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Best Long Arm Quilting Machine For Beginners (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a new long arm quilting machine but you’re a beginner, there are some important factors to consider. Investing in a quality machine will help you achieve professional-looking results, but you don’t want to overspend on features you won’t use or get a machine that’s too difficult to learn. Here are some things to keep in mind.

First, think about your budget. Long arm quilting machines can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the features and quality. You’ll want to set a realistic budget based on your needs and available funds. Additionally, consider the size of the machine and how much space you have to work with. Some machines are quite large and will require a dedicated sewing room or workspace.

You’ll also want to think about features like stitch length options, speed control, and thread tension. Finally, be sure to read reviews and do your research before making a purchase. You want to find a machine that other beginners have had success with and that has good customer support, in case you need help getting started. With the right machine, you’ll be able to create beautiful, professional-looking quilts in no time.

Are you looking to take your quilt-making to the next level? A long arm quilting machine might be just what you need. But how do you choose the right one, especially if you’re a beginner? In this article, we’ll explore some important factors to consider before making a purchase. Are you ready to find the perfect machine for you? Keep reading to learn more.

10 Best Long Arm Quilting Machine For Beginners

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for quilting with a long arm machine and using an 8-foot frame for larger projects.
2
Ideal for hand protection during food preparation, cutting, and other activities that may cause injury.
3
The gloves are ideal for protection during activities such as filleting, slicing, cutting, and carving.
4
The product is ideal for sewing and quilting enthusiasts who want a high-performance, feature-rich machine.
5
Ideal for sewing and quilting with 600 stitches, an extension table, and electronic auto pilot mode.
6
Ideal for providing cut resistance and rubber grip dots for various works including construction, roofing, wood carving, and quilting.
7
This product is ideal for providing cut resistance and snug fit to women, men, kids, chefs, and butchers.
8
The product is ideal for quilting large projects with its long arm and advanced features.
9
The product is ideal for quilting enthusiasts who want a portable, storable and compatible quilting frame that fits on any table.
10
The product is ideal for sewing heavy fabrics and provides a variety of stitch options and accessories.
The product is ideal for quilting with a long arm machine and using an 8-foot frame for larger projects.
Ideal for hand protection during food preparation, cutting, and other activities that may cause injury.
The gloves are ideal for protection during activities such as filleting, slicing, cutting, and carving.
The product is ideal for sewing and quilting enthusiasts who want a high-performance, feature-rich machine.
Ideal for sewing and quilting with 600 stitches, an extension table, and electronic auto pilot mode.
Ideal for providing cut resistance and rubber grip dots for various works including construction, roofing, wood carving, and quilting.
This product is ideal for providing cut resistance and snug fit to women, men, kids, chefs, and butchers.
The product is ideal for quilting large projects with its long arm and advanced features.
The product is ideal for quilting enthusiasts who want a portable, storable and compatible quilting frame that fits on any table.
The product is ideal for sewing heavy fabrics and provides a variety of stitch options and accessories.

1. Handi Quilter Moxie 15-Inch Longarm Quilting Machine With 8-Foot Hq Loft Frame

The Handi Quilter HQ Moxie is a revolutionary machine that makes quilting an effortless and enjoyable experience. It comes with an adjustable 8-foot HQ Loft Frame that can accommodate quilts up to 84 inches wide, giving you ample space to work with. The machine also boasts a 15-inch throat space, allowing you to move your quilt around with ease.

The HQ Moxie features a high-resolution, full-color display that makes it easy to select your desired stitch and settings. With up to 1,800 stitches per minute, you can power through your quilting projects in no time. The machine also has built-in stitch regulation and manual stitching modes, giving you complete control over your stitches.

One of the standout features of the HQ Moxie is the built-in LED lighting around the needle, which provides excellent visibility and helps to reduce eye strain. Additionally, the machine comes with 3D interactive assembly instructions that can be accessed through the free BILT app, making setup a breeze.

Overall, the HQ Moxie is an exceptional machine that is perfect for quilters of all skill levels. With its 15 inches of free-motion freedom and ample space to work with, you can forget about basting with pins or struggling with a domestic machine. Every stitch can be yours, from pieced top to finished quilt.

