Are you on the hunt for the best quilting sewing machine under $500? Look no further! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 10 quilting sewing machines that offer exceptional quality, performance, and affordability, all within your budget.
Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or just starting, these machines are sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
When shopping for a sewing machine for quilting under $500, here are some important factors to consider:
Stitch Options and Variety
- Look for a machine that offers a good range of built-in stitches, including quilting stitches. Having decorative stitches can also add versatility to your projects.
- Check if the machine allows you to adjust stitch length and width. This flexibility is essential for quilting different fabrics and designs.
Throat Space and Workspace
- Throat space refers to the area between the needle and the machine’s body. A larger throat space allows you to maneuver bulky quilts more comfortably.
- An extended workspace or an included extension table is beneficial for handling larger quilting projects.
Feed Dogs and Walking Foot
- Feed dogs are the teeth-like mechanisms that move the fabric under the needle. Ensure that the machine has adjustable feed dogs for quilting.
- A walking foot (or even-feed foot) is essential for fabric feeding during quilting. Look for machines that come with this accessory.
Free Motion Quilting Capability
- If you plan to do free-motion quilting (where you move the fabric freely under the needle), make sure the machine supports this technique.
- Some machines have drop-feed dogs, which allow for free-motion quilting.
Needle Threader and Bobbin System
- An automatic needle threader saves time and frustration.
- Look for a top-loading bobbin system, as it’s easier to access and reload.
Adjustable Sewing Speed
- Having control over the sewing speed is useful, especially for intricate quilting designs.
- Some machines offer a start/stop button, allowing you to sew without using the foot pedal.
Weight and Portability
- Consider the weight of the machine. If you plan to attend quilting classes or move it around frequently, a lightweight machine is preferable.
- However, balance portability with stability – you don’t want a machine that vibrates excessively during quilting.
Brand Reputation and Warranty
- Research the brand’s reputation for quality and customer service.
- Check the warranty terms – a good warranty ensures peace of mind in case of any issues.
Reviews and Recommendations
- Read user reviews and recommendations online. Real-life experiences can provide valuable insights.
- Ask fellow quilters or sewing enthusiasts for their opinions on specific models.
Budget and Additional Features
- Stick to your budget, but also consider any extra features that might enhance your quilting experience.
- Some machines come with bonus accessories like quilting feet, walking feet, and extension tables.
Finding the right sewing machine involves balancing features, quality, and your personal preferences.
Best Quilting Sewing Machines Under $500
Let’s explore some excellent quilting sewing machines for those on a budget.
I’ve written multiple blog posts about quilting machines for a couple of reasons. While some quilting machines can cost over $10,000, you can still find a great one in the $300 to $1,000 range.
Your experience level will determine the type of machine you should consider. A beginner may not want to spend $3,000 on a Janome Horizon Memory Craft 8900QCP, but an advanced quilter might seek out a machine like that.
I’ve organized my quilting reviews by budget and brand because I couldn’t cover them all in one post. This article will focus on the best quilting sewing machines for beginners or mid-experienced sewers – those looking to upgrade from a home sewing machine and purchase something with quilting features, all priced at $500 or less.
Below, you’ll find ten fantastic sewing machines for quilting, each with a more detailed overview as you continue reading.
Brother HC1850 Sewing and Quilting Machine
Product Description:
The Brother HC1850 is a versatile sewing and quilting machine designed to meet the needs of both beginners and experienced sewers. With a wide range of built-in stitches and user-friendly features, it’s an excellent choice for various projects. Let’s explore the specifics:
Key Features:
185 Unique Built-in Stitches
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- The HC1850 offers a generous selection of stitches, including:
- 130 sewing stitches (utility, decorative, and stretch stitches).
- 8 styles of auto-size buttonholes.
- 55 alphanumeric sewing stitches for monogramming and personalization.
Advanced Needle Threader and Drop-in Top Bobbin
- Threading the needle is a breeze with the advanced needle threading function.
- The drop-in top bobbin system ensures smooth bobbin winding and minimizes thread jams.
