# Best quilting machines with a large throat space Source: https://threadandfeed.com/best/best-quilting-machine-with-large-throat Publisher: Thread & Feed. Picks are chosen from what each Amazon listing states, not from hands-on tests. Method: https://threadandfeed.com/how-we-pick Quilting a queen-size quilt on a home machine comes down to one measurement: how much quilt you can roll up and push through the space to the right of the needle. Brands describe that space in different ways, as throat space, needle-to-arm space, work area or bed length, and some listings do not give a number at all. That makes comparison harder than it should be. This guide lines up seven quilting machines using the measurement each Amazon listing actually states, along with top speed, stitch type and whether there is an automatic thread cutter. Straight-stitch machines are included because they are popular for free-motion and piecing at high speed. Where a listing only says long arm or large workspace without a figure, we say so, because a stated number is worth more than a marketing phrase when you are planning a big quilt. ## Picks ### 1. Janome HD8 Straight Stitch Sewing and Quilting Machine w/Table Stated work area: 9 x 6 inch workspace; Bed: Extension table included; Max speed: 1,600 spm; Stitch type: Straight stitch; Thread cutter: Automatic A straight-stitch Janome with a stated 9 x 6 inch workspace and up to 1,600 stitches per minute. Aimed at fast quilt piecing and free-motion work on projects too big for standard machines. What the listing offers: - The 9 x 6 inch workspace is stated for maneuvering bulky quilts. - Automatic thread cutting, needle up/down, speed adjustment and independent bobbin winder are listed. - Rotary hook and industrial-style threading path aim at even tension at speed. Limits to know: - Straight stitch only, so binding with zigzag needs a second machine. - Uses industrial HLx5 needles per the listing, which you may need to stock. ### 2. Brother PQ1600S High-Speed Straight Stitch Sewing Machine Stated work area: 5.7 x 8.7 inch needle-to-arm; Bed: 11.1 x 23.3 inch wide table; Max speed: 1,500 spm; Stitch type: Straight stitch; Thread cutter: Push-button, upper and lower Brother's high-speed straight-stitch machine with a stated 5.7 x 8.7 inch needle-to-arm space and a large wide table. Four levels of feed dog adjustment help with free-motion control. What the listing offers: - The large 11.1 x 23.3 inch table supports the weight of a quilt as it moves. - Four color-coded feed dog and presser foot pressure levels are listed. - Programmable needle stop up or down helps when pivoting during quilting. Limits to know: - Straight stitch only, with no zigzag or decorative stitches. - The arm space is smaller than the Janome MC6650's stated 10 inch throat. ### 3. Janome Continental M6 Flatbed Quilting and Sewing Machine with Bonus Kit Stated work area: Not stated; Bed: 17.81 inch all-metal seamless flatbed; Max speed: 1,300 spm; Stitch type: 400 stitches up to 9mm; Thread cutter: Not stated Janome's flagship flatbed quilting machine with a 17.81 inch all-metal bed, 400 stitches up to 9mm wide and 1,300 stitches per minute. The bonus kit adds an extra-wide table and AcuFeed foot. What the listing offers: - The 17.81 inch all-metal flatbed is the longest bed stated in this guide. - Bonus kit includes an extra-wide extension table, AcuFeed foot, HP foot and plate and a magnifier set. - 400 stitches up to 9mm wide keep decorative and piecing work on one machine. Limits to know: - The listing does not state throat height or harp measurement, only bed length. - By far the highest price here, so it fits quilters who sew most days. ### 4. Janome MC6650 Sewing and Quilting Machine Stated work area: 10 inch throat space; Bed: All-metal seamless 10 inch flatbed; Max speed: 1000 spm; Stitch type: Computerized, multi-stitch; Thread cutter: Not stated A Memory Craft quilting machine with an aluminum body frame, all-metal 10 inch flatbed and 10 inch throat. It sews up to 1000 stitches per minute and is aimed at quilters who want room and stability. What the listing offers: - 10 inch throat space is stated, roomy for quilt blocks and layered projects. - Extra-high foot lift, adjustable foot pressure and 7-piece feed dogs are listed. - 12 presser feet, independent bobbin winder and one-push needle plate conversion are included. Limits to know: - Stitch count and stitch width are not stated on the listing. - No automatic thread cutter or knee lifter is mentioned on the listing. ### 5. Janome Skyline S7 Anniversary Edition Computerized Sewing Machine Stated work area: 8.9 x 4.2 inch right of needle; Bed: Not stated; Max speed: Not stated; Stitch type: 350 stitches; Thread cutter: Automatic A computerized Skyline with an 8.9 x 4.2 inch work area to the right of the needle, AcuFeed Flex and automatic presser foot lift. Good for quilters who also want 350 stitches and 11 buttonholes. What the listing offers: - AcuFeed Flex layered fabric feeding is listed, which helps quilt layers feed together. - Automatic presser foot lift and automatic thread cutting speed up free-motion stops. - 350 stitches and 11 one-step buttonholes make it a full sewing machine too. Limits to know: - Work area height of 4.2 inches is lower than the straight-stitch machines here. - Top speed and bed size are not stated on the listing. ### 6. Janome Skyline S3 Anniversary Edition Sewing Machine Stated work area: 8.25 x 4.7 inch sewing space; Bed: Not stated; Max speed: Not stated; Stitch type: 120 stitches, 7mm; Thread cutter: Not stated The entry Skyline with an extra-wide 8.25 x 4.7 inch sewing space, 120 stitches and drop feed for free-motion quilting. A lower-cost route to a roomier harp than typical starter machines. What the listing offers: - The 8.25 x 4.7 inch sewing space is stated on the listing. - 7-piece feed dog system and drop feed for free-motion quilting are listed. - Automatic needle threader, start/stop button and speed control slider are all listed. Limits to know: - No automatic thread cutter is mentioned on the listing. - 7mm maximum stitch width is narrower than the 9mm Skyline models. ### 7. Juki HZL-NX7 Next Generation Long Arm Sewing and Quilting Machine Stated work area: Not stated (listed as long arm); Bed: Not stated; Max speed: Not stated; Stitch type: Computerized sewing and quilting; Thread cutter: Not stated Juki's top home machine in this list, described as a long arm sewing and quilting machine with an automatic needle threader and a switch to raise and lower the feed dogs. It suits serious quilters. What the listing offers: - Listed as a long arm machine, which gives more room for quilt bulk. - Feed dogs raise and lower with a switch for free motion quilting. - The listing says it is made for heavy fabric, quilting and multiple layers. Limits to know: - The listing is thin: stitch count, throat size and trimmer are not stated. - It is the most expensive Juki here; confirm the full spec sheet before buying. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.