If you’ve ever struggled to shove a quilt sandwich through a regular sewing machine, you’re not alone! A cramped machine throat can make quilting more difficult than it needs to be. When you’re working on a big quilt, every inch of space counts. And trust me, when you finally find a large throat machine within your budget, it can feel like a game changer.
My Story
My quilting journey didn’t start with a big machine like a lot of quilters, I started with a basic, affordable model. I made it work, but as I kept quilting, I quickly realized that having more throat space would make my life so much easier, especially for larger projects. Over the years, I’ve upgraded sewing machines as my love for quilting solidified and my sewing skills became more advanced. I quickly found out which features I had to have and which ones I could live without (for now). My budget was $600 but I quickly realized that number would not get me what I wanted. So I kept on researching (for 8 months) and saved up.
In this post, I’m sharing what I’ve learned and why I think my Juki is the best choice for intermediate quilters who want a serious machine without spending a fortune.
Let’s face it, there is no joy when you are using supplies and equipment that just doesn’t work for you. When a machine doesn’t serve you well, it sucks all the happiness out of you and you don’t want to do it anymore. After you read this post, you will have the straight scoop on the best large throat quilting machine that won’t break the bank.
MAKE SURE YOU CHECK THIS OUT!
After you read this post, make sure you also check out Learn To Quilt for Absolute Beginners. It’s jam packed with even more information, links and resources that are so helpful when you’re first learning. It also has a section with free quilt patterns that are great for beginners. So make sure you check this out, seriously don’t forget!
Grab a copy of my Quilt Planning Journal, filled with graph paper and some note pages to help you design at least 4 quilts or sewing projects! Jot down your ideas, fabrics, sketches, websites, and patterns you want to try. I have been using mine for a little while and love it. Pin in fabric swatches, photos of your finished quilts and enjoy your creative process!
The Three Machines I’ve Used (Under $900)
Here’s a breakdown of the three machines I’ve personally used, from my first sewing and quilting machine up to my current one, with a focus on how each handled quilting projects. Spoiler alert: my current machine, the Juki TL-2000Qi, has become my go-to favorite for good reason.
Machine #1: Singer Start
This was my very first machine, and it’s marketed as a starter, but let’s be real—it’s basically a child’s toy. When I first decided to learn how to sew, I headed to the local Joann store and purchased a Singer Start sewing machine in November 2019. I actually wore it out trying to quilt a queen size quilt on it. What was I thinking?! This machine was $119.00. I wanted an extension table like they had on my PBS shows so I actually had a custom acrylic table made for this. The extension table was around $149.00 so I paid more for it than I did my machine.
It’s tiny and not at all built for quilting. The Singer Start was good for learning the basics, like threading the machine and bobbin, fixing tension, adjusting stitch length, and sewing simple patchwork blocks. But quilting? Not so much. This machine is best for people learning to sew, but not for quilting. It might work for garments and small projects, but I wouldn’t recommend it for anyone wanting to quilt seriously.
Machine #2: Singer Heavy Duty with Extension Table
I was still new to sewing, didn’t want to spend a lot of money yet as I was still learning. My second machine was this Singer Heavy Duty 6380 Sewing Machine and it was on sale for $249.00 at the time but it came with an extension table which I really liked. On Amazon it’s $318.99.
I was hoping it would give me the support I needed, but it’s all plastic and still has a very small throat. I did manage to quilt a king-size quilt on it, but the stitch tension was all wrong, and I had to rip everything out. While this machine might be better than the Singer Start, it still falls short for quilting. The tiny throat space makes maneuvering larger projects a struggle, and the stitch consistency just wasn’t there.
Machine #3: Juki TL-2000Qi
I’m on my third machine, a professional grade JUKI TL-2000Qi Sewing and Quilting Machine. It arrived on the fourth of July, 2021 via Amazon. My family thought I was weird for not celebrating the holiday. Instead I was at home tracking where the Amazon truck was. 3 stops away, 2 stops away, delivered!!! This machine has a longer throat for quilting. Retail was $729.72 but was $817.83 after shipping/handling and taxes.
Now, let’s talk about my current machine, the Juki TL-2000Qi. It’s my favorite of the bunch, hands down. This machine changed everything about how I approach quilting—it’s sturdy, simple to operate, and gives me the space I need to quilt comfortably. If you’re serious about quilting, especially as an intermediate quilter, shopping on a budget, this is the one I’d recommend. But wait. If I had to do it all over again I would have gotten the Juki TL-2010Q. Same Juki but has a stitch regulator button near the reverse stitch handle and mine doesn’t have that. It’s for free-motion quilting, my machine does not have this stitch regulator and I really wish it did.
