Best For Beginners
Amazon.com
$796.55
PRIMEPRIME
JUKI TL-2000Qi Sewing and Quilting Machine
Best For Professionals
Amazon.com
$799.00
PRIMEPRIME
Janome 4120QDC-T Computerized Quilting and Sewing Machine with Bonus Quilt Kit
Best Portable
Amazon.com
$569.99
PRIMEPRIME
SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985 Computerized Sewing & Quilting Machine with Accessory Kit | 1,000+ Stitch Applications, Mirror Imaging, Built-In Needle Threader,…
If you’re trying to determine which mid-arm quilting machine is best for you, you are in the right place. In this article, we will go over the top 5 mid-arm quilting machines available in the market today!
Let’s dive in!
1. Juki TL-2000Qi – Best Mid-Arm Quilting Machine For Beginners
What I Like
Stitch Consistency:
You would be able to take advantage of stitching consistency with the help of this sewing machine.
Instruction Guide:
Although this device’s overall usage is easy, you still get an instruction guide along with a DVD for getting started with this machine.
Foot Controls:
It comes with an amazing foot control feature that will help you in trimming features and others.
Thread Tension Adjustment:
With this product, you would be able to take advantage of thread tension adjustments to provide you amazing stitching features.
LED Lighting:
It comes with support for LED lightings so you can also work under low-light conditions. It also helps you tackle darker fabrics and projects that involves small details.
Super Fast Working:
You would be able to take advantage of super-fast working and strong stitching approach with this sewing machine’s help.
You would be able to take advantage of stitching consistency with the help of this sewing machine.
Instruction Guide:
Although this device’s overall usage is easy, you still get an instruction guide along with a DVD for getting started with this machine.
Foot Controls:
It comes with an amazing foot control feature that will help you in trimming features and others.
Thread Tension Adjustment:
With this product, you would be able to take advantage of thread tension adjustments to provide you amazing stitching features.
LED Lighting:
It comes with support for LED lightings so you can also work under low-light conditions. It also helps you tackle darker fabrics and projects that involves small details.
Super Fast Working:
You would be able to take advantage of super-fast working and strong stitching approach with this sewing machine’s help.
What I Dislike
Difficult to Use
It is a bit difficult to use, so if you are new with sewing machines, then you need to take advantage of its instruction guide and manuals.
Thread Tension Issues
You would not be able to manage the thread tensions completely with the help of this sewing machine.
Loose Screws
Before getting started with the machine, make sure you get all the screws tightened, as initially, you will be getting loose screws with the sewing machine.
One Stitch Type
It comes with one kind of stitch type only, which is the straight stitch. So you would not be able to take advantage of arc stitches or angle based stitching.
It is a bit difficult to use, so if you are new with sewing machines, then you need to take advantage of its instruction guide and manuals.
Thread Tension Issues
You would not be able to manage the thread tensions completely with the help of this sewing machine.
Loose Screws
Before getting started with the machine, make sure you get all the screws tightened, as initially, you will be getting loose screws with the sewing machine.
One Stitch Type
It comes with one kind of stitch type only, which is the straight stitch. So you would not be able to take advantage of arc stitches or angle based stitching.
Who Should buy
If you’re looking for a manual, home-based sewing machine then this is the most a great option.
This machine doesn’t come with a computerized engine, so it’s not a good fit if automation is a must for you.
This machine doesn’t come with a computerized engine, so it’s not a good fit if automation is a must for you.
2. Janome 4120QDC – Best Mid-Arm Quilting Machine For Professionals
Features
What I Dislike
Pricey:
The 4120QDC is quite pricey when compared to the other models with almost the same features.
Though the sewing machine produces high-quality stitches and is entirely professional to work with, the price can be a constraint for many.
Can get noisy:
The sewing machine can get noisy while working, and this can be annoying, especially when you have work on extended hours or are taking care of a sleeping baby while you are sewing.
No automated tension adjustment:
The 4120QDC does not have an automated thread tension adjustment, which can be a real downside, especially for beginners.
The 4120QDC is quite pricey when compared to the other models with almost the same features.
Though the sewing machine produces high-quality stitches and is entirely professional to work with, the price can be a constraint for many.
Can get noisy:
The sewing machine can get noisy while working, and this can be annoying, especially when you have work on extended hours or are taking care of a sleeping baby while you are sewing.
