Affordable Long Arm Quilting Machine Options

Everyone wants a long-arm quilting machine, that is until they see the price tag! After you’ve picked yourself up off the floor, you’ve likely started looking for an affordable long arm quilting machine. Well, I do have a few suggestions, but it will require a bit of sacrifice on your part to save your budget!

Affordable Long Arm Quilting Machines and Hacks

Use Your Old Machine With A Quilting Frame

Did you know that there are quilting frames out there that you can use with your existing sewing machine? The Grace Q Zone is one such frame, and not only does it allow you to take long arm quilting for a test drive without spending a fortune, but it’s also conveniently sized.

The Grace Q Zone works with your existing sewing machine

Unlike a standard long arm quilting frame, which is HUGE, this one is 4.5 feet by 3 feet wide, making it easier for you to find a space for it in your home. However, you can still make any size quilt thanks to the smart way it is set up, allowing you to quilt section by section.

This frame is easy to set up, and it works with pretty much any machine, domestic or long arm with throats up to 19 inches. So, if you do decide to get a dedicated long arm machine later, you can use the same frame! Its height can also be adjusted so you can quilt standing up or sitting down if you prefer.

So, how does it work? Well, just like any other frame, your machine sits on top, and you can move it freely just like you would with a regular long arm machine.

Okay, so what’s the catch then? Well, if your current sewing machine has a small throat space, you may regret not getting a real long arm, or at least a large throat sewing machine. You’ll also notice that it might not work exactly the same as a regular long arm if you’ve used one, adding a compatible stitch regulator to your machine can help.

Click here to check prices and availability for the Grace Q-Zone Frame

Look For Used Long Arm Machines

If you’ve got the patience to wait it out, you can try camping Facebook marketplace or Craigslist to find a second hand long arm quilting machine, but these machines will obviously not be serviced and could need repairs. It’s also pretty rare to find one, so be prepared to wait.

That’s why refurbished is probably a better way to go. You’ll likely have a better selection, and the machine will be factory serviced by the shop so you know that you’re not buying a lemon. However, it does still take a bit of luck and a LOT of patience to actually snag one.

Everyone wants a long arm quilters, and they’ll jump at the chance to save money on one. So, if you see a good deal – you need to be quick if you really want it.

Where to look for a used inexpensive long arm quilting machine

If you want to find an inexpensive long arm quilting machine online, keep checking Sewing Machines Plus! They not only have a large inventory of new machines, but they also frequently have used machines for sale.

They also offer free shipping to your door and will give you a 1 year warranty on any used machines you buy, and a little bit of an insurance policy for a pricey purchase is always welcome in my book.

Sewing Machines Plus frequently has used long arm machines for sale at big discounts over new

Click Here To Check Their Refurbished Long Arm Machine Inventory

EDIT: I’ve since found a second site which has good used long arm machine inventory!! Sew Vac Direct, is a good place to look for used machines too. The call theirs “recertified” but it’s the same thing as refurbished.

Sew Vac Direct is also great – and you can find good prices on refurbished machines here too

Click Here To Check Recertified Long Arm Machine Inventory.

Grace Q’nique 16 X – 16″- $3,499

If you’ve struck out on finding a used long arm and you don’t want to wait… then the Grace Q’nique 16×16 is one of the most affordable long arm quilting machines you’ll find on the market.

The Grace Q’nique 16×16 is your best bet for a new model affordable long arm machine

Not only is it affordable, but it’s also easy to use and comes with some great features. It has a large, color touchscreen, and it’s quite speedy. The base model will tackle your projects at 1,700 stitches per minute, and if you spring for the elite, you’ll get a speed upgrade to 2,000 stitches per minute.

The below chart shows the difference between the available models of this machine. For reference, the base model is $3,499, the upgraded model is $4,499, and the Elite model, with all the bells and whistles, is $4,999.

Performance-wise, all three machines will work just as well. So, there’s no need paying for extra features if you’re not going to use them.

Top 5 Features
  • 16 inch throat space
  • 7″ inch color touch screen (Elite Model)
  • Easy To Use
  • 2,000 Stitches Per Minute (Elite Model)
  • Improved Bobbin Winder

Click here to check availability for the Q’nique 16×15

Juki Kieri NX7 – $2,499

If you don’t need a dedicated quilting frame, or even if you don’t have the space for it – then the Juki NX7 is an affordable long arm quilting machine which will fit pretty much anywhere.

Juki hzl-nx7 Reviews

This machine offers 12 inches of throat space, which while less than the Q’nique is still pretty nice, and it has other benefits as well. For starters, it does a lot more than just quilt!

It’s also the cheapest new machine on the list, and you can even get it for even less if you can manage to find a used one – though used inventory is rare on these. This machine is also top rated by consumers for sewing and quilting.

Top 5 Features
  • 12” Throat Space
  • Juki Smart Dual Feed
  • Programmable Foot Pedal
  • Float Function
  • Automatic Thread Tension

Click here to get the best price on the Juki NX7.

Phew! Well, that’s our list folks. Hopefully you found something that fits into your budget, but we understand that long arms are pretty pricey. If you’re having trouble, then you might also want to check out our other article – where to find used long arm quilting machines for sale!

While you may need to be patient to find a good used long arm quilting machine – you can potentially save thousands of dollars over new if you get lucky.