BabyLock is a quality sewing machine brand, providing quality products since the 1960s. BabyLock has remained a competitive force in the market by continually producing sewing machines that include top technological features. Let’s take a closer look at the history of BabyLock sewing machines.
BabyLock Sewing Machine History
The BabyLock name owes its name to two Japanese engineers working in an industrial sewing machine factory. The two men saw an opportunity to make a smaller and more easy-to-use overlock serger, which could be used to do the same type of sewing work they were doing in the factory at home. They scaled down the overlock serger and created a “baby” version of it, hence the name BabyLock.
In 1964, they went on to create the company of the same name, which became a standard brand in the market of sewing machines, and in 1967, BabyLock released the first home serger.
In the early 1970s, Tacony Corporation acquired BabyLock and added it to its comprehensive list of brands, including several vacuum cleaner brands such as Riccar, Simplicity, Carpet Pro, and Power-Flite. Tacony Corporation was founded by the mechanic Nick Tacony, who started his business by fixing and selling sewing machines from his home’s basement.
Tacony soon became a successful entrepreneur, expanding his business to manufacture and distribute vacuum cleaners, ceiling fans, and commercial floor care equipment. Tacony eventually became one of the largest wholesale distributors of the previously mentioned products in the United States.
Of course, the company's founders still have their presence felt through the quality of the brand, having created the unique BabyLock Sashiko machine, which was introduced in 2008 and is still available to this day.
In 1987, BabyLock introduced the new Companion Line of machines, the brand’s first computerized sewing machine and 3-Thread serger.
Having achieved a lot of success by selling products through a vast network of independent retailers, BabyLock began offering training sessions for its retailers to make sure that its products are represented to customers as the prime quality sewing machines they are.
In 2003, Tacony Corporation acquired a company creating sewing accessories, Nancy's Notions, founded by TV Host, Nancy Zieman. Since then, Zieman has been an active spokesperson for the company.
In 2009, BabyLock started offering online sewing classes via the Sew At Home website for loyal customers that sought to get a more detailed overview and training with the BabyLock machines.
Coming out of the retail training classes, BabyLock started a new custom, the Consumer Gateways, where customers are invited to test the BabyLock machines and learn and share their stories and practices with the BabyLock experts. The first getaway was hosted at the Tacony Achievement Center in 2013.
With the Altair and Meridian machines' introduction, BabyLock introduced the IQ Positioning App, which allows the user to capture in camera a fabric in a unique hoop and transfer it wirelessly to the machine.
The introduction of the BabyLock Venture multi-needle machine saw the creation of the IQ Monitoring App, which monitors the project’s progress and sends alerts to the user’s phone when needed. BabyLock also offers the Ambassador program (previously known as Sewlebrity), featuring American quilter Jenny Doan.
Now, let's take a look at BabyLock’s sewing machine models through the years:
- In 1993, BabyLock introduced its first embroidery and sewing machine, the Esante.
- In 1997, the Automatic Thread Delivery (ATD) system was presented with the Imagine serger.
- In 1999, the 8-Thread serger with chain stitch was introduced, creating 87 stitch combinations.
- The same year also saw the introduction of the Pro-Line- 2, 3, 4 thread sergers and computerized sewing machines.
- In 2003, the Embellisher machine was introduced.
- The Ellegante sewing and embroidery machine with the NeverMiss Needle Threader was introduced the same year, and it included exclusive Nancy Zieman designs.
- In 2005, the brand’s first multi-needle machine was introduced, the Embroidery Professional.
- 2008 saw the introduction of affordable but high-quality A-Line machines.
- In 2009, the Jewel Longarm was launched, endorsed by TV host Eleanor Burns.
- The Enterprise, a 10-needle embroidery machine launched in 2010.
- In 2014, the Destiny embroidery and sewing machine, the first machine to include the IQ Designer program, was launched.
- In 2016, BabyLock introduced the Jazz, a mechanical sewing and quilting machine.
- In 2017, the Triumph machine was introduced, featuring the RevolutionAir threading.
