When you think of sewing machines, images of a loud, smelly machine come to mind. This may be true for most people, but that isn’t the only kind of sewing machine out there. Other types of sewing machines are available, and the free-motion quilting (FMQ) variety is probably the most common.
A sewing machine is a device that allows you to sew by means of a series of L-shaped metal plates called spindles. The plates move in unison as you sew to create a set of quilting lines. The trick with a sewing machine is that you need to choose the right kind and model depending on your objectives. If you’re just getting started and don’t want to spend a lot of money, a basic model is probably all you need.
10 Best Vintage Sewing Machine for Free Motion Quilting In 2023
To help you narrow down your choices, we’ll walk you through the different types of sewing machines and explain the benefits of each one. After you’ve read this article, you’ll be well on your way to choosing the best sewing machine for free-motion quilting.
1. EverSewn Sparrow 30 Sewing Machine
This sewing machine can handle any task, making it ideal for professionals and experienced sewers.
Specially made for quilting, having the EverSewn Sparrow sewing machine in your workspace is an additional advantage to your quilting craft in this technology period thanks to its computer-controlled features.
Equipped with an LCD display screen, adjustable upper thread tension, and an automatic lock. It also comes with memory storage where stitch combinations can be stored.
Equipped to give you a pleasant quilting experience, the EverSewn Sparrow sewing machine is an ideal tool for beginner and professionals quilters. With the luxury of 310 stitches pattern available for use which includes 32 utility choices, 84 decorative choices, and full alphabets available in both script and block style.
Its memory function feature can be very helpful when working as it allows you to save up your combinations for future use. It also comes with an automatic thread cutter and adjustable presser foot pressure. Furthermore, Its speed can be easily controlled and its start/stop button combined with its needle stop up/down makes it a unique tool among its peers.
Highlighted Features:
- Comes with 310 stitches pattern
- Automatic thread cutter
- Precision drop-in bobbin
- Stitch memory function
- Maximum stitch width of 7mm
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Easily adjustable sewing speed
- High-performance sewing
- Automatic stop/lock button
2. Juki HZL-F600 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine
Provides all the benefits of a traditional sewing machine, with the added convenience and versatility of a computerized machine.
Made by the well-known and advanced sewing brand name Juki, the Juki HZL-F600 quilting machine is one of the best quilting machines you can see around. Equipped with 225 stitches option to suit your preference, it also comes with 16 professional buttonholes, 4 lettering fonts, and a collection of other accessories.
There is also a one-touch pattern selection from ten patterns that can be chosen from. And to give you an outstanding quilt outcome on thick fabrics, the Juki HZL-F600 width can be easily adjusted and its quick-thread bobbin enables an easy sewing process. With just a push, you can use the quick threading system and the automatic needle threader.
Its top and bobbin thread can be trimmed in three different methods, this can be done by pushing a button, you can also make use of the automatically programmed trims or with the foot-controlled trimming method.
With the Juki HZL-F600 Computerized quilting machine, there are 8 different languages to select from, you can also increase and reduce the machine buzzer volume and the LCD screen contrast can also be set to suit the user preference. Other available options on this computerized machine include the up/down position, programmed automatic thread trimming, and an onboard sewing guide.
Highlighted Features:
- Simple to use sewing and quilting machine
- User-friendly designed LCD screen
- Automatic needle threader
- Sewing machine accessories
- LCD screen with computerized stitch selection
- Programmable needle up/down, start/stop button
- Variable needle position
- Quick change presser feet
- Adjustable thread tension control
- Silent sewing machine
3. Brother XR9550 Sewing and Quilting Machine
This robust sewing machine has been designed with features that make it ideal for free motion quilting, as well as traditional stitching.
Looking for a sewing machine for quilting for under $500, the Brother XR9550 is a perfect quilting machine you should be checking out. What you’ll be getting with the Brother XR9550 is a simple quilting machine with outstanding stitches thanks to its stunning buttonholes and zigzag stitches. It is an affordable quilting machine perfect for beginners for basic use.
