Best Long Arm Sewing Machine in 2023: Top 8 Picks

Learn about different long arm sewing machine models to create a beautiful finished quilt.

When you are quilting, you want to ensure that your stitches are precise and even. You want to control the tension of the fabric while you are quilting and sewing.

The problem? Most quilters find it difficult to keep their hands steady for a professional and precise finish.

The solution? Long arm sewing machines.

The long arm sewing machine is a great tool for many quilters. Whether you are new to the sewing world or have been working at it for years, they will help you achieve more precision than is possible with a domestic machine.  

Long arm quilting machines have become popular over the last couple of years due to their ease of use and high-quality outcomes.

There are different long arm sewing machine models available in the market today. They all are used by the quilters to create quilts of all sizes, from small wall hangings and curtains to large bedspreads. With so many options, choosing the right one can be challenging.

Interested in learning more about different long arm sewing machine models? Then we’ve put together this guide to help you pick the best one for your needs.

Keep reading. 

What is a Long Arm Sewing Machine?

Image Source: The Feisty Quilter

If you are wondering “what is a long arm sewing machine,” then it is just an advanced sewing machine. These sewing machines are popular for their ability to sew multiple layers of quilts.

It is an industrial sewing machine that permit quilters and sewers to sew quilting items that are too large for a traditional sewing machine. They are ideal for sewing fabric such as denim and leather.

It also has a longer arm than traditional sewing machines to reach larger pieces of fabric. The long arm of this sewing machine for quilting comes with the sewing machine head, frame, and roller. 

The head can move forward and back, left and right along the frame. There is also a foot pedal used to control the speed at which the needle moves. 

Uses of Sewing Machine Long Arm

The sewing machine’s long arm is used for a wide variety of settings, including home sewing and garment production. 

Image Source: The Quilting Room with Mel

The use of long arm sewing machine has grown in the past decades as people have begun to recognize their many benefits. Here are a few benefits of using a sewing machine for quilting:

• • Creating custom-made clothing and home goods
  • Sewing quilts, curtains, and other large pieces of fabric
  • Creating intricate or detailed designs on clothing and other items
  • Pantograph design can be done with the long arm sewing machine as it can trace the lengthy design
  • Projects require multiple layers of fabric to be stitched together, like when making a quilt or a patchwork blanket.
  • Sewing upholstery
  • Embroidering designs onto fabric
  • Putting piping on the edges of quilts and other
  • Applying different types of woven labels 

Difference Between Traditional Vs. Long Arm Sewing Machine

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Here’s a comparison table between a traditional sewing machine and long arm sewing machine to give you a better idea:

	Traditional Sewing Machine	Long Arm Sewing Machine
Definition	A traditional sewing machine is a standard sewing machine.	A long arm sewing machine has an extension arm attached to it, allowing you to sew large pieces of fabric together.
Ideal for	Small projects, such as garments	Quilts, tablecloths, and other large items that need to be sewn together at once
Throat space	A regular-sized throat space between the sewing machine’s body and needle	A bigger throat space between the body and the needle
Motor capacity	Slow motor capacity, which increases the difficulty level of sewing multiple layers of fabric	The industrial-grade motor capacity allows you to sew multiple fabric layers faster.
Easy to operate	Quilting is possible with a traditional sewing machine, but you will need to experiment and reposition the project.	The bigger throat space requires you to maneuver the quilt on the machine less.

Things to Consider While Choosing Long Arm Sewing Machines

If you already own an advanced, large sewing machine, then you might wonder why you need another fabric sewing quilting machine.

Long arm sewing machines are an essential tool for any seamstress or quilter. Long arm sewing machines can change the way you bring your quilting to life. These sewing machines have many advantages.

Choosing the best long arm sewing machine is not an easy task. There are several things you need to consider before you make a final purchasing decision. Here are some of the factors you should consider: 

Image Source: Quilter’s Review

Kind of Work

The first thing to consider is the kind of work you want to do with your machine. A basic machine is all you need if you want to create simple garments and home decor items. 

If you want to do larger projects like quilts or drapery, then you will need an industrial-grade machine. 

Space

Image Source: The Cotton Patch

Long arm sewing machines require more space to operate. If you have a small table or countertop, you might want to consider purchasing a smaller machine that can be operated in the same space as your standard sewing machine. 

Budget

Next, consider how much money you’re willing (and able) to spend on a new machine. There are lots of different types out there. 

Some are more expensive than others. If this is something that will benefit your business, then it may be worth looking into buying one that costs more than others would charge for similar sewing machine models because it does more things than other models. 

Speed

The higher the number of stitches a machine can perform, the better and more workload it can tackle. The high-speed sewing machine with a long arm can add great value to your work. Make sure the long arm sewing machine you choose have a sewing speed between 1500-1800. 

Throat Length

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The size of the throat is measured from the back of the needle to the back of the opening of the sewing machine. A sewing machine with 18 inches of quilting space will be limited when your machine quilts at the end of the queen-sized top. 

The throat space will be more occupied by the finished quilt. A long arm sewing machine with 20-30 inches of throat space will give you more room for creativity. 

