Which quilting machine...?

by Debbie
(Pensacola, FL)

Question

Which long arm machine on a frame is the easiest to quilt with?

Reply

Fortunately or unfortunately, there is no one size fits all for sewing machines, quilting frames, short-arm, mid-arm or long arm machines.

The best recommendation I can give you is to try them out in person.

A regional or national quilt show is a good place to do at least initial comparisons because so many different manufacturers and models are represented. That should help you at least determine which types of machines you DON'T want to pursue further. You can go back and forth between machines and do some comparison shopping on price right there at the show.

However, my sewing machine purchases have all been made at the dealer, because the dealer, the person who will fix your machine, if and when you have problems, is an extremely important part of your purchase price. At a large quilt show, I think it would be harder to assess how helpful the dealer will be in 'real life', there's just so much commotion at a quilt show. (Again, this is my opinion, I have not purchased a machine at a quilt show before...and I know those 'show specials' can be tempting!)

I wish I could provide you with a specific recommendation, but only you will know what's just right for you.

Piecefully,

Julie Baird
Editor