How to Choose Automatic Quilting Machine?

Quilting is an art that combines creativity and precision, and choosing the right tools can make all the difference in achieving beautiful results. For serious quilters, a continuous quilting machine is an essential tool. But with so many options available, how do you choose the perfect one for your needs? In this guide, we’ll break down the key factors to consider when selecting a continuous quilting machine, ensuring you find the best match for your quilting projects.

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What is a Continuous Quilting Machine?

A continuous quilting machine is a specialized tool designed to sew continuous lines of stitching across a quilt. Unlike standard sewing machines, these machines allow for uninterrupted stitching across large areas, making them ideal for larger quilting projects and more intricate designs. They are widely used by professional quilters and enthusiasts who want to speed up their quilting process without compromising on quality.

Key Features to Look for in a Continuous Quilting Machine

When selecting a continuous quilting machine, it’s essential to know the key features that distinguish the best models. Here are the top factors to consider:

Throat Size

The throat size of a quilting machine refers to the distance between the needle and the back of the machine. This space is crucial because it determines the size of the quilt you can work on comfortably. A larger throat size is essential if you plan to quilt bigger projects like king-size quilts.

Stitch Regulation

Stitch regulation ensures that the length of your stitches remains consistent, even if your hand speed varies. This feature is essential for maintaining professional-quality quilting, especially for beginners or those working on detailed projects.

Speed Control

Adjustable speed control is a must-have for quilters who want more control over their work. Being able to slow down for precision work or speed up for larger areas allows for greater versatility and better results.

Frame Size

The size of the frame that comes with your quilting machine matters. If you’re working in a smaller space, you may want to opt for a machine with a smaller frame that fits your available area. However, larger frames are better suited for big projects.

Choosing Between a Longarm and Midarm Quilting Machine

Continuous quilting machines generally come in two main types: longarm and midarm. Both offer unique benefits, and your choice will depend on your quilting style, space, and budget.

Longarm Quilting Machines

Longarm machines are typically the go-to option for professional quilters. They offer the largest throat size, ranging from 18 to 24 inches, making them perfect for large quilts. Additionally, longarm machines are mounted on a frame, allowing you to move the machine over the fabric rather than the other way around, which is much more efficient for large projects.

Midarm Quilting Machines

Midarm quilting machines have smaller throat sizes (usually between 12 and 17 inches) but are still larger than most home sewing machines. These machines are a great option for hobbyists or those who have less space but still want a machine that can handle larger projects than a standard sewing machine.

Manual vs. Computerized Quilting Machines

Another significant consideration when choosing a continuous quilting machine is whether to go for a manual or computerized model.

Manual Machines

Manual quilting machines require more control from the quilter. You’ll need to guide the fabric or the machine yourself, making it a better choice for those who prefer a hands-on approach and enjoy the tactile feel of the process.

Computerized Machines

On the other hand, computerized machines offer automation for those looking to create precise, intricate patterns with less manual effort. These machines often come with pre-programmed quilting designs, allowing for faster and more consistent results, but they can be more expensive.

Maintenance and Durability

You want a quilting machine that will last for years, so durability is a significant factor. Look for machines made from high-quality materials and with strong customer reviews regarding longevity. Additionally, consider the availability of maintenance services and replacement parts for your chosen machine.

Conclusion

Choosing the right continuous quilting machine is about finding the right balance between your quilting needs, budget, and available space. Whether you're a hobbyist looking for a reliable midarm machine or a professional quilter in need of a high-end longarm model, understanding the features that matter most will help you make the right decision. Consider factors like throat size, stitch regulation, and whether you prefer manual or computerized control. With the right machine, your quilting projects will be more enjoyable, efficient, and impressive!

FAQs

1. What is the ideal throat size for quilting?

For most quilters, a throat size of at least 16 inches is ideal for working on larger projects, but professional quilters may prefer even larger sizes.

2. Do I need a computerized quilting machine?

It depends on your needs. If you prefer precision and convenience, a computerized machine is great. If you like hands-on control, a manual machine might suit you better.

3. How much should I spend on a quilting machine?

Prices vary widely. Beginners can find reliable machines for a few hundred dollars, while professional models can cost several thousand. Set a budget based on your quilting goals.

4. Can I quilt large projects on a midarm machine?

Yes, midarm machines can handle large quilts, though it may require more effort to maneuver the fabric compared to a longarm machine.

