10 Best Sewing Machines For Quiltings 2025 in the United States

The Janome Continental M6 is a strong choice for quilting enthusiasts thanks to its spacious 17.81-inch throat space, which offers plenty of room to maneuver large quilts comfortably. With 400 built-in stitches, including five alphabet styles, and a maximum speed of 1,300 stitches per minute, it provides versatility and quick work for both decorative and functional stitching. The machine features a 7-inch color touchscreen that makes selecting stitches and settings easier, even for less experienced users. Its upstanding dual thread stands and auto-declutch bobbin winder allow smooth threading and bobbin preparation, which is helpful for continuous sewing sessions. The included bonus kit enhances its quilting potential with an extra-wide extension table for extra fabric support, professional presser feet, and the AcuFeed foot that helps feed multiple fabric layers evenly, a must-have for quilting.

The full LED lighting system ensures excellent visibility of your work area. While it does not explicitly mention adjustable needle positions or feed dog control in the specs, its quilting-specific features like rulerwork mode and stitch tapering indicate thoughtful design for controlling stitch placement. It is a heavier machine at over 38 pounds, which might make it less portable if you plan to move it frequently. Some advanced users might prefer even more customizable feed dog settings or needle positions.

This machine shines with its generous workspace, wide stitch selection, and helpful quilting accessories, making it ideal for serious quilters who want a reliable, feature-rich machine to handle large projects smoothly.

The Janome MC6650 is a solid choice for quilters and hobbyists looking for a reliable sewing machine. One of its standout features is the generous 10-inch throat space, which provides ample room for managing large quilts and intricate projects. With 170 stitch options and two alphabets, it offers versatility, allowing for creative expression in stitching. The automatic thread cutter is a notable advantage, saving time and effort during sewing sessions.

This machine also boasts a top-loading full rotary hook bobbin and a superior needle threader, which simplify setup and help users avoid common threading issues. The drop feed feature enhances its capability for free-motion quilting, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced quilters alike.

However, there are some limitations to consider. The machine weighs 24.2 pounds, making it somewhat less portable compared to lighter models, which might be a drawback for those who attend quilting classes or workshops. Additionally, while it offers a variety of stitch options, some users might find the lack of advanced features, like a built-in walking foot or more automated quilting functions, limiting for more complex quilting tasks. The extension table is a useful addition, improving stability and workspace while quilting. Users appreciate the 12 included accessory feet, which enhance the machine's functionality. Despite having a strong performance with a speed of 1,000 stitches per minute (SPM), the machine's noise level might be slightly higher, which could be a consideration for those sensitive to sound. The Janome MC6650 is well-suited for quilting enthusiasts who value ease of use and a range of stitch options, but those seeking advanced features or portability may want to explore other models.

The Brother XR9550 is a versatile sewing and quilting machine that boasts a commendable array of features suited for both beginners and experienced quilters. One of its standout qualities is the 165 built-in stitches, which include a wide variety of utility, decorative, and heirloom stitches, providing ample creative options for your quilting projects. The intuitive LCD display makes it easy to navigate through the stitch selections and settings, simplifying the process for anyone who might feel overwhelmed by more complex machines.

With its generous throat space and included wide table, the XR9550 is designed for handling larger quilting projects comfortably. It also features a convenient automatic needle threader and a jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin, which are beneficial for saving time and reducing frustrations during sewing. However, there are a few aspects to consider. While the automatic thread cutter is a great addition, some users might find that the machine is heavier and bulkier than other portable options, making it less ideal for those needing a lightweight device to carry around.

The inclusion of 8 presser feet and a comprehensive instructional DVD is a nice touch for users who are just starting or want to expand their techniques. Despite the solid support offered by Brother, including free technical assistance, some users may experience a learning curve due to the machine's computerized nature. The Brother XR9550 is a strong candidate for anyone looking to delve into quilting, offering a blend of functionality and ease of use, although it may not be the most portable option available.