Included Accessories
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- Wide table: Provides extra space for quilting and larger projects.
- 8 sewing feet: Comes with various feet for different tasks (e.g., zigzag, buttonhole, zipper, etc.).
- Instructional DVD and manual: Helps you get started quickly.
LCD Screen
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- Easily select your desired stitches using the touch-button interface.
- View your stitch selections on the clear LCD.
At Your Side Support
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- Brother offers free technical support via online chat, live chat, or phone for the life of your machine.
- Get assistance with any troubleshooting or questions you may have.
Voltage and Warranty
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- The HC1850 is intended for sale in the US at 120 volts.
- Any other use or sale voids the warranty.
Specifications:
Brand: Brother
Color: White
Product Dimensions: 12.5″D x 19.2″W x 15.2″H
Material: Metal
Item Weight: 10.1 Pounds
Power Source: Corded Electric
Electric: Yes
Pros:
Versatility: With a wide variety of stitches, it’s suitable for sewing, quilting, and embellishing.
User-Friendly: The advanced needle threader and drop-in bobbin make it easy to use.
Wide Table: Ideal for quilting and handling larger fabrics.
At Your Side Support: Brother’s customer service ensures assistance throughout the machine’s life.
Cons:
Limited Voltage Compatibility: The machine is designed for 120 volts in the US.
Not Suitable for International Use: Using it outside the US may void the warranty.
Overall, the Brother HC1850 is a reliable and feature-rich sewing machine that caters to various creative projects. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced quilter, this machine offers convenience and versatility.
Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 Sewing Machine
Product Description:
The SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960 is a versatile computerized sewing machine designed to meet the needs of both beginners and experienced sewers. With a wide range of features, it allows you to explore your creativity and complete various sewing and quilting projects. Let’s dive into the specifics:
Key Features:
Large Selection of Stitches:
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- The 9960 offers an impressive 1,172 stitch applications, including basic, stretch, and decorative stitches.
- Ideal for fashion sewing, quilting, home decor, and crafting.
- Personalize your projects with a variety of fonts.
Automatic Needle Threader:
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- Threading the machine is effortless. The built-in needle threader quickly threads the needle’s eye, eliminating eye strain and frustration.
1-Step Buttonholes with Exclusive Buttonhole Underplate:
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- Create professional-looking buttonholes effortlessly.
- The machine includes 13 built-in 1-step buttonhole styles.
Mirror Imaging and Stitch Elongation:
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- Get creative with mirror imaging (flipping stitches horizontally) and stitch elongation (adjusting stitch length).
- Explore unique design possibilities.
High-Speed Sewing:
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- The 9960 has a maximum sewing speed of 850 stitches per minute.
- Complete your projects efficiently.
Portable and User-Friendly:
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- The compact design makes it easy to move and store.
- Suitable for sewers of all skill levels.
Specifications:
Brand: SINGER
Color: White
Product Dimensions: 8.25″D x 17.25″W x 12″H
Material: Metal
Item Weight: 20 Pounds
Power Source: Corded Electric
Electric: Yes
Pros:
Versatility: From basic stitches to decorative options, the 9960 covers a wide range of sewing needs.
Efficient Threading: The automatic needle threader saves time and effort.
Buttonhole Variety: 13 built-in buttonhole styles for professional finishes.
Creative Features: Mirror imaging and stitch elongation enhance your design possibilities.
High-Speed Sewing: Quickly complete your projects.
Cons:
Price: While it’s a feature-packed machine, the initial investment may be higher than some other models.
Learning Curve: Beginners may need time to explore all the features and settings.
Overall, the SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960 is a reliable sewing and quilting machine that combines functionality with ease of use. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, this machine offers plenty of creative options.
Brother XR9550 Sewing and Quilting Machine
Product Description:
The Brother XR9550 is a computerized sewing and quilting machine that is designed for durability, and flexibility, and to help sewing enthusiasts improve their creative capabilities. This machine comes with 110 unique utility, decorative, and heirloom stitches, including eight styles of one-step, auto-size buttonholes. These features allow you to easily construct everything from garments to quilting masterpieces.
