13 Best Sewing Machines for Free Motion Quilting in 2021
Free-motion quilting demands years of dedication and financial investment. It is fairly significant to have perfectly suitable equipment that can serve you well. Some features such as dog feed grip and a variety of presser feet adjustments are extremely significant as they can make the process easy and efficient. If you are in the process of buying, this article offers a review and buying guide of the best sewing machines for free-motion quilting based on the bobbin system, feet, speed, and stitches range.
First of all, this one from Brother is a great alternative to go for, having an efficient needle system and offers a super easy mechanism. This machine has become a popular choice across the market for different stitching options and a drop-in bobbin system that serves you well.
Additionally, this device offers great convenience to work with.
Secondly, for comfort, this device comes with an LED light that doesn’t strain your eyes. Here, you will also find an auto-size buttonhole feature that is absolutely easy and works efficiently in buttonhole stitching. It comes with 27 built-in stitches, including hems, quilting, decoration, and much more. Additionally, the fact that it can withstand a thick fabric makes it of great value.
In the end, the drop-in bobbin threader is jam-resistant and offers a smooth experience overall. The design further incorporates a versatile free arm that comes extremely handy for quilting and also helps you in a wide range of applications. Speaking of accessories, it also includes 6 sewing feet, an instruction manual, DVD, and a needle set to make the process easy and trouble-free.
Pros
Offers great durability
Easy and convenient
Ideal for all skill sets
A lot of accessories
Cons
It can be a little expensive
Final thoughts, this Brother XM2701 is one of the best sewing machines for free-motion quilting with absolute ease and efficiency. It comes with a basic design having a number of stitching options and a drop-in, jam-resistant bobbin that helps you throughout. Furthermore, it is known for its ability to work with complicated fabrics, not to mention with great versatility.
2. SINGER 4423 Sewing Machine – Free Arm Quilting Machine
Features
1100 stitches per minute
23 built-in stitches
Jam-resistant drop-in bobbin system
Stainless steel frame
Here comes one of the best affordable sewing machines for quilting, having all the essential elements that serve you all along. It is a great option for beginners who have just started and want something that can help them in grooming their skills.
Despite being pocket-friendly, it is fast and powerful that not only saves time but offers great precision and accuracy, making it a reliable option.
Likewise, this one come with 23 built-in design including straight, zigzag, and so on. Here, the device is able to provide you with 1100 stitches per minute that is pretty decent compared to other competitors with a similar price range. Speaking of the motor, it is specifically designed for complicated and big quilting projects with a jam-resistant bobbin that gives it an edge over others.
Talking about the efficiency, you are getting a presser feet adjustment and wide feet, so you can use this machine for multiple purposes. The automatic needle placed here remains completely balanced even when you are pushing thick fabric. Additionally, it is worth mentioning that the device is made up of stainless steel that offers great durability and long service life at such a price.
Pros
Offers fast speed
Includes a powerful motor
It is a cost-effective option
A variety of presser feet
Cons
Not many built-in stitches
In essence, if you are a newcomer and want something affordable yet efficient, this Singer 4423 is a great choice to go for. It is equipped with a powerful motor and impressive speed that facilitate you in big quilting projects. Furthermore, the addition of presser feet adjustments and durable construction makes it stand among others at a pocket-friendly price range.
Likewise, here comes another sewing machine from Singer, with high-end features and a powerful motor that assist you throughout. It is designed for all skill sets with absolute ease and convenience, not to mention versatility.
Also, you will get two different LED lights positioned in the workspace, so not only you won’t have to strain your eyes, but it also saves a lot of time.
When it comes to performance efficiency, this one is a popular choice across the market with a number of stitching options and high speed. It comes with 750 stitches per minute speed that is enough to accommodate your big quilting projects with accuracy. I have been using this for quite some time and have found that the motor stays balanced even while pushing hard and thick fabric.
