Are you looking for a long arm quilting machine? Well, you might find yourself lost in the jungle especially if you are a beginner because there are tons of models available out there, and many brands are working hard to beat one another. Not every long arm quilting machine is best for you, there is only one fit for you and I will help you to find that one. I have explained all those things that a long arm quilting machine must have and the factors by which one is superior to another.
I have also reviewed some of the best models there and tried to add models from almost every famous brand so that you might have more and the best choices to choose from.
A long arm quilting machine is a sewing machine that has an extra-long arm, which allows you to sew on large pieces of fabric. These machines are often used by professional crafters and clothing manufacturers because they can be especially helpful for making things like bedspreads or curtains with many panels.
A long arm quilting machine is a piece of equipment that can be used to stitch together two pieces of fabric. It’s the most common way to finish edges on an item, including items like tablecloths and bedding sets. Longarm quilters work with commercial machines in their own shops or at home; they are not typically used by individuals for hobby projects.
It has an area where the fabric can be secured and then stitched together with thread or some other type of stitch. The machine may have more than one needle to help make even stitches, which is absolutely necessary because it will typically need dozens if not hundreds of these stitches to close a project.
I have described a long arm quilting machine above and I hope you have a bit of introduction to a long arm quilting machine. So, let’s dive into more detail and check some of the best long arm quilting machines available right now.
List of The Best Long Arm Quilting Machines
There are a lot of long arm quilting machines available on market right now but a few of them can be considered a real value-for-money quilting machines. Here below is the complete list of the best long arm quilting machine in 2023.
- Handi Quilter Moxie
- Handi Quilter Simply Sixteen
- King Quilter II ELITE
- Brother Dream Quilter 15X
- Grace Qnique 15 PRO
- Handi Quilter Infinity (real monster)
- Handi Quilter Amara
- Baby Lock Gallant
- Consew 255RBL
Long Arm Quilting Machines Comparison
| Features | Handi Quilter Moxie – In-Depth Review | Handi Quilter Simply Sixteen | Handi Quilter Amara – In-Depth Review | Handi Quilter Infinity | Brother Dream Quilter 15X | BabyLock Gallant – In-Depth Review | King Quilter II Elite – In-Depth Review |
| Stitching Speed | 1,800 SPM | 1,800 SPM | 2,500 SPM | 3,100 SPM | 1,800 SPM | 1,800 SPM | 2,200 SPM |
| Throat Space | 15 Inches | 18 Inches | 20 Inches | 26 Inches | 15 Inches | 15 Inches | 18 Inches |
| Quilting Frame Size | 8-Foot included (10-Foot optional) | 5-Foot included (10,12 Feet optional) | 5-Foot included (10,12 Feet optional) | 10, 12 Feet included | 10, 12 Feet included | 8-Foot included | 8-Foot included (10-Foot optional) |
| Rear Handlebars | Compatible (optional) | Compatible (optional) | Compatible (optional) | Included | – | – | Compatible (optional) |
| Presser Feet in the box | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | – | 2 | 2 |
| Display Screen | Touchscreen LCD | Touchscreen LCD | Touchscreen LCD | Touchscreen LCD (Front + Back) | Touchscreen LCD | Full-color LCD Display | Touchscreen LCD |
| Bobbin | M-Class | M-Class | M-Class | M-Class | M-Class | M-Class | M-Class |
| Stitch Quality (Per Inch) | 4-18 SPI | 4-18 SPI | 4-18 SPI | 4-20 SPI | 4-16 SPI | 4-18 SPI | 4-18 SPI |
| LED Light | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 10 Years | 10 Years | 10 Years | 10 Years | 25 Years | 25 Years | 10 Years |
| Our Rating | 4.90/5 | 4.75/5.0 | 4.70 | 5/5 | 4.30/5 | 4.85/5 | 4.95/5 |
| Price | $4,995 | $6,999 | $11,795 | $19,495 | $6,669 | $5,999 | $6,299 |
| Buy Now | Check here | Click here | Click here | Click here | Click here | Check here | Check here |
Let’s now discuss each one in detail.
Handi Quilter Moxie
Handi Quilter Moxie is a great long arm quilting machine. It has an easy-to-use control panel and really fast switching speed of 1,800 SPM. This makes the Handi a perfect solution for someone who does not have space at home but craves a little space for their quilting.
My friend has owned the Handi Moxie for over the last two months and it has never let her down. I love how compact this machine is, yet can still handle all of my needs as an avid long arm quilt maker. This makes it perfect if you are looking to purchase your first or second long arm (or even just want a smaller footprint).
It also handles dense materials with ease; there’s nothing more frustrating than trying to feed the really heavy fabric through another brand that struggles under the load – not so with the Moxie. The closed-loop system ensures smooth operation when working on larger projects while its open architecture allows quick and easy access to needle location without having to stop the machine.
The Handi Moxie is an excellent choice for someone who wants to do long arm quilting yet doesn’t have space or money to invest in a larger and more expensive machine. Plus, it’s so much easier when you can simply move your work from place to place without having to break it down. The smaller footprint also makes this a great option if you are looking for a backup machine should something happen with your primary one. I highly recommend the Handi Quilter Moxie because of its ease of use, portability, and ability to handle all of my needs as either an experienced pro or beginner alike!
It also handles dense materials with ease; there’s nothing more frustrating than trying to feed the really heavy fabric through another brand that struggles under the load – not so with the Moxie! The closed-loop system ensures smooth operation when working on larger projects while its open architecture allows quick and easy access to each individual needle location without having to stop the machine.
You can read our full review of Handi Quilter Moxie in detail so that you reveal its true power.
