Quilting is an art form that has been around for centuries. It involves stitching together layers of fabric. One of the key tools in a quilter’s arsenal is a sewing machine with a large throat. It is essential as it allows the quilter to work with larger pieces of fabric and create larger designs. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best machine for your needs. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top large throat sewing machines for quilting, examining their features, advantages, and disadvantages. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned quilter, we’ll help you find the perfect machine to bring your quilting projects to life. So, grab a cup of tea, and let’s dive in!
TOP-5 Best large throat sewing machines for quilting
* Note: These ratings are based on expert reviews, customer feedback, and overall popularity of the products in the market.
| Image | Product | |
|---|---|---|
Best Choice  | Janome Memory Craft 6700P
| Check Price |
Also great  | Juki TL-2010Q
| Check Price |
Best Value  | Bernina Q 20
| Check Price |
1500 stitches per minute  | Brother PQ1500SL
| Check Price |
600 built-in stitches  | Singer Quantum Stylist 9960
| Check Price |
Janome Memory Craft 6700P
As a seamstress, I’ve worked with various sewing machines, and I must say the Janome Memory Craft 6700P is a game-changer in the world of quilting. This computerized machine has a large throat space, making it easier to work with larger pieces of fabric. The automatic thread cutter is a dream come true, saving time and effort.
Impressive Features
The Janome Memory Craft 6700P has 200 built-in stitches, including 9 buttonholes, making it versatile. The knee lifter is a handy feature that allows lifting the presser foot without using their hands. The extension table is another notable feature that provides ample workspace for quilting.
Superior Performance
One thing that sets the Janome Memory Craft 6700P apart from other machines is its superior performance. The machine runs smoothly and quietly. The stitch quality is excellent, producing neat and even stitches every time.
Any Cons?
The only downside of this machine is its price, which might be a bit steep for some quilters. However, the quality of the machine makes it worth the investment.
Juki TL-2010Q
The Juki TL-2010Q is a high-performance sewing machine that has a lot to offer for those who are serious about their quilting projects. It comes with several features that make it a top contender in the market, including a large throat space and a powerful motor. In this review, I will provide my personal opinion on the Juki TL-2010Q and what sets it apart from its competitors.
Impressions and Features
This is a straight-stitch sewing machine that is specifically designed for quilters. It has a large throat space of 8.5 inches. The machine also comes with an automatic thread trimmer, which saves a lot of time and effort. One of the best things about the Juki TL-2010Q is the powerful motor that allows it to sew through thick layers of fabric with ease.
Strong Points
It has a sturdy construction and is made from high-quality materials. The large throat space and powerful motor are some of the strongest points of this machine. The automatic thread trimmer is also a great feature that saves time and effort.
Weak Points
One of the downsides of the Juki TL-2010Q is that it only does straight stitching, which may limit its versatility for some users. Additionally, the machine does not come with many built-in stitches or embroidery features, which may be a disadvantage for those who need those features.
Overall Opinion
Overall, the Juki TL-2010Q is an excellent choice for quilters who need a high-performance machine that can handle heavy-duty work. Although it is limited to straight stitching, it is still a great choice for those who primarily work on quilting projects.
Bernina Q 20
As someone who has used multiple sewing machines, I was excited to try the Bernina Q 20. This high-end machine has many impressive features, but I found that it also had some drawbacks.
Features of Bernina Q 20
One of the standout features of the Bernina Q 20 is its large throat space, which is perfect for quilting larger pieces. The machine also has a stitch regulator, which helps ensure even stitches, and a touchscreen interface that makes it easy to adjust settings.
Additionally, the Bernina Q 20 has a range of other features, including a dual feed system, an automatic thread cutter, and the ability to sew at high speeds.
My Experience with Bernina Q 20
I found that the machine was quite heavy and difficult to move around. Additionally, the touchscreen interface was not always intuitive, and I found myself struggling to navigate through different settings.
On the plus side, the dual feed system helped prevent the fabric from shifting or puckering, and the automatic thread cutter was a time-saver. However, I did find that the machine was quite loud when sewing at high speeds.
Brother PQ1500SL
Machine The Brother PQ1500SL is an excellent choice for those looking for speed, power, and versatility.
Impressive Speed and Power
The Brother PQ1500SL has an impressive speed of 1500 stitches per minute, making it one of the fastest sewing machines on the market. It has a powerful motor that can sew through multiple layers of fabric with ease.
Large Throat Space and Versatility
This feature is essential for quilters who work on larger projects, as it allows for more space to maneuver the fabric. The machine also comes with a variety of presser feet, including a walking foot and a free-motion quilting foot, making it versatile for different quilting techniques.
