Quilters can choose from many options, from intricate designs to straight stitches for machine quilting. The good news is that you don't need a special sewing machine. There are two basic types of machine quilting that can be easily achieved on most straight-line and free-moving sewing machines. If your project involves adding borders, binding, or even a queen-size quilt, then having a quilting machine is a must.
If you're looking for a brand that includes an extendable table accessory, the Janome quilting machine line is something you should consider. If free-motion quilting isn't for you yet, there are other options for quilting with a regular sewing machine. You can add a lot of incredible textures to your bedspreads with simple straight-line quilting. A mobile presser foot or an integrated, uniform feed system works well for sewing straight lines.
However, if you don't have any of these options, you can continue to weave straight lines with your favorite all-purpose presser foot. If you're looking for a generic free-motion quilting foot that fits a regular household machine, HERE's one with an excellent 5-star review. This information is taken directly from my beginner machine quilting classes that I teach locally here in Illinois. A Quilt blog: quilting basics, blocks, quilts, plus easy sewing projects and free patterns for beginners.
To machine quilt stitching lines, simply start on one side of the quilt and sew a line from one end to the other. If you make a living with a serious quilter or quilt, then a high-speed machine is definitely worth considering. There are projects that should work well with a normal sewing machine, but there are also projects that are only possible to finish if you use a quilting machine. Because these machines can sew at such high speeds, the machines themselves are designed to be extremely rugged and built to withstand engine speed.
Basically, a quilt sewing machine is also a sewing machine, but it simply has a wider range of add-ons and capabilities than a normal sewing machine doesn't. A walking foot is a special type of foot that grabs the quilt sandwich at the top and advances it through the machine at a speed similar to the back of the quilt, which joins with the dog-feeding machine and moves. You may want to take a look at Janome's line of quilting machines including Janome MC6700P, MC6600, 1600P-QC, MC15000 Quilt Maker, MC14000 and MC9400QCP. In addition to hand sewing needles, you'll need to make sure your sewing machine has the right needle for quilting.
I needed a smoother surface because the fabric didn't slide well across the surface of the machine and table. This is a very important feature, so be sure to look for it when you're about to buy a quilting machine.