Features of Handi Quilter Moxie
- Stitching speed of 1,800 SPM (Stitches Per Minute)
- 15 inches throat space
- 8-Foot Handi Quilter Loft frame (2-Foot frame is optional)
- Complete setup with the help of BLIT App
- Front handlebars and full-color display
- LED light ring
- Handi Feet mount with quarter-inch ruler foot installed; open-toe foot included
- Two modes of HQ stitch regulation: Precision and Cruise
- Manual thread tension control
- Consistent stitch quality from 4 to 18 STI (Stitches Per Inch)
- Needle-stop positioning control
- Easy software updates
- High-speed rotary hook with large-capacity M-class bobbin
- Integrated USB port
- Built-in diagnostics
- Handi Quilter nationwide retailer support
- Handi Quilter 10 years warranty & 5 years electrical and mechanical warranty
Pros
- Very affordable long arm quilting machine by Handi Quilter
- Packed with a bunch of features
- Easy to set up with the BLIT App (No prior experience required)
Cons
- Small Loft frame (Moxie is not for those who want a larger quilting frame than 8-Foot)
Who would benefit from the HQ Moxie?
The Handi Quilter Moxie is designed for beginner to intermediate long arm quilters. This machine has been improved over previous models and includes new features that make it easier to use, such as a clear LED display screen that shows all settings at once, including high speed, thread tension control, and high-quality stitches.
Is the Handi Quilter Moxie easy to set up?
Yes, it is very easy to set up the Handi Quilter Moxie because there are high-quality guidelines provided by the BLIT app. One can set up his brand new Moxie with the BLIT app even with no prior experience. Most of the long arm quilting machines require prior experience or support from retailers to set up but thanks to Moxie which is quite easy to set up.
How does the Moxie compare to other long arm quilting machines?
The Handi Quilter Moxie is the perfect balance of quality, price, and ease of use for beginner to intermediate long arm quilters. It has all new features that make quilting a breeze. The savings are incredible when you consider how much more affordable this machine is than others on the market.
Handi Quilter Simply Sixteen
The Handi Quilter Simply Sixteen is one of the best long arm quilting machines by Handi-Quilter. It’s affordable, reliable, and well-built. And it comes with everything you need to start sewing your own home decorating projects without breaking the bank. The biggest thing that makes me love this model over other models is the ease of use. The Simply Sixteen features an easy-to-load bobbin and auto threader, which makes quilting a breeze.
It also comes with a 5-Foot quilting frame which makes it the most storage-friendly long arm quilting machine. You just need a little room for it so that it may show you its real power. Other long arm quilting machine usually comes with a quilting frame of 8 foot to 16 foot and this one comes with a 5-Foot quilting frame makes it perfect for those who are short at storage.
This machine is perfect for beginners. But don’t let that discourage more experienced sewers, because it can be used by anyone and everyone. It has very easy-to-follow instructions and the customer service team at Handi Quilter is always available if you need help with any components of this excellent long arm quilting machine. Its stitching speed is more than enough, 1800 SPM (Stitches Per Minute). Handi Quilter Moxie and Simply Sixteen are pretty much the same because of their common features i.e., stitching speed, M-Class bobbin, stitch regulation modes, and stitch density.
The only major differences are their prices and quilting frame. Simply Sixteen comes at a higher price tag while Moxie is still quite affordable with almost the same features and HQ Simply Sixteen also provides you a 10-12 foot quilting frame as an optional while a 5-Foot quilting frame comes with the box.
If there is no valid reason to consider this quilting machine then I will recommend you to consider Handi Quilter Moxie which is our number one choice in regard to quality and price. I already mentioned that Handi Quilter Simply Sixteen and Moxie come with almost the same features except for the quilting frame and there is a quite big difference between their prices.
Features of Handi Quilter Simply Sixteen
- Stitching speed of 1,800 SPM (Stitches Per Minute)
- Wide quilting area (14 x 48 inches)
- 5-Foot Handi Quilter Loft frame (10-12 Foot frame is optional)
- Rear handlebars & display as an optional
- Front handlebars
- LED light ring
- Two modes of HQ stitch regulation: Precision and Cruise
- Consistent stitch quality from 4 to 18 STI (Stitches Per Inch)
- Needle-stop positioning control
- Easy software updates
- High-speed rotary hook with large-capacity M-class bobbin
- Integrated USB port
- Built-in diagnostics
- Handi Quilter nationwide retailer support
- Handi Quilter 10 years warranty & 5 years electrical and mechanical warranty
Pros
- It requires very less space to work
- Vast quilting area (14″ x 48″)
Cons
- It is not an affordable quilting machine (too pricey)
- A very short-size quilting frame
How much space does it require to work with?
It requires very little space and is the best for those who live in a small house or apartment. But you will need some room to display this quilting machine so that it may show its true power. You can also use Handi Quilter Moxie which is cheaper with almost the same features and has a quilting frame of 8 feet or 10-foot as an optional.
How much does it cost?
You can purchase this quilting machine at $6,995 but you will need to take care of your budget because its price range is high as compared to other quilting machines with the same features. Alternatively, Handi Quilter Moxie is more affordable than HQ Simply Sixteen and comes with almost the same features. Moxie is the updated version of Simply Sixteen but at a lower price.
King Quilter II Elite
King Quilter II Elite is another high-quality and professionally long arm quilting machine. It is a very affordable quilting machine if we consider its features list. It is a clear winner if we compare it with the above-reviewed quilting machine, HQ Moxie and Simply Sixteen. The best feature it comes with, is its high stitching speed, 2,200 SPM (Stitches Per Minute). Its stitching speed is far more than HQ Simply Sixteen (1,800 SPM) which comes with almost the same price tag.
