useful features. An expensive machine may have lots of features but some of them are of no use to the users. Also, since it is made by a trusted brand, you can be assured that you will be getting premium quality and durable sewing machine. If you find this post helpful to you, feel free to share this with others or you can comment below.
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Taisha personally working at home in sewing, embroidery machine & Others. She created this blog to share her experience.