User-Friendly Features
The automatic needle threader, adjustable presser foot pressure, and knee lifter are just a few of the features that make the machine easy to use. It also has a large extension table, providing extra workspace.
Weaknesses
While the Brother PQ1500SL is an excellent machine, it does have a few weaknesses. One of the weaknesses is the lack of built-in stitches. Unlike other machines on the market, the Brother PQ1500SL only has a straight stitch. This limitation makes it less versatile.
Overall Impression
In my opinion, the Brother PQ1500SL High-Speed Quilting and Sewing Machine is an excellent choice for those looking for speed, power, and versatility.
The Singer Quantum Stylist 9960
The Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 is a computerized sewing machine that boasts of its versatility and convenience.
Design and Features
The Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 has a modern design that is both stylish and functional. It comes with 600 built-in stitches, which includes 13 automatic buttonholes and 5 different fonts. This variety of stitches allows for endless creative possibilities in your sewing projects.
Another notable feature of this machine is its automatic needle threader, which makes threading a breeze. It also has a drop-in bobbin system that is easy to load and monitor, so you don’t run out of thread unexpectedly.
Performance
The Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 is a powerful machine that is capable of sewing through a variety of fabrics, from delicate silks to heavy-duty denim. It has a maximum sewing speed of 850 stitches per minute, which is impressive for a computerized sewing machine.
Additionally, the machine has a start/stop button and speed control slider, making it easy to control your sewing speed without using the foot pedal. This feature is particularly helpful when you need to sew for extended periods of time, without straining your legs.
Ease of Use
One thing that stands out about the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 is how user-friendly it is. It comes with an LCD screen that displays the selected stitch, stitch length, and width. This makes it easy to adjust your settings without having to guess which stitch you’re using.
The machine also comes with an extensive instruction manual and a quick start guide, which are both helpful for beginners who are just learning to sew.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- 600 built-in stitches
- Automatic needle threader and drop-in bobbin system
- Powerful machine capable of sewing through a variety of fabrics
- LCD screen for easy stitch selection and adjustment
- User-friendly and beginner-friendly
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the tension and the bobbin system
- The machine is quite heavy, which may make it difficult to transport
- The price point may be higher than some other sewing machines in the market
Overall Opinion
Overall, I think the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 is a great machine for both beginners and advanced sewers. It’s packed with features that make sewing more convenient and enjoyable. The machine is also powerful and versatile, allowing you to tackle a variety of sewing projects with ease.
However, the reported issues with the tension and bobbin system are something to consider before making a purchase. Additionally, the machine’s weight and price point may also be a factor for some users.
Key performance categories of sewing machine
After researching and testing the top large throat sewing machines for quilting, it’s clear that there are several key performance categories that set them apart. Here are my observations on how they measure up:
- Stitching Speed: The Juki TL-2010Q is the clear winner when it comes to stitching speed, with a maximum speed of 1,500 stitches per minute. The Bernina Q 20 comes in second with a maximum speed of 2,200 stitches per minute, and the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 has a maximum speed of 850 stitches per minute.
- Throat Space: The Bernina Q 20 has the largest throat space of the three machines, with 20 inches of space to work with. The Juki TL-2010Q comes in second with 9 inches of space, and the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 has 6.25 inches of space.
- Built-in Stitches: The Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 has the most built-in stitches of the three machines, with 600 stitches to choose from. The Juki TL-2010Q comes in second with 200 stitches, and the Bernina Q 20 has the least with only a few basic stitches built in.
Overall, each machine excels in different areas of performance, and the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. The Juki TL-2010Q is great for speedy stitching, the Bernina Q 20 has the largest throat space for larger quilting projects, and the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 offers the most variety with its vast selection of built-in stitches.
What other machines you should pay attention to
When it comes to large throat sewing machines for quilting, there are several other great options to consider. One of them is the Janome 3160QDC. It has a wide range of stitches, including some specifically designed for quilting, and a built-in thread cutter. It also has a large extension table and comes with several quilting accessories. While it may not have the same level of power as the top products, it’s a versatile and reliable machine that can handle most quilting projects.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the Singer Confidence Quilter 7469Q is a good choice. It has a range of quilting stitches and comes with several accessories, including a walking foot and quilting guide. While it may not have the same level of power or speed as the top products, it’s a solid option for beginners or those on a budget.
Ultimately, the best machine for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re a professional quilter who needs speed and power, then the Juki TL-2010Q or Bernina Q 20 may be the best options for you. If you’re a hobbyist looking for a versatile machine that can handle most quilting projects, then the Janome 3160QDC or Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 may be more suitable.
