The Best Sewing Machine For Quilting and Embroidery in 2023

There’s an overwhelming amount of different sewing machines on the market at the moment, available for commercial and private use.

With more sewers than ever starting to explore the world of quilting and embroidery, the choices are endless.

Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, finding the right machine for your quilting and embroidery machines is necessary.

We share your passion for sewing, and I understand the frustration when a product is disappointing after a 5-star review. If only there were some way to wade through all the noise…

Today, I have evaluated eight of the finest sewing machines on the market, assessing all their pros and cons to help you make the best decision.

What’s The Best Machine for You?

Here’s a summary of all the top picks from the lineup based on category…

Top Pick

Brother XR3340 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine

A computerized sewing machine with a lot of features and has an expansive selection of 195 stitches.

Brother XR3340 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine

My overall recommendation is the Brother XR3340. It’s feature-rich with an expansive selection of 195 stitches.

These features include one-step size buttonholes, 55 alphanumeric stitches, monogramming, and a lavish set of accessories. It’s yet another brilliant Brother quilting machine!

The fully automatic machine offers ease of sewing. Customers comment on the super bright LED, which illuminates the workspace so you can get quilting no matter the time of the day. It will sew slowly and steadily at a high capacity, stitching at 850 stitches per minute.

Best Value

Brother CS6000i

This machine is capable and will work well on both thick and thin fabrics, making it brilliant for embroidery designs on thick quilts.

Brother CS6000i

This was between the Singer Quantum Stylist and the Brother CS6000i.

For heavy-duty and frequent sewing, I would recommend the Singer Quantum Stylist, who offers an impressive 600 built-in stitches and stitch sequencing features with memory.

However, Brother CS6000i is my choice for the best value.

It has one of the highest consistent 5* ratings from customers, and I can see why.

Features

At under $100, you really get a bang for your buck. It’s suitable for beginner and intermediate sewers.

It comes with all of the critical features to help you along the way.

It is easily able to handle thick and thinner fabrics.

The accessory box slides away for access to the free arm, useful for adding embroidery to pant and shirt cuffs.

Stitches

Use one of the 60 in-built stitches to really personalize your work.

Like most Brother sewing and quilting machines, this also comes with a bountiful collection of accessories.

Editor’s Choice

Bernette b77 W/ 8 Piece Feet Set

Good for quilting heavy-duty and high-intensity projects. It can handle high pressure, thick materials, and it has a lot of capabilities.

Bernette b77 W/ 8 Piece Feet Set

The Bernette b77 W/8 piece foot set is my Editor’s choice.

Up at the higher end of the price range, I think this could be the best sewing and quilting machine on the market.

It has a spacious work area and an add-on extension table for more significant projects, perfect for bulky stitching.

Function

It’s a one of the best for stitching all kinds of materials and even hosts pre-designed stitches for stretch knit fabric!

The top feeder system is a winning feature, in my opinion.

The dual feed can be used for precision when pattern matching on your top quilt. It’s the balance between computerized and manual, with the optional foot pedal or stop/start button.

Best Computerized Machine

Juki TL 2000QI Sewing and Quilting machine

With its incredible features and high sewing speed, in addition to the large throat space, it could be the best sewing machine for quilting and embroidery beginners.

Best for Beginners

Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine

Brilliant machine for those who are embroidery and quilting beginners and for those long time sewers who are looking for an ultra-lightweight machine.

Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine

The Brother XM2701 takes the prize for the best sewing and quilting machine for beginners. It’s a simple machine with few features to navigate and only has a modest 27 built-in stitches to play with – plenty for those who’ve just begun sewing.

Call me old school, but I love the dial feature on this device, instead of intimidating the screens that can put people off.

LED

Customers say the LED light isn’t very bright on this machine, but for such a low price, you could invest in a clip-on light to prevent straining your eyes.

For those that have never sewed before, this is a brilliant and inexpensive machine to suss out if sewing is the right craft for you.

Function

The various pressure feet give you a treasure chest of uses and will help you complete projects.

Wherever you are in your sewing journey, this Brother XR3340 could be an excellent choice for you.

Top 8 Sewing Machines For Quilting and Embroidery

Here are the full reviews of each product from the lineup…

Top Pick

Brother XR3340 Renewed

A computerized sewing machine with a lot of features and has an expansive selection of 195 stitches.

Brother XR3340 Renewed

Features

The Brother XR3340 takes sewing and embroidery to the next level.