You may have read the stitching density of HQ Moxie and Simply Sixteen above which is 4-18 SPI (Stitches Per Inch) but you know, King Quilter II Elite comes with a density of 4-22 SPI (Stitches Per Inch). Do you consider Basting Stitch as an important feature? Well, King Quilter II Elite is for you because it does come with Basting Stitch and it works really like a charm. Its 18″ x 8″ throat space is also enough to work on projects of every type from short to large.
Other features worth mentioning are its high-quality needle, super smooth upper and lower feed dog, reliable stitch regulator, and easy-to-use system. It is also a perfect choice for beginners as it comes with two quilting bars which make the machine suitable for any size project. The only downside of this particular model is that it does not come with a quilting frame, you have to buy it as an add-on.
You can also read our full review of King Quilter II Elite.
Features of King Quilter II Elite
- Speed of 2,200 SPM (Stitches Per Minute)
- 10 or 12-foot quilting frame (optional)
- 18″ x 8″ Throat space
- M-Class Bobbin
- Laser Light kit
- 7″ or 4.3″ color touchscreen
- 4 to 22 SPI (Stitches Per Inch)
- Bobbin winder
- Stitch exactness mode
- 4 options for needlework stitch
- Stitch Manual mode
- Stitch transportation mode
- Light Ring Included
- Front and rear handlebars
- Built-In Micro Handlebars
- Quilt Alarm
- Quilt Timer
- Stitch Counters
- Bobbin Low-Thread Detector
- Low Bobbin Alarm
- Needle up and down control
- 5mm Sew Foot Stroke/Lift
- 35.3 mm Needle Bar Stroke
- 73 mm Take-Up Stroke
- Warranty (Casting/Mechanical/Electrical): 10yr/5yr/5yr
Pros
- High stitching speed of 2,200 SPM
- High stitch density of 4-22 SPI
- Bobbin thread alarm
- The large touchscreen of 7 x 4.43 inches
Cons
- No quilting frame is added to the box (10 to 12-foot frame is optional)
What is the maximum quilting speed of King Quilter II Elite?
King Quilter II Elite comes with a high stitching speed, which is one of its best features. It has a maximum stitch per minute rate or SPM at 2,200 and also comes with a stitch density level up to 22 SPI (Stitches Per Inch).
What is the maximum throat space of King Quilter II Elite?
King Quilter II Elite has an 18″ x 8″ throat space. It’s large enough to make quilts without any problems and also suitable for sewing projects of every type from short to large size projects. And, its stitch regulator makes it the perfect choice for beginners.
How King Quilter II Elite is different from other long arm quilting machines?
King Quilter II Elite is a full-featured long arm quilting machine and has all the features one would need for their projects. The King Quilter II Elite comes with a large throat space, which makes it possible to work on large pieces of fabric. The King Quilter II Elite is a long arm quilting machine with an even feed dog that provides for continuous and consistent feeding. The frame of the machine offers plenty of space to work on projects for large bed sizes.
Brother Dream Quilter 15X
Brother Dream Quilter 15X is the best long arm quilting machine for beginners and intermediates. It comes with a lot of features that are perfect for someone who wants to learn how to quilt but doesn’t want to spend a fortune on learning equipment. The stitch quality is unsurpassed when it comes to quilters for the price. I love that it has a large throat space and an easy threading system, so you can get more done in less time than other models out there. The LED screen is also really clear and of good quality; it’s easier to see what you’re doing at all times which makes this machine worth every penny.
I highly recommend this machine to anyone who wants to learn how to quilt, but doesn’t want something too fancy and expensive. For those looking for a long arm quilting machine that is going to last them a lifetime, I think the Brother Dream Quilter 15X might be your best bet.
This is a great long arm quilting machine for beginners and intermediates because there are so many features to learn on the Brother Dream Quilter 15X. It has an easy-to-thread system, a large throat space, and a clear screen – making it easier to see what you’re doing at all times. I would recommend this machine for a beginner because it is affordable and easy-to-use, while still providing the quality of stitch that you need. For those looking for something more premium or professional – the Brother Dream Quilter 15X might not be your best option as this one doesn’t have an automatic needle threader and fast stitching speed.
Features of Brother Dream Quilter 15X
- Speed of 1,800 SPM (Stitches Per Minute)
- 15″ x 8″ (H x W) workspace
- Built-in bobbin winder
- 5″ LCD touchscreen
- Stitch density of 4-16 SPI (Stitches Per Inches)
- Manual speed control
- A vast M-Class bobbin case
- Stitch width of 4mm
- Built-in stitch regulator
Pros
- Most affordable long arm quilting machine
- Wide quilting area (15″ x 8″)
- Adjustable speed control (90-1,800)
- 6 buttons on handlebard for easy access
Cons
- No automatic needle threader or automatic thread cutter
- Zero Built-in Sewing Lettering Fonts
- No button to start and stop
- Absence of thread sensor
Is Brother Dream Quilter 15X long arm quilting machine worth buying?
Brother Dream Quilter 15X is worth buying if you are looking for a reliable long arm machine that comes with features and accessories. Brother Dream Quilter 15X has the ability to achieve high-quality stitching in various thicknesses of fabric, while it would not be wrong if I label it as the most affordable yet high-quality mid-arm quilting machine.
Its price is quite low as compared to other long arm quilting machines but still, you can find many of the features in this machine which can be found in expensive long arm quilting machines too.
The Brother Dream Quilter 15X is designed to make your sewing easier because it comes with so many features that are built into its design. It’s manufactured by a leader in the industry and it has so many additional features that make it a great machine. It’s easy to use, comes with a bobbin winder, speed control, and quilts projects quickly because of its straight stitch line feature and much more.
