Top Long-Arm Quilting Machines in 2021

With 2020 in the rearview, we've seen quite a few people join the ranks of quilters across the world. As quarantine stretches out before us in 2021, people keep asking us what the top long-arm quilting machines are for 2021. So we've done some thinking on this subject and concluded that there are four machines that stood out above their competitors.

Each of these machines boasts its own unique set of features. And while some may seem similar or from the same manufacturer, you should head over to the product page by clicking "See Details" to check out a full list of the features contained in each machine.

But before we dig into which machines you should keep in mind, let's take a look at what a long-arm quilting machine is and why you should add one to your at-home quilting space.

What is a Long-Arm Quilting Machine

Long-arm quilting machines are a type of sewing machine that consists of a sewing machine head and a heavy metal frame. On a short-arm sewing machine, such as the Juki Exceed HZL F600 Quilt Pro , the throat (area behind the needle) is a set size. Typically, the fabric being worked on sits on the throat plate. But in a long-arm machine, there is enough throat space that the machine is allowed to freely move across fabric that has been added to a frame.

This style of quilting machine allows the quilter to have a greater level of control over the needle head, allowing for more detailed stitch patterns and designs compared to a short-arm machine.

Why You Would Need a Long-Arm Quilting

You may have reached the dexterity ceiling of your short-arm machine and feel that you can't create designs that are quite as complex as you would like with your current equipment. If you're the type of quilting expert who feels that they've reached the pinnacle of what a short-arm machine has to offer, then a long-arm machine is a logical next step.

Alternatively, if you run a home business selling quilts, you may desire some more speed. Since most long-arm machines are designed for high-level or professional use, they boast higher stitch speeds than many short-arm machines. Each of the machines on our list has a maximum stitch speed of at least 1800 stitches per minute. These high speeds allow you to churn out more projects in less time, and also has a positive impact on the range of designs you can create.

The Top 4 Long-Arm Machines for 2021

So now that you know what a long-arm quilting machine is and why you might need one, it's time to dig into our four favorite long-arm quilting machines for 2021.

Grace Q'Nique 15+ Cutie Frame and Bonuspack

Grace Q’Nique 15 Machine Details $5,142.72

Why We Love This Machine: The Q'nique 15 may be a well-established name by now, but it's got plenty of tricks that make it fully capable of rolling into 2021 and far beyond. This machine has all the power and features that you'd expect from a top-of-the-line industrial grade machine, but it also has what those top end industrial machines lack — ease of use. With a touch-capable screen, you can find all the options you're looking for quickly, and make on-the-fly adjustments to improve your active projects.

Grace Q'Nique 19 Long-Arm Quilting Machine

Grace Q’Nique 19 machine Details $6,799.00

Why We Love This Machine: An evolution of the Q'Nique 15, the Q'Nique 19 boasts all the same features plus an even easier to use interface. To facilitate a more ergonomic quilting experience, the handles on the Q'Nique 19 can be adjusted to whichever location you prefer. The handles also feature six interface buttons, which allow you to make immediate adjustments to the main settings without having to look away from the task at hand. With an approachable design and powerful features, the Q'Nique 19 is a joy to use and is more than capable of tackling even the most complex quilting projects.

Grace Q'Nique 21

Grace Q’Nique 21 Machine Details $7,399.00

Why We Love This Machine: Once again, the Q'Nique line remains the standard of long-arm quilting excellence with their most recent entry. As one might expect, the Q'Nique 21 retains a majority of the features found in the 19, and adds a variety of new ones that are sure to impress even the most seasoned of home quilters. Adjustable handles and the quick access buttons remain a standard, and the machine is now fully capable of stitch regulation on three of its four different stitching modes. The machine is also upgradeable through the computer, so it has the potential to become a fully automated quilting machine. Add to that its shockingly light 54 lb. body, and you've got one of the most impressive machines on the market.

Juki Miyabi J-350QVP Long-Arm Quilting Machine

Juki Miyabi Machine Details $8,999.00

Why We Love This Machine: Finally, we end up at Juki's Miyabi J-350QVP Long-Arm Quilting Machine. As with all Juki products, the Miyabi is focused on nailing the middle ground between form and function. Somehow, they do this without having to skimp on features whatsoever. Between the four stitch modes, LED light settings, bobbin estimate settings, and the capability to be driven by software, there isn't a single project the Juki Miyabi can't tackle. And to make things even better, the sleek design and its included 5-foot frame are sure to catch the eyes of your quilting companions.

Add a Long-Arm Quilting Machine to Your Home Today

Now that you've seen what a long-arm quilting machine has to offer, you're ready to start searching like a pro. Feel free to search throughout Premier Stitching to find the machine of your dreams! If you've already found it sitting on this page, click "See Details" to head to the product page where you can purchase your chosen long-arm sewing machine. If you have any questions, contact us to be put in touch with one of our helpful customer service representatives.