With 140 built-in stitches, including 55 alphanumeric stitches, and 8 buttonhole settings, you won’t get stuck for embroidery designs! This machine will save your embroidery characters in memory, even after you have switched off the machine. That’s. Awesome.

LCD Screen

The LCD allows you to clearly see the number you’ve selected correlating to the desired stitch.

It’ll tell you which pressure foot to use, and the length and width of the stitch will be adjusted accordingly. Customers have reported the LED light illuminates the workspace well, so additional lighting isn’t required taking up precious workspace.

Needle Threader

The automatic needle threader saves time (we’ve all been there trying to thread the needle for eternity!).

The various pressures and feet give you a treasure chest of settings to choose from.

A sewing speed of 850 stitches per minute makes for manageable sewing and quilting.

Storage Unit

The storage unit comes with an abundance of accessories, including 10 different feet, a walking foot, 4 bobbins, a cleaning brush, and a dust cover.

The dust cover has a side pocket attached where the quilting table, foot pedal, and power cord slip in snugly.

Customers report this machine is simple to set up and get started.

At a very affordable price range, it’s an excellent machine for quilting beginners.

Specs

  • Built-in stitches: 195
  • Stitches per minute: 850
  • Unit dimensions: 17.3 x 8.0 x 16.0 (w x d x h)
  • Weight: 11.02lbs

Pros

  • Comes with lots of accessories
  • Easy setup
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Tension doesn’t automatically adjust with different stitches
  • Have to cut the thread manually

Brother CS5055PRW Sewing Machine

Brilliant piece of engineering and an excellent mid-level device without falling into an unattainable price range.

Brother CS5055PRW Sewing Machine

As seen on Project Runway, this model has made it onto my list of the top best quilting and sewing machines.

The Brother CS5055PRW is a limited edition and award-winning machine from offering a range of innovative features.

Function

I think this is a brilliant piece of engineering and an excellent mid-level device without falling into an unattainable price range.

Like plenty of Brother computerized quilting sewing machines, this will stitch at a sewing speed of 850 stitches per minute.

It’s easy to use for quilting and embroidery and quilting beginners.

LCD Screen

The LCD screen tells you which foot to use with each stitch, helping you save time and waste. Depending on how good your eyes are, the LED screen isn’t that bright, so people comment on needing another light over when sewing. The screen with the stitch choices on it doesn’t have a backlight, but you should be ok if you usually sew in daytime hours.

Needle Threader

This machine comes with features such as an automatic needle threader, automatic thread cutters, and a unique feed system makes this a fantastic choice for embroidery on elastics and stretch fabrics.

The bobbin is easy to wind, and the drop-in bobbin feature means it stays in place.

Quiet Operation

Quilters love this machine for free-motion sewing and quilting and comment on how quiet it is, even when sewing very thick materials.

 There are so many links online that provide the help you need to get started with this Brother quilting machine.

Like most top Brother sewing machines, it comes with a generous selection of accessories, including the walking foot and the built in needle threader.

Specs

  • Built-in stitches: 50
  • Stitches per minute: 850.
  • Unit dimensions: 19.48 x 10.75 x 15.96 inches (w x d x h)
  • Weight: 10.14lbs

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Quick – set bobbin system
  • Built-in automatic needle threader.

Cons

  • Not for inexperienced users.
  • Can be used for quilting but not as good as other models.

Best Computerized Machine

Juki TL 2000QI Sewing Machine

With its incredible features and high sewing speed, in addition to the large throat space, it could be the best machine for embroidery and quilting beginners.

Juki TL 2000QI Sewing Machine

Customers are raving about the Juki TL 2000QI sewing machine.

Build

Made from aluminum die-casting, it’s lightweight and moveable. The machine is sturdy enough to use at full speed without any wobbling.

It comes with a knee lifter, which raises and lowers the pressure foot by 1.2mm, so you have both hands to guide the fabric.

Despite being a sewing machine, the Juki TL 2000QI sewing and quilting machine doesn’t have a slider for adjustable speed control.

Features

This one-foot pedal machine gives users more control over the speed of sewing.

The device employs an automatic needle threader and the all-important built-in thread cutter, saving you thread and having to grab the scissors.

It’s a fast and responsive machine, stitching at a high sewing speed of 1500 stitches per minute. The large throat size 8.5” and additional extension table of 12 x 23” offers space and can make life easier when quilting more significant projects. 