- In 2018, the Solaris embroidery and sewing machine launched, debuting IQ Visionary Projector Technology.
- In 2020, the Gallant launches as an entry-level machine for longarm quilting, as well as the Euphoria-covered stitch serger.
Location & Contact Information
A family-owned business, the BabyLock sewing machine headquarters remain in St. Louis, Missouri, to this day. Its sewing machines are manufactured in Taiwan, Vietnam, China, and Thailand.
The BabyLock products are sold through a wide network of retail stores all over the United States. The BabyLock sewing machine contact number for assistance is: 1-800-313-4110
Best BabyLock Sewing Machine
BabyLock offers a selection of various sewing machines and accessories that meet the needs of everyone looking for top-quality materials, outstanding performance, and unique features from their purchase. Let’s take a look at the best BabyLock sewing machine in each category.
1. Best BabyLock Sewing Machine For Beginners – BabyLock Zest Sewing Machine
Zest is a great first choice for beginners who want to work on simple craft projects while still honing their skills. This sewing machine is easy enough for a novice sewist but will provide you with all the features you need to learn how to sew and start making your first creations.
This sewing machine is also portable, making it easy to take it in your sewing classes. It is also extremely lightweight, which makes it even easier to transport.
You can adjust your stitches up to 4mm long, depending on the design you wish to make, and remove the flatbed for free-arm sewing. While some sewing machines can be overwhelming for more inexperienced users, this machine is the exact opposite, as all the features are easy to access and use. Moreover, you are also covered by the 25-year limited manufacturer’s warranty if you encounter any issues.
Some of the features and accessories included are:
- 15 Built-in stitches, including a four-step buttonhole
- Free-arm sewing
- Front-loading bobbin
- Darning plate for free-motion techniques
- Convenient thread cutter
- Adjustable stitch length: 0mm-4mm
- Electronic foot control
- Four snap-on feet
- Built-in accessory storage
- Three bobbins
- Needle package
- Darning plate
- Seam ripper
- Screwdriver
- Spool cap
2. Best Heavy Duty BabyLock Sewing Machine – BabyLock Crescendo Deluxe Sewing and Quilting Machine
The BabyLock Crescendo sewing and quilting machine has so many innovative features and can tackle any fabric. This heavy-duty machine is perfect for quilting, helping you work on various creative projects.
The digital Dual-Feed System, a new feature, makes it easy to keep your fabric straight while stitching. No matter how wavy or thick your fabric is and how many layers it has, the Dual-Feed System will allow you to retain control at all points for a more productive sewing experience.
The machine also has a very large throat space, the largest throat space of any BabyLock machine, giving you plenty of workspace to create anything you want, using any material you like. Of course, you can also expand your workspace with the quilting extension table. The extension table seamlessly fits your machine, giving you comfort while working.
Some of the features and accessories included are:
- Utility stitch editing capabilities
- 24 Memory Pockets for Character/ Decorative stitches equaling 1 MG
- Decorative stitch editing capabilities
- Mirror-image capability for stitches
- Variable needle positions
- Lock key for stitches keeps current settings
- Programmable needle up/down
- Lateral and diagonal feeding
- Upper and lower thread sensors to alert when threads are broken
- Fully automatic built-in darning
- 573 Built-in stitches
- Quick-Set bobbin winder
- Maximum utility stitch width: 7mm
- Automatic thread cutter
- Two accessory storage compartments
- NeverMiss needle threader
- Automatic drop feed
3. Best Computerized BabyLock Sewing Machine – BabyLock Solaris 2 Sewing, Embroidery & Quilting Machine
This sewing combined sewing, embroidery, and quilting machine includes all the latest technological features for a very user-friendly, productive, and fast sewing experience.
With the 10.15″ touch screen, you can control your stitches and more. Using the IQ Intuition Positioning App, you can create your own designs, draw drawings, scan anything you want, and upload a file from your smartphone. Your machine will convert the file into an embroidery pattern in seconds.
