10 Best Sewing Machines For Quiltings 2026 in the United States

The Janome Horizon Memory Craft 9410QC is a feature-rich sewing and quilting machine designed to meet the needs of serious quilters. It boasts an impressive 11 inches of throat space, offering ample room for larger projects. The machine includes 300 built-in stitches, along with 11 buttonholes, and the Stitch Composer PC software allows you to create custom stitches. This array of options makes it versatile for various quilting designs and patterns.

The needle position can be adjusted, and it includes an automatic thread cutter to save time and effort. The feed dog control is another useful feature, providing better management of fabric movement during quilting. A notable convenience is the extra-wide extension table included in the bonus bundle, which enhances workspace and supports larger quilts. Additional convenience features such as the start/stop sewing button, speed control slider, and automatic thread cutter add to its user-friendliness.

Despite its many advanced features, the machine is relatively heavy at 30 pounds, which might not be ideal for those needing portability. It's also on the pricier side, potentially making it less accessible for beginners. However, its extensive set of accessories and robust build quality justify the investment for serious quilters. This machine is best suited for experienced quilters who are looking for a reliable, high-performing machine with a wide range of features.

The Janome MC6650 is a solid choice for quilters and hobbyists looking for a reliable sewing machine. One of its standout features is the generous 10-inch throat space, which provides ample room for managing large quilts and intricate projects. With 170 stitch options and two alphabets, it offers versatility, allowing for creative expression in stitching. The automatic thread cutter is a notable advantage, saving time and effort during sewing sessions.

This machine also boasts a top-loading full rotary hook bobbin and a superior needle threader, which simplify setup and help users avoid common threading issues. The drop feed feature enhances its capability for free-motion quilting, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced quilters alike.

However, there are some limitations to consider. The machine weighs 24.2 pounds, making it somewhat less portable compared to lighter models, which might be a drawback for those who attend quilting classes or workshops. Additionally, while it offers a variety of stitch options, some users might find the lack of advanced features, like a built-in walking foot or more automated quilting functions, limiting for more complex quilting tasks. The extension table is a useful addition, improving stability and workspace while quilting. Users appreciate the 12 included accessory feet, which enhance the machine's functionality. Despite having a strong performance with a speed of 1,000 stitches per minute (SPM), the machine's noise level might be slightly higher, which could be a consideration for those sensitive to sound. The Janome MC6650 is well-suited for quilting enthusiasts who value ease of use and a range of stitch options, but those seeking advanced features or portability may want to explore other models.

The Janome Continental M6 is a strong choice for quilting enthusiasts thanks to its spacious 17.81-inch throat space, which offers plenty of room to maneuver large quilts comfortably. With 400 built-in stitches, including five alphabet styles, and a maximum speed of 1,300 stitches per minute, it provides versatility and quick work for both decorative and functional stitching. The machine features a 7-inch color touchscreen that makes selecting stitches and settings easier, even for less experienced users. Its upstanding dual thread stands and auto-declutch bobbin winder allow smooth threading and bobbin preparation, which is helpful for continuous sewing sessions. The included bonus kit enhances its quilting potential with an extra-wide extension table for extra fabric support, professional presser feet, and the AcuFeed foot that helps feed multiple fabric layers evenly, a must-have for quilting.

The full LED lighting system ensures excellent visibility of your work area. While it does not explicitly mention adjustable needle positions or feed dog control in the specs, its quilting-specific features like rulerwork mode and stitch tapering indicate thoughtful design for controlling stitch placement. It is a heavier machine at over 38 pounds, which might make it less portable if you plan to move it frequently. Some advanced users might prefer even more customizable feed dog settings or needle positions.

This machine shines with its generous workspace, wide stitch selection, and helpful quilting accessories, making it ideal for serious quilters who want a reliable, feature-rich machine to handle large projects smoothly.