Pros

  • Adjustable 8-foot HQ Loft Frame for quilts up to 84 inches wide
  • 15-inch throat space for easy maneuvering
  • High-resolution, full-color display for easy selection of stitches and settings
  • Up to 1,800 stitches per minute for fast and efficient quilting
  • Built-in stitch regulation and manual stitching modes for complete control
  • LED lighting around the needle for excellent visibility and reduced eye strain
  • 3D interactive assembly instructions with the free BILT app for easy setup

2. Food-Grade Cut Gloves: Ultimate Protection & Comfort

Experience the ultimate in hand protection with these cut-resistant gloves that are made 4 times stronger than leather. The gloves offer EN388 Level 5 cut resistance, which is the highest level of cut resistance available on the market. These gloves are perfect for all types of cutting and slicing tasks, including shucking oysters, dicing vegetables, and using a mandolin or potato slicer.

These gloves are 100% food-safe, making them perfect for use in the kitchen. They offer a great grip, so you can handle sharp knives with ease. The gloves are ambidextrous and fit perfectly on either hand, making them suitable for everyone in the family, including men, women, and kids.

Cleaning these gloves is a breeze, as they are machine washable. Simply toss them in the washing machine with some mild detergent on a cool setting, and let them drip dry. They will be ready to use again in no time.

Not just limited to kitchen use, these gloves are also great for use in other precision-based jobs, such as woodworking, carving, and whittling. If you need a multi-purpose work glove that can handle sharp tools, these gloves are the perfect choice.

Pros

  • Offers EN388 Level 5 cut resistance for ultimate hand protection
  • Perfect for all types of cutting and slicing tasks
  • 100% food-safe and offers a great grip
  • Suitable for everyone, including men, women, and kids
  • Machine washable for easy cleaning
  • Great for use in precision-based jobs outside of the kitchen

3. Dowellife Safety Cut Gloves For Kitchen And Crafts.

Protect your hands from cuts and abrasions with these high-performance cut-resistant gloves. The gloves are made with HDPE, a top-of-the-line cut-resistant material, and have been awarded the highest EN388:2003 level 5 (EN388:2016 Level C) cut resistance certification, making them 10 times stronger than normal gloves.

These gloves are not only strong, but also comfortable and flexible, allowing for excellent dexterity and grip. The special high elastic nylon blend ensures a perfect fit for your hand, without being too hard or sliding around.

Cleaning and maintaining these gloves is easy; they are hand and machine washable and can be cleaned like a kitchen dishwashing towel. Additionally, each glove features an intimate designed hang ring that makes it convenient to hang dry and replace.

These gloves are perfect for a variety of tasks, including kitchen cuts, oyster shucking, meat cutting, butter mandolin, vegetable slicing, fruit peeling, wood carving, carpentry, and garden working. Click the 'Add to Cart' button now to protect your family from 99% of hand accidental injuries.

Pros

  • High-performance cut-resistant material
  • Awarded the highest EN388:2003 level 5 (EN388:2016 Level C) cut resistance certification
  • 10 times stronger than normal gloves
  • Comfortable and flexible for excellent dexterity and grip
  • Special high elastic nylon blend ensures a perfect fit
  • Easy to clean and maintain
  • Convenient hang ring for drying and replacing
  • Suitable for a variety of tasks

4. Juki Hzl-Nx7 Next Generation Long Arm Sewing And Quilting Machine

The Long Arm Sewing and Quilting Machine with Advanced Needle Threading System is perfect for sewing heavy weight fabric, quilting, and multiple layers of materials. It features an automatic needle threader that pushes the thread through the needle perfectly, and a jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin for easy use. The feed dog can be easily raised and lowered with a switch, making it simple to use. With the thread tension scale, the tension can be adjusted according to the thread and material being used. The Precision Pin Feeding System ensures that a wide variety of fabric thicknesses can be easily sewn with precision fabric feeding.

The Juki HZL-NX7 Next Generation is a great addition to Juki's rich tradition in quilting. With the feed dog that can be raised and lowered with a simple switch, it is easy to free motion quilt. The thread tension scale allows for easy adjustment of tension according to the thread and material being used. The Precision Pin Feeding System ensures that a wide variety of fabric thicknesses can be easily sewn with precision fabric feeding.

