What is the best brand of sewing machine for someone who quilts several hours a day?

Question

What are the reasons? And price range?

Answer 1

The best brand is the one YOU are comfortable with. There are several companies which make quilt-specific machines, but each company has their own fans. Decide which features you can't live without, which you'd like to have if possible, and which you care nothing about. Go to the dealers and actually sew on them, using the same fabrics and threads you'll be using at home, and test out the features you'll be using. Don't depend on the salesperson to demonstrate it. Actually sit down and sew yourself. Berninas are notoriously bad with metallics and specialty threads, so if you use a lot of those make sure to take some with you to test drive the machine. Look for a wider harp area if you quilt large quilts. I can't live without my needle-down fuction, but my friend never uses hers. The ability to drop the feed dogs and zero out the presser foot pressure is critical to my style of quilting, but others only look for the dropped feed dogs. I don't care anything about having decorative stitches, but demand a perfect satin stitch. It all depends on the type and size of your quilts which would be the best machine.

Basic name-brand machines with the basic functions needed for quilting start in the low $100s and go up to several thousand for programmable long arms.

Answer 2

I give the same advice as Delta!!!!

I have a Janome 1600P. Several brands have a machine just like it - because it's a Janome inside with a Pfaff cover, a Viking cover, etc! The 1600P has a 9" stretch, needle up/down (vital to me!) and thread cutter. It comes with an extension table.

The 1600P fits on the Little Gracie quilt frame. Janome used to have a deal where you could get the machine and frame for less than 3000USD - and you would get the electronic hand control free (with speed control, on/off button and pulse button!). I have the frame and the electronic hand control and LOVE IT!!!!

This is professional-level machine. It only has the straight stitch and back stitch. But I use it for piecing and quilting and just love it. It doesn't over-heat, is easy to maintain, and the bobbin is a little larger than "regular" domestic machines. I just saw a really cool table the 1600P can sit in and gives you a HUGE flat surface to quilt on - he had it for $350.00

I think you can get the machine around 1200-2000. With the frame it ranges from 2500-3500.

If you want industrial strength, check out Juki or Necci. You might have to order online. My local dealer can sometimes get refurbished machines.

Answer 3

Before you buy, please test drive the Husqvarna Viking Sapphire. The price range is 1200 - 2100, but has a 10" harp; needle down (can't live without it, myself!) sensor system - knows how thick your fabric (or quilt sandwich) is & adjusts accordingly; one has a thread cutter. You can also buy a "fabumotion with stitch regulator". Boy, is that a back saver when quilting the quilt sandwich - no hunching over or death grip on the fabric as you try to muscle quilt around. Personally, I unplug the stitch regulator & use the fabumotion for thread painting! No hoop necessary - what a pleasure!

Answer 4

I would suggest visiting the Bernina site. They have a new feature, for quilting, called the Stitch Regulator. A must have! Different machines, different prices.

I own 2 Berninas.

Answer 5

I use an old fashion Singer 220, I bought it at a sewing dealer near me in Columbus NJ. I think he has another one. It is very small, all metal and has a case. These models are very popular in our area, they are easy to take with you and easy to use. Even my teenage daughter prefers this over our new Singer Embroidery Machine for everyday sewing.

Answer 6

I love my Pfaff. Bernina is also popular. Whatever you get, make sure you have it cleaned and tuned up once a year.
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Answer 7

dear you must inquire on www.Fibre2fashion.com,just put your inquiry on that n they ll send you the information about this.I m sure it ll solve your purpose.