A quilting machine with a throat space between 18 and 26 inches is generally categorized as mid-arm. This workspace allows for manageable quilting of larger projects like bed quilts, but maintains a smaller footprint than long-arm machines. This size makes them popular for home quilters with dedicated sewing spaces. For example, a queen-sized quilt can be maneuvered more easily on a mid-arm machine than a domestic sewing machine, yet it doesn’t require the extensive space of a professional long-arm setup.
The increased throat depth of these machines offers substantial advantages over domestic sewing machines for quilters. Managing the bulk and weight of larger projects becomes significantly easier, leading to improved accuracy and reduced strain on the quilter. Historically, quilters were limited by the confines of smaller throat depths, often requiring complex maneuvering and basting techniques. The development and popularization of this equipment class has streamlined the creation of larger quilted items, offering greater creative freedom and precision.