Lastly, this device incorporates 100 stitch options including 76 decorative and 6 buttonholes styles. So, you can use this machine for a variety of tasks with absolute efficiency. For easy navigation, you will also find an LCD display screen that allows you to monitor the process all along with convenience. The manufacturers have also added a metal frame that contributes to its durability and long lifespan.
Pros
Includes adjustable stitches
Offers great ease
Sturdy and durable
Includes a powerful motor
Cons
The presser feet might issue
Final thoughts, this Singer 7258 is a well-suited option for anyone looking for a reliable and powerful machine out there. It comes with a number of stitches and adjustments with a fast speed and precise operations that help you all along. In addition, it values your money and includes a set of two LED lights, not to mention an LCD screen display that makes it the easiest machine and the most popular out there.
This Brother PQL11500SL is the second product on my list with premium construction and professional features that is only for advanced free-motion quilting.
It is best known for its ability to operate in a matter of seconds with absolute precision and accuracy. Its needle system is also called F.A.S.T, suggesting an advanced threading process that gives it an edge over others.
Furthermore, this machine is equipped with a foot presser dial that you can ideally use to do adjustments according to your task requirements. It is also worth noticing that this machine can handle thick fabric quite well with some adjustments, making it a fair deal for quilting. It also comes with a tension thread control system that allows you to control the overall tension of the thread you are using.
Last but not least, this Brother device comes with a large working area in addition to an extended 8.6-inch table that helps you in doing bigger projects such as quilting easily. For speed, it is able to do 1500 stitches per minute with absolute precision that is quite exceptional at the reasonable price range. You will also find a wide foot, an instruction manual, a knee lifter, and so on in the package.
Pros
Offers easy handling
Includes advanced needle system
A lot of accessories
Precise and efficient
Cons
It can be tricky for right-handed people
Finally, if you are someone looking for an efficient machine that can help you with advanced projects, this one from Brother is the best. It comes with an advanced needle system and precise pin feeding that helps you all along. Additionally, its fast speed, foot presser adjustments, stainless steel construction, and wide feet make it stand among others.
5. SINGER Quantum 9960 Sewing Machine
Features
600 stitches range
Electronic auto-pilot mode
850 stitches per minute
A variety of presser feet
Likewise, this one from Singer is another quality product, best known for its exceptional stitching ability and an efficient bobbin system. I absolutely love this one for its creative design that provides you with a scope to explore different designs.
Here, the fact that it is easy to use and includes a one-step process makes it well-suited for beginners and newcomers.
Furthermore, this machine is designed to offer 600 stitches with a large working space. To further enhance the space, this one comes with a table, so you can perform complicated designs. It is worth mentioning that the bobbin system is easily operatable with convenient insertion and comes with a clear cover, so you can monitor the winder all along.
Last but not least, this design incorporates 13 buttonholes styles with exceptional precision that helps you with versatility. For quilting, this one comes with an efficient threading system. For quilting, you will find a number of stitches such as basic, stretch, and so on. Hence, you can personalize the tasks ideally. For convenience, this one also comes with an automatic threader.
Pros
A variety of buttonholes styles
Sturdy and long-lasting
600 built-in stitches
Easy bobbin system
Cons
Changing the needle is tricky
In essence, this machine from Singer is one of the best sewing machines for free-motion quilting with an easy design and a variety of buttonhole stitches. It is a versatile machine with 600 built-in stitches and different styles that helps you in quilting. Further, it is designed to last for a long time with a computerized display that contributes to convenience and durability.
6. Juki TL-2010Q Portable Sewing Machine
Features
Advanced thread tension system
Aluminum buildup
Automatic threader
Large working space
I have also included this TL-2010Q sewing machine from Julki for its quality stitches and a powerful motor. It is an upgraded version of the Julki model, having absolute convenience, functionality, and durability.
It incorporates an aluminum casting frame that keeps itself stable even in big projects, making it the best for free-motion quilting. The design is compact that further helps you in saving space and easy storage.