When would it be a good idea to buy Brother Dream Quilter 15X – DQLT15X?
When you are a serious quilter and want to reduce the amount of time it takes for your project, then this is the machine that will help, or if you do not have enough budget to buy any of the other high-priced along with a long arm quilting machine.
You can have projects completed in less than half the time with all of its amazing features. It comes with an amazing speed of 1,800 SPM which makes it really fast while you are working on your projects.
You can also automatically stitches a quilt sandwich together and will sew the project in straight lines, which saves time too. The reason to consider this machine is also its low price which is almost half of the other long arm quilting machines in the normal price range.
Grace Qnique 15 PRO
This long arm quilting machine review is about Grace Qnique 15 PRO. It has a fast stitching speed of 2000 SPM and it comes with all the features you would expect from any other top-quality long arm machine. This one, in particular, comes with four different stitch modes, Manual, Cruise, Precise, and Baste. It has its own built-in bobbin winder and large M-Class bobbin case, so you don’t have to worry about the hassle of changing bobbins in mid-project. The Qnique 15 PRO comes with manual tension control for balanced stitches without having any loose threads.
The Qnique 15 PRO long arm quilting machine is a good choice for any sewer who wants to get started with this hobby. It guarantees that the stitches will be balanced and we don’t have to worry about loose threads at all. With its fast stitching speed, it makes working on larger projects so much easier than before. I highly recommend Grace Company’s new product because of everything listed in this review article and more.
One of the best features of the Grace Qnique 15 PRO long arm quilting machine is that it has its own built-in bobbin winder. This allows for quick and easy winding without any hassle at all. The large M-class bobbin case also contributes to this because the bobbins are already installed in the machine. This allows for quick and easy changes in the middle of a project without any hassle at all.
Do you still think Grace Qnique 15 PRO is not the best option? Well, just have a look at its price! It is quite an affordable long arm quilting machine. Believe me, the price is very low as compared to other long arm quilting machines i.e., Handi Quilter Simply Sixteen and King Quilter II Elite. Do you want the best long arm quilting machine under $3,500? Well, you can consider the lower variant of Grace Qnique 15 which obviously has a bit lower features as compared to its PRO variant but still, it is worth buying. Have a look at the list of all of its variants below,
- Grace Qnique 15M
- Grace Qnique 15R
- Grace Qnique 15 PRO
Grace Qnique 15R vs Grace Qnique 15 PRO
| Product Name |
Grace Qnique 15RGrace Qnique 15 PRO |
| Product Image |
 |
| Price | $3,799.00 $4,699.00 |
| Our Rating | |
| Brand | Grace Grace |
| Category | Long Arm Quilting Machine Long Arm Quilting Machine |
Body
| Body Material | Metal Metal |
| Color | White White |
| Dimensions | 15.5 × 23 × 18 in 15.5 × 23 × 18 in |
| Weight (lbs) | 50 lbs 50 lbs |
Quilting Features
| Quilting Frame | 4.5-foot or 8-foot (10-foot & 12-foot frame is optional) 4.5-foot or 8-foot (10-foot & 12-foot frame is optional) |
| Throat Space | 15 Inches 15 Inches |
| Stitching Speed | 1,800 SPM 2,000 SPM |
| Stitch Precision Mode | Yes Yes |
| Basting Stitch | Yes Yes |
| Stitch Cruise Mode | Yes Yes |
| Front Handlebars | Yes Yes |
| Rear Handlebars | Compatible (optional) Compatible (optional) |
| Low Bobbin Alarm | - - |
| Needle Positioning | Adjustable Adjustable |
| Programmable Front Handlebar Buttons | Yes Yes |
| Programmable Rear Handlebar Buttons | Yes (optional) Yes (optional) |
| Rear Screen Display | - - |
| Rear Touch LCD | - - |
Others
| Bobbin | M-Class M-Class |
| Bobbin Winding | Automatic Dedicated Bobbin Winder |
| Needle Threading | Semi-Automatic Semi-Automatic |
| LCD Screen Display | Yes Yes |
| LCD Screen Size | 2.5 Inches 2.5 Inches |
| Touch Screen LCD | Yes Yes |
| Thread Breakage Sensor | Yes - |
| Number of Presser Feet | 1 1 |
| LED Lightning | Yes Yes |
| USB Port | Yes Yes |
| Warranty | 5 Years 5 Years |
| Accessories | Front handles, Electronic display, Encoders, Power cable, 3 Qty M-Class bobbins, 10 Qty, sewing needles, Sewing machine oil, Allen wrenches, screw drivers, lint brush Front handles, Electronic display, Encoders, Power cable, 3 Qty M-Class bobbins, 10 Qty, sewing needles, Sewing machine oil, Allen wrenches, screw drivers, lint brush |
Features of Grace Qnique 15 PRO
- Stitching speed of 2,000 SPM (Stitches Per Minute)
- Manual stitch mode
- Cruise stitch mode
- Precise stitch mode
- Baste stitch mode
- Full-color OLED touch screen (2.5 inches)
- LED work lights
- Built-in bobbin winder
- Vast throat space (15 inches)
- Large M-Class bobbin
- Manual thread tension control
- Included presser feet
- Stitch regulation control
- Optional quilting frame (4.5-Foot, 8-Foot, 10-Foot, 12-Foot frames)
Pros
- Very affordable long arm quilting frame
- Fast stitching speed of 2,000 SPM
- Thread tension control
- A large quilting frame is compatible (12-Foot frame)
- Automatic bobbin winder
Cons
- No quilting frame is included in the box (4.5-Foot, 8-Foot, 10-Foot, 12-Foot frames are optional)
- OLED touchscreen size is very small (only 2.5″)
Is Grace Qnique 15R Pro long arm quilting machine worth buying?
