10 Best Quilting Machines 2025 in the United States

The Janome MC6650 Sewing and Quilting Machine is designed for quilters and sewing enthusiasts who appreciate versatility and ease of use. With a throat space of 10 inches, it offers ample room for working on larger quilts, which can be a significant advantage. It boasts an impressive 170 built-in stitches plus two alphabets, giving users plenty of creative options. The speed control slider allows for a smooth adjustment of up to 1,000 stitches per minute (SPM), making it suitable for both intricate work and quick projects.

One of its standout features is the automatic thread cutter, which can save time and effort, especially during lengthy sewing sessions. The superior needle threader and one-push needle plate conversion also contribute to a more user-friendly experience, making it easier to switch between different sewing tasks. Additionally, the machine includes 12 accessory feet, which further enhances its versatility.

Despite its many advantages, the machine's weight of 24.2 pounds might make it less portable for those who wish to take it to sewing classes or quilting retreats. While durability is generally strong with the all-metal construction, some may find it a bit bulky compared to lighter models. The learning curve for utilizing all 170 stitches and additional features might be daunting for beginners, but those willing to invest time will likely find great rewards in the capabilities it offers.

The Brother Stellaire XJ1 is a strong choice for quilting enthusiasts, especially those who want a versatile machine for sewing, embroidery, and quilting all in one. Its large throat space of 11.25 inches between the needle and arm gives plenty of room to handle big projects like king-sized quilts comfortably. The machine offers excellent stitch regulation and speed control, making it easier to maintain consistent stitching, which is important for quilting precision. It comes with a 10.1-inch high-definition touchscreen that’s easy to navigate, helping users choose stitches or embroidery designs without hassle.

This model shines with a huge variety of built-in options — 727 sewing stitches and embroidery designs, including fonts and Disney-themed patterns. It also allows combining stitches to create unique designs, adding more creative freedom. The included embroidery frames cover multiple sizes, so you can work on various project scales without constantly re-hooping. The machine is compatible with a sturdy frame or table setup, supporting larger quilting projects well. Weighing about 46 pounds, it’s solidly built, which means it should last through many quilting sessions. Additionally, the machine includes tutorial videos right on the screen, great for beginners or anyone wanting to learn new techniques.

Some potential downsides include the high number of stitches and options, which might be a bit overwhelming for absolute beginners. Its size and weight make it less portable, so it’s best suited for a dedicated sewing space. Also, with a price reflecting its advanced features, it might be a bigger investment than simpler quilting machines. The Brother Stellaire XJ1 is well-suited for serious quilters who want a powerful, feature-rich machine to handle large projects and diverse stitching needs. Beginners willing to take time learning will appreciate its helpful tutorials and wide creative possibilities.

The Brother XR9550 is a strong contender in the quilting machine category, offering a wealth of features that cater to both beginners and experienced quilters. One of its standout strengths is its impressive range of 165 built-in stitches, including various utility and decorative options, which allows for great versatility in projects. The automatic needle threader and jam-resistant drop-in bobbin simplify the sewing process, making it more accessible for users who may be intimidated by complicated setups.

The machine also comes with an intuitive LCD display, which enhances usability by allowing you to select stitches and settings with ease. Additionally, the included wide table is a significant advantage for quilting, providing extra space for larger projects, which many users find beneficial.

A notable highlight is the support offered by Brother, including free technical assistance for the life of the machine, which can be invaluable for troubleshooting or learning new techniques. While the Brother XR9550 excels in many areas, its throat space may be limited compared to more advanced quilting machines, which could be a concern for users who frequently tackle large quilts. Some users might find the machine's weight (10.1 pounds) a bit cumbersome for portability if they plan to transport it often. Durability and build quality appear solid, but as with any electronic device, long-term reliability will depend on user care and maintenance. Lastly, being designed for use at 120 volts limits its usability in regions with different voltage requirements, which could be a drawback for international users.

The Brother XR9550 is an excellent choice for those looking for a user-friendly quilting machine with a variety of features; however, those seeking larger throat space or portability might want to explore additional options.