Tension

The tension on the Juki TL 2000QI sewing machine is automatically controlled with the top thread, which could save future mistakes!

The oil ports make it an easy clean – essential for good upkeep of a sewing and quilting machine.

The Juki 2000QI sewing and quilting machine is at the higher end of the price range. It’s also one of the best midarm quilting machines you can get.

With the incredible features and high sewing speed, in addition to the large throat size, it could be the best sewing machine for embroidery and quilting beginners.

Specs

  • Built-in stitches: 1 straight stitch
  • Stitches per minute: 1500
  • Unit dimensions: 17.8 x 8.6 x 13.8 inches (l x h x w)
  • Weight: 37.8 lbs

Pros

  • Powerful LED light so you can see what you’re doing
  • Extension cable for more extensive work
  • Knee lift-lever

Cons

  • Feed dogs can be erratic
  • Delays when trying to source repair parts

Best for Beginners

Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine

Brilliant machine for those who are embroidery and quilting beginners and for those long time sewers who are looking for an ultra-lightweight machine.

Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine

This little Brother is a brilliant machine for those who are quilting and embroidery beginners and for those long time sewers who are looking for an ultra-lightweight machine.

It is sturdy yet small enough to put away easily if you’re short on space.

Features

High tech features include an LCD screen and a dial for selecting the stitch for your quilting project.

At the touch of a lever, the automatic needle threading is applied, and you can begin!

It includes an automatic bobbin drop-in, which allows you to keep an eye on how much thread you have on the bobbin.

The instruction manual is a quick and easy read and will get you using one of the modest 27 built-in stitches for embroidery designs in no time at all.

The 6 feet are simple and quick to change.

Customer Support

Like all Brother products, The XM2701 sewing machine comes with Brother At Your Side Support.

They offer free technical support via links online, live chat, or on the telephone for the life of your machine.

Some customers have commented on issues with getting the tension correct. Still, after checking in with the instruction manual, the problem can be resolved. Trial and error, right?

Specs

  • Built-in stitches: 27
  • Stitch per minute: 800
  • Unit dimensions: 12.1 x 5.9 x 15.3”
  • Weight: 12.6lbs

Pros

  • Built in needle threader
  • Inexpensive
  • Transportable

Cons

  • Not suitable for thick materials
  • Dim LED light

Best Value

Brother CS6000i

This machine is capable and will work well on both thick and thin fabrics, making it brilliant for embroidery designs on thick quilts.

Brother CS6000i

This Brother CS6000i is suitable for you if you’ve just started sewing and for intermediate sewers.

Features

The computerized sewing and embroidery machine comes with plenty of features, such as a stop/start button, an automatic needle threader, and nine pressure feet, including the walking foot, in the accessories.

The LCD screen display on the is the selection control for the 60 built-in stitches. It can be more like a personal guide, telling you which foot to use.

The free arm on the Brother CS6000i could be a big selling point for sewing professionals, along with the fitting button foot and the automatic buttonholer.

The quick-set drop-in bobbin is a favorite feature, along with the sewing speed selector.

This gives more control again over the speed that you’re sewing – good for a novice.

Capacity

This quilting and sewing machine is capable and will work well on both thick and thin fabrics, making it brilliant for embroidery designs on thick quilts.

Features such as blind stitch, monogramming and overcasting functions make this an excellent sewing machine for embroidery.

The additional oversized table will help to prevent wrinkles and creases in your projects. Customers say these additions make it a joy to sew on this machine, instead of frustration.

I think it’s a top sewing machine for embroidery and quilting on the market at the moment. 

Specs

  • Number of built-in stitches: 60
  • Stitch per minute: 850 stitches per minute.
  • Unit dimensions: 16 x 6.7 x 11.4 inches (l x w x h)
  • Weight: 13lbs

Pros

  • Good for quilting.
  • Generous amount of features and accessories, including a protective hardcover.
  • Built in needle threader

Cons

  • Small throat size
  • Threading the bobbin can be fiddly

Editor’s Choice

Bernette B77 W/ 8 Piece Feet Set

Good for quilting heavy-duty and high-intensity projects. It can handle high pressure, thick materials, and it has a lot of capabilities.

Bernette B77 W/ 8 Piece Feet Set

The Bernette b77 W/8 piece feet set is a great heavy-duty sewing machine

It’s a sister sewing machine to the Bernina and made by the same company.

