The best longarm quilting machine is every passionate quilter’s dream machine. Although longarm units cost a lot of money and take a lot of space, they’re worth the effort.
No standard quilting machine can give you the throat size, power, and speed that a longarm quilting unit can. That said, let’s review 15 of the best long arm quilting machines.
Table of Contents
What is a Longarm Quilting Machine?
A longarm quilting machine is created to simultaneously and efficiently patch the three layers of a quilt, which is the quilt batting sandwiched between the backing and quilt top.
This results in a completed non-patterned or patterned quilt. This type of unit is a part of a long-arming mechanism and can only be utilized when it’s well-made into this system.
Types of Longarm Quilting Machines
When shopping for the best longarm quilting machine, you can choose from three main types including mechanical, computerized, and electronic. Let’s discuss these types in detail.
Mechanical
A mechanical longarm quilting machine costs less than electronic and computerized units because every possible setting is completed manually by the quilter including needle threading.
Most mechanical longarm quilting machines are hand-operated. This is why they’re rarely utilized today. However, if you’re a beginner, a mechanical quilting machine makes a great choice.
Computerized
If you’re looking for a high-end longarm quilting machine, look no further than computerized units. They make a perfect choice for advanced quilters because of their many built-in patterns.
You can even connect your computerized machine to the internet and download patterns by your choice and get creative. Though costly, this type of quilting unit is perfect for decorative quilting.
Computerized machines have other advanced options required for standard quilting and sewing such as adjustable stitch length and width, straight stitch, automatic threading, and cutting, etc.
Electronic
Electronic longarm quilting machines are widely used by both beginners and experienced quilters due to their simplicity and affordability. They’re easier to utilize than mechanical machines.
And less complex than computerized ones. Electronic longarm quilting machines usually have a powerful motor, a decent number of built-in stitches, and adjustable stitch width and length.
What Are The Best Longarm Quilting Machines?
Consider Consew, Handi Quilter, and King Quilter when purchasing a longarm quilting machine. They’re known for their durability, impressive features, and great customer support.
If you’re a beginner, opt for a Juki longarm quilting machine. Juki produces affordable yet quality quilting machines. They’re user-friendly and provide the ability to sit down and work.
- Best Overall: Artistic 26-8 Long Arm Quilting Machine
“Ergonomic controls, large bobbin capacity, automatic needle position, LCD screen with easy touch keys.” - Best Budget: NEW King Quilter II Long Arm Quilting Machine
“7-inch color display, easy stitch features, optional 10-ft – 12-ft frame add-on, 18 inches of throat space.” - Best for Beginners: Juki TL-2200QVP-S Sit Down Long Arm Sewing Machine
“Exclusive thread trimmer, built-in basting, includes a table and a stand, adjustable height, fast motor.” - Best Professional: HQ Fusion Package – 24″ Long Arm Quilting Machine
“Handi Quilter technology, adjustable integrated laser light, 20 inches of working area, bonus package.” - Best for Home Use: Juki TL-2010Q 9″ Long-Arm Quilting Machine
“Single-needle lockstitch unit, automatic thread trimmer, solid construction, smooth work, affordable.” - Best with Table and Frame System: Handi Quilter Infinity 26-inch Long Arm Quilting Machine
“Long-lasting, professional-grade combination table and frame system, 26 inches of working space.” - Best Sit-Down: Tin Lizzie 18 Sit-Down Long Arm Quilting Machine
“Automatic needle positioner, specially-designed table, 18 inches of working space, sit-down machine.” - Best Commercial: Handi Quilter Forte 24 Long Arm Quilting Machine
“QuiltMaster front handlebars, thread break sensor and alarm, consistent stitch quality, user-friendly.” - Best Computerized: Ansley26 ESP Limited Long Arm Quilting Machine
“Precise stitch regulator, built-in bobbin winder, flexible handlebars, 7-inch LCD, large bobbin capacity.” - Best Mechanical: Consew 206RBL-30 30 inch Long Arm Machine
“A large working area, fixed-speed clutch motor, adjustable-speed servo motor, locking stitch regulator.”