Pros

  • Automatic needle threader for easy threading
  • Jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin for hassle-free use
  • Feed dog can be raised and lowered easily
  • Thread tension scale allows for easy tension adjustment
  • Precision Pin Feeding System allows for sewing a variety of fabric thicknesses with precision

5. Total Sewing Solution: Singer 9960 + Accessory Kit

The SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960 portable sewing machine is a versatile and user-friendly sewing machine that can help you bring your creative ideas to life. With a large selection of stitches, including basic, stretch, and decorative stitches, this sewing machine is perfect for fashion sewing, quilting, home decor, and crafting. It even comes with a selection of fonts that allows you to personalize your projects.

One of the most convenient features of this sewing machine is its automatic needle threader. Threading the machine is quick and easy, thanks to the built-in needle threader that threads the needle's eye for you. This feature eliminates eye strain and frustration, allowing you to focus on your project instead of struggling with the needle.

The SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960 sewing machine is also packed with advanced features that make it the best sewing machine in its class. With 600 built-in stitches, including 5 alphanumeric fonts and 13 built-in 1-step buttonholes, this sewing machine provides endless creative possibilities. It also has mirror imaging and stitch elongation features that allow you to customize your stitches even further.

Another advantage of this sewing machine is its high-speed sewing capability. With a maximum sewing speed of 850 stitches-per-minute, you can complete your projects quickly and efficiently.

This sewing machine comes with a variety of presser feet that can help you tackle any sewing task with ease. The included presser feet are the All-Purpose Foot, Zipper Foot, Buttonhole Foot with Underplate, Button Sewing Foot, Blind Hem Foot, Satin Stitch Foot, Open Toe Foot, Overcasting Foot, Darning and Embroidery Foot, Rolled Hem Foot, Cording Foot, Straight Stitch/Quilting Foot, and Even Feed/Walking Foot.

Please note that this 110-volt machine is designed for use in the United States and Canada only.

Pros

  • Versatile and user-friendly sewing machine
  • Large selection of stitches for various sewing tasks
  • Automatic needle threader eliminates eye strain and frustration
  • 600 built-in stitches, including alphanumeric fonts and 1-step buttonholes
  • Mirror imaging and stitch elongation features for customized stitches
  • High-speed sewing capability for quick and efficient projects
  • Variety of presser feet included for tackling any sewing task with ease

Cons

  • – Designed for use in the United States and Canada only

6. Strong Grip Work Gloves – Nocry

Protecting your hands from sharp blades and knives has never been easier with these cut-resistant work gloves. Boasting the highest cut protection rating, CE EN388 Level 5, these gloves offer tough and durable protection. Made with a blend of stainless steel, high-performance polyethylene, glass fiber, and spandex, they are both flexible and lightweight, allowing you to move freely while you work.

Whether you are working on a project in your outdoor garden, whittling in your yard, or heading to the warehouse for work, these gloves will be your trusty companion. They are designed to be breathable and comfortable to wear all day long without irritating your skin. The gloves are also covered in tiny silicone dots that provide a better grip on everyday objects, such as glass or wood, allowing you to work with ease and precision.

These cut-resistant gloves are perfect for hard-working men and women who need reliable protection in their line of work. Whether you are putting up sheet metal roofing, carving wood, handling glass, landscaping, or involved in construction, these gloves will get the job done.

Pros

  • Highest cut protection rating available
  • Tough, durable, and flexible
  • Breathable and comfortable to wear all day long
  • Tiny silicone dots provide a better grip on everyday objects
  • Ideal for a variety of tasks and professions

7. Food Safe Cut-Resistant Gloves (Pack Of 4)

Upgrade your cut protection with this heavyweight glove reinforced with stainless steel, offering up to 1500 grams of protection from cuts, slicing, and nicking. This glove satisfies both EN388 5 and ANSI 3 standards, providing life-long protection. Its elastic spandex material ensures a snug and flexible fit, increasing the ease and speed of cutting tasks. This glove is available in three kid sizes: XXS, XS, and S, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your loved ones regardless of age. Made of selective food grade materials, this glove is 100% food safe and ideal for kitchen tasks such as meat cutting, cheese cutting, fish filleting, oyster shucking, grating, peeling, chopping, fishing, and working with knives.