Feaetures

The 5” touch screen main panel is easy to navigate and comes with great lighting.

The computerized quilting sewing machine comes with two knobs by the control panel, which allow you to change the width and length, keeping full control over your stitches.

The myriad of decorative stitches is presented in nicely packed folders on the LCD screen. It’s a great sewing and quilting machine for embroidery and applique.

Top Feeding System

This machine has a top feeding system for thicker fabrics, which helps the bottom and top materials go through the machine at the same speed.

It will prevent the fabric from shifting as you sew.

It comes with two great features – the knee lift, to give you hands-free work with bulky fabrics. 

And, the drop-in bobbin with a clear case lets you always see what’s going on inside your machine.

This is one of the best sewing machines for quilting heavy-duty and high-intensity projects. It can handle high pressure, thick materials, and it has a lot of capabilities.

Specs

  • Stitches per minute: 1000
  • Built-in stitches: 500
  • Unit dimensions: 16 x 15 x 8 (h x w x d).
  • Weight: 22lbs

Pros

  • Large throat (23cm), which is excellent for working with large quilts or embroidery areas.
  • Great machine for heavy-duty sewing.
  • High sewing speed

Cons

  • Some customers have bobbin issues with it coming off track.
  • No automatic needle threader.

Brother PQ1500SL

Comes with advanced features for fast and efficient sewing. Built for high-volume construction and has strong motors to help stitch through various fabrics.

Brother PQ1500SL

The Brother PQ1500SL comes with advanced features for fast and efficient sewing.

At the touch of a button, the needle goes up and down, and a built in cutting tool will neatly cut the thread and reset.

Rather than being computerized, this great machine still runs on a dial operated stitch selection for those of you who don’t invite computers to your sewing and embroidery sanctuary.

Build

The Brother PQ1500SL is considered an industrial but not a heavy-duty machine.

It doesn’t come with any fancy inbuilt stitches like many other sewing and quilting machines. Still, it is a simple and powerful Brother quilting machine.

Although it may not seem useful for embroidery, sewing a straight stitch can form broken or unbroken lines and fill in geometric shapes.

Function

This has been built for high-volume construction and has strong motors to help stitch through various fabrics.

The large throat plate, long arm, and extension table can prevent puckering and wrinkles in large quilting and embroidery projects.

These additions offer visibility for free-motion sewing embroidery.

Features

Like most good embroidery machines, this one also comes with a bundle of features and accessories, including a small screwdriver for changing the foot and seven pressure feet.

Its top features are the knee lifter, the automatic needle threader, electronic cutting tool, and built in cone stand. It’s an uncomplicated and one of the best sewing machines for quilting.

Specs

  • Built-in stitches: 1 (dedicated straight stitch).
  • Stitches per minute: 1,500
  • Unit dimensions: 7.9 x 12.6 x 19.3” (L x W x H).
  • Weight: 29.8lbs

Pros

  • Roomy workspace for bulky quilts.
  • Four built-in feed dog positions.
  • Automatic needle threader.

Cons

  • Side bobbin so you cannot see how much thread is remaining on the bobbin.
  • Takes time to get tension right when changing threads.

Singer Quantum Stylist 9960

Good machine for experienced sewers. It has an automatic thread cutter, automatic needle threader, auto-stitch width, and length adjustments so you don’t have to focus on anything else but your sewing.

Singer Quantum Stylist 9960

The Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 computerized machine is right for experienced sewers.

Though, it has mixed reviews on whether it is suitable for beginners.

I think the main reason is the number of built-in features.

The automatic needle threader on the Singer Quantum stylist saves time getting started.

Function

It’s used for sewing seamlessly heavy-duty fabrics such as denim and leather for quilts. It has the automatic needle threader, auto thread cutter, auto-stitch width, and length adjustments meaning you don’t have to focus on anything else but your sewing.

The Quantum Stylist has a speed slider bar for control to keep the maximum stitch speed on slow for thick projects.

Via autopilot mode, the tension setting will adjust the setting each time you move to another stitch.

Stitches

The Singer Quantum Stylist has heaps of stitches inbuilt for sewing and embroidery designs, and customers say it’s quiet and smooth.

There’s a stitch sequencing with memory, and it will save your stitch sequences after use. The detail and accuracy make this the right choice if you’re looking for an embroidery machine.