Product Specifics:
Brand: Brother
Color: White
Product Dimensions: 20 x 13.5 x 17.9 inches
Material: Metal
Item Weight: 10.1 pounds
Power Source: Corded Electric
Country of Origin: Vietnam
Item model number: XR9550
Warranty Description: 25 year-limited., Free phone and technical support for the life of the machine.
Included Components: 165 unique built-in stitches: The Brother XR9550 computerized machine includes 110 built-in utility, decorative, and heirloom stitches including 8 styles of auto-size buttonholes, plus 55 alphanumeric sewing stitches
Pros:
Versatility: With 165 unique built-in stitches, this machine offers a wide range of sewing and quilting possibilities.
Easy to Use: The large LCD screen enables computerized stitch selection, and the intuitive push-button stitch selectors make it easy to choose your stitches and settings.
Lightweight: Weighing just 10.1 pounds, this machine is easy to move and handle.
Support: The XR9550 comes with Brother at your side support offering free technical support via online, live chat, or phone for the life of your machine.
Cons:
Limited to US: This product is intended for sale only in the US at 120 volts, and any other use or sale voids the warranty.
Assembly Required: Although the assembly is not required, some users might prefer a machine that they can assemble according to their preferences.
Brother XR3774 Sewing and Quilting Machine
Product Description:
The Brother XR3774 is a sewing and quilting machine that is designed for a wide range of everyday sewing and quilting projects. It is perfect for users from beginners to advanced. This machine comes with 37 unique built-in stitches, including blind hem, decorative and quilting stitches, and a 1-step buttonhole.
Product Specifics:
Brand: Brother
Color: Wide Table
Product Dimensions: 15.3 x 5.8 x 12 inches
Material: Metal
Item Weight: 18.75 pounds
Power Source: Corded Electric
Country of Origin: Vietnam
Item model number: XR3774
Pros:
Versatility: With 37 unique built-in stitches, this machine offers a wide range of sewing and quilting possibilities.
Easy to Use: The automatic needle threader and drop-in top bobbin make the machine easy to set up and use.
Lightweight: Weighing just 18.75 pounds, this machine is easy to move and handle.
Included Accessories: The XR3774 comes with a machine cover, a wide table, 8 sewing feet, and an instructional DVD.
Cons:
Limited to US: This product is intended for sale only in the US at 120 volts, and any other use or sale voids the warranty.
Singer Confidence Quilter 7469Q Sewing Machine
Product Description:
The SINGER Confidence 7469Q is a computerized sewing and quilting machine designed to make sewing easy. It comes with an automatic needle threader and Drop & Sew bobbin system for quick and easy set-up. The machine features 98 built-in stitches with seven fully automatic one-step buttonholes, providing endless project possibilities. The programmable needle up/down and drop feed make quilting fun and easy. The machine also includes four bonus quilting feet and an extension table, creating the winning quilting combination.
Product Specifics:
Automatic Features: The machine features an automatic needle threader and Drop & Sew bobbin system for quick and easy setup. The programmable needle up/down and drop feed make quilting fun and effortless.
Built-in Stitches: With 98 built-in stitches and seven fully automatic one-step buttonholes, this machine offers versatility for various sewing and quilting projects.
Quilting Accessories: The Confidence 7469Q comes with four bonus quilting feet and an extension table, providing the winning combination for quilting enthusiasts.
Customization: Electronic twin needle control and adjustable stitch length and width allow you to customize your projects according to your preferences.
Compatibility: This sewing machine is designed for use in the United States and Canada at 110 volts only.
Pros:
Easy Setup: The automatic needle threader and Drop & Sew bobbin system simplifies the setup process, saving time and effort.
Versatility: With 98 built-in stitches and seven buttonhole styles, this machine offers versatility for a wide range of sewing and quilting projects.