You can also add any of the 42 decorative patterns from IQ Designer. The camera-detecting buttonhole foot automatically provides accuracy and prevents slippage. The built-in camera and endpoint sewing stickers help you make perfect stitches.
Some of the features and accessories included are:
- Camera detecting buttonhole foot with stabilization plate
- Enhanced Stadium Lighting for 13″ area of brighter true color LED
- IQ Designer with paper holding frame for image scanning
- SD card slot
- Advanced pivoting feature and automatic fabric sensor system
- NeverMiss automatic advanced threading system
- Wireless Wi-LAN Function data transfer technology
- Digital dual-feed system
- 864 Built-in stitches
- 865 Embroidery designs
4. Best BabyLock Sewing Machine For Quilting – BabyLock Gallant 15 Inch Longarm Quilting Machine
The Gallant is the perfect machine for your quilting project. The machine has a large workspace, 15 inches with 8.5 inches of height. This allows for more free movement, which makes your work more comfortable.
With a sewing speed of 1,800 SPM, you consistently get 4-18 stitches per inch. This will make your quilting a very quick process as you will be done before you know it. The LED lights will also make your quilting easier as you will be able to see details, making sure you stay on track.
The Gallant comes with an 8-foot free-standing Villa frame and an optional extension. You can easily adjust the frame’s height to customize it for the quilter and use the extension to get more space to work on larger quilt projects. The ratcheted pole ends will hold your quilt firmly, and you can also adjust the leveling feet based on your floor’s surface.
Some of the features and accessories included are:
- Quarter-inch ruler foot
- Frame leader set and two side clamps
- Bobbin winder
- Instruction & reference guide
- Open toe foot
- Hex keys (2.5mm, 3.0mm, 4mm)
- Front handlebars
- Five bobbins
- Quick reference card
- Needle threader
- Needle-stop positioning control
- M-Class bobbin
- Front handlebars with color and simple icon-based display
- Manual thread tension control
5. Best Basic BabyLock Sewing Machine – BabyLock Joy Sewing Machine
The BabyLock Joy is a basic sewing machine, a perfect choice for beginning sewists looking to exercise their sewing abilities and gain more experience.
The machine includes many great basic features, including a convenient thread cutter and an advanced needle threader. By removing the flatbed, you can also do some free-arm sewing. The BabyLock Joy is a great starter sewing machine, and its best quality is that it is straightforward to learn how to use.
Ideal for home use, the BabyLock Joy takes a small amount of space in your home, and it is effortless to pack and store whenever you want it to be out of sight.
A 25-year limited manufacturer’s warranty protects you by purchasing this sewing machine. You also get 10-year parts, 1-year circuit board, 2-year electrical, and 1-year labor warranties, which will give you some peace of mind.
Some of the features and accessories included are:
- 19 Built-in stitches, including a four-step buttonhole
- Free-arm sewing
- Drop-in bobbin
- Drop feed for free-motion techniques
- Adjustable stitch width: 0mm-5mm
- Adjustable stitch length: 0mm-4mm
- Convenient thread cutter
- Built-in accessory storage
- Electronic foot control
- Four snap-on feet
- Screwdriver
- Three bobbins
- Seam ripper
- Spool caps (large and small)
- Needle package
6. Best Portable BabyLock Sewing Machine – BabyLock Jubilant Sewing Machine
The BabyLock Jubilant sewing machine is very multifunctional as it has an array of features that will please you. However, its most convenient quality is its practical size and its portability.
This sewing machine is perfect for a variety of sewing projects, allowing you to experiment with your creative side and let your fantasy run wild while working.
Its packing can be completed in mere seconds, making it extremely easy to take it with you to sewing classes or wherever else you wish to go and work from. Thanks to its small size, it is also very easy to store, covering a very small amount of space in your home. If you wish your machine to be out of sight, you can simply put it under your desk, on a shelf, or pretty much anywhere in your house.