How to choosing the best large throat sewing machine for quilting — 5 main factors
When it comes to choosing the best large throat sewing machine for quilting, there are several key decision-making factors to consider. Here are a few factors that I find most important:
- Throat size: The size of the throat determines how much space you have to maneuver your fabric while quilting. A larger throat size means you can work with larger quilts and have more space to work with.
- Speed and control: Speed is important when you need to get things done quickly, but control is equally important when you need to sew intricate patterns. A good machine should have a range of speed settings and be easy to control.
- Stitch quality: A machine should be able to produce consistent, high-quality stitches, regardless of the speed or fabric type.
- Durability: A machine should be built to last, with sturdy construction and high-quality components that can stand up to frequent use.
- Features: Additional features like automatic needle threading, thread cutting, and programmable stitch settings can make quilting easier and more efficient.
The top machines in this category excel in all of these areas, with large throat sizes, high-speed control, excellent stitch quality, and durable construction. They also come with a range of features that make quilting a breeze, such as automatic thread cutting and programmable stitch settings.
When choosing between top products, it’s important to consider which factors are most important for your individual needs. If you’re looking for a machine with the largest throat size, the Janome Horizon Memory Craft 9450 is a great choice. If you value speed and control, the Juki TL-2010Q is a top performer. And if you want a machine with a range of advanced features, the Bernina Q 20 is a standout option.
Overall, the best large-throat sewing machines for quilting combine a range of features and performance factors to provide quilters with the tools they need to create beautiful, high-quality quilts.
Where else can you look large throat sewing machines for quilting
Here are three links to other useful manufacturer resources for the best large-throat sewing machines for quilting, along with my personal opinion:
- https://www.brother-usa.com
- This is the official Brother Sewing Machines website, and it provides a comprehensive overview of all of their sewing machines, including large throat machines for quilting. The website is well-organized and easy to navigate, and it provides detailed information about each machine, along with user reviews and ratings. I find this website to be a great resource for anyone looking to purchase a Brother sewing machine.
- https://www.janome.com
- This is the official Janome Sewing Machines website, and it offers a wide selection of large throat machines for quilting. The website is user-friendly and provides detailed information about each machine, including its features, specs, and pricing. I appreciate the fact that Janome provides instructional videos and manuals for their machines, which can be a helpful resource for beginners.
- https://www.jukihome.com
- Juki is a well-respected brand in the sewing industry, and their large throat machines for quilting are highly regarded. This website offers a variety of machines that cater to both beginners and professionals, and it provides detailed information about each machine, including its features and capabilities. I find the website to be informative and easy to navigate, and I appreciate that Juki offers a range of machines at different price points to accommodate different budgets.
Additional equipment
| Equipment | Description |
|---|---|
| Rotary Cutter | A tool for cutting fabric with a circular blade |
| Self-Healing Cutting Mat | A mat used for cutting fabric with a rotary cutter, protects surfaces |
| Acrylic Rulers | Clear rulers with measurement markings used for accurate cuts |
| Quilting Pins | Pins used to hold fabric layers together during sewing |
| Quilting Needles | Specialized needles designed for quilting on sewing machines |
| Thread | High-quality thread designed for quilting |
| Iron and Ironing Board | Used for pressing seams and fabric before and after sewing |
| Scissors | Used for cutting fabric, thread, and other materials |
| Seam Ripper | A tool used for removing stitches |
| Bobbins | Small spools of thread that fit into the sewing machine |
These are just a few examples of the equipment that can be used when working with the best large throat sewing machines for quilting. Depending on the specific project, other tools such as fabric markers, quilting gloves, and specialty rulers may also be necessary. As always, it’s important to choose high-quality equipment that is suitable for the task at hand in order to achieve the best possible results.
FAQ
A large throat sewing machine has a longer arm and a wider throat space, which allows you to work with larger quilts and other projects. This added space makes it easier to maneuver the quilt as you sew, reducing the amount of bulk you have to handle at any given time.
Yes, you can use a large throat sewing machine for any type of sewing project. However, it’s important to note that the extra space can make the machine larger and heavier, which may not be ideal for smaller or more delicate projects.
Not necessarily. While the size and weight of the machine may take some getting used to, many large throat sewing machines offer features that make them easier to use than regular sewing machines. For example, many have automatic thread cutters, speed control options, and easy-to-use tension systems.
When choosing a large throat sewing machine for quilting, consider factors such as the size of the machine, the throat space, the number of stitches and features offered, and the overall build quality. Additionally, it’s important to consider your budget and any specific needs or preferences you may have. Reading reviews and trying out different models in person can also be helpful in making a decision.
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