Weight

Long-arm machines can weigh up to 600 pounds and take up quite a bit of room on the floor or tabletop. You’ll want to ensure you have the space for it before purchasing one! 

Computerized Machine

Image Source: The Grace Company

Computerized sewing machines are advanced models that comes with advanced features such as LCD or OLED screens. 

These units are programmable and have good compatibility with some design software. Based on the advanced quilting tools and accessories, the price of the sewing machine will also increase.          

Best Long Arm Sewing Machine for Quilting: Detailed Reviews

After considering the factors mentioned above, you might be wondering about your options.

When you are ready to take your quilting and sewing game to the next level, you need the best long arm sewing machine for quilting to meet your needs.

If you are looking for the best long arm quilting sewing machine models, then you are fortunate. 

In this section, we’ve done all the research for you and put together a list of some great quilting sewing machines.

Let’s take a look at the best of the best. 

Image Source: CraftYolo

Handi Quilter Capri 18” Sewing Quilting Machine

Handi Quilter Capri 18” is a large and versatile sewing machine occupying less space. It has a connected 36-inch * 32-inch HQ InSight table that helps you see what stitch you are using.

The best thing? This long-arm industrial sewing machine’s stitch regulation is patented and has two standard modes: cruise and precision. The precision mode is used when you need a particular speed and control. If you require constant speed, try the cruise mode.

The Handi Capri long arm sewing machine for quilting also has several features that make it the perfect choice for quilting and sewing enthusiasts. 

The machine has a 25-year warranty on the parts, an extra high sewing speed of 2200 SPM, and an LED light to make your work area shine so you can see what you are sewing.  

If you are looking for a high-quality stitching capability in a cheap long arm sewing machine, look no further than the Handi Quilter Capri 18” machine. 

This machine offers everything you need for your quilting or everyday sewing projects without breaking the bank.

Features:

• • 18-inch throat space
  • Precision and cruise stitch regulation
  • Free motion quilting
  • Patented HQ InSight table

Juki Kirei Hzl-Nx7 Computerized Long Arm Sewing Machine

Image Source: The Sewing Capital

The advanced functions of Juki Kirei HZL-NX7 have ranked it in our “Best long arm sewing machine for quilting” lists.

Juki Kirei HZL-NX7 is a computerized sewing machine that comes with a free arm and works better than any home machine. The space between the needle and the machine’s body is more, so it is easier to use than regular home sewing machines.

It also comes with an LCD display that helps you see everything about your current project, including patterns, stitches, and blocks, eliminating the need to go through long manuals while working on a project. Buttonhole styles, decorative stitches, and alphanumeric fonts are also added in this sewing machine.

If you are looking for an advanced long arm sewing machine that is easy to use and produces outstanding results, then the Juki long arm sewing machine is the right choice.

Features:

• • Sewing and quilting machine
  • Color touch panel
  • 12-inch space between the machine’s body and needle
  • Free-motion quilting
  • No buttons, just touchscreen control settings 

Grace Q’Nique 15R Quilting Machine

Want perfect, even stitches every time you sew? Go for Grace company’s Q’Nique 15R quilting machine. 

This machine lets your creativity run wild and is ideal for sewing larger patterns and blocks.

The 15-inch throat space provides maximum comfort when the quilt is too large. The machine offers a speed of 1800 stitches per minute and offers a free working area.

The Grace Q’Nique 15R quilting and sewing machine comes with four stitching modes:

1. 1. Requisite precision
   2. Cruise stitch regulation
   3. Baste stitch mode in three different lengths: long, medium, and short
   4. Manual mode

This long arm sewing machine also has wheels for easy transportation and handles grips with quick access buttons.

It is a mid-arm quilting and sewing machine, but with its all cutting-edge feature list, it turns out to be one of the top long arm sewing machines for quilting.

Features:

• • 5 inches bright OLED screen
  • Built-in LED lights
  • 1800 stitches per minute
  • Four stitching modes
  • 15 inches of throat space 

Bernina Q24 Classic Frame Sewing Machine

Image Source: Bernina

Bernina decided to enter the long arm sewing machine market in 2024 and launched its revolutionary Bernina Q24 classic frame quilting and sewing machine.

The Bernina Q24 machine was manufactured in Switzerland, and within five years of being launched, it disrupted the traditional sewing machine market. 

With its cutting-edge features and slick design, this long arm sewing machine became the first choice among quilting and sewing enthusiasts.  

The Bernina long arm sewing machine has a 24-inches throat space, unique digital thread tension adjustment, and stitch regulation features. It gives a top speed of 2200 stitches per minute, and the ergonomics let you adjust to meet your unique needs.   

Janome 18” Quilt Maker Pro Sewing Machine

While the best sewing machine with long arms is pricey, the Janome 18-inch Quilt maker Pro is cost-effective. The machine has a beautiful, unique user interface thanks to its built-in stitch regulator.

It can help you accomplish more work with a speed of 2200 stitches per minute. It has a large table and broad working area, which is suitable for medium quilting sewing projects. You can also control the pressure on the pressure foot with utmost ease while adjusting the fabric.

This long arm sewing machine also has a precision pin-feeding mechanism which lets you tackle multiple layers of fabric with utmost ease.

