You don't have to have a sewing machine to quilt, but it makes the process a lot easier and quicker. Any sewing machine can be used for quilting with the proper feet, needle, and threads. It is not necessary to have some big fancy computerized machine. However, some older machines will not take the thickness of a quilt. Some machines can be altered so they can be used for quilting. If the machine has a small motor, it could burn out with extended sewing.

There are many different machine manufactures that have made machines with the quilter in mind. They have added quilting stitches and a walking foot. A walking foot keeps your layers from puckering. These machines come in every price range, from $500 to $8,000. The one that is best for you depends on your exact needs and your budget.

Another feature on new quilting machines is that they will allow you to drop the dog feed down so you can do free motion sewing. This is when you direct the fabric to make different designs with the stitching. The space between the needle and the motor is wider on newer quilting machines. This allows you to roll your quilt up as you sew. You will need some extra space to do this.

When you machine quilt, you need a sharp needle to pierce the two layers of fabric and batting. There are needles made just for quilting. Most quilters use a cotton quilting thread, but now many are using a filament thread or even a rayon embroidery thread. Just make sure your needle is the right one for the thread you use.