No automated tension adjustment:
The 4120QDC does not have an automated thread tension adjustment, which can be a real downside, especially for beginners.
Who Should buy
The Janome 4120QDC is a professional sewing machine with loads of features. It comes with many stitches and functions to handle any project, be it monogramming, sewing, or quilting.
It has many automated functions like needle positioning, needle threading, and trimming, making it super convenient to work for beginners.
However, when you analyze the built-in features and functions, we can confidently say that this is a sewer ideal for serious sewers and professional quilters.
If you are a serious sewing hobbyist or a professional quilter looking for a classic automated multi-functional sewing machine, this could be your best choice.
It has many automated functions like needle positioning, needle threading, and trimming, making it super convenient to work for beginners.
However, when you analyze the built-in features and functions, we can confidently say that this is a sewer ideal for serious sewers and professional quilters.
If you are a serious sewing hobbyist or a professional quilter looking for a classic automated multi-functional sewing machine, this could be your best choice.
3. SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985 – Best Portable Mid-Arm Quilting Machine
Features
What I Like
Built-in stitches and buttonholes:
The SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985 comes with a stunning range of more than 960 stitches. The stitches include 919 decorative stitch varieties, six alpha-numeric style stitches, 21 basic straight stitches, 10 basic stitch types, and 13 buttonhole styles.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry. The sewer comes with a stitch chart that helps you view the available stitches at a glance, making stitch selection so simple and easy.
The machine also has a one-touch stitch selection facility.
Stitch length modification and mirror imaging:
The stitch length can be modified up to five times, and you can even edit the available stitches to suit your requirement.
When you have decided on your final pattern, you can mirror your pattern to achieve the precise stitch for your project.
Set-up is easy:
The SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985 is designed to be beginner-friendly. It comes with a built-in assistance program that provides visual and audio messaging to guide you on Bobbin settings, presser feet changes, and automatic threading functions.
Threading is super simple with this sewer and takes only six seconds to thread your needle. The threading instructions are also clear and detailed.
Loads of convenient features:
The 9985 comes with loads of convenient features to make sewing more pleasurable and fun. Let’s quickly check on some interesting ones:
Automated thread tension:
The automatic thread tension function can adjust the thread tension based on the fabric used. This is highly advantageous for beginners and novice sewers.
The SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985 comes with a stunning range of more than 960 stitches. The stitches include 919 decorative stitch varieties, six alpha-numeric style stitches, 21 basic straight stitches, 10 basic stitch types, and 13 buttonhole styles.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry. The sewer comes with a stitch chart that helps you view the available stitches at a glance, making stitch selection so simple and easy.
The machine also has a one-touch stitch selection facility.
Stitch length modification and mirror imaging:
The stitch length can be modified up to five times, and you can even edit the available stitches to suit your requirement.
When you have decided on your final pattern, you can mirror your pattern to achieve the precise stitch for your project.
Set-up is easy:
The SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985 is designed to be beginner-friendly. It comes with a built-in assistance program that provides visual and audio messaging to guide you on Bobbin settings, presser feet changes, and automatic threading functions.
Threading is super simple with this sewer and takes only six seconds to thread your needle. The threading instructions are also clear and detailed.
Loads of convenient features:
The 9985 comes with loads of convenient features to make sewing more pleasurable and fun. Let’s quickly check on some interesting ones:
Automated thread tension:
The automatic thread tension function can adjust the thread tension based on the fabric used. This is highly advantageous for beginners and novice sewers.
What I Dislike
Not for heavier fabrics:
Though 9985 is an efficient sewing machine, there are numerous complaints that it does not work well with heavier fabrics, denim, wool, and multiple layers.
There are frequent needle breaks when working on tough fabrics.
Repairing issues:
Though the sewer comes with a 25-year limited warranty, it does not offer doorstep service. You have to ensure that there is an authorized service center nearby.
Else, you may have to ship it across for repairs, and that might be an additional expense you will incur.
Though 9985 is an efficient sewing machine, there are numerous complaints that it does not work well with heavier fabrics, denim, wool, and multiple layers.
There are frequent needle breaks when working on tough fabrics.
Repairing issues:
Though the sewer comes with a 25-year limited warranty, it does not offer doorstep service. You have to ensure that there is an authorized service center nearby.
Else, you may have to ship it across for repairs, and that might be an additional expense you will incur.
