Learning the basics of what to look for when shopping for a sewing machine for quilting can help to ensure that the perfect machine is chosen for the job. When exploring the various machines on the market, it is important to consider the following four main aspects before making a final decision.
Budget
The budget allocated for the machine will naturally dictate the range of sewing machines available to choose from. As with all purchases, there are budget models and then those machines that are considered mid-range or high-end.
It’s a good idea to determine exactly how much money is available and how much you are willing to spend. Doing so now will prevent the temptation of coming across a model which is a few hundred more than budget but may be the difference between a basic machine, and a machine suited for quilting.
Features
Aside from the budget, it is essential for understanding what type of machine will work best for quilting projects. There are various features to consider that can have a big impact on sewing and quilting performance.
Presser feet, speed and feed control, plus various stitches and stitch widths, all have a big impact on the type of fabrics, techniques and stitches which the machine can be used for. Paying attention to the details is key when scoping the best sewing machines for quilters.
Accessories & Extension Table
Having a wide range of accessories and especially an extension table can make quilting both easier and more enjoyable. Accessories such as walking feet, quilting needles and patchwork presser feet help to give increased stitch control, allowing for the perfect stitch length, width and tension when quilting.
A larger extension table is an added expense, however it can make a lot of difference. It gives the quilter a larger flat work surface, allowing bigger projects to be tackled, plus adding general stability to the whole machine when quilting.
Warranty & Service
The warranty and service contracts on sewing machines for quilting can be important, especially if quilting is considered a serious hobby. Research the company’s history of servicing, or even see if the company offers a full service contract.
Most of the higher end machines come with a full warranty, with the added security that if anything goes wrong, it is covered with a limited period. Knowing the machine is coverered can make investing a little extra worthwhile in the long run.
Brand
The brand involved can also be an important factor in the decision process when it comes to buying a sewing machine for quilting.
Many household brands produce machines which fit the bill for quilting, however reading reviews and feedback about previous customer experience with the brand can also help to decide which machine to choose.
Some of the most popular brands known for quilting sewing machines include Brother, Singer and Janome. Each of these brands produces a wide variety of different models, with a range of features, all of which are suitable for the type of quilting projects that are planned.
Weight & Portability
The weight and portability of the machine is an often overlooked aspect when it comes to quilting machines. Machines which are very portable and lightweight can be beneficial, especially if they are to be used as a traveling machine to attend classes or workshops.
Lightweight machines don’t have to sacrifice features in order to be portable, and the majority of mid-range and high-end machines are now designed with taking to classes and workshops in mind. This means a reliable and powerful machine can be taken around with ease.
Frame Construction & Stability
The stability of the machine is a major factor for improving the overall quilting performance and is something that should be taken into consideration before making a final decision.
The frame of the machine needs to be solid, with minimal wobble when in use. The correct sewing motion and speed creates stability, as does having an overall heavy and solid frame. Having a heavier weight frame prevents the machine from vibrating, which helps to improve the stitching process.
Noise Level
Finally, the machine’s noise level is important to consider when choosing a sewing machine for quilting. Machines come with a variety of noise levels, both when the machine is stationary and when it is in use.
Noise levels can be judged by reading reviews and also checking out the machine in person, if possible. It also helps to assess if the machine is too loud for the environment in which it will be used.
Speed
Machine speed is critical when it comes to selecting the perfect sewing machine for quilting. Most of the machines have adjustable speeds, which help to make sure that the project progresses at the correct rate for the skill level and technique employed.
Using the correct speed setting helps to maintain control of the fabric, so it’s important to ensure the machine chosen is able to handle fabrics of various weights and thicknesses with ease. Slowing down when using thick fabrics will help to achieve great stitch results.
Size & Style
The style and the size of the machine need to be considered in relation to the type of quilting to be undertaken. If small, intricate stitches are required, even with medium to heavy fabric, then one should choose a machine that has a good throat space.
There are many different sizes and styles available, and it pays to do a lot of research before choosing the one machine that will work best for the type of quilting style and technique that is desired. For instance, the different controls, tension dials and position of the needles may have a big influence on the final decision.
Stitch Length & Width
The stitch width and length settings on the machine should also be considered when choosing a sewing machine for quilting. Machines with adjustable settings allow for greater stitch length and width control, and hence, greater accuracy.
Having adjustable settings for things such as the needle position, presser feet and zig zag stitch tension can help to make sure the fabric is handled properly when quilting. This means that the fabric stays in place when quilting and the right stitch length and width results.
Performance & Availability of Parts
Finally, performance and availability of parts certainly come into the equation when selecting a sewing machine for quilting.
If a machine is specifically being purchased for quilting, then checking the performance of the machine both when stationary and in use can help to assess whether the machine will be able to handle the type of quilting projects that are intended.
Moreover, the availability of necessary replacement parts, if and when the need arises, is equally important. Parts and consumables such as needles, bobbins, presser feet and optional pattern cams can all play a major role in the selection of a machine.
