Quilting is an art that requires patience, skill, and the right tools. With a longarm quilting machine, you can speed up the process and turn your quilting dreams into reality in no time! But, how much time will it actually take to quilt with a longarm?
This question is one of the most common for those who are new to the world of longarm quilting. The answer, however, is not that straightforward. The quilting time can vary greatly depending on factors such as the quilt size, quilting design, and quilting method. It will also affect the time based on whether you are using a midarm, longarm, or a computerized quilting machine. However, based on longarm and average quilter can make the baby quilt in 2-3 hours while a king-sized quilt might take him/her to 11-13 hours approximately.
In this article, I will delve into the factors that determine how much time it takes to quilt with a longarm and provide a rough estimate for quilting time for different quilt sizes. Also, I will break the quilting process into steps and give you an estimate of how much time it will take based on slightly more experience than the average quilter. However, the beauty of quilting is that nothing is fixed, it can vary based on every individual’s skill, methods, and preferences. So, without further ado, let’s get started.
How much does it take to quilt with a Longarm?
The time it takes to quilt with a longarm machine varies depending on several factors including the size of the quilt, the complexity of the quilting design, and the operator's skill level. Additionally, it is also important to factor in preparation time such as loading the quilt onto the longarm machine and basting the layers together. This can add additional time to the overall quilting process.
Here is a step-by-step explanation of how long it may take to make a quilt on a longarm quilting machine:
Preparing the Quilt Top, Batting, and Backing
Typically the time taken in preparing the quilt top, batting, and backing takes anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours as it directly depending on the size of the quilt and the number of pieces that need to be pieced together. Obviously, the time taken or a throw is less than the king-sized quilt.
Basting the Quilt
Basting typically involves laying out the quilt top, batting, and backing and securing them together with safety pins or spray baste. This too can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the quilt.
Loading the quilt onto the Longarm Machine
After that, it comes to loading the quilt on the longarm, by attaching the quilt to the longarm machine's rollers and making sure it is properly tensioned. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the quilt and the operator's experience.
Marking the Quilting Design
Now, to make the quilting design, you need to use a quilting ruler or stencil to mark the desired quilting design onto the quilt. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the design.
Quilting
Now is the time for the actual process of quilting, using the longarm machine to stitch the quilting design onto the quilt. This can take anywhere from a few hours to several hours, depending on the size of the quilt and the complexity of the design.
Trimming and Binding the Quilt
It is the most important step in finishing the quilt as This involves trimming any excess batting or backing and attaching a binding to the edge of the quilt. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the quilt.
Here is the average time estimation for quilting on a longarm quilting machine.
| Quilt Type | Dimensions (Inches) | Time Taken (Approximately) |
|---|---|---|
| Baby/Crib Quilts | 36″ x 54″ | 2-3 hours |
| Throw Quilts | 50″ x 60″ | 3-5 hours |
| Twin Quilts | 72″ x 90″ | 5-7 hours |
| Full/Double Quilts | 84″ x 90″ | 7-9 hours |
| Queen Quilts | 90″ x 90″ to 90″ x 108″ | 9-11 hours |
| King Quilts | 108″ x 108″ to 108″ x 120″ | 11-13 hours |
Please keep in mind that these are rough estimates and actual quilting times can vary greatly depending on the different factors like the skill level of quilter, the machine being used and the also the complexity of the quilt design and the quilt’s size, etc, the timings might become more or less.
Key Factors in Determining How much it takes to quilt with a longarm
The time it takes to quilt with a longarm machine is determined by several factors. Some of them are listed below:
Quilting Design
The complexity of the quilting design will affect the quilting time as more intricate or custom designs may take longer to quilt than simpler designs. A custom design may also require additional time for digitization or marking onto the quilt before quilting can begin.
Quilting Speed
The speed of the longarm machine can also impact the quilting time. Slower quilting speeds can result in a longer quilting time, while faster quilting speeds can reduce the quilting time, but may also increase the risk of errors or mistakes.
Quilting Thread
The type of quilting thread used can affect the quilting time. Thicker or specialty threads may require more time to stitch, especially if they are more difficult to work with or cause more breakage.
