Quilting is an enjoyable process for all, regardless of whether you are a complete beginner, or an experienced quilter. One of the reasons why people have been engaging in the craft is due to the massive satisfaction that can be gleaned from creating a beautiful artwork and then being able to keep it for your own use.
However, to engage in quilting would require you to purchase sewing machines meant for quilting, rather than a generic sewing machine. How then, do you begin your search for one?
How to identify the best quilting sewing machine?
Before investing in a quilting sewing machine, it is important to know the important features in the machine that you should look out for. After all, the difference between the features of the machines would make the experience of working with various machines different.
Features to look out for when searching for the best sewing machines:
- 1. Throat space
It is important to look for a machine with a large throat space, so that you will have a larger workspace for your quilting projects. - 2. Extended Table
An ideal sewing machine would have an extended table that will allow you to further expand your workspace and to work on your quilts with ease. - 3. Thread cutter
A built-in thread cutter would allow your machine to be more adaptable to your needs. - 4. Decorative stitches
Although optional, the presence of decorative stitches can help to enhance the designs of your quilting project. - 5. Quilting stitches
It would be a bonus if the machine has quilting stitches, such as the stay stitch or the tie-off stitch. - 6. Frame
A machine with an embroidery machine frame will make it much easier for you to work on your quilting projects. An example of a sewing machine with such a feature is the Brother SE400. - 7. Needle position
A machine which allows you to set the needle position according to your needs will give you the flexibility needed for quilting.
While a sewing machine with all the above features would be ideal, it is not necessary that every feature be present since the absence of a few would not affect the quality of your quilt too much. However, the most important features that you should definitely look out for are throat space, extended table and needle position.
FAQ
Do you require specialized servicing to maintain the sewing machine?
While it is not absolutely necessary to hire specialized service maintenance for your quilting sewing machine, it would be a good investment if you would like your machine to remain in good quality over a long period of time.
It should be noted that the type and frequency of servicing is very much dependent on how often you use the machine, and what you use the machine for. A common issue across all sewing machines is that the accumulation of lint as a result of threads, strands, and cotton fabric can lead to the machine not performing well. In this case, you might want to consider sending your machine for servicing.
Also, if you have not used the sewing machine in a long time, the lubricants in the machine might have dried up due to long periods of non-usage. In this instance, we would also recommend engaging a quick servicing for your machine.
Can you use a normal sewing machine for your quilting projects?
Yes, you can. It is not absolutely necessary to purchase a sewing machine meant for quilting. However, if you are looking for better results for your quilts, only a sewing machine meant for quilting can help you achieve the results you desire.
For quilters who do not quilt often, a normal sewing machine would suffice. However, for quilters who plan to quilt frequently, it is recommended that you invest in a sewing machine meant for quilting. Not only will you have a larger working area, you will also be able to take advantage of the proper feet needed for quilting. Most importantly, special quilting machines have the precision feeding function. The precision feeding function is especially important since it will allow you to create a wider variety of stitch types, as well as complete your projects quickly.
These features are just some features, out of plenty others, that a quilting machine type will be able to offer you. If you are looking to take up quilting seriously, we recommend that you invest in a quilting sewing machine.
What sewing machine would be best for commercial quilting?
We feel that the JUKI TL-2000Qi is the best industrial sewing machine for commercial quilting. Not only is it built with a larger sewing area and work space, but also with the ability to offer increased stitches per minute of approximately 1500. These features allow you to work on large projects without having to worry about space. At the same time, you can produce more intricate and professional designs. Therefore, the JUKI TL-2000Qi is ideal for professional quilters in the commercial quilting industry.
Conclusion
For everyone at different stages of their quilting journey, there is a quilting machine for you. Beginner quilters can simply opt for a low-end quilting machine. However, professional or expert quilters should invest in high quality quilting machines that albeit pricey, offer features like the walking foot, quilting table, and quilting that can make all the difference in crafting the best results.