Pros

  • Offers up to 1500 grams of cut protection with stainless steel reinforcement
  • Satisfies both EN388 5 and ANSI 3 standards
  • Elastic spandex material ensures a snug and flexible fit
  • Available in three kid sizes: XXS, XS, and S
  • Made of selective food grade materials for 100% food safety
  • Ideal for a variety of kitchen tasks

8. Grace Cutie Tabletop Quilt Frame: Portable Perfection

Quilting has never been easier with the Cutie frame. This innovative frame allows you to glide your sewing machine over your quilt, creating beautiful patterns with ease. The Cutie frame is designed to fit on almost any desk or table, and can be stored away easily when not in use.

The Cutie frame is compatible with most sewing and quilting machines, including long arm machines up to 19 inches. This means that you can use the machine you already know and love, and upgrade when you're ready. The free motion capabilities of the Cutie frame will transform your sewing machine into a quilting machine, allowing you to complete quilts faster and create endless designs on all your quilts.

The Cutie frame is designed for ultimate portability and ease of use. With its adjustable legs, you can quilt in whatever position is most comfortable for you. The legs give the Cutie a permanent place to stay, so you can set up your quilting station wherever you like.

To ensure your machine is compatible with the Cutie frame, check if your machine has at least 8 inches of throat space, can disengage its feed dogs, and is less than 11.5 inches wide. If you answered yes to all of these questions, your machine will work perfectly with the Cutie frame.

Pros

  • Easy to use for quilting
  • Compatible with most sewing and quilting machines
  • Free motion capabilities for endless design options
  • Adjustable legs for comfortable quilting position
  • Portable
  • Can be stored away easily

Cons

  • – Not compatible with machines that have less than 8 inches of throat space or are wider than 11.5 inches
  • – May not be suitable for quilters who prefer a larger quilting frame

9. Strong & Tough Sewing Machine: 37 Stitches & Feet

The Brother ST371HD sewing machine is a heavy-duty machine that features 37 built-in unique stitches, including an auto-size buttonhole, making it perfect for everyday sewing projects. It also includes an automatic needle threader that conveniently pushes the thread through the needle, and a jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin that ensures a smooth sewing experience. The ST371HD comes with six sewing feet, an instructional DVD, and a manual, providing users with all the necessary tools to get started on their sewing projects. Its versatile free arm design makes it suitable for beginners and advanced users alike. Moreover, the machine comes with Brother's 'At Your Side' support which offers free technical support via online, live chat or phone for the life of your machine. Please note that this product is intended for sale only in the US at 120 volts, and any other use or sale voids the warranty.

The Brother ST371HD sewing machine is a great choice for those who are looking for a durable and reliable sewing machine. With 37 built-in unique stitches, an automatic needle threader, and a jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin, users can enjoy a smooth and uninterrupted sewing experience. The machine also includes six sewing feet, an instructional DVD, and a manual, which makes it easy for beginners to get started on their sewing projects. The versatile free arm design allows users to sew a wide range of projects, from garments to home decor. Additionally, Brother's 'At Your Side' support ensures that users can get free technical support for the life of their machine, providing peace of mind and support when needed.

The Brother ST371HD sewing machine is an excellent choice for everyday sewing projects. With its 37 built-in unique stitches, automatic needle threader, and jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin, users can enjoy a smooth and efficient sewing experience. The machine also comes with six sewing feet, an instructional DVD, and a manual, providing users with all the necessary tools to get started on their sewing projects. Its versatile free arm design makes it perfect for sewing cuffs, sleeves, and other small items. Moreover, Brother's 'At Your Side' support ensures that users can get free technical support for the life of their machine, making it a reliable and practical choice for all sewing enthusiasts.

Pros

  • 37 built-in unique stitches and an auto-size buttonhole.
  • Automatic needle threader and jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin.
  • Comes with 6 sewing feet, instructional DVD, and manual.
  • Versatile free arm design suitable for beginners and advanced users alike.
  • Comes with Brother's 'At Your Side' support offering free technical support for the life of the machine.