Batting Thickness
The thickness of the batting can also impact the quilting time. A thicker batting may require more time to quilt as the needle needs to push through more layers of batting.
Fabric Type
The type of fabric used for the quilt top and backing can also affect the quilting time. Some fabrics may be more difficult to work with, such as those that are thick, slippery or stretchy. These types of fabrics may require more time to quilt as they require more attention to ensure the fabric is being quilted evenly and without any puckers or stretching.
Loading and Basting
The time required to load the quilt onto the longarm machine and baste the layers together can also impact the overall quilting time.
Method of Quilting
Hand-guided quilting will generally take longer than using a rollers system as hand-guided quilting requires more physical effort and attention to keep the quilt taut and evenly distributed.
How much time does it take for quilting on a midarm quilting machine as compared to a longarm quilting machine?
The time it takes to quilt on a midarm quilting machine versus a longarm quilting machine can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the quilt's size, the quilting design's complexity, and the operator's skill level.
On average, quilting on a longarm machine is typically faster than quilting on a midarm machine because longarm machines have a larger working area, allowing the operator to quilt more quickly and efficiently. However, the specific time savings will vary depending on the size of the quilt and the quilting design.
Additionally, midarm machines are often more compact and easier to maneuver than longarm machines, making them a good choice for quilters with limited space. Midarm machines also typically have a lower cost of entry than longarm machines, making them a good choice for quilters who are just starting out or who want to quilt smaller projects.
Ultimately, the choice between a midarm and a longarm machine will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the quilter. Both types of machines can produce beautiful quilts, and the decision will likely come down to factors such as cost, space considerations, and personal preference.
How much does it take to quilt with a computerized longarm?
The time it takes to quilt with a computerized longarm machine varies depending on several factors, including the size of the quilt, the complexity of the quilting design, and the operator's skill level. As some quilters may work faster or slower depending on their experience and the specific design they are working on. Additionally, it is also important to factor in preparation time such as loading the quilt onto the computerized longarm machine and basting the layers together. This can add additional time to the overall quilting process.
Another advantage of a computerized longarm machine is that the quilting design can be programmed into the machine, allowing for consistent and accurate stitching. This can save time compared to manually marking the quilting design onto the quilt and can result in a more professional-looking finished product.
Additionally, the computerized longarm machine can also control the speed of the machine and the size of the stitch, providing even greater control and accuracy over the quilting process.
Average Quilting Time for Midarm vs Longarm Quilting Machine vs Computerized Longarm Quilting Machine
Here, is the table for the average quilting time for midarm vs longarm vs computerized quilting machine assuming that the quilter’s skill level is average.
| Quilt Size | Dimensions (Inches) | Midarm Quilting Time | Longarm Quilting Time | Computerized Longarm Quilting Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baby/Crib Quilts | 36″ x 54″ | 2-4 hours | 2-3 hours | 1-2 hours |
| Throw Quilts | 50″ x 60″ | 4-6 hours | 3-5 hours | 2-3 hours |
| Twin Quilts | 72″ x 90″ | 6-8 hours | 5-7 hours | 3-5 hours |
| Full/Double Quilts | 84″ x 90″ | 8-10 hours | 7-9 hours | 5-7 hours |
| Queen Quilts | 90″ x 90″ to 90″ x 108″ | 10-12 hours | 9-11 hours | 7-9 hours |
| King Quilts | 108″ x 108″ to 108″ x 120″ | 12-14 hours | 11-13 hours | 9-11 hours |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take to quilt a baby quilt on a longarm machine?
The time it takes to quilt a baby quilt on a longarm machine can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the quilt, the complexity of the quilting design, and the operator's skill level. On average, it may take between 2 to 4 hours to quilt a baby quilt on a longarm machine.
Can the time it takes to quilt on a longarm machine be reduced?
Yes, however, there are several factors that involve in time it takes to quilt on a longarm machine, including the experience and efficiency of the operator, the complexity of the quilting design, and the size of the quilt. Additionally, using a computerized longarm machine can also help to reduce the quilting time as the machine can control the speed and the size of the stitch.
Does the size of the quilt affect the time it takes to quilt on a longarm machine?