Best Longarm Quilting Machine Reviews
Finding the best longarm quilting machine can get overwhelming after realizing how many units you can choose from. The following chart compares best-rated longarm quilting units only.
It represents their type, weight, stitches per minute, throat space, and warranty. If this isn’t enough info for you, scroll down and read their detailed reviews before you make a final choice.
Top 15 Best Longarm Quilting Machine Reviews
If you want to up your quilting game, consider buying the best longarm quilting machine for your needs. Luckily, they come at different prices, so almost anyone can purchase one.
If you want to get more serious about your hobby, invest in one of the next longarm quilting units. Then, get your creative ideas to life and show the whole world what you can do!
Consew 206RBL-30 30-inch Long Arm Machine
(Best Mechanical LongArm Quilting Machine)
Consew 206RBL-30 is a mechanical longarm quilting machine with a servo motor and assembled table. It makes a great choice for beginners or quilters on a budget.
This machine features 4-step 3 stitch zig-zag and works perfectly with stretch and elastic materials. With this machine, you can make tents, truck covers, sails, parachutes, etc.
It has a 30-inch longarm. Meaning, you can play with 30 inches of throat space. The best part? It also has reverse stitching, a large bobbin, and can make 1,800 stitches per minute.
It also has an upper feed system and a horizontal axis transverse rotary hook. As you can notice, this unit by Consew is a feature-rich and user-friendly longarm quilting machine.
Key features:
- Upped feed mechanism
- 1,800 stitches per minute
- A horizontal axis transverse rotary hook
- Large bobbin and reverse stitching
- 30 inches of working space
- 4-step/3 stitch zig-zag
Pros
- Fixed-speed clutch motor
- Adjustable-speed servo motor
- Standard attachments easily installed
- Convenient on/off switch on magnet mounting
- Perfect for elastic and stretch materials
- Centralized arm lubrication
- Locking stitch regulator
Cons
- No installation instructions
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Consew |
| Type: | Mechanical |
| Stitches per minute: | 1,800 |
| Throat space: | 30 inches |
| Color: | White |
Ansley26 ESP Limited Long Arm Quilting Machine
(Best Computerized Longarm Quilting Machine)
If you’re looking for a longarm quilting machine with a large quilting area and impressive features, look no further than Ansley limited longarm quilting machine.
It’s a feature-rich machine and makes a better choice than similar models on the market. This machine is loaded with a new LCD screen, oil reservoir, and adjustable handlebars.
It also features a built-in bobbin winder, large bobbin, and a needle up/down. The best part? It’s budget-friendly. This machine delivers great value for the money.
Key features:
- Oil reservoir
- Precise stitch regulator
- Built-in bobbin winder with a large bobbin
- Integration of quilt magician and esp stitch
- Automatic needle positioner
- Adjustable handlebars
- 7-inch LCD
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- 5-year limited warranty
- Feature-rich longarm quilting machine
- The largest capacity bobbin
- A large quilting space
Cons
- Overwhelming for beginners
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Tin Lizzie |
| Type: | Computerized |
| Stitches per minute: | Not specified |
| Throat space: | 26 inches |
| Color: | White |
Juki TL-2200QVP-S Sit Down Long Arm Sewing Machine
(Best Longarm Quilting Machine for Beginners)
If you’re looking for a sit-down longarm quilting machine, look no further than Juki TL-2200QVP-S. It’s a great choice for both beginners and experienced quilters.
What I like most about this machine is the 18 x 10 inches long arm. It can be adjustable up to 50 inches wide. Other features include auxiliary handwheels and built-in basting.
It also has a laser point guide and automatic under bed thread trimmers. There’s also a foot control, big M bobbins, dry head constrained oiling, and a direct-drive motor.
Key features:
- Built-in basting
- 5-year limited warranty
- Includes a table and stand
- Adjustable 30-34 inches height
- Exclusive thread trimmer
- Laser point guide
Pros
- A well-lit workspace
- Bright display and great precision
- Adjustable height and high-speed motor
- Suitable for both beginners and experts
- Long-lasting and reliable
Cons
- Unclear assembly instructions
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Juki |
| Type: | Computerized |
| Stitches per minute: | 2,200 |
| Throat space: | 18 inches |
| Color: | White and blue |
Grace Q’nique Long Arm Quilting Machine
The Grace Q’nique longarm quilting machine is a budget-friendly and feature-rich model with 14 inches of throat space. It’s just perfect for sewing extensive patterns.
