The 9 Best Long Arm Quilting Machine in 2024

Last Updated on December 31, 2023

The Best Long Arm Quilting Machine: For the creative minds out there, sewing and quilting are tasks that are often approached as a hobby. For many people, their creative passion for creating something new and crafty allures them to turn sewing and quilting into a hobby, and they become daily practitioners.

Best Long Arm Quilting Machine

Some even take it a step further and turn this passion into a profession. Whether you start as a hobby or practice sewing and quilting on a professional scale, having the appropriate equipment is of paramount importance.

Having the correct gear will make your work manifold easier. Not only that but having the proper equipment opens your doors to new explorations and discoveries of completing work in ways you did not imagine were possible.

Sewing and quilting are two different things but not so distinct. While sewing is a primary task, quilting is relatively technical. Quilting takes sewing to the next level and involves multiple sewing layers of a garment together.

In effect, it is a form of stitching, after all. Now investing in two machines for these two tasks does not make sense, and doing the job of two using a sewing machine is pretty time-consuming.

Great minds and manufacturers have come up with a tool that combines both and enables the doer to conduct both tasks promptly and properly.

Review of the Best Long Arm Quilting Machine

Best Long Arm Quilting Machine

Get your next quilting project off to a flying start with the best long arm quilting machines around – we review them all so you can pick the one that’s just right for you!

1. JUKI TL-2000Qi Sewing and Quilting Machine

best long arm quilting machine

This sewing and quilting machine is all a sewing practitioner can dream of. It has also been updated as per the user’s ease and suggestions. The new updates include the insertion of LED lights and one pedal operation.

The LED lights will let you use this tool in the dark or make it hard to miss those areas that are difficult to spot. A one-pedal operation causes less strain due to body movements and makes working easier for the user.

Credit: Erica Arndt

A significant advantage of using this sewing and quilting machine is that it comes with a needle threader. Now you longer have to waste time poking your thread into the tiny hole of a needle.

Credit: Sewing For Survival

Additionally, it features an extension table that allows for a more extensive work surface. When working with small lengths of fabric, you can use the pre-set work surface, and when working with longer material, pull out the extension table.

JUKI TL-2000Qi Sewing and Quilting Machine also effectively eliminate vibration that causes distraction and work lag. Thus, the die-cast arm and bed are made of aluminum for low vibration operation.

Credit: Erica Arndt
Pros
– Low vibration operation
– LED lights attached
– Extendable work surface
Needle threader installed
– One pedal operation
Cons
– Only straight stitch available

2. BROTHER PQ1500SL Quilting and Sewing Machine

best long arm quilting machine

The BROTHER PQ1500SL quilting and sewing machine have a lot to offer. First, it has a few automatic mechanisms that do small tasks that are tardy to do manually. It features an auto thread trimmer and a built-in needle threader.

Cutting the unrequired piece of thread after completion of work is just another addition to the list of things that slow down work. This quilting machine does this job with a push of a button.

Loading the thread in a needle is just as hard a task as simple as it seems to be, not to mention time-consuming and straining to the eyes too. BROTHER Quilting and Sewing Machine, PQ1500SL, has a built-in needle threader that performs the task for you in a jiffy.

Credit: A1 Reno Vacuum & Sewing Retailer

Other noteworthy features include four feed dog settings that will give you maximum fabric control. A knee lifter and a bed extension are also provided for easy sewing and quilting. With this gadget, you can complete your sewing tasks with lightning-fast speed.

Credit: A1 Reno Vacuum & Sewing Retailer

It has a speed of 1500 SPM per minute, that will allow you to reduce working time and also achieve perfection. Last but not least, it has a warranty stamp of 25 years and free technical phone support for its lifetime.

Credit: Amanda Rolfe
Pros
– Fast sewing speed
– Four settings to choose from
– Knee lifter attached
– Bed extension provided
– Automatic mechanisms included
Cons
– Warranty is limited

Read Also: The Best Sewing Machine for Monogramming

3. Juki TL2000QI Long-Arm Quilting Machine

Juki TL2000QI LongArm Quilting Machine

Stitch not only clothes but your dreams with this quilting and sewing machine. This complete package comes with all the accessories needed to stitch and quilt so that you do not have to look for and purchase individual items.