5. How often should I maintain my quilting machine?

Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and oiling, should be done after every major project or every few months, depending on how often you use your machine.

I am frequently asked for my thoughts on how to choose the best sewing machines for quilting. With people having more dedicated time at home over the past years, many people are taking up new – or renewing old hobbies. Whether you are looking for a brand new beginner, entry-level sewing machine or you’re ready to update your previous machine for larger throat space, variety of built-in stitches or other handy features, I’ve got lots of advice for you today. Continue reading to learn more about qualities to look for in the best quilting sewing machines!

Find a Sewing Machine Dealer

My first and most important tip: find a local sewing machine dealer. Don’t buy a machine from a big box store (Target, Costco, etc.). Those big box stores like to make it feel like you’re getting a great deal. But when it comes to well-calibrated machines that you’ll to enjoy year after year, project after project without any grief, the old adage is true: You get what you pay for.

That is not to say that you need to spend a lot of money if you’re just getting started or maybe buying a first machine for a child or friend. There are some GREAT entry level machines at very reasonable prices. I’ll get to those below.

The reason you want to buy a machine from a licensed sewing machine dealer is that relationship is worth every penny. The A#1 reason to shop at a dealers is they let you try all of the machines before you buy one.

And then they will help you find the machine that is just right for your sewing level and budget. In addition to those invaluable reasons, they will often also provide access to free classes (in person or online) to help you learn how to get the most out of your machine.

They also typically provide maintenance, repair, and trouble-shooting services if something goes wrong or when your machine just needs a tune-up.

And finally, a dealer will also allow your the opportunity to exchange your machine for new one when ever you are ready to upgrade! Dealers really are the best resource there is when it comes to finding happiness and satisfaction with a sewing machine.

For more Automatic Quilting Machineinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

They WANT you to succeed.

The machines at big box stores are generally lower quality and no one at Costco is going to teach you how to use your machine or help you troubleshoot when you run into a problem. (Which you most likely will sooner or later with one of those machines.)

I have been working in a sponsored partnership with Baby Lock sewing machines for the past few years and have genuinely LOVED each machine that I’ve worked with. Baby Lock has provided me with a variety of sewing machines to sample and try out – from simple to super technically advanced – and I’ve loved every one. Since these are the sewing machines I’m most familiar with, I will be sharing my recommendations based on what I’ve learned and my own personal experiences.

Baby Lock has a sewing machine that is just right for any level – a simple basic machine for a beginner or super high-tech, state-of-the-art machine will all the bells and whistles. They also have machines simple or complex to fit your needs! You can find your nearest Baby Lock dealer here.

If you don't have a local dealer, Baby Lock Machines are now available directly online. AND get 10% off any purchase online from Baby Lock with the coupon code SAVE10-ASM2.

Recently I visited My Girlfriend’s Quilt Shoppe – a local Baby Lock Sewing Machines dealers– and they walked me through all of the latest options and levels of machines. Here are some of their recommendations (and mine):

Best Beginners Sewing Machines :

Baby Lock recently released the the Genuine Collection – a refreshed collection of updated smaller, entry level machines. Here’s what I’ve learned and my experiences with beginner, entry level machines.

If you’re looking for an inexpensive beginner-friendly, entry-level sewing machine, a Baby Lock Zest is the perfect machine. It’s doesn’t have all of the bells and whistles, making it affordable, but still sturdy and reliable. Russell Conte – an experienced garment sewer and instructor, who teaches sewing classes at a college, uses and recommends these sewing machines for their beginning students. I highly trust his experience, opinion and recommendation.

If you are looking for a good just-beyond-entry-level-machine, whether it’s your first sewing machine, or you’re looking for a second machine that is easily portable, I highly recommend the Baby Lock Jubilant (read my review here). It’s a lightweight and easily portable machine (making it a great travel machine) but is sturdy with a consistent stitch. I have been sewing with the Jubilant for over multiple years now – especially when I am taking a machine to sew away from home.

This machine has over 80 built-in-stitches – including overlock, buttonholes, and a variety of decorative stitches And it also sews a beautiful straight stitch at a decent speed- which is my biggest preference in a sewing machine.

Most Baby Lock sewing machines have a handy top drop-in bobbin making threading the machine easy.

Mid-Level Sewing Machines:

The no-frills Jazz regular sewing machine is super simple to operate, sews 1,000 stitches per minute, has 28 different stitches, large throat space, and feed dogs that drop for free motion quilting. It’s another popular machine without extra frills that offers a lot of bang for the buck. It’s designed to be very easy to navigate and operate.