Feed Dogs

The machine’s powerful feed dogs are some of the best, along with 2 bags of labeled accessories.

Fantastic, as they can be an expensive addition.

A tie-off setting will ensure the last stitch will not become loose over time with the Singer Quantum Stylist. The handle and the hard case make this sewing machine easy to transport and protect.

With The Singer Quantum Stylist, there are infinite online resources and Singer customer support.

Specs

  • Built-in stitches: 600
  • Stitches per minute: 850
  • Unit dimensions: 17.2 x 8.2 x 12.
  • Weight: 18.2lbs

Pros

  • Versatility with sewing, embroidering, and quilting.
  • Colour LCD screen is bright on the Singer Quantum Stylist.
  • Five different font stitches for monogramming.

Cons

  • Can’t change the size of letters on the Singer Quantum Stylist.
  • Presser foot pressure is not manually adjustable on the machine.

I Know What Sewing Is, But What About Quilting And Embroidery?

Quilting is the action of attaching a minimum of three pieces of fabric together, usually through a quilting and sewing machine.

You want to secure the parts to make sure they don’t move over time and provide a decorative element to the quilt.

Quilting is an art form and can be traced back to Egypt, The Middle Ages in Europe, and Asia.

Embroidery is the art of decorating fabric using yarn and may include other materials such as beads.

Some sewing machines have been tailored specifically for quilting and embroidery purposes.

What’s The Difference Between A Regular Sewing Machine And A Quilting And Embroidery Machine?

Presser Foot Close Up
Presser Foot Close Up

A quilting machine is also a sewing machine. But, it has many additional features and capabilities that a regular sewing machine won’t have.

Since quilts can be huge and bulky projects, a quilting machine’s working space is larger than a sewing machine.

Throat Width

The throat width is the amount of space between the needle and machine (also known as the workspace).

These are usually larger on sewing machines for quilting and ease the frustration of trying to fold material through when quilting a large project.

When they are around 9” x 5”, the machine can be considered a quilting machine.

Workaround

You can often add an extension table that fits snuggly next to your quilting and embroidery machine.

It will give you an extra boost in space while helping keep material from warping when embroidering.

Another feature of a sewing and embroidery machine is the larger foot option – a quarter of an inch to allow thicker seams, specifically on quilts.

Stitches

There will be many stitches on sewing machines for quilting that you just don’t get on a regular sewing machine.

For basic home projects and simple sewing needs, this amount of space isn’t essential, but with bulky projects and quilts, you need a large work area.

Why Should I Buy a Sewing Machine?

Woman Using a Sewing Machine

Buying the right machine for the projects you’re into will help make the process easier and faster.

There are many similarities between a sewing machine and a quilting and embroidery machine.

Ultimately, a sewing machine is used for sewing simple things. A quilting and embroidering machine allows for thicker bulkier projects and embroidery stitching.

Details

Suppose a project you’re completing, such as a baby’s blanket or any of the other baby gift ideas here, involves adding borders or bindings.

In that case, a quilting machine can be handy.

Embroidering on fabric can really kick the aesthetic up a notch.

It’s good to see what’s available and find the best sewing machine or embroidery machine for your needs.

How to choose the right sewing machine for me?

Choosing the right sewing machine needs to be considered from different and technical perspectives.

Buying the right machine for your needs is paramount as it can be a large investment.

Purpose

If you are using the quilting and embroidery machine for home use, you might want to consider a smaller size.

Suppose you will be using it for long hours of embroidery every day. In that case, you’ll want to look at a heavy-duty model made explicitly for continuous use.

Can a regular sewing machine do what you want? If not, perhaps an embroidery machine with built-in designs would be more suitable for you.

But if you’re mainly be doing quilting projects, especially large quilts, then a long arm quilting machine is your best choice. And if you’re interested in learning more about them, you can check out my long arm quilting machines article.

Cost

There’s a vast range of quilting and embroidery machines available from $99 – $2000, and you don’t always get more for your money.

Some cheaper models are just as good for small home projects and will serve you well despite the low price tag.

It depends on how much you want to invest in the best sewing machine for you.

Warranty

I cannot stress how important this is!

If you do not buy directly from a manufacturer, you might not be covered under the standard manufacturer warranty.

In this case, you may have to deal with the supplier’s return and warranty policy.

NOTE

For example – Brother can offer a 25-year warranty on their sewing machines. Still, if you do not buy from a registered sewing shop supplier and use a shopping website, you probably won’t be covered by this. That would be a shame! You only want the best.