Juki TL2000QI

Juki TL2000QI Long-Arm Sewing & Quilting Machine with Limited time Quilters Package is currently one of the bestsellers. The sampler templates set includes a variety of six templates with inside and outside designs, a stable tape, and pins.

Credit: Harmony

The ruler foot starter package can be used with over 350 unique templates and expels the need for a longarm. It has a pacing gauge, ruler foot, 12 inches arc template, and stable tape. Other accessories provided are needles, rotary cutters, a tool kit, buttons, and bobbins.

Credit: Harmony

The body of the Juki TL2000QI Long-Arm Sewing & Quilting Machine is firm and robust. This will let you easily sew heavy materials, such as quilts and blankets. Other than that, it has a foot controller, even a feed foot, thread trimming function, and LED lights. The sewing speed stands at 1500 SPM.

Pros
– Fast sewing speed
– Complete package
– LED light attached
– Low vibration function
– Robust and sturdy
Cons
– Only straight stitch available

4. Juki TL-2010Q Long-arm Machine

best computerized long arm quilting machine

Another one from Juki in our list of the best computerized long arm quilting machine, is the Juki TL-2010Q 9” Long-arm Machine. This brand is known for giving great value for money, and this one also comes with a plethora of accessories.

Credit: Sewing Machine Warehouse
Credit: Sewing Machine Warehouse

The accessories include 100- needles, a set of bobbins, pattern templates, a SureStitch regulator, and a Grace continuum quilting frame. The SureStitch works like a stitch speed controller and stitch regulator.

This will effortlessly let you monitor the speed you want to be sewing. Juki TL-2010Q 9″ Long-arm Machine lets you expand your ideas and create unique designs. Pattern software, QuiltCAD, is provided on a CD.

Credit: Sewing Machine Warehouse

Using this, you can create your custom templates and apply them while sewing and quilting. You can also print out blocks, borders, and custom-sized pantographs.

Credit: Sewing Machine Warehouse

No special equipment is needed; you can use your home computer. It combines traditional sewing techniques with modern technology to give you the optimal sewing experience. It also features an automatic thread trimmer.

Credit: TheCraftyGemini
Pros
– Quilting frame provided
– Special software included
– Regulator and speed controller offered
– Automatic thread trimmer
– Portable
Cons
– All laptops do not support CD

Read Also: The Best Brother Embroidery Machine for Beginners

5. Grace Q’nique Long Arm Quilting Machine

affordable long arm quilting machines

Any longarm quilting machine is incomplete without a proper quilting frame. The Grace Q’nique Long Arm Quilting Machine comes with an SR2 frame that is very long. This will give you ease of use while quilting long and heavy fabric, such as thick blankets and quilts.

Just place the quilt over this frame, set your sewing machine in position, and do your task. It has a free stitching option and stitches control with rollers. This will allow you to place it in position and let it do its job.

This will save you a hefty amount of time and will ensure preciseness and perfection in each thread knitted. With the correct settings and speed, you can just let it perform its task while you handle other chores. The machine can quilt any size, as the frame determines the size of the quilt.

It can sew up to any blanket that is queen size or below. Grace Q’nique affordable long arm quilting machine is also technologically adept as it can work with pantographs. However, you will need additional equipment for its usage. With this, you can sew any pattern on the quilt.

Pros
– Ease of use
– Lengthy frame for long sewing quilts
– Free stitching option
– Rollers and stitch controls attached
– Usable for the crib to queen size
Cons
– The frame is not adjustable
– Does not support king-size quilts

6. Grace Q’nique Long Arm Quilting Machine

Grace Q'nique longarm quilting machine

This quilting machine from Grace is a superior weapon in the art of quilting. It has all the features required for the optimum quilting experience. The throat is more than 14 inches in width, which allows for the sewing of large blocks and patterns.

Apart from that, this also ensures you have a more convenient work area that is less cluttered. It is portable with rollers attached to the bottom so that you can carry it and change your workspace according to your convenience.

There is nothing to disagree with in the statement that quilting can be tiring and tardy, putting a lot of strain and exercise on your arms. Thus, to increase usability and decrease the effort, this one has comfortable rubber grip handles.

Allow yourself a less strenuous and more comfortable quilting experience. Easy, quick access buttons add up to its functionality. This quilting machine is as fast as a lightning bolt with a speed of a whopping 1800 SPM. So quilt away without worrying about the speed.