Beginner Quilt Tutorials You May Like:
How to quilt on a regular sewing machine
Top 3 straight line machine quilting patterns
How to machine quilt with walking foot for beginners
Best Large Throat Quilting Machine (Under $900) – Key Features
There are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a large throat machine under $900. These are the features I found made a big difference for quilting ease and quality.
Throat Space
The throat space is the star of the show for quilters, especially when working on anything larger than a baby quilt. With my Juki TL, the generous throat size allows me to maneuver big quilts without spending thousands of dollars. Look for at least 6-8 inches of throat space to make quilting smooth and enjoyable.
Stitch Quality
Clean, consistent stitches are a must when quilting. A machine that skips stitches or has uneven tension can mess up hours of work. The Juki TL is rock-solid when it comes to stitch consistency, which is why I love it so much. With quilting, the fewer adjustments you need to make, the better. Plus, it stitches straight lines at a high speed so you can go really fast with beautiful stitches. The stitch speed is 1,500 SPM or stitches per minute!
Ease of Use
Quilting machines can get pretty complicated, and sometimes all the extra features just add to the confusion. I appreciate the simplicity of the Juki TL because it’s designed to do a few things really well, without a lot of bells and whistles that just get in the way.
Durability & Maintenance
For me, having a machine that lasts and doesn’t require constant maintenance is a big plus. I quilt regularly, so my machine gets a lot of use. The Juki TL is sturdy and holds up beautifully to regular quilting. If you’re serious about this hobby, investing in a machine that’s built to last is worth every penny.
Why the Juki TL Machine is the Best Large Throat Quilting Machine for Intermediate Quilters
So, out of all the machines I’ve tried as a confident beginner looking to upgrade her machine so sewing and quilting can actually be enjoyable and not frustrating? Why do I recommend the Juki TL-2000Qi as the best choice for intermediate quilters looking for a large-throat machine under $900? Did I mention this is a semi-professional sewing machine? Again, for under $900.
The throat space! The size of the extension table. Automatic thread cutter, dual thread holders. Can fit thread cones and keep one for the top thread and another for bobbin thread. It’s fast, the stitches once the tension is dialed in, are beautiful. It goes FAST if you have the need for speed. Don’t need to use a thread bunny or leader and ender unless I’m sewing points and want to use it. But it really came down to getting the largest throat space, automatic thread cutter that sews fast and has good support when needed. Throat space at the end of the day is what I needed more of. This machine had rave reviews as long as you don’t mind having different stitch options and can do your work using a straight stitch.
Throat Space
The Juki TL’s throat space makes it easy to tackle large quilts without feeling like you’re wrestling with your machine. Having that extra space allows me to focus on accuracy and enjoy the process rather than fighting for room. You will still need to roll your quilt up on both sides to get it under the throat but with the large extension table it’s not a problem. There is ample space for machine quilting throw size quilts. Queen and king size fit too but it is a little tight, more so for quilting a king size quilt.
Power and Speed
The Juki TL has a powerful motor and can sew faster than a standard sewing machine, which is perfect for those long quilting sessions. It’s fast without being overwhelming, and it handles all sorts of fabrics really well, from cotton to heavy-duty quilting cottons.
Built for Quilters
This machine feels like it was made for quilters who want something they can rely on day in and day out. I love that it’s simple and straight forward but still feels like a serious piece of quilting equipment. You can lower the feed dogs to do free motion quilting. It has an automatic needle threader which takes some getting used to. Let’s not forget the automatic thread cutter, no need to use thread bunnies anymore. The foot pedal is sturdy and allows you to cut your thread by pressing your heel back.
Affordability & Value
For a machine with this much throat space, power, and durability, the Juki TL is hard to beat at under $900. It’s an investment that’s worth every penny if you’re ready to get serious about quilting without going all-in on a high-end machine.
To wrap up, I’ll just say that choosing a quilting machine is a personal decision, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. If you’re an intermediate quilter who’s ready to move up from a starter machine, look at what features will make quilting easier and more enjoyable for you. Consider things like throat space, stitch quality, and durability, and don’t feel pressured to get the “fanciest” machine out there if you don’t need all those extras.
Independent Research
Most of the YouTuber’s I was learning from all had Juki’s. Seeing this machine over and over again made me want one for my own so I could sew just like they did.