The main reason why I like this unit is compatibility. It’s smaller than similar units and doesn’t require as much space as other longarm quilting machines on the market.
But here’s the kicker. It can make up to 1,800 stitches per minute. There’s also a stitch regulator for the speed. You can control the speed of your machine according to your needs.
Other great features include quick access buttons, a LED to lighten up your working space, and a screen that presents the navigation menu. It’s a great choice for everyone.
The display presents a user-friendly and intuitive menu which includes four different sewing modes. The best part? You can wind a bobbin without running your machine.
Key features:
- Stitch regulator
- Broadened throat space
- Propelled control settings
- Expanded line speed
- Color OLED display
Pros
- Stitches beautifully
- 15 inches of throat space
- Long-lasting, sturdy, and easy to use
- Perfect for quilting and sewing
- Easy installation
Cons
- Expensive
- Poor customer service
- Tension issues
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Grace |
| Type: | Computerized |
| Stitches per minute: | 1,800 |
| Throat space: | 15 inches |
| Color: | White |
Juki TL-2010Q 9″ Long-Arm Quilting Machine
(Best Longarm Quilting Machine for Home Use)
If you’re searching for a computerized, single-needle longarm quilting unit, then Juki has an ideal option for you. It’s their TL-2010Q model with 9 inches of throat space.
This quilting machine is perfect for tailoring and home decorations. Impressive features include a speed controller regulator, a GQ frame, and an automatic thread trimmer.
I like this machine because it’s portable and provides a consistent stitch speed control. The GQ frame is the highest point of the line and ensures a perfect stitching background.
The Juki TL-2010Q also supports a quilt CAD software to produce custom designs. This capability enables you to print originally estimated outskirts, squares, and pantographs.
Key features:
- Single-needle lockstitch unit
- QuiltCAD pattern design software
- Automatic thread trimmer for quilting and other projects
- Continuum metal quilting frame
- 100 sewing needles included
Pros
- Solid construction
- Extra space for large quilts
- Perfect for heavy-duty projects
- 20 free metal “L” bobbins
- Smooth operation
Cons
- It requires regular oiling
- Overwhelming for beginners
- The light isn’t bright enough
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Juki |
| Type: | Mechanical |
| Stitches per minute: | 1,500 |
| Throat space: | 9 inches |
| Color: | White |
Singer 8500Q Computerized Long Arm Quilting Machine
The Singer 8500Q is a computerized longarm quilting machine. It delivers 25 inches of working space. It’s perfect for completing large projects thanks to the extension table.
Other features include 6 StayBright LED lights, a knee lifter, and a super-large circular stitch capability (it works in 10-15 inches circular diameter). You will also get 215 built-in stitches.
If you want to up your quilting game, this machine has your back. You can use this unit to make blankets and other large projects. The knee lifter enables hands-free rotation.
Key features:
- Knee lifter
- Automatic bobbin winding
- Programmable needle up/down
- 7-segment feeding system with box feed
- Automatic stitch width and length
- Electronic twin needle control
- 215 built-in stitches
Pros
- User-friendly
- A lot of free accessories
- Over 200 built-in stitches to play with
- Well-written and clear instructions
- Packs automatic features
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Poor quality bobbin
- Overwhelming for beginners
- Poor customer service
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Singer |
| Type: | Computerized |
| Stitches per minute: | 600 |
| Throat space: | 25 inches |
| Color: | White and grey |
Encore 18×8 Inch Long Arm Quilting Machine
The Encore longarm quilting machine is great for heavy-duty projects thanks to the 18 inches of quilting space. It packs a super-large bobbin capacity and a built-in bobbin winder.
I especially enjoy the automatic features such as stitch regulator and needle position. This machine also has a flexible quilting foot, a top-notch built-in thread stand, and adjustable legs.
You can adjust the height of the machine as you wish. The legs feature easy turn wheels for adjustment. It also features quick-release ratchets for accurate tension and a stitch regulation.