Pros
– Comfortable rubber grip handles
– Wide 14+ inch tooth
– Rollers attached for portability
– Quick access buttons
– Functional
Cons
– Suitable for quilting mainly

Read Also: The Best Sewing Machine for Buttonholes

7. Grace Q’nique 15R Midarm Quilting Machine

Grace Q'nique 15R

Yet another great product from Grace in our list of the best long arm quilting machine is the Grace Q’nique 15R Midarm Quilting Machine. It is a bundle package that comes with a lot of value and accessories.

The wide 15-inch teeth allow for a steady flow of work on an organized workstation with minimal clutter. It has a great speed of 1800 SPM. This package includes a Q’Nique 15 3-piece hopping foot set, several M-class bobbins, and a pack of 10 needles.

The Q’nique series from Grace bridges a gap in the market; it is appropriate for those tasks that do not require a vast longarm machine or a regular sit-down tool. It is an ideal midpoint as well. Furthermore, this machine suits most quilting frames and all Grace Frames.

This sit down long arm quilting machine will give you maximum control with three quick control buttons placed on each handle for stitch speed and regulation. Additionally, the rubber grip handles can be adjusted down to a micro-handle position for more exceptional precision while quilting.

Pros
– Functional
– Quick control buttons
– Easy-grip handles
– Fast speed of 1800 SPM
– Wide 15 inch teeth
Cons
– Additional accessories needed for better functionality

Read Also: How to Change a Sewing Machine Needle?

8. Grace Q’nique 21 Quilting Machine

best long arm quilting machine

The Grace Q’nique 21 Longarm Quilting Machine has multiple reasons to be on our list. This comes with a Continuum 10′ Quilting Frame for more adeptness. The combination of both creates the optimum quilting experience.

The frame is long to hold a lengthy amount of fabric. The machine has rollers for automated work. Grace Company is renowned for focusing on its customers and providing quality, comfort, and convenience in all its products. The machine is engineered to provide precision stitching.

The machine is very user-friendly, requiring little prior knowledge or experience with quilting machines. The comfortable rubber grip handles to provide maximum comfort during usage. This will enable you to work for more hours but reduce the effort exercised.

The powerful motor generates a speed of 1800 SPM. Besides, the built-in stitch regulation offers four modes to give you maximum control through adjustment. The result is precise, consistent, and beautiful stitching. All these features are affordable at a very reasonable price.

Credit: The Grace Company
Pros
– User-friendly features
– Easy rubber grip handles
– Fast speed of 1800 SPM
– Built-in stitch regulation
– Affordable price
Cons
– Not suitable for sewing

9. Juki TL2000Qi Grace Q-Zone Stitch Machine

best long arm quilting machine

Last but not least is another excellent product from Juki. This entire package includes an assortment of necessary sewing and quilting products. The main items in the package are Grace Q-Zone Hoop Frame, Quilting Machine, and Juki TL2000QI High-Speed Sewing.

Other accouterments included are a Grace Sure Stitch Regulator for Juki TL2000Qi and TL2010Q, Dear Jane Quilting Software, ten packs of Organ Universal Needles, twenty packets of Quilt Machine Metal Bobbins, and bungee clamps.

The sewing and quilting machine uses a single needle but is extremely powerful and suitable for straight stitching and quilting. It is useful to create dresses, tailoring clothes, and home décor items. It is highly functional and portable, with a handle attached for easy carriage.

You are not limited to using this on a tabletop, as this can be mounted onto a cabinet or used over a quilting machine frame. The frame is unique and saves space as well. It can be extended to a 19-inch throat space and, at the same time, can be used for large quilting projects.

Pros
– One complete package
– Portable
– Easy control with an on-handle control box
– Large throat space of the frame
– Software provided for pantographs
Cons
– It may be difficult to use for beginners

What to Consider Before Buying a Long Arm Quilting Machine?

What to Consider Before Buying a Long Arm Quilting Machine

You may have a general idea of what factors to consider before purchasing a sewing and quilting machine. But when investing, especially for professional purposes, you should do enough research before buying the product.

To understand which machine will suit your needs best, here is an extensive buying guide for choosing the best long arm quilting machine for beginners.