Grace Qnique 15R PRO is a great long arm quilting machine by Grace company that comes with many features. It has a fast switching speed of 2,000 SPM and a large throat space of up to 15 inches. It also contains a built-in bobbin winder, thread tension control, and M-class bobbin case for perfect threading. Grace Qnique 15R PRO comes with four different stitch modes including Manual, Precise, and Baste.
The machine is also affordable for the quality it offers. In a nutshell, if you are looking for an affordable long arm quilting machine this one will be perfect! It has all that any professional needs to carry out this task. The only downside is that you will need to buy some additional items such as quilting frames and tables to get the most of Grace Qnique 15R PRO.
How is Grace Qnique 15R Pro different from other long arm quilting machines?
The Grace Qnique 15R PRO has a fast stitching speed of 2,000 SPM. It comes with four different stitch modes Manual, Cruise, Precise, and Baste. It also comes with thread tension control and features the latest technology which includes a built-in bobbin winder and a large M-Class bobbin case.
The best of all is its price tag, it is the most affordable long arm quilting machine by Grace company and also does not compromise the quality.
Handi Quilter Infinity
Now it is time to show you something amazing and you can call it a “real monster” for a reason. Let me explain it to you, you have read the specifications of other long arm quilting machines on the list and might be aware of the others too. Stitching speed might be somewhere between 1,800 SPM to 2,200 SPM of all of the long arm quilting machines in the market with exception of a few. Do you know what is the stitching of Handi Quilter Infinity? Take your time and think, guess! Probably you did not guess it right. Well, it comes with a stitching speed of 3,100 SPM (Stitches Per Minute).
This might be the fastest long arm quilting machine in the world of its kind. It is faster than every other fellow on the list with some exceptions. The list will have more fastest long arm quilting machines in the future with better features if we find some best deals but this is something that you need to know about Handi Quilter Infinity for now.
There is a throat space of 26″ which is more than enough for you to quilt several dozen of blocks. While 4 to 20 SPI (Stitches Per Inch) is the stitches density of HQ Infinity. You can also check the quality of a long arm quilting machine by checking its stitch density. The best quilting machine with good stitch density is the only one that can perform better during your work. You can say it as the saying, “Quality = Quality = Value”.
It is a great feature of Handi Quilter Infinity that its stitch density can be adjusted from 4 to 20 SPI. The next thing you should know about this long arm quilting machine is, in its variety of stitch regulation options, it has two modes for stitch regulation: Precision and Cruise. Precision mode is for someone who quilts at a higher speed of about 2,500 SPM, while Cruise mode is for those who prefer to quilt fast. And if you are looking for the best long arm quilting machine then surely you need to know that this one comes with two modes so that it can suit everyone’s liking.
The onboard 10 feet or 12 feet long conversion frames are built with the premium HQ Gallery2 frame which is perfect for the best work in this machine. And with free bobbins and needles, your work will be easier. It can support long spools of thread so that you can have maximum control over the stitching process and its stitch density settings are also adjustable by presets.
You can adjust how many bobbins you want to carry in your machine and it will depend on your needs and requirements. This feature allows you to carry extra bobbins and it will not make your arm pain by looking at the few empty bobbin holes in the machine. There is a low bobbin alarm that helps you to make sure that you are warned before the thread ran out.
So what are you waiting for? Don’t delay experience that, better get one now as this feature is not available on all other long arm quilting machines in the market.
Features of Handi Quilter Infinity
- 10 or 12 feet long Gallary2 Frame
- Stitching speed of 3,100 SPM
- Throat space of 21 inches
- Stitch density of 4 to 20 SPI (Stitches Per Inch)
- Fully compatible with HQ PRO Stitcher
- Precision and Cruise Stitch Mode
- Bobbin thread cutter
- Front and rear handlebars
- Programmable button on front handlebars
- Thread breakage detection (sensor with alarm)
- Easy Tension control with presets
- Footprint: 5 x 12 inches
- LED lighting
- Full-color touch screen display
Pros
- Large throat space to handle any kind of project (21 inches long throat space)
- Fastest stitching speed of up to 3,100 SPM
- Best controllable stitch density of 4 to 20 SPI
- Easy to control, either with a touch screen or handlebars
- Provide a fully advanced quilting experience to its users
Cons
- Comes at a very high price tag (almost $20,000)
How to buy a used Handi Quilter Infinity: Long Arm Quilting Machine?
Handi Quilter Infinity is a very costly long arm quilting machine and the current price of Handi Quilter Infinity is estimated to be $20,000. Most people can not afford a new Handi Quilter Infinity so they look for a used one instead. Although the price of Handi Quilter Infinity is high although it is one of the best long arm quilting machines on the market at this moment.
The price of a new Handi Quilter Infinity is reported to be $20,000 which is not easy to pay so it’s better to think that if you are going to buy a new one then how much your old machine will cost. Sometimes old machines can be found for $13,000 and $15,000 but this is rare because the market value of a used Handi Quilter Infinity is also high.
If you are considering Handi Quilter Infinity in the future then yes, it is the best long arm quilting machine. You can visit the nearest stores or eBay to search for a used HQ Infinity and you might get the best offer over there.
Handi Quilter Amara
If you do not have enough budget to invest in Handi Quilter Infinity then you can consider Handi Quilter Amara which is almost the same as Handi Quilter Infinity in working. But there is a large difference in price, people can not afford Handi Quilter Infinity because of its price of $20,000. Handi Quilter Amara is having same features and works as Handi Quilter Infinity but it cost only $12,000. In short, you can say in two words that “you can get almost all the features (except a few) of Handi Quilter Infinity at an affordable price by purchasing Handi Quilter Amara”.