If you are looking for cheap and affordable quilting long arm sewing machines, then Janome 18-inch Quilt Maker Pro is perfect for you.

Pros	Cons
Quick and easy to assemble	Tricky tension control
Easy to adjust the needle stop position	No automatic needle threader
Affordable long arm sewing machine
Spacious for large quilts

Brother HC1850 Sewing and Quilting Machine

Image Source: The Birch Company

If you are looking for a specific quilting function in a sewing machine, this brother long arm sewing machine is perfect.

The Brother HC1850, a sewing and quilting machine, offers all the functions necessary to do your perfect quilting project. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced sewer, this machine has it all.

It is a computerized sewing machine that includes a wide variety of stitches and features such as a drop-in bobbin and needle threader. It also has a detachable wide table, free-motion sewing, and a spring-action quilting foot.

The Brother long arm quilting sewing machine features 185 built-in stitches and eight one-step buttonholes. The backlit LCD screen makes it easy to use this machine.

This Brother sewing machine long arm combines simplicity with power, so you can get to sewing right away without unnecessary complications.

This easy-to-use quilting and sewing machine has many extra features that can make your sewing easier and more enjoyable. 

It is one of the best machines for beginners—it’s like driving a car. If you have used sewing or quilt kits before, then operating this machine will be easy.

Features:

• • 185 built-in stitches
  • 170+ stitch functions
  • Large backlit LCD display
  • Easy bobbin winding system
  • Quick set drop-in bobbin
  • 25-year limited warranty

King Quilter II Elite Sewing Machine

Looking for top-quality performance at a reasonable price, then this long arm sewing machine is for you.

King Quilter II Elite sewing machine is a sturdy and versatile quilting machine, meaning it will last for decades. 

It can give you a top speed of 2200 stitches per minute with 18-inch throat space, which can complete your work within a short time. The machine also has two sets of handlebars. One set at the front and one at the rear.

You also get four options for basting stitch, which is crucial to keep all the layers of fabric at once. Its 2-piece CNC system with a big touch screen makes it the future of long arm quilting machines.

Pros	Cons
Sturdy and versatile structure	Difficult to learn to sew
Long-lasting materials	Limited free designs as compared to competitors
Computerized tools with two manual settings
Wide range of stitches, including base and cruise modes

Singer Modern Quilter 8500Q Quilting Sewing Machine

Image Source: Crossquilt

If you are starting out with learning how to sew and quilt, then Singer Modern Quilter 8500Q quilting sewing machine is great for you.

This Singer long arm sewing machine is not too technical, but it has features that any quilter would want in a machine.

It has all the regular features, including auto-pilot, speed control level, extra-large extension table, automatic thread trimmer, programmable needle up/down, independent bobbin winding system, and knee lifter for lowering and raising the needle. The list goes on.

This long arm sewing machine is worth considering because of its heavy-duty metal frame and durability.

Overall, the Singer Modern Quilter 8500Q quilting and sewing machine has all the features you will find in some of the high-end models but at a fraction of the price. 

FAQs for Long Arm Sewing Machine

Image Source: Slice of Pi Quilts

Do you still have any questions in mind? Don’t worry. We have put together some of the most asked questions with answers to give you more clarity. 

Why is It Called a Long Arm Sewing Machine?

It is known as a long arm sewing and quilting machine because of its extra-long structure and working area. 

What is the Best Quilting Sewing Machine?

Quilter searches for a machine that can handle a large amount of sewing fabric at once with an extra attachable extension table. These features allow them to manage bulky material with utmost ease and get an outstanding finish. 

Image Source: Business Wire

How Much Does a Long Arm Quilting Sewing Machine Cost?

A long arm quilting and a sewing machine can cost between $150-$200 or $2000-$4000. The cost of a machine depends on a broad range of features and capabilities. 

Can You Quilt Using a Regular Sewing Machine?

You can use regular sewing machines from Singer or Brother, but they may not provide enough space for your large quilting project. This results in uneven stitches and bad finishing. 

Image Source: Janome America

Who Makes the Best Long Arm Quilting Sewing Machines?

There are many brands available in the market that manufacture some of the best long arm machines. 

Some of the best brands in the category include Brother, Grace, Janome, Baby Lock, Handi Quilter, King, Brother, Singer, and many more. Each brand offers various types of features and models to suit the needs of hobbyists and Pros. 

Conclusion

Quilting and sewing are a lot of work, and you need to put a lot of time and care into the process to get the most beautiful outcomes.

Long arm quilting and sewing machine models are an excellent way to make your quilts look beautiful. It can also make your quilts look like they were made by a professional. They are also an affordable option to take your quilting and sewing hobby to the next level.

The above-listed long arm sewing machine lists will help you in your quest to find the best quilting machine for your needs.

These quilting machines can be used for both domestic and commercial purposes. So if you are looking for an affordable option that can go both in your home and your business, look no further than long arm quilting machines.

When you find the right one, it will be worth all your efforts and time.

In the meanwhile, don’t forget to check out our other articles on,

• • Best heavy-duty sewing machine
  • Types of sewing machine
  • Sewing room ideas

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