The first thing you will notice in this design is the large throat and a predetermined needle positioning system, both of which are extremely important for free-motion quilting. The threading system is by far one of my favorites that prevents tangling and breakage ideally. Additionally, it comes with a large working space that has the ability to handle unconventional projects easily.
Furthermore, the feature that makes it remarkable among others is its control system that offers you great stability, making it suitable for beginners as well as experienced users. Here, you will also notice that it makes less than usual sound, so if you are a home user, this one is appropriate for you. It is worth mentioning that the motor is highly efficient and works with complete precision.
Pros
High-quality stitch work
Includes a speed controller
Easy to handle/ use
A large working space
Cons
It only has straight stitches
Wrapping up, if you are looking for a free-motion quilting machine that is easy to operate and designed for all skill sets, I would recommend you go for this Juki TL-2010Q. This one comes with stable construction and a large working space that makes it a reliable alternative. Coupled with this, you will get a quality stitching work and speed controller that gives it an edge over others.
7. Brother Sewing and Quilting Machine, XR3774
Features
74 stitches style
Jam-resistant drop-in bobbin system
Includes 8 sewing feet
LCD display panel
Coming from Brother, this XR3774 is one of the best sewing machines for free-motion quilting with basic features and an affordable price range. It is specifically designed for beginners with essential features that allow you to learn the skill of free-motion quilting properly.
Additionally, it provides you with absolute convenience and assistance, so you feel at ease throughout.
When it comes to design, it is equipped with a total of 37 stitches that are more than enough for beginners to explore and groom their skills. It also incorporates 74 different stitches styles that you can use for complicated tasks. I really like its one-step buttonhole stitches that offer a simple and easy operation. For newcomers, the manufacturers have also included an instruction manual and DVD.
Lastly, this machine comes with a drop-in bobbin system with an automatic threader that provides you with absolute ease and convenience. For further ease, the package includes a machine cover, table, and 8 sewing feet, so you enjoy the whole process completely. Finally, this Brother machine comes with a free arm that not only makes it perfect for quilting but also helps you in day-to-day sewing tasks.
Pros
Offers great versatility
Includes 8 sewing/ quilting feet
Ideal for beginners
Includes a drop-in bobbin system
Cons
It can be expensive for newcomers
Final thoughts, if you are in the initial stages of free-motion quilting and want something that can help you in learning the skill, this one is perfect for you. It comes with eight different sewing feet with a drop-in bobbin system that facilitates you well. Additionally, the design includes an automatic needle threader and an LCD display that makes it stand among others.
8. Brother HC1850 Sewing and Quilting Machine
Features
130 built-in stitches
850 stitches per minute
75 inches throat area
LCD display panel
If you can spend a little more than usual for a premium, high-end, and functional sewing machine, I would undoubtedly recommend you go for this Brother HC1850.
It is an advanced device, having automatic assistance, convenient operations, and absolute efficiency. Additionally, the fact that it is lightweight and made up of an aluminum frame makes it highly durable with long service life and easy storage facility.
Similarly, the device is equipped with 130 built-in stitches options, including buttonholes, decorative, and straight styles. Also, it is worth noting that this one is able to sew, quilt, and embroider with absolute efficiency, making it versatile and multi-purpose. It also incorporates a large LCD display panel that allows you to monitor the whole process with absolute ease.
Speaking of performance efficiency, this device offers you 850 stitches per minute that is decent enough to accommodate your big quilting projects. Here, the fact that you can easily control the speed according to requirements makes it a great choice for you. Additionally, it includes 7 presser feet adjustments and a wide throat of 5.75 inches, making it absolutely best for free-motion quilting. Finally, the large extension table takes big quilting projects ideally.
Pros
Offers great versatility
Easy to use/ handle
Lightweight and durable
Offers fair deal of accessories
Cons
It is expensive for beginners
In conclusion, this Brother HC1850 is a well-suited option for anyone who is striving for functionality and efficiency. This device is equipped with a powerful motor and speed adjustments that serve you well throughout. In addition, this machine includes an LCD panel and a fair deal of accessories, making the overall process easy and convenient for you.