If you want to work on large projects then you need to have a long arm quilting machine with greater throat space. Thanks to HQ Amara because of its large throat space of 20 inches. It is enough large to work on any of your large-size quilts. Now we can discuss its 7-Inch color touchscreen which is used to understand the working and designs of Handi Quilter Amara.
Another thing to look for in a long arm quilting machine while buying a new one is its stitching speed. The faster the speed of a quilting machine is the faster projects you can finish. It comes with an incredible speed of 2,500 SPM. Imagine you are working on a project and it will normally take 8 hours to finish the task with a normal quilting machine but do you know 6 hours will be enough to finish that same task with greater quality because of its fast stitching speed of 2,500 SPM.
The important point about the Handi Quilting Amara machine is its stitch quality. Because of excellent stitch quality and consistency, you can easily overlock your edges and finish the project quickly. It has many built-in stitches that make your work very easy while you use this machine. The five convenient built-in tie-off stitches are used to finish the top and bottom easily.
It has almost all the features of Handi Quilter Infinity (except stitching speed and some others) that are advanced quilting machines. This quilting machine is perfect for quilters who want to start their own business and make a profit from the quilting market because this product can deliver desired results quickly. Its high price makes it an expensive machine but if you have enough budget then nothing can be better than this long arm machine.
You can also read our complete review of Handi Quilter Amara here.
Features of Handi Quilter Amara
- Throat space of 20 inches
- Stitching speed of 2,500 SPM
- 5 Feet quilting frame
- Uniform stitch density of 4 to 18 SPI (Stitches Per Inch)
- 7-Inch full-color display
- M-class bobbin
- Two stitches regulation mode: Precision & Cruise
- Five basting stitches
- Thread breakage sensor
- Fully compatible with PRO Stitcher
- Programmable front handlebar buttons
- Optional Gallary2 frame (10-Feet or 12-Feet)
Pros
- Affordable long arm quilting machine with great features
- Fast stitching speed of 2,500 SPM
- Best for users who are low on space
Cons
- Only 5-Feet long quilting frame
- No rear handlebars
Is Handi Quilter Amara worth buying? And, how much is it?
Well, the current price of Handi Quilter Amara in the market is $12,000 and you can order one online if you want. It is worth buying Handi Quilter Amara at this price tag because of its fast stitching speed of 2,500 SPM and stitches quality. It also comes with a 7-Inch full-color touch screen.
The reasons to avoid this long arm quilting machine are that it does not have rear handlebars (although it is optional) and a Small 5-Feet quilting frame. But, both of these are not the reason to completely avoid this long arm quilting machine because you can buy a quilt from the back kit and separate 10-Feet or 12-Feet Gallary2 frame if you do not like both of these.
Baby Lock Gallant
I have already added some of the best long arm quilting machines in the price range of $4,500 to $6,000 like Handi Quilter Moxie and King Quilter II Elite. You might not like them and are a fan of Baby Lock, if so, you may consider this best long arm quilting machine by Baby Lock.
It comes with stitching speed of 1,800 SPM (Stitches Per Minute) which is quite enough to work on the projects professionally and also this is the average speed that you get in this price range i.e., Handi Quilter Moxie also provides stitching speed of 1,800 SPM.
It does come with the same Quilting Frame which is of 8 feet. Under this price range, you will get 8 feet of quilting frame and you can also upgrade yourself with a bigger frame if yu have enough space and want to work on large projects.
Moreover, Baby Lock Gallant provides throat space of 15 Inches which is same as in Handi Quilter Moxie but less than King Quilter II Elite which is available at same price as Baby Lock Gallant.
It does not have any special feature or anything that you can get in other long arm quilting machines but its standard features are mostly better than those of its competitors in terms of quality.
As we can see everything is similar in Baby Lock Gallant as in Handi Quilter Moxie and Moxie is way more cheaper than Gallant. But, if you do have enough budget i.e., $6,500 then you may consider King Quilter II Elite as an alternative to it because there are a lot of features which are a part of King Quilter II Elite but not of Baby Lock Gallant.
Features of Baby Lock Gallant
- Speed of 1800 SPM (Stitches Per Minute)
- Vast Throat Space (15″ x 8.5″)
- 8-Foot Villa Frame
- Overspeed Alarm
- LED Light
- Needle Threader
- Bobbin Winder
- Needle-stop positioning control
- LCD Display
- Hex keys (2.5mm, 3.0mm, 4mm)
- Front Handlebars
- 25 Years Warranty
- Free 60 Days Online Trial Classes (*SewingMachinesPlus)
- Compatible with BILT App
- Weight 32 lbs. (14.5 Kg)
Pros
- Vast throat space (15 inches)
- High stitching speed (1,800 SPM)
- Best long arm quilting machine for Baby Lock lovers
Cons
- Over-priced long arm quilting machine
Consew 255RBL
Do you love working with a manual sewing or quilting machine rather than a computerized one? If so, you would definitely love Consew 255RBL, it is a professional long arm quilting machine with manual operations.
I have included this long arm quilting machine because some people are not really a fan of computerized long arm quilting machines and want to work with a manual long arm quilting machine. You might be thinking, what does that manual long arm quilting machine mean? Well, it means you do not get any kind of automatic features in it and it does not come with a display screen. As you can see above every long arm quilting machine has a small or large display screen depending on the budget but it does not provide even a small display screen.