Who Should buy
The SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985 is a heavy-duty sewing machine with loads of features and benefits that can justify its price.
It is highly versatile, and it can be used for sewing, quilting, and monogramming. The built-in stitch option is mind-blowing, and you are going to have limitless possibilities for your project.
With a few hiccups worth ignoring, 9985 is a model worth mentioning. It can be an excellent option for advanced sewers and can be a good pick for beginners looking at sewing for a serious hobby.
It is highly versatile, and it can be used for sewing, quilting, and monogramming. The built-in stitch option is mind-blowing, and you are going to have limitless possibilities for your project.
With a few hiccups worth ignoring, 9985 is a model worth mentioning. It can be an excellent option for advanced sewers and can be a good pick for beginners looking at sewing for a serious hobby.
4. Juki TL-2010Q Mid-Arm Quilting Sewing Machine – Runner Up
What I Like
Portability
Despite its bulkiness, this machine is lightweight and portable.
Thread cutting system
You can operate the thread cutter on this sewing machine using a foot pedal. This feature minimizes hand movements and mistakes.
Thread Tension Scale
The Juki TL-2010Q’s thread tension scale allows you to change the tension based on the thread used.
Computer speed control mechanism
The computer speed control mechanism allows the machine to sew materials at low speeds. This feature is incredibly valuable for accurate stitching when dealing with heavyweight sewing materials.
Needle Up/Down Control
This machine allows you to stop the needle in the down position when you stop sewing.
Automatic Needle Threader
The automatic needle threader is invaluable for those who want to sew with ease.
It pushes thread through the needle seamlessly, which helps save time and prevents mistakes.
Despite its bulkiness, this machine is lightweight and portable.
Thread cutting system
You can operate the thread cutter on this sewing machine using a foot pedal. This feature minimizes hand movements and mistakes.
Thread Tension Scale
The Juki TL-2010Q’s thread tension scale allows you to change the tension based on the thread used.
Computer speed control mechanism
The computer speed control mechanism allows the machine to sew materials at low speeds. This feature is incredibly valuable for accurate stitching when dealing with heavyweight sewing materials.
Needle Up/Down Control
This machine allows you to stop the needle in the down position when you stop sewing.
Automatic Needle Threader
The automatic needle threader is invaluable for those who want to sew with ease.
It pushes thread through the needle seamlessly, which helps save time and prevents mistakes.
What I Dislike
Requires Oil Frequently
You would have to oil this machine regularly for proper working.
You would have to oil this machine regularly for proper working.
Who Should buy
This is a great mid arm quilting machine for anyone looking for an affordable machine they can use at home.
Its compact and light compared to other machine but offers high quality features.
Its compact and light compared to other machine but offers high quality features.
5. Juki Kirei HZL-NX7 – Most Expensive Quilting Machine
What I Like
Efficient
The automatic features of this sewing machine allows you to work effortlessly and efficiently.
Touch Screen Support
It comes with a color touch screen support for greater control.
Wide Work Table
It comes with a wide work table, allowing you to work on large projects efficiently.
The automatic features of this sewing machine allows you to work effortlessly and efficiently.
Touch Screen Support
It comes with a color touch screen support for greater control.
Wide Work Table
It comes with a wide work table, allowing you to work on large projects efficiently.
What I Dislike
Not-Beginner Friendly:
The features may be too complicated for beginners.
The features may be too complicated for beginners.
Who Should buy
This machine is for professional sewers looking for high quality and flexible mid-arm quilting machine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Mid-Arm Quilting Machine for Embroidery?
You can use a mid-arm quilting machine for embroidery, but examining the machine’s embroidery capabilities and stitch quality is crucial; search for features such as automatic functions, color touch screens, and optimized thread tension settings for successful embroidery projects.
Do I Need to Oil My Mid-Arm Quilting Machine Regularly?
Are Mid-Arm Quilting Machines Suitable for Heavy Fabrics?
In Conclusion
You’ve made it to the end of your mid-arm quilting machine journey! With top contenders like the Juki TL-2000Qi, Janome 4120QDC, and SINGER Quantum Stylist 9985, you’re now armed with the knowledge to make an informed decision. Remember to prioritize features like work area, automatic bobbin winders, and stitch pattern memory, and don’t forget regular maintenance to guarantee your machine runs smoothly. Happy quilting!