9. Janome MC6650 Sewing and Quilting Machine
Features
170 built-in stitches
LCD display panel
10 inches extension able
Jam-resistant top-loading bobbin system
Coming from Janome, this one is undoubtedly the fastest and easiest computerized machine out there, having versatility and efficiency. This device is one of the best sewing machines for free-motion quilting because of its large working space and throat that can handle thick fabric well.
As Janome is famous for its high-end buildups, this one is no different and includes a metal frame that helps you with long service life.
Likewise, it is equipped with a total of 170 stitches, including a buttonhole and decorative, making it a great option for multiple projects. For ease, the manufacturers have added an LCD display control panel and LED lights that help you in monitoring the process and prevent straining your eyes. Apart from a large workspace, you will get a quilt kit and a 10-inch extension table that further offers you convenience.
Finally, when it comes to sewing speed, this one offers 1000 stitches per minute with complete accuracy and precision that is pretty amazing at such a price. I also really like the easy-to-use top-loading bobbin system that is resistant to jam and offers a smooth process. Lastly, you will also get a thread cutter button and automatic needle threader, so you can save time and struggle alike.
Pros
Includes jam-resistant bobbin
Offers great control/ stability
Ideal for all skillsets
Includes many stitches options
Cons
It can be a bit expensive
Final thoughts, this Janome MC6650 sewing machine is a popular choice across the market for its quilt kit and a 10-inch extension table. It is made up of a metal frame and provides you with great versatility and functionality. The design incorporates a large working space and a jam-resistant top-loading bobbin system, making it perfectly suitable for free-motion quilting.
10. JUKI TL-2000Qi Sewing and Quilting Machine
Features
1500 stitches per minute
3 inches throat area
Aluminum cast construction
A variety of presser feet
If you are an experienced user and buying a sewing machine will be a long-term investment for you, I would suggest you go for this one. This machine from Juki is one of the best sewing machines for free-motion quilting, having absolute functionality and durability that serve you well.
Additionally, this one offers a lot of accessories, so you don’t have to financially invest in other things.
Likewise, this device is made up of an aluminum cast frame with a lightweight design, making it durable as well as portable. Here, you will be pleasantly surprised to find that the machine comes with a number of quilting feet, extension table, knee lifter, and presser feet adjustments that serve you well. It is also worth mentioning that the sturdy cast arm and table make less than usual vibrations and provides you with stability.
In the end, when it comes to speed, you cannot find anything better than this as it comes with a powerful motor that offers 1500 stitches per minute. It is also equipped with a large 8.3-inch throat and working space, making it a great alternative for free-motion quilting. Apart from this, you are also getting control features that allow you to keep the speed in control and consistent according to task requirements.
Pros
Offers great durability
Includes a powerful motor
Offers great deal fo accessories
Stable and balance
Cons
It can be a bit expensive
Wrapping up, this one from Juki is an impressive alternative for free-motion quilting if you are up for spending a little more for efficiency and functionality. This one is equipped with a powerful motor, LED lights, a number of accessories, and stitching options that serve you well. Furthermore, the design incorporates a large working space, throat, and an extension table, not to mention the heavy aluminum frame that provides you with stability and control, making it best for quilting.
11. Brother CS6000i Sewing and Quilting Machine
Features
LCD display panel
60 built-in stitches
Jam-resistant drop-in bobbin system
8 sewing feet
Here comes one of the most popular machines for quality with all the essential features that serve you well. It offers a combination of versatility and convenience with high-end characteristics and a modern design.
Additionally, it is equipped with automatic assistance and an LCD display that allows you to monitor the whole process, making it a reliable option, among others.
Similarly, this machine offers a total of 8 quilting and sewing feet that make it a multi-purpose and versatile alternative. If you are using this device for quilting, you can use spring action, monogramming, zipper feet, and overcasting with great precision and accuracy. The design further incorporates a large working area and a table, so you can do even the most complicated designs easily.