Quilting Features: The inclusion of four bonus quilting feet and an extension table makes quilting more convenient and enjoyable.
Customization Options: Electronic twin needle control and adjustable stitch length and width allow for customization to suit your project needs.
Reliability: SINGER is a trusted brand known for its quality and durability, ensuring reliable performance over time.
Cons:
Limited Stitch Variety: While the machine offers 98 built-in stitches, some users may find the variety limited compared to other models on the market.
Noisy Operation: Some users may find the machine to be louder during operation compared to quieter models available.
Limited Voltage Compatibility: This sewing machine is designed for use in the United States and Canada at 110 volts only, limiting its compatibility with other voltage systems.
Brother CS7000X Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine
Product Description:
The Brother CS7000X Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine is a versatile option suitable for both beginners and experienced sewers. Packed with convenient features, this machine offers an LCD, an improved automatic needle threader, and a large needle-to-arm workspace, making it easy to handle various sewing projects. With 70 built-in sewing stitches, including decorative stitches, quilting stitches, and seven styles of one-step, auto-size buttonholes, this machine provides endless possibilities for creativity.
Product Specifics:
Built-in Stitches: The CS7000X includes 70 unique built-in stitches, covering utility, decorative, heirloom, and quilting stitch functions. Additionally, it offers 7 one-step auto-size buttonholes for added convenience.
Improved Needle Threader: The automatic needle threader makes threading the needle easier than ever, ensuring smooth operation. The jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin is easy to load and helps keep the bobbin in place during sewing.
Included Accessories: This machine comes with a wide table, 10 sewing feet, including a quilt guide, and a protective hard case. These accessories enhance the sewing and quilting experience, offering added versatility and convenience.
Metal Frame and Fixed Needle Bar: The durable metal frame construction ensures stability and durability, allowing the machine to tackle various projects with ease. The fixed needle bar contributes to cleaner stitching and even lines during sewing.
Large Needle-to-Arm Workspace: With a larger workspace and increased width in needle-to-arm space, users can work on larger projects, including quilts, with ease. The smaller free arm is ideal for sewing tight projects with precision.
Pros:
Versatility: With 70 built-in stitches and 7 one-step buttonholes, this machine offers versatility for a wide range of sewing and quilting projects.
Convenient Features: The LCD, improved automatic needle threader, and large needle-to-arm workspace make operation easy and efficient.
Included Accessories: The machine comes with essential accessories, including a wide table, 10 sewing feet, and a protective hard case, enhancing its value and usability.
Durable Construction: The metal frame construction ensures durability and stability, allowing the machine to handle various projects with ease.
Portability: The included protective hard case makes it easy to transport the machine, making it suitable for classes and on-the-go sewing.
Cons:
Limited Warranty: Some users may find the warranty coverage to be limited, especially compared to other models on the market.
Voltage Limitation: This sewing machine is intended for sale only in the US at 120 volts, limiting its use in other regions without a voltage converter.
Singer Heavy Duty 4423 Sewing Machine
Product Description:
The SINGER 4423 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine is designed to tackle a wide range of sewing projects with ease. With 23 built-in stitches, including basic, stretch, decorative, and buttonhole stitches, this machine offers versatility for sewing various items such as fashions, home décor, quilts, and crafts.
The automatic needle threader simplifies the threading process, reducing eye strain and frustration. This sewing machine features a high-speed motor with a maximum sewing speed of 1,100 stitches per minute, allowing for quick completion of projects. The heavy-duty metal frame provides stability and durability, making it suitable for sewing through thick fabrics.
Product Specifics:
Built-in Stitches: The machine includes 23 built-in stitches, covering basic, stretch, decorative, and buttonhole stitches, providing versatility for different sewing projects.
Automatic Needle Threader: This feature assists in threading the needle effortlessly by following the threading path printed on the machine, reducing eye strain and frustration.
High-Speed Sewing: With a maximum sewing speed of 1,100 stitches per minute, projects can be completed quickly and efficiently.