Dimension

The choice of the machine’s physical size or dimensions depends on the space you have for your sewing project. The machine needs to fit the space you have in your working area. So, keeping working space in mind while choosing a long arm quilting machine is necessary.

Speed

The speed of the quilting machine is a primary judging criterion for purchasing. The higher the rate, the faster you can work. Moreover, this should also match the work speed you are used to.

For midlevel work, a speed of 1500 SPM is excellent, whereas 1800 SPM is appropriate for professional practice.

Functionality

The worst thing to happen after buying a product is realizing it will not fulfill your needs. Thus, before making the final purchase, it is a good idea to consider your needs and why you will use them.

You should also know which additional tools are required and what accessories come along.

Tooth Gap

The tooth gap is the distance between the tip of the needle and the base of the machine. This is where the fabric or layers of fabric will sit. The wider this is, the more proficient you can work.

It also allows you to work in an organized manner. The standard size of the tooth gap is 12-14 inches yet.

Ease of Use

Complicated sewing and quilting machines are not for beginners. Understanding their mechanism takes a long time, and operating them can be a hectic task.

Instead, a functional device that is user-friendly is more opted. Modern quilting equipment has easy-to-use buttons, rollers, and sliders.

Portability

Often, you may need to shift your workspace while working. Moving around a sewing machine is a challenging task.

However, it can be made easier if it is compact, light in weight, and has handles for carrying attached. Furthermore, few models provide options for connecting them to a cabinet.

Accessories

If you want to save money in the long run and do not want to spend further on sewing accessories, then you can buy the package offers.

These generally come with all the necessary accessories, such as needles, clamps, and bobbins. Some machines have rubber grips and LED lights for better usage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Best Long Arm Quilting Machine
What Kind of Machine is Suitable for Quilting?

You can show your creativity in needlework with the help of quilting – one of the most complex sewing techniques. With the help of this technique, craftswomen create a wide variety of things, starting from a quilt work and ending with three-dimensional arts and exquisite women’s accessories. Sewing machines come to their support, taking on the most detailed part of the work.

Is a Long Arm Quilting Machine Worth It?

Using a longarm machine hoping to get better quilting output is not correct. To use a longarm machine effectively, users require fundamental quilting skills. Therefore, a longarm quilting machine will not be worth it unless you have basic quilting skills and minimal experience in quilting.

Why Get a Long Arm Quilting Machine?

Quilts contain a variety of fabric pieces and layers. Making them by hand or with a conventional sewing machine is possible, but it is time-consuming and labor-intensive. Using a long arm quilting machine allows you to swiftly and effortlessly sew all of those materials together. Moreover, some seated models have an oversized attached work table so that you have more room to work.

How Long is a Long Arm Quilting Machine?

Longarm machines come in a wide variety, all of which make it simple to quilt long pieces of fabric. An 18″ maximum length is typical for most long-arm quilting machines. An 18-inch longarm machine allows you to take on large projects with ease.

Can I Make Money Using a Longarm Quilting Machine?

Absolutely! Once you’ve invested in a longarm machine, it’s simple to start earning money by quilting for others. If you decide to produce things to sell, you can recoup the cost of your longarm machine in a few years.

How Do I Learn to Quilt Using a Longarm Quilting Machine?

There are many internet resources for beginners to learn long-arm quilting machine operation techniques. Besides, you can also join classes in your neighborhood where you can learn from a skilled quilter.

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Final Thoughts

A longarm quilting machine is handy equipment to have around. Whether you are buying a basic one for household chores or a professional one at an industry level, it will comprehensively serve your needs. Long arm quilting machines have evolved and improved over time.

Starting with the rudimentary models, we now have functions and features that had to be done manually earlier. It is now much more time-saving and efficient. Whether you plan to buy one for a gift for an aunt or grandma, this review will be useful in selecting the best long arm quilting machine for home use.

Any of these quilting machines can be used to sew sweaters and mufflers for the winter season, prepare a quilting bee, or do some craftwork as a hobby or passion. We hope this review will aid you in pursuing your passion and profession.

Sources
1. Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Longarm_quilting, Longarm quilting
2. brother, https://www.brother-usa.com/home/sewing-embroidery/long-arm-quilting, Long Arm Quilting
3. Amy Smart, https://www.diaryofaquilter.com/machine-quilting-basics/, INTRO TO QUILTING 101, October 27, 2010

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