Best Long Arm Quilting Machine For Beginners FAQs

Are there any specific brands or models of long arm quilting machines recommended for beginners?

Yes, there are specific brands and models of long arm quilting machines that are recommended for beginners. The most popular brands for long arm quilting machines are Handi Quilter, APQS, Gammill, and Innova. These brands offer a variety of models that cater to different levels of experience and budget.

For beginners, it is recommended to start with a basic model that is easy to use and operate. The Handi Quilter Simply Sixteen and the APQS George are great options for beginners as they are both affordable and user-friendly. Another popular option is the Gammill Vision 2.0, which offers a larger workspace and more advanced features.

When looking for a long arm quilting machine, it is important to consider factors such as the size of the machine, the features it offers, and the level of customer support and training provided by the manufacturer. It is also important to read reviews and get recommendations from other quilters to find the best machine for your needs and skill level.

Can I rent a long arm quilting machine for beginners to try it out before purchasing?

Yes, you can definitely rent a long arm quilting machine for beginners to try it out before making a purchase. In fact, many quilt shops and sewing machine retailers offer long arm quilting machines for rent. This is a great option for those who are new to quilting and want to try out a long arm machine before investing in one.

Renting a long arm quilting machine allows you to get a feel for how it works, and to see if it's a good fit for your quilting needs. It also gives you the opportunity to experiment with different types of stitches and designs, without having to commit to purchasing a machine.

When renting a long arm quilting machine, be sure to ask about the rental terms and fees, as well as any training or support that may be available. Some retailers may also offer rental packages that include thread and other supplies, which can be helpful for beginners who may not have all the necessary supplies on hand.

Overall, renting a long arm quilting machine is a great way to test out this type of machine before making a purchase, and can help you make an informed decision about which machine is right for you.

What features should I look for in a long arm quilting machine for beginners?

As a beginner in the world of quilting, choosing the right long arm quilting machine can be an overwhelming task. There are several features that one must consider before investing in a long arm quilting machine. Firstly, the machine should be user-friendly and easy to operate. It should have a simple interface with clear instructions that can guide the beginner through the quilting process. Secondly, the machine should have a good stitching speed and precision, allowing for smooth and accurate movements. Thirdly, the machine should have a large throat space, which is the distance between the needle and the body of the machine. This allows for easy maneuverability of the quilt while quilting. Fourthly, the machine should be sturdy and durable, ensuring that it lasts long and can handle heavy usage. Lastly, it is important to consider the price and maintenance of the machine, ensuring that it is affordable and easy to maintain. By considering these features, a beginner can make an informed decision and choose the right long arm quilting machine for their needs.

What is the learning curve like for using a long arm quilting machine as a beginner?

Learning to use a long arm quilting machine as a beginner can be quite intimidating. However, with practice, patience, and a willingness to learn, anyone can become proficient at using this type of machine. The learning curve will depend on the individual's prior experience with quilting and sewing in general.

For someone who is new to quilting and sewing, it may take some time to get used to the mechanics of the machine and the different settings and controls. It is important to start with simple quilting designs and gradually work up to more complex patterns as your skills improve.

For those with more experience, the learning curve may be shorter as they are already familiar with the basic principles of quilting and sewing. However, even experienced quilters may need to spend some time practicing and experimenting with different settings to achieve the desired results.

Overall, the learning curve for using a long arm quilting machine as a beginner can be challenging, but with dedication and practice, it is a skill that can be mastered.

What is the price range for a long arm quilting machine for beginners?

The price range for a long arm quilting machine for beginners can vary depending on the brand, features, and size of the machine. Typically, a basic long arm quilting machine can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000. However, more advanced models with additional features such as computerized controls, adjustable frames, and stitch regulation can cost upwards of $10,000 or more.

It's important for beginners to consider their budget and quilting needs before investing in a long arm machine. While a more expensive machine may have more features, it may not be necessary for those just starting out. It's also a good idea to read reviews and compare different models before making a purchase.

Overall, investing in a long arm quilting machine can be a valuable tool for quilters looking to take their skills and projects to the next level. With the right machine and practice, beginners can create beautiful and professional-looking quilts.

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