Quilting is a beloved hobby for many people. However, making a quilt can be a very involved process and can take months or even years. Long arm quilting machines provide a fantastic way to speed up the process and can help you make more beautiful quilts in the same amount of time. Below, learn what long arm quilting entails and how this machine can benefit your projects. 

What Is Long Arm Quilting?

Long arm quilting uses a long arm machine to sew the top, batting, and back of a quilt all at once. The two main parts of the device are the frame and the machine. Their frames are long and can range from 10 feet to 14 feet. When it comes to the machine, the throat portion is important because larger throats can quilt larger areas without advancing the material. The throat can range from 7 inches to over 18. Some of these machines are run manually, and some are run by computers. There’s a great deal of variation when it comes to long arm quilting devices, and there are distinct advantages to purchasing or renting one.

What Are the Benefits of a Long Arm Quilting Machine?

Long arm machines offer many benefits for quilters. First, they save a lot of time. This is because all of the layers are in one place, so you don’t have to spend time spraying or pinning. If you have more time, you’ll be more likely to start more projects. You can sell them and gift them to friends, who might become interested in quilting, too. Long arm quilting is a fantastic hobby to do with friends. 

However, buying a long arm machine can be a costly investment if you’re on the fence. Luckily, some businesses allow you to rent one of these devices for a reasonable fee. This is a great way to gauge if buying a long arm machine is right for you. 

Riehl Sew N Vac in Anchorage, AK, offers sewing, quilting, and embroidery machines to buy or rent at great prices. Their store is family-operated and has been open for over 30 years. They have long arm quilting machines that you can buy, or they can arrange a long or short term rental plan. Visit their website to learn more information or call (907) 563-2909 to schedule an appointment with a knowledgeable staff member.