Heavy-Duty Metal Frame: The machine is built with a heavy-duty metal interior frame and stainless steel bedframe, providing stability and durability, especially when sewing through heavy-weight fabrics.
Sewing Machine Accessories: Accessories such as all-purpose foot, zipper foot, buttonhole foot, button sewing foot, and more are included and conveniently stored in the accessory tray. A soft-sided dust cover is also provided for added protection.
Pros:
Versatility: Offers a variety of built-in stitches for different sewing projects, suitable for both beginners and experienced users.
High-Speed Sewing: The machine’s high sewing speed allows for efficient completion of projects, saving time and effort.
Durable Construction: Built with a heavy-duty metal frame, providing stability and durability, especially when working with thick fabrics.
Automatic Needle Threader: Simplifies the threading process, making it easier for users to start sewing quickly without straining their eyes.
Included Accessories: Comes with essential accessories, ensuring users have everything they need to start sewing right away.
Cons:
Limited Warranty Coverage: Some users may find the warranty coverage to be limited, especially compared to other models on the market.
Higher Price: While offering great features, the price may be higher compared to basic sewing machines, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
Janome Heavy Duty HD-3000 Sewing Machine
Product Description:
The Janome HD-3000 Black Edition is a robust sewing machine suitable for beginners and seasoned sewists alike, offering versatility and durability for various sewing projects.
its heavy-duty aluminum body and 18 built-in stitches, including a one-step buttonhole, this machine provides the necessary tools to tackle a wide range of sewing tasks. Conveniently located stitch length and width adjustment dials on the front of the machine allow for easy customization. Additionally, a hard cover is included for convenient storage and protection.
Product Specifics:
Built-in Stitches: Features 18 built-in stitches, including a one-step buttonhole, providing versatility for different sewing projects.
Bonus Quilting Kit: Comes with a 6-piece deluxe quilting kit, including essential quilting feet and accessories such as the 1/4″ Seam Foot, Craft Foot (Open Toe Foot), and Cloth Guide, enhancing its quilting capabilities.
Heavy-Duty Aluminum Body: The sturdy construction of the machine ensures durability and stability, allowing it to handle heavy-weight fabrics and challenging sewing tasks.
Adjustable Stitch Length and Width: Stitch length and width adjustment dials are conveniently located on the front of the machine, allowing for easy customization based on the sewing project’s requirements.
Instructional Guide: A handy instructional guide located in the top tray door of the machine provides information on the recommended feet and stitch settings for various sewing tasks, making it user-friendly for beginners.
Pros:
Versatility: Offers a variety of built-in stitches and comes with a bonus quilting kit, catering to different sewing needs from basic stitches to quilting projects.
Durable Construction: The heavy-duty aluminum body ensures long-term durability, allowing the machine to handle various sewing tasks with ease.
User-Friendly Features: Convenient stitch length and width adjustment dials and an instructional guide make it easy for users to operate the machine, especially beginners.
Quilting Capabilities: With the included quilting kit and features such as drop feed and quilting feet, the machine is well-equipped for quilting projects.
Hard Cover Included: Comes with a hard cover for easy storage and protection, prolonging the machine’s lifespan.
Cons:
Price: The price may be higher compared to basic sewing machines, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
Weight: At 18.7 pounds, the machine may be heavier than some other models, which could affect its portability for some users.
What sewing machine do most quilters use?
Most quilters commonly use sewing machines designed specifically for quilting, such as those offered by brands like Janome, Brother, and Juki.
How to choose a quilting machine?
Your quilting objectives significantly influence the type of quilting machine you select. If you aim to pursue quilting as a full-time profession or establish a side business crafting quilts, a heavy-duty machine becomes essential. Additionally, a larger sewing space is often necessary for tackling bigger projects.
Conclusion
Finding the best quilting sewing machine under $500 is easier than ever with options like the Brother CS6000i, Singer Quantum Stylist 9960, and Janome 4120QDC leading the pack. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced quilter, there’s a machine on this list to suit your needs and budget. Happy quilting!