Quality

If you choose a reputable brand, you often won’t be disappointed with your machine’s durability and quality.

Read a review of the product first, make sure it’s the best for your needs.

Manufacturing errors can happen.

That’s why it’s crucial to do lots of research before purchasing and checking the warranty! Only go for the best sewing machines!

Requirements

If you will be using your sewing machine for mostly quilting, embroidery, or regular sewing, what’s important to you? Is a knee lift essential?

What about an automatic thread or needle threader?

It’s worth considering the amount and type of stitches, too, as the amount varies from 27 – 600. Consider how regularly you will be using your sewing and embroidery machine.

Maintenance

Your sewing machine is going to work more efficiently if you oil and clean it regularly

You should remove the lint and threads that become acquired after every use.

Most sewing and embroidery machines are effortless to clean and maintain.

They can be wiped down with a clean cloth (I like microfibre cloths).

TIP

There should be a cleaning brush that comes with the sewing machine used to dust and clean inside the bobbin case.

Lubricate

You should oil your sewing machine depending on how much you use it. Check the instruction manual first because some devices are self-lubricating, so they don’t require oil. Only use sewing machine oil, which you can find in haberdasheries or fabric shops.

Put some old paper or material underneath when oiling as it may drip through.

Stitches

It’s worth considering the amount and type of stitches you’re looking for as the amount varies from 27 – 600.

Some sewing machines offer simple stitching. Others will have more elaborate and beautiful built-in designs.

Consider how fast you’d like to sew.

One of the best brands out there features 850 stitches per minute, but some will accelerate at 1500 stitches per minute.

Hoop Capability

Embroidery Hoop
Embroidery Hoop

An embroidery hoop is a tool that is used to hold fabric taut while the sewing machine stitches on it.

You will need to hoop your fabric before placing it in the sewing machine.

It’s easy to assume that you can stitch a design that’s as large as the stitching area of your largest hoop, but that’s not always the case

Hoop Area

The hoop area, which can be embroidered, is not going to be the same as the machine’s sewing area, so you will need to check it in the user manual.

This can be a confusing process.

You don’t want to be left with a half-finished design. Some sites will allow you to use the embroidered design and resize it for free.

TIP

Be mindful of the sewing speed your sewing machine is set to before you begin.

Computer Connectivity

Some of the best computerized machines will come with a variety of built-in stitches. You can also purchase and download many more designs and stitches from the internet onto the computer or upload your own – pretty cool, right? I think this feature is on the best sewing machines.

Built-in memory

Built-in memory allows you to make the best custom stitch sequences and letter and stitch combinations.

Some machines allow you to include as many as 40 stitch patterns and remember them even when you switch it off! This is awesome to get the best sewing from your machine.

Ability of Editing

Bernette B77 Features & Demo

Some of the best sewing machines come with a software DVD and have screen-editing capabilities.

You can set a design or stitches from the inbuilt library from your electronic device and change the size.

This would be a feature on a computerized quilting sewing machine.

Accessories

These can be a costly add-on to your already expensive new machine, so it’s worth checking to see what’s already included.

Most quilting and embroidery machines will come with tonnes of tools such as:

  • Variety of feet.
  • Bobbins
  • Seam ripper
  • Extension table
  • Spool cap(s)
  • Extra spool pin
  • Cleaning brush
  • Extension table
  • Dust cover
  • Foot controller.

Features

There are also loads of features that come with a computerized quilting sewing machine, so it’s essential to see what you’d like and what would make your life easier:

Thread Cutter

When you’ve finished with your stitches, a button is pressed to automatically cut the thread for you.

This is sometimes followed by a tie end to keep the thread on the project secure. It saves you from reaching for the scissors and will save on thread!

Automatic Needle Threader

Sewing Machine Close Up
Sewing Machine Close Up

We’ve all sat for minutes in frustration, unable to thread the needle of our sewing machine.

Well, most modern sewing machines now come with an automatic needle threader to save you precious time! I think this is one of the best features of a modern sewing and embroidery machine.

Lights

It’s good to know what type of lighting the machine has for the workspace and on the screen if it’s computerized.

As for the best sewing machines, typically most models come with a bright LED light.

It’s good to know if you’ll be able to see your stitches throughout all times of the day.