Most of the YouTuber’s I was learning from all had Juki’s. Seeing this machine over and over again made me want one for my own so I could sew just like they did.
If my favorite mentors and online teachers were using it, then I that’s what I wanted too. Plus there are lots of YouTube channels that only focus on this machine. For additional support, here are links to some great vlogs that compare Juki machines and owners who use them and love them.
Juki Junkies Juki TL Comparison
Juki Home Sewing Sewing Speed Challenge
Erica Arndt Juki TL2000Qi Review
Southern Charm Quilts Juki TL2010Q Review
Stitch Obsessed Juki TL2010Q Review
Best Large Throat Quilting Machine Final Thoughts
Now it took me about 8 months of seriously researching for the best quilting sewing machine I felt comfortable spending my hard earned money on. This was a hobby, I didn’t need an $8000 or $15,000 machine because those were for the professionals. Most of my favorite YouTubers were using the Juki’s, it had great review but there is one downside to this machine. You cannot sew decorative stitches, you can only straight stitch. It didn’t matter to me at the time, this was the machine for me, I bought it and have been using it strong for a few years now. This is a semi-industrial sewing machine, such a big difference from the Singer Heavy Duty. Felt like I had died and gone to heaven when my Juki arrived on the scene. Now I was legit.
Machine quilting is easy to do on this machine due to the large throat area and just insert a free motion foot. You will need to purchase different presser feet as this machine only comes with a 1/4″ quilting foot. It also does not come with a walking foot but one of the reasons this is the best sewing machine is that you don’t need one. You can machine quilt with just you quilter foot. You can definitely buy one for doing larger quilts but it’s not necessary.
This Juki has a user-friendly design which allows for each assembly, easy maintenance and it’s a great choice when upgrading from a beginner sewing machine. You don’t need to go to a big box store either, you can grab this machine on Amazon or you can go to your local dealer. I got a great deal on mine through Amazon and could not believe the different between this Juki and my old normal sewing machine.
Last year my machine stopped working so I had to take it into the repair shop (also my local dealer). I was freaking out and thought the foot pedal needed to be replaced or the motor. Turns out I was over oiling my machine and there was a ton of oil in the base. The Singer Heavy Duty sewing machine needs oil every time you sew. Not the Juki, I was over oiling my machine and the base was a sea of oil. You only need to oil every 3 to 4 months, oil the bobbin hook every few bobbin changes.
While my Juki was being serviced, I got out my Singer Heavy Duty machine to use that until the other was fixed. I couldn’t do it, the machine was a piece of junk and I had completely out grown it. The thread kept jamming under the sewing plate, the stitches looked terrible. The machine was loud and clunky and just could not go back. That was weird, let me tell you.
It also has a bar you attach called a knee lift. This allows you to raise and lower the presser foot hands free. You use your leg to move the knee lift bar. Then you can do hands free sewing.
I do want a new machine but not willing to spend an arm and a leg. At the end of the day, the best quilting machines are the ones you enjoy using and can complete your projects of any size. The larger the throat, the easier it is use your sewing machine for free motion or machine quilting.
Quilting & Sewing Tools (My favorites)
Here are some quilting tools and supplies I recommend. I make a small commission if you purchase through the links, this helps to support this free content. For more info, check out Supplies for Beginners (Best Tools To Start).
Rotary Mat Cutting Mat (Self-Healing Mat)
28 mm Rotary Cutter Replacement Blades
45 mm Rotary Cutter with Sharp Blade (start with this one)
45 mm Rotary Cutter Replacement Blades (start with this one)
60 mm Rotary Cutter Replacement Blades
4.5″ Square Ruler for half square triangles
12.5″ Square Ruler for blocks
Sewing Machine Beginner (see my about me page for more info on sewing machines for beginners to the one I use today).
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ABOUT SEW NIKKI
If this is your first time stopping by, welcome! My name is Nikki. I’m a weekend quilter, have a super small sewing space and taught myself how to sew and quilt by watching YouTube videos! My blog has How-To’s, Free Patterns and Pattern Reviews. Read more about me here.
Hopefully, this guide helped narrow down your search! Remember, quilting should be fun, and the right machine makes all the difference.
There are many sewing machine models to choose from, find the one that has the best features for you in your price range. Looking at new sewing machines can get overwhelming, do your research and make a short list of your favorite machines. Then do more research on that short list to make your final selection. You got this! Happy quilting!
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Want to learn how to crochet? Then check out this post, How to Learn How to Crochet – Guide for Beginners.
Sew, quilt, crochet and repeat!
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