Yes, the size of the quilt can greatly affect the time it takes to quilt on a longarm machine. Larger quilts will typically take longer to quilt as more fabric needs to be managed and quilted.
Can a beginner quilter complete a quilt on a longarm machine in a short amount of time?
For a beginner quilter, the time it takes to complete a quilt on a longarm machine can be longer as the quilter becomes familiar with the machine and develops their quilting skills. It is important for beginner quilters to take their time and practice on smaller projects before attempting larger quilts.
Can the time it takes to quilt on a longarm machine be increased?
Yes, the time it takes to quilt on a longarm machine can be increased by several factors, including the complexity of the quilting design, the skill level of the operator, and the size of the quilt. Additionally, taking breaks during the quilting process can also increase the overall time it takes to complete a quilt on a longarm machine.
How does the size of the quilting design affect the quilting time?
The size of the quilting design can significantly affect the quilting time as a larger design may require more time to stitch, especially if it is more complex. Additionally, larger designs may also require more time for set up, such as marking and aligning the design on the quilt.
Does the complexity of the quilting design affect the quilting time?
Yes, the complexity of the quilting design can greatly affect the quilting time. Intricate designs with a lot of detail may require more time to stitch and may also require more time for preparation, such as marking and aligning the design on the quilt.
Can the quilting time be reduced by quilting smaller sections of the quilt at a time?
Yes, the quilting time can be reduced by quilting smaller sections of the quilt at a time as it allows the operator to focus on one smaller section at a time and can reduce the amount of fabric that needs to be managed. This method may also help to reduce the risk of errors and increase the overall quality of the quilting.
How does the skill level of the operator affect the quilting time?
Well, the skill level of the operator can greatly affect the quilting time as an experienced operator is likely to be more efficient and able to quilt faster. Additionally, an experienced operator may also be more comfortable using the longarm machine and may be able to troubleshoot any issues that arise during the quilting process.
How does the use of a computerized longarm machine affect the quilting time?
The use of a computerized longarm machine can greatly reduce the quilting time as the machine can control the speed and the size of the stitch, allowing the operator to focus on other tasks such as loading the quilt and guiding the fabric. Additionally, computerized longarm machines often have advanced features such as automated quilting designs that can save time and increase efficiency.
Can the quilting time be reduced by using a pantograph pattern instead of a custom design?
Yes, using a pantograph pattern can reduce the quilting time compared to a custom design as pantograph patterns are pre-printed and ready to use, eliminating the need for a custom design to be digitized or marked onto the quilt. Additionally, pantographs are often simpler in design and can be quilted more quickly.
Does the type of quilting thread used affect the quilting time?
The type of quilting thread used can affect the quilting time as thicker or specialty threads may require more time to stitch, especially if they are more difficult to work with or cause more breakage. It is important to use the appropriate type of thread for the quilting design and project to ensure the best results and avoid any potential delays.
How does the thickness of the batting affect the quilting time?
The thickness of the batting can affect the quilting time as a thicker batting may require more time to quilt as the needle needs to push through more layers of batting. Additionally, thicker batting may also put more strain on the longarm machine and may require more frequent stops to adjust the tension or replace the needle.
How does the type of fabric used for the quilt top and backing affect the quilting time?
The type of fabric used for the quilt top and backing can affect the quilting time as some fabrics may be more difficult to work with, such as those that are thick, slippery, or stretchy. These types of fabrics may require more time to quilt as they require more attention to ensure the fabric is being quilted evenly and without any puckers or stretching.
Can the quilting time be reduced by using a rollers system for the quilt instead of hand-guided quilting?
Yes, using a rollers system for the quilt can reduce the quilting time compared to hand-guided quilting as the rollers help to evenly distribute the weight of the quilt and reduce the amount of physical effort required to guide the fabric through the longarm machine. Additionally, rollers can also help to keep the quilt taut and reduce the risk of errors or uneven quilting.
Wrap Up
To wrap up, the time it takes to quilt with a longarm machine is dependent on several factors, including quilt size, design, operator speed, and experience. While I have given an idea of the average estimated quilting time for different quilt sizes, it's important to remember that each project is unique. The actual time it takes to quilt will be influenced by various factors, but I hope that you can take those factors into account and make the estimate for your own quilt.
