These machines provide a good balance of features, usability, and value, making them suitable options for those new to quilting. There are a variety of factors to consider when choosing a sewing machine as a beginner, like ease of use, available features, budget, and the specific needs of your quilting projects. 

 

What to Know Before You Get Started

Presser foot: A sewing machine pressure foot holds the fabric in place as it moves. This essential component of a sewing machine applies pressure and guides the fabric over the feed dogs, which are the metal teeth that sit below the presser foot. Presser feet come in various types for distinct sewing tasks or techniques. Utilizing different presser feet on a sewing machine can expand the range of sewing techniques and projects one can undertake. While this is not an all-inclusive list, here are several applications for various presser feet: walking foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, gathering foot, and piping foot. 

The go-to presser foot for quilters is the walking presser foot, also known as an "Even Feed" foot. Its design is specifically tailored for sewing multiple layers of fabric together.

Check out our presser foot selection here.

Bobbin housing: The bobbin housing is the compartment in a sewing machine that securely holds the bobbin, allowing the thread to be pulled up for stitching. This housing can either be top-loading, where you drop the bobbin in, or front-loading. While I appreciate the ease of using a top-loading bobbin housing, the front-loading bobbin provides more control over tension adjustments. 

 View our bobbin related accessory and notions here.

There are several key features quilters consider when purchasing a sewing machine. Here, we've compiled a list to help you become more acquainted with some of these features.

 

1. Stitch Variety: Look for machines offering various built-in stitches, especially these six essential for quilting: straight stitch, zigzag stitch, buttonhole stitch, blind hem stitch, straight stretch stitch, and satin stitch. 
2. Throat Space: A wider throat space (the area to the right of the needle) allows for easier handling of bulkier quilts. Look for machines with larger throat spaces for quilting larger projects.
3. Extension Table: An extension table provides extra support for larger quilting projects by increasing the workspace area around the needle. There are universal extension tables for sewing machines, so if the sewing machine your heart is set on does not include one out of the box, you should be able to find one online.  
4. Walking Foot or Dual Feed System: This feature assists in evenly feeding multiple layers of fabric, which is crucial for quilting thicker materials or multiple layers. 
5. Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure: The ability to adjust the pressure applied by the presser foot is essential when working with different fabric thicknesses in quilting.
6. Needle Position and Down Function: Machines that allow you to control the needle position (up or down) help with pivoting while quilting. The needle-down function is particularly useful for securing stitches at corners.
7. Free Motion Quilting Capability: Look for machines that offer the option for free motion quilting. Some models have a drop feed dog feature to enable this technique.
8. Thread Cutter: This is a small but very useful feature. Built-in thread cutters save time and make quilting more efficient by eliminating the need for scissors. 
9. Adjustable Speed Control: Having the ability to control sewing speed allows for better control, especially when working on intricate quilting designs. This feature allows you to sew at a slower or faster speed, depending on your project needs.

10. Bobbin System: Consider the ease of access and type of bobbin system (top-loading or front-loading), as it can affect convenience during quilting.
11. Tension Adjustment: A machine with easily adjustable tension settings allows for precise stitching, especially when using different thread weights. 

Check for included quilting accessories such as quilting feet, walking feet, and darning or free-motion quilting feet.

Prioritize features that align with your specific sewing or quilting needs, whether it's handling larger projects, quilting techniques, or ease of use.  

Here are six machines that are well-regarded for beginners. 

Janome 2212: Known for its simplicity and reliability, the Janome 2212 offers essential features ideal for beginners without overwhelming them with complex options.

Brother CS7000X: A user-friendly computerized sewing machine with various built-in stitches and easy-to-use functions, perfect for beginners exploring diverse sewing projects.

Singer Quantum Stylist 9960: A versatile machine with a wide array of features, including a large variety of stitches and helpful accessories, suitable for beginners seeking versatility.

Juki HZL-LB5100: Known for its durability and user-friendly interface, the Juki HZL-LB5100 offers basic functions and is excellent for those starting their quilting journey.

Bernette 35: The Bernette 35 strikes a balance between affordability and functionality, offering essential features while being easy for beginners to learn and use.

Brother XR9550: This machine offers a wide range of features, including a variety of built-in stitches, an automatic needle threader, and quilting accessories, making it user-friendly for beginners.

When choosing a machine, keep in mind key features like stitch variety, throat space, extension tables, and the ability to handle multiple layers of fabric. Features such as needle position, adjustable presser foot pressure, and free-motion quilting capabilities can significantly aid your quilting endeavors.

While these machines offer a great starting point for beginners, always prioritize features that align with your unique quilting or sewing needs. Take your time to explore and choose the machine that best suits your preferences, whether it's for handling larger projects, mastering different quilting techniques, or ensuring ease of use.