MID ARM QUILTING MACHINE REVIEW
A mid arm quilting machine review can be the perfect solution if you want to sew larger quilts but don’t need the commercial use of a larger machine. The definition of a quilter varies depending on who you talk to. In general, the mid-arm has more room for the neck than a standard sewing machine, but less than a large neck.
The medium arm quilting market has a wide variety of machines that vary from larger neck sewing machines and quilting machines to purpose built quilting machines. While some center arm machines are computer controlled, there are also non-computer staplers. A medium arm quilting machine is a popular term for quilting machines with a larger than normal neck, but not quite what would be considered a large neck quilting machine.
The throat of the sewing machine is measured by calculating the distance between the upright arm and the sewing head, as well as the base to the bottom of the horizontal arm. When we talk about throat size, we’re talking about width. Sewing and quilting machines are often described by throat width.
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TOP THREE MID ARM QUILTING MACHINE REVIEWS
Mid arm quilting machines review can be used to create unique art on pillows, curtains, warm clothing or anything else you can think of. You can do different handicrafts on different fabrics. However, finding the best medium arm quilting machine for your needs can be a daunting task as there are so many models available on the market. Hopefully these reviews will help you make a wise choice.
Husqvarna Viking Platinum 16 medium arm quilting machine
The Husqvarna medium arm quilting machine is a popular machine with a 16 inch throat space. It has many advanced features for successful machine quilting that you will enjoy. This machine can produce 1500 stitches per minute. The large throat space also allows quilters to complete king size quilts. There is also a smooth surface. There is also a powerful engine that increases the value of the machine. You can choose your three favorite speed adjustments on the color touch screen and your unit will remember everything.
PROS
- Perfect for king size quilts
- You can complete your projects faster
- Feature-rich and durable
CONS
- Only available at authorized dealers
- Technical support is only available if the machine was purchased from authorized dealers
- Even for experts, there is a learning curve
Pfaff Power quilter 16.0 Mid Arm Quilting machine
If you’re looking for commercial quilting power in a small, efficient machine, then the Pfaff Medium Arm Quilting Machine is the perfect choice for you. Not only will it fully suit your needs. This unit is an ideal solution for quilters trying to complete their projects in a small space. It’s also packed with advanced features to make your quilting a whole lot easier. Some great features include 8 inches of vertical clearance and 16 inches of neck clearance. You will be able to complete quilting projects of various sizes with this machine. It’s powerful and accurate. The speed of this beast is 1500 stitches per minute.
PROS
- Compact and efficient
- You can complete your projects much faster
- Accurate and powerful
CONS
- None
Baby Lock Tiara BLTR16 Medium Arm Quilting Machine
Baby lock is a relatively new company. However, they make some of the best quilting machines available today. Their Tiara Medium Arm Quilting Unit is perfect for serious quilters. This is a sit-down quilting unit with a throat space of 16 inches. It also includes a table. So you can complete the project right out of the box. Its super-fast 1500 stitches per minute) and user friendly. But here’s the kicker. It’s also packed with awesome features like a stitch regulator, LED touch screen; bright LED lights, manual modes, and large capacity M size bobbins. I especially love the TruStitch. You will enjoy this module regardless of your skill level. The package also includes a Tiara cover plate to prevent the fabrics from sticking when working with free movement, 3 packs of metal spools, etc.
PROS
- User friendly
- Super-fast and powerful
- Compact design
CONS
- Only available at authorized dealers
HOW TO USE MID ARM SEWING MACHINES REVIEW
Mid arm quilting machines review take up less space than long arm quilting machines. They are preferred by quilters on a budget because they provide decent neck room for large projects. These quilters are a great choice for intermediate quilters who don’t want to complete their projects with a large quilting unit. Let’s learn how to use a medium arm quilting machine.
- Specially designed for quilting
The best sewing machines provide many features, including zigzag and straight stitches, different buttonhole styles, special stitches, etc. However, medium arm quilting units are specifically made for quilting and have special quilting features. They also include a table and allow free quilting. Although they seem difficult to use, they are easy to master quilting on a medium arm quilting machine as they come with instructions.
- Generous space around the neck
Mid-range quilting machines have generous throat space (16 to 22 inches), which is two to three times more than home sewing machines. There is also additional vertical space for quilting. This allows you to maneuver with any size blankets. You can make a lap quilt to a king size quilt which is a very attractive feature. More neck space makes quilting easier for beginners.
- Stationary needle
Unlike long arm quilting units where you move the needle all over the quilt, medium arm quilting units allow quilters to easily move the quilt under a fixed needle. This is a great feature. However, it has a learning curve. If you are a professional sewing machine or a serious home sewing machine, you are probably used to completing projects on your standard sewing machine and have gained experience.