Quilting big projects have never been easier! If you’re looking for a longarm quilting machine that gives consistent stitches, look no further than Encore. The motor speed is customizable.
The best part? The automatic needle position feature keeps the needle in the up position when the unit stops. I also love the adjustable ergonomic handle. It’s perfect for beginners.
Key features:
- Oil reservoir
- Comfort grip handlebars
- 18 inches of throat space
- Automatic needle position
- Built-in bobbin winder with a large bobbin
- Accurate stitch regulation
- Low maintenance
Pros
- Large bobbin capacity
- Sophisticated and accurate quilting
- Perfect for large projects
Cons
- Unclear instructions
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Encore |
| Type: | Computerized |
| Stitches per minute: | Not specified |
| Throat space: | 18 inches |
| Color: | White |
NEW King Quilter II Long Arm Quilting Machine
(Best Affordable Longarm Quilting Machine)
The New King Quilter 2 Elite is a wonderful longarm quilting machine with impressive features. I like this machine because it’s affordable and loaded with great features.
It can create 2,200 stitches per minute. Other features include a stitch regulation mechanism and a two-piece computer numerical controlled casting. It also has a 7-inch color display.
The unit also has front handles with control switches and 18 inches of quilting space. If you loved the old King Quilter, you will adore this upgraded model. It’s sturdy and versatile.
Stitching with this model is a breeze! There’s also a needle up/down control and other amazing features that will up your quilting game and enhance your quilting projects.
Key features:
- 7-inch color display
- Convenient stitch features
- Optional 10-ft or 12-ft frame add-on
- Front handles with control switches
- 18 inches of working space
- Needle up/down control
Pros
- Quilt timer
- Budget-friendly
- Stitch precision mode
- Built-in micro handlebars
- 4-22 stitches per inch
- M Class bobbin
- Quilt alarm
Cons
- Overwhelming for beginners
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | King Quilter |
| Type: | Computerized |
| Stitches per minute: | 2,200 |
| Throat space: | 18 inches |
| Color: | White |
Handi Quilter Forte 24 Long Arm Quilting Machine
(Best Commercial Longarm Quilting Machine)
If you’re looking for a free-motion quilt machine, then Handi Quilter has the perfect option for you. It’s their user-friendly Forte 24 longarm quilting machine with eight wheels.
It also has a bobbin winder and 10-inch to 12-inch arm. This machine also has adjustable handlebars, an on-screen handwheel, editable buttons, and pinpoint accurate needle laser.
What I like most about this machine is the easy-set tension knob. There’s also a horizontal spool pin. It’s a great choice for advanced quilters but it’s overwhelming for beginners.
Key features:
- Pinpoint needle laser
- 7-inch color touch screen
- QuiltMaster front handlebars
- Programmable needle bar buttons
- 24-inches of brightly-lit working space
- Included 10-ft or 12-ft HQ gallery2 frame sizes
- Thread break sensor and alarm
- 2,500 stitches per minute
- Consistent stitch quality
- On-screen handwheel
- Easy-set tension
Pros
- User-friendly
- Suitable for home use
- Professional-grade combination table and frame system
- A bunch of advanced features
- Made of high-quality steel
- Stress-free quilting
Cons
- Overwhelming for beginners
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Handi Quilter |
| Type: | Computerized |
| Stitches per minute: | 2,500 |
| Throat space: | 24 inches |
| Color: | White |
Artistic 26-8 Long Arm Quilting Machine
(Best Longarm Quilting Machine for the Money)
The Artistic 26-8 longarm quilting machine is upgraded to the latest features and policy. It provides a big 26-inch long arm but comes with the same 18 inches version features.
The best part about this model is the new super-large ultra-splendid LED lighting. It will brighten up your working space perfectly. It’s perfect for quilters who crave large quilting territory.
Artistic packs height adjustable legs, pivoting top fabric rail to provide access to batting, accurate quick-release ratchets to aid to accurately tension fabric, and easy turn wheels for control.
It also features adjustable dual-bearing wheels on backtracks and front. They improve the accuracy and stability of the machine. Although it’s feature-rich, it’s still user-friendly.