Another great mid-level upgrade is the Lyric. You can read Dana’s (from Dana Made It) review of her Lyric here.

If you’re looking for a one-stitch/straight-stitch machine – as in you only need to sew a simple straight line and want to do it fast – the Baby Lock Accomplish is for you! I shared more about the benefits of a straight-stitch machine and my experience with the Accomplish here.

This Accomplish is a heavy-duty sewing machine with a metal frame and all metal parts + knee-lift lever attachment that can sew 1,500 stitches per minute. This sturdy machine is perfect for any garment or quilting project. 

One of the pros of a mechanical machine is that they tend to be simple to operate (with minimal gizmos) and all mechanical – meaning no computerized parts. As a result, these purely-mechanical machines also require a lot less maintenance and fiddling. Even the thread tension settings are easier on a mechanical machine.

This machine as its own selection of presser feet unique to this straight-stitch work horse, including it's own walking foot attachment.

The Accomplish also has expanded throat space and comes with a large extension table which is great for machine quilting. This machine is a work horse ready for sewing pedal to the metal.

Best Sewing Machines for Quilting:

If you’re ready to upgrade to a higher-end machine, I recommend the Baby Lock Aria or the Chorus. I’ve been sewing on the Baby Lock Chorus and it sews SO beautifully! It’s a bigger machine with a wide throat space for quilting and includes a dual-feed presser foot attachment with stitch regulator (an upgrade from a regular walking foot) and a free-motion foot as well as a knee lifter for fast transitions. Also capacity for a wider stitch width - and therefore more decorative stitch options.

It also includes lots of other fancy features like a scissors button (automatic thread cutter) for instantly trimming threads. I love not having to remember to hold thread tails when I start sewing or long threads tails trailing from every seam. The automatic thread cutter makes for more efficient bobbin use. The automatic needle threader makes threading the needle SO easy.

I also love the laser beam light you can cast on to the needle plate and beyond – perfect for making half square triangles or snow-ball corners. It also has amazing dual-feed stitching option for with a stitch-regulator for evenly-feeding fabric layers– perfect for sewing on binding or working with more slippery materials.

The great thing is that many of these plus features are available in other Baby Lock machines at a variety of price points.

You can read more about a Crescendo machine in this review by Elizabeth Chappell of Quilter's Candy. (We had very similar experiences switching machines.)

Honestly, there are so many handy dandy features on new machines these days. If it’s been a while since you’ve tried a newer sewing machine you might have fun visiting a dealer and just seeing how far machines have come!

Versatile Sewing Machine Accessories:

Another one of the things I love most about Baby Lock sewing machine is that they come with a range of accessories and over 7 sewing feet including a blind stitch and zipper foot. And if you need/want to buy other accessories, their sewing feet attachments are so reasonably priced – it’s easy and affordable to get the ones that you want. AND many of these sewing feet, bobbins, etc are interchangeable with the other Baby Lock machines. For example, I have a favorite ¼″ foot that works on both the Jubilant and the Crescendo machine.

Combination Sewing and Embroidery Machines

Baby Lock also has a range of Sewing Machines combined with Embroidery Machine functions. These machines can be used as a traditional sewing machine, but also have an embroidery attachment for a hoop for computerized embroidery designs. Many fonts and designs are included with the machine and there is also the capability to add other downloaded embroidery files.

I have been using the Baby Lock Destiny II machine (comparable to the current Altair) for about 6 years now and have loved it! One of my favorite features is being able to use files to foundation-piece traditional quilt blocks as well as computerized machine quilting designs to quilt my projects.

Once again, there is a large variety of sizes and price-points - based on hoop and embroidery sizes and machine capabilities.  You can see the full range of Baby Lock Embroidery Machines here - and many are also available online directly from Baby Lock.

But if you want to talk in through with a professional, talk to your sewing machine dealer as they will help you find the best machine for your budget and needs.

There’s a brief introduction to my favorite Baby Lock machines. A good, trusty sewing machine is worth it’s weight in gold. You will get so much more enjoyment out of your sewing experience when you have a reliable machine, as well as a reliable dealer for anytime your well-loved-and-used machine needs a little tune up.

If you’d like to learn more about the variety of Baby Lock machines, check out the Baby Lock YouTube Channel for loads of information and sewing machine tips!

Want more information on Automatic Embroidery Machine? Feel free to contact us.