Free arm

The bobbin case, the feed dogs, and stitch plate are all built into the free arm. You can remove the accessory box to use the free arm to put stitches on tube-style panels such as cuffs and hems on some models.

However, this isn’t possible on all sewing and quilting machines. Only the best sewing machines and quilting machines (review here) have access to a free arm.

Buttonhole

If you add buttons and buttonholes to your projects, you’ll want a buttonhole stitch pattern. It’s pretty standard for a quilting and sewing machine to come with different designs for you to choose from.

There are loads of videos online to show you how to use this neat feature on your sewing and embroidery machine.

Blind Stitching

Blind stitching is when stitches have been added to two pieces of fabric in a way that the thread is invisible or nearly invisible.

It’s a popular technique used for decorative quilts.

Some quilting and sewing machines provide a blind hem foot in the catalog of feet given as accessories.

If not, you’ll be looking to spend between $10 – $30 on one. 

FAQs

Can you embroider with a quilting machine?

Yes! And on a regular sewing machine too.

You don’t need the fancy feet, features, or stitches to create something beautiful. It can be as simple as drawing a stencil onto fabric and following it on a stitch of your choice.

You can make it as complicated or as simple as you like.

However, on a computerized quilting sewing machine, the extensive library of features and built-in stitches on a quilting sewing machine give you elaborate designs you’ll never tire of.

Why are the machines so expensive?

Sewing machines not too expensive, it depends on where you buy them. I’ve found a sewing and quilting machine on the market now for $99. Some of the best sewing machines are reasonably priced, with similar attributes to high-end models.

What’s a walking foot?

A walking foot is described as the quilter machine foot that evenly feeds layers of fabric through the machine for stitches.

The foot grips to the top layers of the material to help it move under the needle while the feed dogs move the fabric’s bottom layer.

What’s the difference between knotting and quilting?

Tying or Knotting Quilt Layers

Knotting vs Quilting

Quilting is where you attach three or more fabric pieces together using a machine, and knotting is an alternative where you will knot the fabric together using pearl cotton or yarn ties.

It’s a perfect alternative if you don’t have a quilting machine or a lower budget.

It’s easy to quilt your quilt layers together by tying (knotting) them.

It can add features of a beautiful design element.

Knotting Procedure

After measuring where to place the knots, you thread your desired thread through all the layers and back out close by using a tapestry needle.

You won’t want to tie the knots too tight, or you may end up damaging the holes and making them more prominent.

This can be a useful technique if a quilting machine is not in your budget. You don’t want lots of holes from a quilting machine to make something such as a waterproof picnic blanket.

Tips

Read the Manual

I cannot express how vital reading the instruction manual is. I know it’s easy to skim over it and get to the fun part.

But, if you invest time reading it, you’ll hopefully have an excellent understanding of all the nifty bits and features.

Most problems in reviews that I’ve read could have been resolved if time was taken to read the manual first. Read the manual!

Give it a Test Run

Always do a test run on fabric when you turn on your machine again…

It might sound silly and unnecessary, but it would be a shame to have to sit and resolve something that could’ve been rectified with a 5-second test run, especially if you have to manually adjust the tension.

Turn it All the Way Off

Make sure to turn off the machine when changing the foot. Just one accidental press of the foot or a button, and ouch!

Bright Lights Are Helpful

As mentioned earlier, most sewing machines lighting in the workspace isn’t mighty.

To protect your eyes and enhance visibility, it’s worth investing in a clip-on LED light.

Conclusion

There, now you have an abundance of information about the eight best sewing machines for quilting and embroidery.

There are many things to consider depending on your projects, dream features, and personal sewing goals.

Top Pick

For high capacity sewing, Brother XR3340 is a fantastic choice and the top overall recommendation.

he fully-automatic machine bestows an expansive library of built-in stitches – an absolute for a long time sewer.

Best Value

If you want to sew and embroider without breaking the bank, or invest in a lightweight sewing machine, check out the Brother CS6000i.

It can handle thinner to moderately thick materials with high-quality stitching at a remarkable value.

Editor’s Choice

For sewers wanting to splurge, my editor’s choice is the Bernette b77 W/8 piece foot set.

This sewing machine makes free-motion quilting a breeze and offers fantastic features for long-time sewers who want to upgrade.

Whatever model you go for, hopefully this has helped you and given you invaluable information.

Best of luck with choosing the right machine for you, and enjoy unleashing the designer within you!

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