As a computerized quilting machine, it comes with 110 built-in utility, decorative, and heirloom stitches. which includes 8 styles of auto-size buttonholes and 55 alphanumeric sewing stitches. Equipped with an automatic needle threader and drop-in top bobbin, its fast needle threading system does the threading of your needle conveniently.
With a push of a button, you can easily set and chose your stitches on its LCD screen. The Brother XR9550 is also accompanied by different sewing accessories which include a wide table, 8 sewing and quilting feet, an instructional DVD for easy usage, and a protective hardcover.
Highlighted Features:
- Full-featured machine
- 165 built-in stitches
- Extended table and free arm
- Automatic needle threader and drop-in top bobbin
- Quiet, powerful, and reliable functionality
- Foot pedal for easy control of start/start functions
4. Janome Computerized Sewing Machine DC2013
Features a variety of presser feet which allow you to create beautiful stitches on heavy-weight fabrics such as denim and leather.
Looking for the perfect quilting and scrapbooking machine for beginners, you should surely check out the Janome computerized sewing machine. Equipped with 50 stitches available for built-in quilting, it also comes with 3 one-step buttonholes which provide multiple options to optimize and create your projects to satisfaction.
This quilting machine is equipped with features that provide convenience for the user including the auto-lock button, easy reverse, and a speed control slider. With its automatic thread tension control, built-in needle threader, snap-on presser feet memorized needle up/down, and its superior feed system, the Janome computerized sewing system gives you the utmost convenience and precision on your quilting projects.
It also comes with an extra high presser foot lift, easy reverse button, stocking stitch button, and auto-declutch bobbin winder.
Highlighted Features:
- 50 stitches with essential variety for your diverse sewing needs
- Exclusive superior feed system that assists in delivering unsurpassed stitch quality
- Memorized up/down needle stop position
- Computerized direct stitch selection buttons
- Bright LED screen with easy navigation keys
- Outstanding machine for beginners
5. SINGER 9960 Sewing & Quilting Machine
It allows you to sew any pattern and design at your own pace. It can be used for both sewing and quilting.
Easy to navigate for both beginners and professionals, the Singer 9960 is equipped with 600 built-in stitches and 5 different fonts. With a variety of stitches which include basic, stretch and decorative, and decorative stitches ideal for quilting, fashion decoration, home decor, and crafting, the Singer 9960 easy use features help to fulfil your creative dreams
It also comes with the needle up/down feature which allows easy swivelling while doing your free motion quilting, topstitching, applique, and other forms of craft. Its speed control feature makes it easy to set the sewing speed to the user’s preference.
With its top drop-in bobbin, threading becomes easy while working on your quilting project. You can also cut the top and bottom thread with just a push on the thread trimmer button.
The Singer 9960 quilting machine comes with 13 presser feet for enhanced capacity, this includes an 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, quilting foot, and walking foot.
Highlighted Features:
- Automatic needle threader
- 850 stitches per minute for high-speed sewing
- 600 stitch applications for creativity
- 13 presser feet included for enhanced capacity
- Automatic one-step buttonhole
- A thread trimmer button for easy projects
6. Brother HC1850 Sewing and Quilting Machine
It is lightweight, compact, durable and pocket friendly. Its parts are replaceable and easy to find.
With its 13lbs weight, the Brother HC1850 quilting machine is one of the most transportable machines out there. Its 130 special stitches are an impressive feature for a small machine that it is and it is a perfect tool for quilting, sewing, and basic monogramming.
Flexible and easy to use, its speed can be controlled to suit the user’s preference, and its built-in stitch reference flip-chart, 8 presser feet, adjustable sewing speed, push-button stitch selector, automatic threading system, divisible foot controller, and an exceptional feed system makes it an ideal machine for both beginners and professional quilters.
The Brother HC1850 also comes with its unique features which include a detachable wide table, spring action quilting foot, and its free motion quilting ability.