Key features:
- Ergonomic controls
- A lot of new stitches
- Locking cable connectors
- Large bobbin capacity
- Needle positioning
Pros
- Oil reservoir
- A large bobbin
- Convenient rear handles
- LED screen with easy touch keys
- Automatic needle position
- Built-in bobbin winder
- New LED lighting
- Flexible lamp
Cons
- Unreliable
- Bobbin thread issues
- Unclear instructions
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Artistic |
| Type: | Computerized |
| Stitches per minute: | Not specified |
| Throat space: | 26 inches |
| Color: | White |
HQ Sweet Sixteen Long Arm Quilting Machine
If you’re looking for a super-advanced technology machine, then Handi Quilter has you covered. It’s the HQ sweet sixteen longarm quilting machine with a small throat space.
It’s smaller than regular sewing and quilting machines. However, it’s loaded with amazing features such as a stitch regulator, a powerful motor, and a TruStitch software to make designs.
The speed of this machine is adjustable. It can produce 1,500 stitches per minute. However, what I love most about this machine is the color touch screen. I also like the sit-down design.
The 16 inches of working space provides you enough room to stitch make a jumbo blanket. I also like the ground-breaking motor and 3-speed settings. It’s powerful and versatile!
Key features:
- Table overlay
- Easy-set tension
- Interchangeable Handi feet
- A maximum speed of 1,500 stitches per minute
- Low-bobbin estimator and alarm
- 4 basting stitch options
- TruStitch regulator
- LED area lighting
Pros
- Excellent for experienced quilters
- The screen can be displayed in four languages
- High-speed rotary hook with large-capacity M-class bobbin
- 3 times the quilting space of domestic machines
- Additional 18-inch table extension
Cons
- Overwhelming for beginners
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Handi Quilter |
| Type: | Computerized |
| Stitches per minute: | 1,500 |
| Throat space: | 16 inches |
| Color: | White |
Handi Quilter Infinity 26-inch Long Arm Quilting Machine
(Best Longarm Quilting Machine and Frame)
The Handi Quilter Infinity is a lighting speed longarm quilting machine with a speed of 3,100 stitches per minute. Highlighted features include automatic presets and customized settings.
This machine is easy to use and software compatible. It also has flexible stitching regulations, adjustable handlers, and solid construction. It’s a dream come true for every passionate quilter.
It’s innovative, modern, and versatile! If you’re looking for a model that will boost your quilting projects, look no further than this quilting machine. It provides a working space of 26 inches.
Key features:
- Durable construction
- Adjustable lighting system
- Professional-grade combination table and frame system
- Suitable for both home and professional use
- 26 inches of working space
- 2-24 stitches per inch
Pros
- A bobbin thread cutter
- Integrated micro handles
- Integrated adjustable laser
- Quilting timer and alarm
- On-screen handwheel
Cons
- Overwhelming for beginners
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Handi Quilter |
| Type: | Computerized |
| Stitches per minute: | 3,100 |
| Throat space: | 26 inches |
| Color: | White |
HQ Fusion Package – 24″ Long Arm Quilting Machine
(Best Professional Longarm Quilting Machine)
The Handi Quilter Fusion Package includes a great technology with a bunch of functions. It provides a lot of working space (20 inches of throat space). It’s perfect for any project.
Interesting features include different lighting options, a precision stitched regulated system, and durable construction. It’s one of Handi Quilter’s best and up to date quilting machines.
It’s one of those machines that grows with you and gives you enough space to make your larger quilts. If you’re looking for a precise machine, look no further than HQ Fusion.
Key features:
- Stitch regulation
- Needle position control
- Handi Quilter technology
- A built-in adjustable LED lighting functions with many controls
- integrated adjustable laser light
- Automatic needle positioning
- 20 inches of working space
- Color LCD touch screen
- Thread-break sensor
- Built-in diagnostics
Pros
- World-class quilting machine
- Supports the latest computer technology
- You will get a bonus package
Cons
- Overwhelming for beginners
- Intended for professional use only
- It takes a large amount of space
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Handi Quilter |
| Type: | Computerized |
| Stitches per minute: | 2,200 |
| Throat space: | 20 inches |
| Color: | White |
Handi Quilter HQ 18″ Avante Long Arm Quilting Machine
The Handi Quilter Avante is a computerized longarm quilting machine with an 18-inch throat space and 15 inches of space. It can be used for both big and small size quilts.