You need to control it on your own and will definitely cost you more power. Despite being a manual machine, it is considered as the best long arm quilting machine over a commercial scale where people need to handle the stuff in bulk.
Consew 255RBL offers you a stitching speed of 2,200 SPM which is quite good if we compare it with the other long arm quilting machines on the list. You can work with this stitching speed fastly and efficiently because of its manual operation and fast stitching speed. Above all, it offers you a vast throat space of 25 inches which is again the highest one under the price range of $6,500.
Features of Consew 255RBL
- Stitching speed of 2,200 SPM
- Throat space of 25 inches
- Heavy Duty
- Single Needle
- Triple Feed
- Drop Feed
- Needle Feed
- Alternating (Walking) Presser Feet
- Lockstitch Machine
- Large Bobbin
- Vertical Axis Hook
- Centra-Lube
- Semi-Automatic Lubrication System
- 2 1/2 SPI (10mm) Stitch Length
- Reverse Feed and Safety Clutch
Pros
- Best for commercial purposes
- Servo Motor
- Fast stitching speed (2,200 SPM)
- Vast throat space (25 inches)
Cons
- Manual operation (no screen display or automatic features)
Long-Arm Quilting Machine vs Mid-Arm Quilting Machine
The difference between the two is that a long arm quilting machine has an extra-large work surface. The work surface is usually around the size of a table. So, if you have large projects to complete or need more space than your home sewing machine can provide then this would be an option for you.
The long arm quilting machine also has a free-standing frame that allows for easy maneuverability and storage when not in use. A mid-arm quilting machine usually ranges in throat space from 12″ to 16″. But with a long arm, you can use throat space up to 32″ for your quilting needs.
Long arms are better for larger quilts, wall hangings, and other large pieces of fabric. You can work on a long arm with two people instead of working alone. Long arms give you better mobility as the table can be raised or lowered, and it is easier to maneuver around obstacles.
While Mid arm machines have a narrow bed that helps with precision sewing when working on small pieces of fabric. They are also more compact so they take up less space in your studio than regular quilting machines. There are many advantages to using a long arm machine, but there are also disadvantages. Long arms can be difficult for beginners because they require more space and time to start than regular machines.
For more detailed information, you may read Longarm vs Midarm Quilting Machine in detail.
Long Arm Quilting Machine vs A Regular Sewing Machine
Yes, you can do quilting with a regular sewing machine. You will probably have to drop the feed dogs and use free-motion techniques for best results. These machines are not designed for this type of work though. They don’t have all the features necessary to make your projects come together nicely as long arm quilting machines have. You would be better off spending a little bit more money on a long arm sewing machine if you are serious about your work and want to produce high-quality projects. It is worth it in the end.
A regular sewing machine can do a decent job of hand or free-motion stitching, but is not designed for it and will require some modification to the feed dogs. You may also experience problems with tension on heavier fabrics that could result in an uneven finish. Generally, if you’re serious about quilting and want to produce high-quality projects then a long arm sewing machine is worth the investment.
Do you want to do the quilting on your regular sewing machine? Well, check these steps below to have free motion quilting with your sewing machine.
- Drop the feed dogs on your regular sewing machine to do free-motion stitching. This is not a good idea for heavy fabrics because it may cause tension problems and uneven finishes.
- Modify the needle position so that you can move off of the center with each stitch (this raises one side).
- Use an extra-long straight needle for free motion quilting.
- Use a lighter-weight thread and tie knots in the end to maintain tension.
- If you’re not too much concerned about your stitches being perfect, then purchase a long arm sewing machine that has an adjustable stitch length with reverse stitching capabilities. This will allow you to do backstitching on top of your free-motion stitches.
FAQ About Long-Arm Quilting Machines
What is a long arm quilting machine?
A long arm quilting machine is a larger and more expensive version of a regular sewing machine. It forces the fabric to lie flat while you sew it together in order to create what one would call “quilts”. This kind of stitching creates beautiful designs that can be seen from both sides, unlike regular stitch patterns on a regular sewing machine.
How much is a long arm quilting machine?
The price of a long arm quilting machine varies on the basis of models and features offered by the machine. You may get an average long arm quilting machine at as low as $3,000 or you can buy one of the most expensive long arm quilting machines at $25,000. The price of a long arm quilting machine depends on many factors like its stitching speed, quilting frame size, LCD touchscreen display, and many other factors. Some add-ons for your longarm quilting machine can be very expensive like PRO Stitcher may cost you somewhere between $5,000 to $11,000 in your package. So, there are other such add-ons that also cost very high and that’s the reason it is not an easy thing to define the price range of a long arm quilting machine.
What makes a long arm quilting machine more expensive?
Quilting is a time-consuming process that takes hours of work. The best long arm quilting machine can help make this easier by speeding up the whole process and making it more efficient, but there are other reasons why they’re so expensive. Long arms have larger space for working on projects too which means you don’t need to stop and switch between projects as much, which saves time. Long arm quilting machines are more expensive because they have a larger space for working on bigger surface areas so you don’t need to stop often to switch surfaces or work on small things.
If you’re a professional quilter, then long arm machines are definitely worth the investment. If this is not your profession or if you need more space to work on projects and less time for them, then they might be something that’s out of reach financially.
What is the best long arm quilting machine in 2023?
Well, Handi Quilter Moxie wins the battle for the best long arm quilting machine. It is a very affordable quilting machine that can really make you happy irrespective of your prior quilting experience. It is very easy to set up and use because of its user-friendly system. And, if you do have a bit higher budget than Handi Quilter Moxie, consider King Quilter II elite.
What is the best Computerized (Automatic) Long Arm Quilting Machine?