Its large backlit LCD display with reflexive push-button brightens up your workspace and helps with stitches selection, with its other easy-to-use various options and other automated features that put you in control all time while using the machine to suit your preference.
Highlighted Features:
- Large backlit LCD display screen
- 1 built-in monogramming sewing font
- Wide table for more extensive projects
- Handy stitches flip-charts
- Super bright work area
- Adjustable sewing speed
- Easy threading with automatic needle threader
- Quick set bobbin
- Remarkably lightweight for portability
- Quite easy to use with different available options
7. Janome 2212 Sewing Machine
Has a compact design and intuitive controls that makes it easy to handle. It is also easy to maintain.
With its 12 built-in stitches, four-step buttonhole, dial pattern collection, and adjustable stitch width and length, the Janome is easy to navigate which makes it a perfect choice for beginners quilters. Its free arm and drop feed features make it a compatible machine for quilting and at 13lbs, it is a remarkably lightweight and admiringly functional machine.
The Janome 2212 sewing machine for quilting also comes with unique features like its 5-piece feed dog, push-pull bobbin winder, extra-high presser foot lift, and its snap-on presser feet.
And with its straightforward stitch selection dial, you can easily choose the program of your choice. Its vertical oscillating hook bobbin and the two retractable vertical spoon pins can also be used to achieve quality and outstanding quilting projects.
Highlighted Features:
- Easy turn dial pattern selection
- 12 built-in stitches including a four-step buttonholes
- Stitch width and length adjustment
- Drop feed for free-motion quilting
- Snap-on presser feet
- Built-in thread cutter
- Lightweight
- Has all quilting features
8. SINGER Heavy Duty Sewing Machine
Comes with a sturdy frame and super smooth operation. Designed to outlast, outperform and deliver.
A perfect and affordable quilting machine, the Singer heavy-duty quilting machine is equipped with 32 built-in stitches and a strong motor for additional sewing speed. During your quilting projects, you can select from its variety of stitches which include the basic, stretch, and decorative stitches. You also have a one-step buttonhole making your sewing easy, good-looking, and perfect.
As indicated by its name, the Singer heavy-duty sewing machine comes with a heavy-duty metal frame which gives it long-lasting durability. This sewing machine can easily whip up a sewing task using denim or canvas.
And to give you a professional crafting experience, the Singer heavy-duty sewing machine can be used with the Singer Sewing Assistance App where users can take up sewing and quilting assistance to easily and professionally complete a quilting project.
It comes with a built-in needle threader, adjustable presser foot pressure, a top drop-in bobbin, and a drop feed which makes it an ideal quilting tool. With the stitch selector dial, you can switch from one stitch to another and adjust a stitch length or width. It also has a built-in reverse lever which allows you to sew in reverse and reinforce stitches.
You also get multiple sewing accessories when you buy a Singer heavy duty sewing machine, these include an all-purpose foot, zipper foot, buttonhole foot, button sewing foot, seam ripper brush, quilting guide, needles, bobbins, screwdriver, auxiliary spool pin, power cord, and a soft-sided dust cover.
Highlighted Features:
- Heavy-duty metal frame for maintenance and durability
- Multiple sewing machine accessories
- Reverse stitch sewing machine
- Automatic 1 step buttonhole
- Four presser feet are included for enhanced capability
- 1,100 stitches per minute of high-speed stitching
- 110 stitch application for basic and decorative sewing
- Easy to load top drop-in bobbin system for clear cover
- Automatic needle threader
- Three needle position
9. Janome MC6650 Sewing and Quilting Machine
Perfect for the beginner and the seasoned pro. Can stitch through multiple layers of fabric without any hesitation.
A computerized sewing machine with lots of outstanding features which makes it a must-have machine for modern sewers. The Janome MC6650 quilting machine is equipped with a 10” all-metal seamless flatbed which provides an outstanding workspace for both small and large quilting projects.