If you want to purchase a user-friendly and budget-friendly electronic longarm, consider this machine by Handi-Quilter. It’s perfect for blankets and other large quilting projects.
However, what I like most about this machine is the lighting. The splendid lights make precise stitching a lot easier. The best part? This machine is handmade in the USA.
Key features:
- 2 stitch counters
- Splendid LED lights
- Adjustable needle positioning
- High-speed rotary hook with M-class bobbins
- Integrated adjustable laser light for pantographs
- Bobbin-use estimator with low-bobbin alarm
- Rear handlebars with controls
- 10-year limited warranty
- Front power switch
Pros
- Excellent stitch quality
- Two modes of stitch regulation
- Easy needle change with ergonomic thumb screw
- Perfect for experienced quilters
- You will get a bonus package
Cons
- Overwhelming for beginners
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Handi Quilter |
| Type: | Computerized |
| Stitches per minute: | 2,200 |
| Throat space: | 18 inches |
| Color: | White |
Tin Lizzie 18 Sit-Down Long Arm Quilting Machine
(Best Sit-Down Longarm Quilting Machine)
Tin Lizzie 18 is a sit-down longarm quilting machine with advanced features. It’s popular among quilters because of the incredible features and excellent performance.
It comes with a speed controller, a collapsible table, needle up/down positions, and solid construction. It makes a great choice for both enthusiastic quilters and beginners.
What I like most about this machine is the compactness. It’s not as large as other longarm quilting units on the market. It’s user-friendly, space-saving, and super-versatile.
Key features:
- 5-year limited warranty
- 18 inches of working space
- Built-in bobbin with a large bobbin
- Automatic needle positioner
- Specially-designed table
Pros
- A large working space
- Excellent customer service
- Perfect for professional use
- Suitable for heavier fabrics
- Sit-down quilting machine
Cons
- Noisy
- Costly
- Heavy
Product Specifications:
| Brand: | Tin Lizzie |
| Type: | Computerized |
| Stitches per minute: | 3,000 |
| Throat space: | 18 inches |
| Color: | White |
Buying Guide: What Longarm Quilting Machine is Best?
The market is overflown with longarm quilting machines. Consider the following features when shopping for the best longarm quilting machine, you will find the right one in no time.
Stitch Regulator
Make sure that your longarm quilting machine has a high-quality stitch regulator. This option will ensure consistent stitches and make everything a lot easier, especially if you’re a beginner.
The Speed and Model of the Machine
If you buy a fast quilting machine, you will complete your projects in a lesser time. Therefore, before you make any investment, check the settings to ensure you can control the speed.
Also, pay close attention to the model of the machine. You can choose between a standing longarm and a sit-down quilting machine. Sit-down longarm quilting machines come at a lower price.
They’re operated on a surface while sitting on a chair. This type of machine will keep its spot as you will be moving the quilt around the surface. It’s perfect for quilters with back issues and leg pain.
The other type for standing work needs a stand where you will mount it. These high stands have rollers. They help you set up your quilt. For large quilts, opt for a standing quilting machine.
Space
It’s also important to consider the available space in your home before you make a choice. Keep in mind that longarm quilting machines take a lot of space. If you prefer a good working space, opt for a standing longarm machine so that you can unroll your projects and enjoy bigger freedom.
Type
Opt for a computerized longarm quilting machine if you have a few extra bucks to spend. Computerized machines provide greater speed and stress-free work. They’re easy to master and use.
If you don’t mind hand-operated machines and prefer to maintain the length of your patterns manually, opt for a mechanical longarm quilting machine. It’s less expensive and easy to maintain.
What Brand of Long Arm Quilting Machine is Best?
It depends on your preferences and needs. Likewise models of automobiles, quilting machines also have models. Different longarm quilting machines have different characteristics.
Consider Consew, Handi Quilter, and King Quilter when purchasing a longarm quilting machine. They’re known for their durability, impressive features, and great customer support.