When you are a beginner or just want to work with ease, you should look for a computerized longarm quilting machine. I have listed only the best-computerized longarm quilting machines on the list except for Consew 255RBL which is a manual one. But, if you want a clear winner in terms of quality and price then I would suggest the King Quilter II Elite which is the best computerized long arm quilting machine that might cost you around $4,500 to $6,500 depending on the edition you want. If you do not have enough budget for King Quilter II Elite then you may consider Handi Quilter Moxie which is the best computerized long arm quilting machine after King Quilter II Elite and HQ Moxie are around $5,000.
What is the best manual long arm quilting machine?
If you love to work with manual sewing machines rather than automatic long arm quilting machines then I would suggest you to consider Consew 255RBL long arm quilting machine. It does not come with an LCD Display or Handlebars Control but is really packed with great power to work smoothly on a commercial scale. Consew 255RBL is the best manual long arm quilting machine in terms of both quality and price.
What is the cheapest (most affordable) long arm quilting machine?
Most people want to have a long arm quilting machine but do not have enough budget to buy a full-featured computerized longarm quilting machine. If you are one of them, you do not need to be worried because I have found some of the best and most affordable long arm quilting machines out there. You can consider Juki TL-2000Qi which is a manual long arm quilting machine with a 9″ long arm for only $699. If you do not want to get a manual long arm quilting machine then you may look for a computerized long arm quilting machine which is Juki Kirei HZL-NX7 and it might cost you around $3,000.
What is the best Handi Quilter Long Arm Quilting Machine?
Well, Handi Quilter Moxie still wins the race because of its features and price tag as you check its complete review above. There are a number of Handi Quilter long arm quilting machines by Handi Quilter out there and many of them are really better and of higher quality than a long arm quilting machine.
What is the best Brother Long Arm Quilting Machine?
Brother Dream Quilter 15x is the best long arm quilting machine by Brother. There are some other long arm quilting machine models manufactured by Brother also but Dream Quilter 15X is the best one among all of these. It provides you stitching speed of 1,800 SPM, throat space of 15 inches, 5 inches long touchscreen display, and much more.
What is the best Baby Lock Long Arm Quilting Machine?
There are several models launched by Baby Lock in the long arm quilting machines industry like Coronet, Gallant, Regalia, and Regent but we found Baby Lock Gallant as the best long arm quilting machine manufactured by Baby Lock in terms of both quality and pricing. It is packed with some great features i.e., a Stitching Speed of 1,800 SPM, 15 x 8.5 throat space, and much more. It is easily available online to buy only for $4,999.
What is the best Juki Long Arm Quilting Machine?
Juki Kerei HZL-NX7 is the best long arm quilting machine manufactured by Juki. I have not added the Juki Keirei HZL-NX7 to the list just because it comes with a flatbed configuration with no handlebar control. You get a vast throat space but a low stitching speed (1050 SPM) but this is the best machine for beginners who want an affordable solution.
What is the best Bernina Long Arm Quilting Machine?
Bernina has a good history of producing some of the best sewing machines in history and still, Bernina is unmatchable because of its quality. The same quality can be found in the Bernina long arm quilting machines and you can consider the Bernina if you are serious about quality and have a strong budget. Bernina started Q Series in the long arm quilting machine series which includes Bernina Q16, Q20, Q24, and Q-Matic. I found Bernina Q24, the most professional long arm quilting machine if you are an over of Bernina then this model is recommended for you under the price of $24,999.
What is the best Grace Long Arm Quilting Machine?
There are some long arm quilting machine manufacturers who are sharing their efforts in both the sewing and quilting industry like Brother, Juki, Janome, etc but there are very few who are only dedicated to quilting like Grace. Grace only produces long arm quilting machines and is really very active in terms of support. I found Grace Qnique 21 PRO, the best long arm quilting machine by Grace. Although, you can consider some of its cheaper models also if you do not have enough budget like Qnique 15 PRO which is available only for $4,999.
What is the best APQS Long Arm Quilting Machine?
APQS is another brand only dedicated to the manufacturing of long arm quilting machines. It is also one of the highest qualities and most expensive long arm quilting machines manufacturers. You can rely on their long arm quilting machines because of their build quality and I would say, on some ends, it is better than Bernina. There are some models launched by APQS such as Millie, Millie30, Freddie, and Lucey. I found Millie30 and Lucey the best long arm quilting machine by APQS. You can choose Millie30 which is available for under $25,999 and recommended by me otherwise go for a cheaper solution which is Lucey, under $15,999.
What is the best Pfaff Long Arm Quilting Machine?
Pfaff is among those brands which are considered high quality like Bernina and Pfaff is not only limited to the long arm quilting machines but does have a vast market capture in the sewing machines field. Pfaff sewing machines are not quite cheap if we compare with the other brands but Pfaff does offer very affordable long arm quilting machines. And, I would say, Pfaff Powerquilt 1600 is the best long arm quilting machine by Pfaff for under $6,999 and you can choose Powerquilt 1650 if have a higher budget which is available for under $8,999.
Conclusion
So, this is all about the long arm quilting machines. I tried to enlist the best long arm quilting machines for people with different price ranges. Now, you can buy the best long arm quilting machine, with some limited options which will not be an issue if you are a beginner, under $4,000. And, you can spend as high as $25,000 to buy a real monster that is a truly features-enriched long arm quilting machine. I wish you all happy quilting 🙂
I loved your whole list but I am still wondering why there is no long arm added from Grace and APQS. I have personal experience with their long arm quilting machines and they are the best if we compare them with other brands. Please add some options from these two brands also. thanks
Thank you for your suggestions. We are going to update the list soon and surely will review the longarms from other brands i.e., Grace, APQS, Gammill, etc.