It comes with 70 built-in stitches which include 6 one-step buttonholes and is designed with lots of quilting features. This computerized quilting machine can be operated with or without a foot controller. Fitted with speed and precision, the Janome MC6650 makes your project looks more professional and can be easily navigated by both beginners and professionals quilters.
With its start/stop button, you can easily perfect and control your stitching to your satisfaction. your favorite stitch settings can also be saved as default and you can easily start to work when you switch your machine on without additional settings needed.
Its extension table makes it perfect for larger projects and has a top-loading full rotary hook bobbin, one push needle plate conversion, 6 LED lights in three different locations, detachable stitch reference charts, and 15 language settings for easy navigation.
Highlighted Features:
- Top loading full rotary hook bobbin
- Excellent needle threader
- 70 built-in stitches including 2 alphabets
- 10” all-metal seamless flatbed
- 6 LED lights in 3 different locations
- 12 included accessory feet
- 15 language settings for easy navigation
- Automatic thread cutter
- Foot pressure adjustment dial
- Speed controller slider
- 1,000 stitches speed per minute
- Removable stitch reference chart
How To Choose the Best Sewing Machine for Free Motion Quilting
With the dime dozens of sewing machines out there, you might find it picking one that fits your quilting needs. Below are important factors to consider to help you pick the best one.
I. Stitch and Cut Functions
A basic model of a sewing machine has stitch and cut functions. These are the most basic settings and allow you to sew simple fabrics such as cotton, linen, and jersey. They also have a few other settings, but we won’t cover them here.
If you want to go beyond basics, you might want to invest in a more sophisticated model that has further settings. This is where things get interesting.
A more advanced model can be used for more complex quilting tasks, allowing you to create beautiful fabrics with greater precision and accuracy.
II. Simple Design and Operation
The first thing you’ll appreciate about a sewing machine is its simple design. This is a key factor in its popularity and usability.
The machines usually come with a straightforward instruction manual that tells you how to operate them. You don’t need any additional training to get started with a free-motion quilting machine.
III. LCD (liquid crystal display) or Digital Screens
LCD (liquid crystal display) machines are the most popular type of sewing machine because they’re easy to use and perfect for beginners. LCD machines usually have a digital screen that can be used to view your fabric or fabrics on a large scale. This is great for seeing your fabric in more detail than a traditional screen.
Plus, you can control the size and shape of the fabric on the screen. Digital screens also allow you to see your stitches and results right on the screen, which is a huge advantage over LCD machines. Additionally, LCDs tend to be more expensive than digital screens.
IV. Touch-screen Control
is a popular feature on many sewing machines. With this type of control, you don’t have to use your hands to operate the machine. Instead, you use your touchscreen to scroll through your fabrics, select fabrics to be sewn together, and adjust the stitches.
This type of control is great for people who are used to using a mouse or trackpad. The downside is that it can be a little difficult to learn how to use touch-screen control.
It can take some time to get used to it, so it might not be the best choice for someone who wants to start quilting quickly. However, if you’re an experienced quilter and want quick and easy quilting, touch-screen control is a great option.
V. Step-up or step-down automatic feed
When you’re shopping for a sewing machine, it can be helpful to know which type of automatic feed it is. This will help you determine which stitches to use and how many stitches per inch (in cm).
Some models have a step-up or step-down automatic feed, which means that they start with the basic stitches and add additional stitches as you go. This is great for people who are new to sewing and need some help getting started.
Other models have a basic feed, which means that they start with the most basic stitches and then add more as needed.
VI. Manual and Power Adjustments
Manual adjustments are the most common type of sewing machine. They’re easy to use and require no prior experience to operate. Just hold down the left-hand button and turn the spindle around the desired number of revolutions. The right-hand button controls the speed of the spindle. Power adjustments are more advanced and require more experience.
They can be used to change the stitch width, how many stitches per inch (SPI), or how many stitches per minute (SPM). Power adjustments can also be used to adjust the tension on the fabric. The benefit of power adjustments is that they allow you to achieve a higher level of accuracy when quilting.