In the end, the design incorporates a total of 60 built-in stitches that allows you to perform a variety of designs. It also has a jam-resistant drop-in bobbin that offers you smooth operations with absolute ease. Finally, it is worth mentioning that the device comes with a fair deal of accessories, from needle sets to bobbins and so on.
Pros
Includes an LCD display
Offers 8 quilting/ sewing feet
Includes a large spacious table
Offers automatic assistance
Cons
It can be a little expensive
Difficult to clean
Wrapping up, this Brother CS6000i is a great choice to go for quilting with a number of accessories and a total of eight feet that serve you well. It comes with a 2-inch LCD display, automatic needle threader, and a large table design that helps you all along with convenience and ease. I really like this machine because of its 60 built-in stitches and the drop-in bobbin system.
Coming from Janome, this one machine is my favorite for its efficient and simple mechanism that works absolutely best for beginners. It is one of the best out there, having a number of stitches options and an LCD display that allows you to monitor the whole process with absolute ease.
Also, the fact that it incorporates a fair deal of accessories makes it stand among others.
Secondly, it is a computerized machine that provides you with automatic assistance and large working space. So, you can ideally accommodate your large quilting tasks easily. Although it is straightforward to use and pretty understandable, it also comes with an instruction manual that you can use. You can also adjust the pressure between 1 and 7 according to the fabric type.
For speed, you will be pleasantly surprised as it offers 1000 stitches per minute that is efficient enough for experienced users as well as beginners. Speaking of the stitching options, it has a total of 170 built-in stitches from straight to buttonholes and so on. It is also designed with sturdy material for durability. The only downside is its price that can be overwhelming for some users.
Pros
Offers great durability
Ideal for all skill sets
Easy and convenient
Includes a range of motions
Cons
It can be a little expensive
Finally, if you are in search of a high-end and efficient free-motion quilting machine, this is the one to go for. It comes with a number of stitching options and fast speed that help you throughout. Also, the large working space and pressure adjustments make it absolutely appropriate for quilting. The fact that it can work with almost all fabrics with ultimate convenience makes it worth your money.
I am ending my list with this Juki HZL-F300, having all the basic yet efficient features that facilitate you well. The machine is best known for its modern stitching range and the quality of these stitches.
I really like this one because of its easy operations that have made life simple for me. Additionally, it comes with a Direct Select Mode that allows you to use a number of patterns ideally.
Furthermore, this one is equipped with 100 stitch styles, from buttonholes to straight, and so on. For quilting, the manufacturers have added an 8-inch throat area and a one-touch needle threader. Also, the precise feeding system is able to take big quilting projects ideally. Here, I am a fan of the immediate needle stop button that adds to the overall ease.
Last but not least, this machine has a powerful enough motor that offers you 900 stitches per minute that is fairly fast for complicated projects. For further assistance, the manufacturers have added an LCD display screen and speed controlling feature. The only downside to this model is that it doesn’t come with an extension table; however, you can buy it from the market.
Pros
Offers impressive versatility
Sturdy and durable
Quiet and easy to use
Offers stability and balance
Cons
It doesn’t include an extension table
In the end, this one from Juki is another quality product designed for beginners with basic features that serve you well. It offers you powerful motor and automatic assistance, making the process easy and convenient for you. Additionally, this one has the ability to take big quilting projects quite well, having a large throat and stable threading system.
What to Look for While Buying the Best Sewing Machine for Free-Motion Quilting: Everything You Need to Know
Free-motion quilting has gained a certain popularity in recent times as they offer a scope to create and experiment. Although this process can be done with a normal sewing machine, it is equally important that you have some basic features that are important for this process. So, if you are in the process of buying the best sewing machine for free-motion quilting out there, here are some things you should consider;
What is Free-Motion Quilting?
