Janome Memory Craft 6300p

It’s important it is to have a reliable, efficient machine and generally quilters know this by harsh experience! Some computerized sewing machines leave a lot to be desired but, there are some exceptions to the rule. The Janome Memory Craft … Read more

Bernina 780 Sewing Machine

cat meme bobbin runs out

Is this you? I know it certainly applies to me, but, I have a solution, the Bernina 780 Sewing Machine! It has a larger bobbin capacity, up to 80% which can make a huge difference, especially when quilting. Of course, … Read more

Brother HC1850 Review

Brother HC1850 review

Brother HC1850 Review

Brother claims that the HC 1850 is perfect for:

“sewing, quilting, and basic monogramming. Designed for versatility and ease of use, this machine includes a hassle-free, built-in stitch reference flip-chart”.

Because we are quilters it’s good to see some specialized quilting features which include a detachable large table, spring action quilting foot, and the ability to do free-motion quilting.

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What is a Presser Foot

What is a presser foot

What is a presser footIf you’re new to sewing and sewing machines then learning all the terminology is a bit of a learning curve.

An often asked question is “what is a presser foot,” I remember wondering this many years ago. Initially, I thought a presser foot was the foot peddle, you press it with your foot to make the sewing machine go, made perfect sense to me!

Simply put, A presser foot is an attachment for your sewing machine which  holds fabric flat as it is fed through the machine and stitched.

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Juki Exceed F600 Quilt and Pro Special

Juki Exceed F600 Quilt and Pro Special

Juki Exceed F600 Quilt and Pro Special

Historically, Juki have been known for their industrial sewing machines, only recently moving into the domestic market (history here) around 2009. I’ve previously looked at the basic Juki long arm quilting machine, this time I’m checking out the more sophisticated Juki Exceed F600 Quilt and Pro Special, one of Juki’s computerized domestic sewing machines.

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Sewing Machines for Quilting

sewing machines for quilting

Sewing Machines for QuiltingWhat are the things to take into account when you’re looking for a sewing machine for quilting?

Choosing a machine for quilting is a much different proposition than choosing one for basic occasional use. If you’re on a limited budget it’s more important to have a reliable machine that sews well than have extra bells and whistles on an unreliable one.

 

Sewing Machine for Quilting – essential things to look for

  • A good straight stitch – essential when piecing fabric together.
  • The option to disengage feed dogs – needed for free motion quilting.
  • Variety of feet – these add extra functionality and a walking foot is a must for moving the 3 layers through evenly.
  • Throat space – this is the space on the right of the needle where your quilt will get shoved through during quilting, the bigger the better!
  • Variable speed motor – helps to give good control when free motion quilting.
  • JUKI Exceed HZL F600 wide sewing spaceExtension table –  to the left of the needle for those larger quilts.
  • Marked measurements on the needle plate – this makes it much easier to achieve accurate 1/4″ seams.
  • Build quality – it’s important to check this. Sewing quilts puts a heavy strain on any machine, a flimsy plasticky machine won’t last long.
  • Lighting – look for sewing machines with more than one light that are angled well onto the work surface. Bright LED lights are the best.
  • Instructions – are they easy to follow and does the machine come with a DVD?

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