Some of the features and accessories included are:
- LCD Screen (61mm x 23mm)
- Adjustable stitch length 0-5mm
- Variable stitch width up to 7mm
- 80 Built-in stitch patterns
- Sewing speed up to 850 spm
- Quick-Set, Top-Loading bobbin
- Advanced needle threader
- Quick-Set bobbin winder
- Drop feed for free-motion techniques
- 6-1/4″ workspace to the right of the needle
- Convenient thread cutter
- Twin needle sewing
- Variable needle positions
- Free-arm sewing
- Easy to read stitch chart
- Needle plate with scale in inches and centimeters
- Built-in accessory storage compartment
BabyLock Sewing Machine Accessories
To have a great sewing experience, you also need really good accessories. Let’s take a look at the best BabyLock sewing machine accessories that will turn your sewing process from good to ideal.
1. Best Thread For BabyLock Sewing Machine – Baby Lock Genuine Collection Thread Kit
This 18 spool thread kit is a collaboration between BabyLock and Madeira, which is a renowned sewing accessory manufacturer. The variety of colors is perfect for those that seek to work on uniquely creative projects.
The kit contains nine Aerofil sewing thread spools and nine Cotona 50-weight thread spools. Spools are inspired by BabyLock’s Genuine Collection.
2. Best Oil For BabyLock Sewing Machine – Fine Point Oiler with 30 wt. Light Sewing Machine Oil
Generally, most contemporary sewing machines come pre-lubricated. However, you need to constantly check your machine’s manual to determine if that applies to yours or not. If your machine requires oiling, you need to pay attention to it because if you don’t oil it but keep using your machine, it can lead to severe damage.
Ensure that you get a good-quality sewing oil to use in your machine. This fine-point oiler will make sure to properly oil your sewing machine thanks to its conveniently shaped nozzle that is made specifically for this type of use. This will help you avoid over-lubrication or spillage in your working area.
3. Best Presser Feet For BabyLock Sewing Machine – Baby Lock Teflon Presser Foot
This foot is perfect for keeping your fabric in place while sewing. It will work particularly well with different surfaces, such as vinyl and faux leathers.
This Teflon sole foot also slides easily on heavier fabrics such as denim and fleece and also works well on fabrics with multiple layers. It will smoothly cross over seams on fabrics like vinyl.
4. Best Power Cords – Lead Power Cord
This power cord will fit most control systems, giving you the ability to use it more if you own more than one sewing machine and feet controls.
For BabyLock sewing machines, it is compatible with the following models: BL3/406, 407, 408, 416, 417, 418, BL4-738D, BL5260/BL5260D, BLE1-SX, EA605, and Blindhemmer BL-101.
It also fits models from Singer, Bernette, Consew, Elna, Euro-Pro, Juki, Mammylock, Necchi, Nelco, Pfaff, Riccar, Simplicity, and White.
5. Best Feet Controls – Sewing Machine Foot Control Pedal & Cord
This electric foot pedal gives you complete control over the sewing process, constantly running without overheating.
It is compatible with the following BabyLock sewing machine models and more: B15, B17, BL1500, BL1550, BL1556, BL2150, BL2200, BL2600, BL6000, BL6150, BL6200, BL6300, BL702, BL713, BL722, and ESP.
6. Best Bobbins – Baby Lock 12-Pack Bobbins
A necessary item to have for sewing, this 12-pack of BabyLock bobbins is precisely what you need. Among others, they are guaranteed to fit the following BabyLock sewing machine models, including but not limited to: Amelia BL100A, Aria BLAR, BLPY Spirit, Ellegante 3 BLG3, Ellisimo BLSO, Ellisimo Gold II BLSOG2, Ellure BLR, Ellure Plus BLR2, Flourish BLMFO, Grace BL40A, Katherine BL210A, Maria BL23A, Melody BLMY, Quilter's Choice Pro, Sofia 2 BL137A2, Sofia BL137A, Tempo BLTP, Unity BLTY.
Conclusion
A classic American brand with a Japanese origin, BabyLock produces top-quality sewing machines for sewists of every level. Designed to meet your every need, there is a wide variety of machines with plenty of features to choose from. Moreover, the diversity of the accessories available makes BabyLock one of the top brands on many people’s best lists.