If you’re a beginner, opt for a Juki longarm quilting machine. Juki produces affordable yet quality quilting machines. They’re user-friendly and provide the ability to sit down and work.
What Does a Longarm Quilting Machine Look Like?
When buying a longarm quilting machine, expect a big machine with a large throat. The throat size is the space from the back to the needle. The size of your unit depends on the throat size. Usually, these types of machines have a length of 3 meters to 4.25 meters.
What Does a Long Arm Quilting Machine do?
A longarm quilting machine enables quilters to finish their quilts without dealing with the overwhelming process associated with regular hand quilting and machine quilting.
How do Long Arm Quilting Machines Work?
The 2 styles of quilting usually done by longarm quilting units include custom work and “edge-to-edge” designs. These machines also include computers that will create a pantograph style pattern on the quilt top with the user resetting the needle for every part of the design.
Pantograph Designs
A pantograph is a big pattern that spreads the length of the longarm table. The user will take this design and put it under the plastic layer of the table. Then, trace it with a laser or stylus.
TThe design spreads the length of the quilt. It can be repeated in lines to make an all-over pattern on the quilt surface. This method is very popular because it doesn’t require much effort.
Custom Work
Custom work is performed when the person wants the quilt block to have separate designs in each area or block of the quilt. This technique is usually more expensive and time-consuming.
How to Use Long Arm Quilting Machine?
Quilting utilizing a longarm quilting machine is done a lot faster than hand quilting or standard machine quilting. The time-saving factor is why longarm quilting became so popular recently.
How to Load Long Arm Quilting Machine?
Loading a quilt on this type of quilting machine is much easier and better than standard quilt basting. It’s not difficult or time-consuming. You can load a quilt in less than 15 minutes.
This is a much faster process than basting a quilt on a table. The best part about longarm quilting units is that they allow you to stand while working which benefits your well-being too!
How Much Space do You Need for a Long Arm Quilting Machine?
It depends on the quilting machine. For instance, a 12-ft table requires a space of 15-ft long x 8-ft wide. If you purchase a 10-ft table, you will need a space of 13-ft long x 8-ft wide.
How Much do Long Arm Quilting Machines Cost?
Longarm quilting machines cost a lot more than normal quilting and sewing machines. You can purchase a good longarm quilting machine for anywhere between $5K and $40K.
Where to Buy Long Arm Quilting Machine?
Some companies sell their longarm quilting machines through dealers with physical stores only. But you can also buy a longarm quilting machine online at Amazon or Sewing Machine Plus.
Summary
A longarm quilting machine is a serious, one-time investment. That’s why it’s very important to research the market in detail. The best longarm quilting machine will have the right features.
And the capacity for your needs. It also needs to suit your pocket. Hopefully, this guide can help you find the right longarm quilting machine. You can purchase a computerized or mechanical unit.
If you’re looking for a mechanical longarm quilting unit, look no further than Consew 206RBL-30 30 inch Long Arm Machine. Opt for Ansley26 ESP Limited Long Arm Quilting Machine if you prefer computerized longarm quilting machines. It’s suitable for both beginners and experienced quilters.
About the Juki TL-2200QVP-S Sit Down, there’s a Juki model Miyabi J-350QVP S, that is very similar but has built in stitch regulation. You can buy it as a sit down but convert it to a stand up frame quilting machine later if you like. I haven’t bought one (yet) but I have tried it at my local long arm dealer and it’s very nice to use. I’d consider this model rather than the 2200QVP if I were to purchase one. Which I am going to do, probably this week.
Everyone’s opinion is different, do that’s just my 2 cents. YMMV.
Dear Tabitha,
Thank you for your comment.
I haven’t heard of this model by Juki yet. However, I will look into it now that you’ve mentioned. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences!
Once you buy it and use it for a while, I would like to hear your opinion on this machine if you have time to chat.
Have a wonderful day and stay safe.
Love, Sara.
I read your published article about top 15 longarm quilting machines and you omitted Baby Lock. Any particulars for this reason?
Dear Sharyn,
Thank you for your question.
I don’t have anything against Baby Lock. I’m a huge fan of this brand and their machines. Therefore, expect a new article on Baby Lock machines very soon.
Have a lovely day and stay safe.
Love, Sara.