Free-motion quilting is a method that involves stitching and sewing designs at the same time in a way that you are completely free. Hence, you have control over the pattern or design you are going to paste on your quilt. There are a number of machines out there that help you in doing the process with ease and convenience; however, you can still do this with a regular machine.
How to Do Free-Motion Quilting with Regular Machine?
All a free-motion quilting requires is a feed dog. So, to do this process, you need a regular sewing machine that has a specific foot. There are many contemporary sewing machines that come with a number of feet, so you can do the process easily. For control, it is important that you have a darning foot as it is responsible for providing you with stability and balance.
Size of the Table
One of the primary things you should consider is the size of your machine. Here, it is equally significant that you look for a machine that is lightweight yet provides a large working space. If you are most likely to be using your machine for bigger projects, it is extremely important that you go for a large extension table. This can help you in handling big quilts well when you need them. Also, many models out there have detachable tables, so you can just remove it whenever you feel like it is bothering you.
Quilting Stitches
One of the main things you should look for in a sewing machine for free-motion quilting is the stitching style it offers. Here, if you are a beginner, having basic straight and zigzag stitches is more than enough. Apart from this, if you want to add a creative element, you can go for contemporary options that have decorative and fancy stitches like serpentine and so on.
Thread Tension System
Likewise, here comes another important aspect of buying a sewing machine for free-motion, i.e., the thread tension system. Now, the point here to consider is that it is completely different from regular stitches. Hence, in the market, you can either find automatic or manual thread tension, so go for the suitable adjustments you need for that project.
Presser Feet Adjustments/ Options
It is equally important that you look for a machine that has multiple pressers feer. This is because different kinds of feet are used for different types of stitching. Especially if you are an experienced user, it is significant that you go for versatile presser feet that can help you include creativity. Apart from this, there are also a variety of models out there that come with one presser having multiple purposes, making it ideal for quilting.
Wide Throat Area
For free-motion quilting, it is important that you have a large throat space. In simple words, throat space is the area between the needle and the edge of the machine. Hence, having a large area can help you in pushing thick and bulky fabric, so it becomes easy and convenient and you have a lot of space to work with. This space can be between 8 and 18 inches. So, according to your budget limits and requirements, you can opt for the right one.
Finally, based on these essential features and your individual requirements, choose rationally the one that suits you best.
Frequently Asked Questions FAQs
Can any sewing machine do free-motion quilting?
Yes, with some specifications, any normal sewing machine can do free-motion quilting. However, if you are a beginner in the field, I would recommend you not to use these regular machines as there are certain complications involved in the process. If you have advanced skills and your machine has a feed dog grip and different presser feet adjustments, you can use a normal sewing machine for the process.
Can you do free-motion quilting with a walking foot?
Yes, absolutely, you can do free-motion quilting with a walking foot. This is because these feet are equipped with a feed dog grip that is important to go through the thick fabric and keeping the layers in place. Also, with these walking feet, there is a lesser chance of getting disengaged. Overall, any foot having a feed dog grip can be used for free-motion quilting.
What needle do you use for free-motion quilting?
It totally depends on the fabric you are using. Hence, the weight and thickness of the fabric determine the needle type you should be used for free-motion quilting. However, you can still find universal needles, including topstitch needles and Aurifil 50 or 40wt, because these can be used for normal stitching as well as free-motion quilting.
Final Thoughts
Free-motion quilting is a method that involves stitching and sewing designs at the same time in a way that you are completely free. Therefore, it demands quality equipment that can make the process efficient and convenient for you. From the above-mentioned list, some of my favorites are;
Janome Horizon 8200 Computerized Sewing Machine is one of the best with a large working space, durability, and pressure adjustments.
JUKI TL-2000Qi Sewing and Quilting Machine are famous for its speed range, stitch style, and powerful motor.
Brother Sewing and Quilting Machine, XR3774 is popular for its working space, thread tension system, and wide throat area.
Finally, based on these recommendations and some essential elements, you can choose the best sewing machine for free-motion quilting.