With manual adjustments, you may miss some stitches or end up with the wrong stitch. With power adjustments, you can correct these mistakes without having to remove the machine from your work area.
If you’re starting out and don’t want to spend a lot of money, a basic model is probably all you need. They tend to be less expensive and easier to use than higher-end models.
If you’re an experienced quilter and want the best results, you might want to look into a more sophisticated model with more features and more advanced settings.
Can You Put a Free-Motion Foot on Your Sewing Machine?
Yes, you can put a free motion foot on your sewing machine. And the best part is, it doesn’t matter whether you have a standard or a rotary machine. It’s a simple, cheap and effective way to get started while also helping you to learn the basics of sewing. Advanced sewing machines have different foot mechanisms and settings.
But for the most part, a standard foot on your machine has the same basic function. It allows you to place your foot on the foot pedal to activate your machine’s motor. This creates a circular motion that you can use to sew on curved items like cufflinks or buckles.
Or it can be used to create a straight line by pressing firmly with your foot. But the free motion foot is a little different. It’s a foot that is designed to produce motion in all directions, not just a circular motion.
How to Put a Free Motion Foot on your Sewing Machine
- To put a free motion foot on your sewing machine, first, determine which foot mechanism your machine has.
- If your machine has a standard foot, you’ll need to use the standard foot mechanism to put the free motion foot on your machine.
- If, however, you have a rotary or advanced sewing machine, you’ll need to use one of the following methods to put the free motion foot on:
- Place the foot pedal on the floor and move the needle around so it points in all directions –
- Push down on the pedal and lift up the fabric until the foot is positioned over the needle and moving it in all directions.
What Type of Foot Does a Free Motion Foot Work With?
A free-motion foot works with a rotary machine just like a regular foot. However, it has a few additional settings that allow you to produce motion in all directions.
The most important setting is in the direction of motion. You can choose between straight or circular motion.
The other setting is the speed at which the free motion foot will move. This determines how quickly your machine will start moving and create a circular or straight line of sewing motion.
Tips on How to Free Motion Quilt on a Brother Sewing Machine
- Start by getting your Brother’s sewing machine set up. This includes choosing the right size and type of fabric, setting the quilting stitches, and choosing the fabric you want to quilt.
- Once your machine is set up, you will need to choose a quilting thread. There are many different types of quilting stitches available, so it’s important to find one that will work with your Brother sewing machine.
- Once you have chosen your quilting thread, you will need to set the material you want to quilt on the fabric Selector bar. This will allow you to select a specific layer of fabric for quilting.
- Next, use the Ruler/Stitch Selection tool to choose the stitch(s) you want to use for your quilt.
- Finally, use the Quilting Machine Button (or another button) to start sewing.
- Keep in mind that you can’t stop or change the quilting process once it starts; you must continue stitching until all of your fabrics have been sewn together.
Can You Free Motion Quilt On A Brother Sewing Machine?
The Brother sewing machine is a fantastic piece of technology that makes it possible to create beautiful quilts and clothing at home. For many women, making their own clothes is a necessity and a way to take control of their own destiny.
For others, it’s a hobby that they enjoy. For those who are interested in getting into quilting, getting your sewing machine set up is the first step. But, is it possible to free motion quilt on a Brother sewing machine?
The short answer is yes, it is possible. Although the process may seem difficult at first, quilting on a Brother sewing machine doesn’t have to be hard. All you need is a little bit of practice and the right tools.
Does Brother have any Special Features for Free-Motion Quilting?
Brother does have a few extra features that might be helpful for free-motion quilting. For example, the Brother sewing machine has a built-in quilting mat. This will help you to smooth out the fabric while you’re quilting.
The machine also has a number of other features that might be helpful for free-motion quilting, like automatic piecing and hemming.
Conclusion
Sewing machines can be quite expensive, but they can also be quite simple to use. In this beginner’s guide, we covered the basics of choosing the best free-motion sewing machine for free quilting.
In addition, we look at the features of each type of machine and then go on to discuss the different types of fabrics.