- Orientation from the front or to the sides
Center arm quilting units can be positioned in one of 2 ways. When the neck is positioned so that you are looking directly at the needle, the body of the unit is perpendicular to the user. This orientation is similar to a long arm quilting machine and is better for quilting larger projects. This way, the workspace is easily visible right in front of you. However, it is different from a sewing machine for home use. For these units, you must sew with the unit on the side.
- Two coil sizes
Center arm quilting machines have two bobbin size options. A size M spool holds about 3x more threads. Usually found on long arm quilting machines. On the other hand, the size L bobbin is the exact size used in a traditional sewing machine. Choose a machine with a larger spool as it does not require changing as often. A smaller coil needs to be changed more often. However, it is a better choice for detailed quilting projects. The bobbin in center arm quilting units is located directly under the table.
BENEFITS AND REVIEWS OF THE MID ARM QUILTING MACHINE
- Throat space
mid arm quilting machine review neck clearance is a crucial factor for quilting. Too small and you are severely limited in the number of projects you can do. However, many medium arm quilting machines have a large enough throat. This means that quilters using these machines can complete most projects.
- Body
The body of the middle arm machines is specially designed. This allows quilters to see and access all of their work from their workstation. This aspect of the design is borrowed from the long arm quilting machine. While the needle placement and work design are adopted from home sewing machines.
- Coils
Make sure you can choose the coil size that suits your needs. Most medium arm machines are designed to handle either L or M size spools. You choose your preference at the time of purchase.
- Optional stitch regulation
Most medium arm quilting machines including the HQ Sweet Sixteen and Baby Lock Tiara II offer optional stitch control. This ensures precise sewing and offers better speed control. Although this is a great feature and most home sewing machines and long arm quilting machines include this option, a large number of quilters choose a machine without stitch control. They prefer to check the result of the patterns. If you want to try stitch control, keep in mind that stitch control modules add about $1,000 to the price of the machine.
- Extra
Other bells and whistles on modern center arm quilting machines range from powerful motors that can do 1,500 stitches per minute to color touchscreens to additional foot and needle adjustments. Choose a medium-arm quilting machine with extra feet for better visibility when quilting and high-quality features like the Pfaff Power 16.0 Quilter.
WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING A MID ARM QUILTING MACHINE REVIEW
Mid arm quilting machine review come in small and large sizes to suit both industrial and home use. Some include advanced features while others do not. So if you buy a low-end medium arm quilting machine, you will need to buy accessories. Below is a list of important features to pay close attention to when purchasing a medium arm quilting machine. They will help you make a reasonable purchase.
- Type
Mechanical machines are operated manually. It requires quilters to manually do things like change the bobbin. This type of quilting machine is suitable and highly recommended for quilting beginners. Computer and electronic machines provide non-mechanical functions. However, they are expensive and recommended for professionals. If you are aiming for more complex and demanding quilting projects, choose a computer or electronic unit.
- Speed
The speed of your quilting machine determines how quickly you finish your projects. High-speed quilting units like the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 and Q’nique Quilter 15 get more work done in no time. Also, the bobbin size corresponds to the speed of your quilting machine. The Q’nique Quilter 15R can produce 1800 stitches per minute. This is higher than most machines on the market. Choose a machine with high speed and a powerful engine.
- Stitch length
Medium arm quilting machines offer different stitch lengths that give different results. The average stitch length varies from 0 to 3 mm. You can also find units with a stitch length of 5 or even 6 mm. A short stitch length machine provides small stitches, while long stitch length units offer larger stitches. Longer stitch length units are popular with most quilters, especially professional quilters. According to experienced quilters, tiny stitches can damage fabrics. They are also hard to tear off. If your future tasks involve heavy fabrics, choose a quilting machine with a long stitch length.
- Needle type and size
Medium arm quilting machines work best with durable needles that won’t break or fray when quilting thin or thick fabrics. Professionals say the common size is 90/14. They also recommend testing many needle sizes in offline stores to get a match for making perfect quilts.
- Warranty
The warranty covers unexpected problems and defects that the quilting unit may come with. For example, a dealer may supply a machine with a defective and broken knee lift or with side-loading spools.
CONCLUSION
The best mid arm quilting machine review is the perfect solution for individuals who don’t have enough coins or space to house a long arm machine. Therefore, if you want to improve your quilting skills and take your projects to the next level, buy a medium arm quilting machine. They cost between $5,000 and $10,000. To learn more about medium-arm quilting units, the main difference between long-arm and medium-arm models, and find the right one for you.