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Baby Lock Aria Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Baby Lock Aria review was originally written in 2013, and has been revised and updated in 2023. This model has been discontinued. We have added similar alternatives such as Brother CP100X, Janome Memory Craft Horizon 8200 QCP, and Janome 4120QDC.
If you are a fan of the PBS program Quilt in a Day, you may have already seen the Baby Lock Aria at work, and I had the opportunity to see it up close and personal when I reviewed it on a recent visit to Cynthia’s Fine Fabrics in Tamarac, Florida.
Baby Lock Aria Overview
The Baby Lock Aria is a high-end sewing machine that offers a range of advanced features for experienced sewers. With a maximum sewing speed of 1,000 stitches per minute, this machine can tackle a variety of sewing projects quickly and efficiently. It features a large color LCD touchscreen display, which makes it easy to navigate through the machine's various functions and settings.
The Aria is equipped with a range of built-in stitches, including utility, decorative, and quilting stitches, as well as 15 different buttonhole styles. It also features an automatic needle threader and a quick-set bobbin system, making it easy and convenient to start sewing. The machine also has an adjustable presser foot pressure, allowing users to fine-tune the machine to their specific fabric and project needs.
Other useful features of the Baby Lock Aria include an advanced pivoting feature, which makes it easy to sew corners and curves without stopping and starting, and a knee lift, which allows users to keep their hands free for guiding the fabric. The machine also includes a programmable needle up/down feature, making it easier to pivot or change direction while sewing. Additionally, the Aria has a built-in thread cutter, which can be programmed to cut threads automatically at the end of each seam. Overall, the Baby Lock Aria is a sophisticated and versatile machine that can help experienced sewers take their sewing projects to the next level.
The ultra bright LED stadium lighting and large workspace are the first things you notice on the Baby Lock Aria.
After that, you can’t help but see the oversized LCD touch screen and the convenient, easy to reach function buttons and seam guided etched onto the needle plate and bobbin cover.
What are the features on Baby Lock Aria?
- 573 Built-in stitches including
- 137 Utility stitches
- 14 one-step buttonhole styles
- 283 Decorative stitches
- 20 Satin stitches
- 61 Decorative satin
- 14 Cross stitches
- 58 Combinable Utility stitches
- 5 Built-in alphanumeric fonts
- Digital dual feed
- Large LCD color touch screen
- Drop in bobbin
- Large throat space for quilting and large sewing projects
- Bright stadium lighting
- Start/Stop button
- Reverse sewing
- Variable speed slider
- Reinforcement stitch
- Needle up/down
- On board thread cutter
- Automatic presser foot lift
- Auto threading
- Quick-Set bobbin winder
- Needle plate with scale in inches and centimeters
- Additional seam markings on bobbin cover for needle position preference
- Quilting extension table for larger work area
- Free arm
- Two on board accessory storage compartments
Working on the Baby Lock Aria
Winding the bobbin and threading the Baby Lock Aria is not only user friendly, it’s downright easy.
The dual spool pins makes it possible for you to even wind the bobbin while you’re sewing… a fantastic timesaver, since you don’t have to stop work in progress to rewind a bobbin.
If you are not at all familiar with how to thread a sewing machine, the on board guides will clearly take you through each step.
The stitch selection process is almost just as easy. Simply touch the screen to bring up the main stitch menu. There is one utility stitch menu button and several different options for decorative stitches.
Once in the selected stitch menu, simply select the desired stitch. On the left side of the screen, the stitch will be displayed along with the proper presser foot and stitch length and width adjustment buttons along the bottom of the screen.
My standard practice for reviewing sewing machines is to sample several different utility and decorative stitch options. By doing it this way, the playing field remains level.
The quality of the stitches produced by the Baby Lock Aria is absolutely wonderful. The definition of the stitches matches that of a machine that costs twice as much.
Sequencing and creating my own stitch patterns was a piece of cake. The one thing that you absolutely must remember, though, is to hit the ‘delete’ button to remove your previous stitch pattern from the memory before starting a new stitch.
Once you get used to taking that little step, the rest is a breeze. The function buttons are easy to reach and the bright stadium lighting is great.
When I first saw the bright lights, I was a bit concerned about shadows, but I was pleased to discover that there was no shadow whatsoever.
What are some alternatives for Baby Lock Aria?
We have reviewed several commercial machines similar to the Baby Lock Aria and here are some alternatives we highly recommend.
The Brother CP100X is a computerized sewing machine designed for both beginners and experienced sewers. It features 100 built-in stitches, including eight styles of one-step buttonholes, and a bright LCD display that shows stitch information and allows you to easily select and adjust your stitches. The machine also includes an automatic needle threading system, which makes threading the needle effortless, and a drop feed for free-motion quilting. The CP100X comes with a variety of convenient features, such as a start/stop button for sewing without a foot pedal, a speed control slider, and a built-in thread cutter. It also includes a range of sewing feet, including a quilting foot, monogramming foot, and zipper foot, among others, to help you tackle a range of sewing tasks. Additionally, the machine includes an extra-wide table for larger projects, a bright LED work area, and a jam-resistant Quick-Set drop-in top bobbin. The CP100X is lightweight and portable, making it easy to take to sewing classes or move around the house. It also includes a hard protective case for storage and transport. Overall, the Brother CP100X is a versatile and reliable machine that offers a range of features to help you complete a variety of sewing projects with ease.
The Janome Horizon Memory Craft 8200 has all the functions and extras you could possibly need for quilting. The enormous 11" to the right of your needle is included on the Janome Memory Craft 8200. You will be able to quilt a large quilt easily in this area. There is a knee lift included with the Janome Memory Craft 8200 QCP. Your presser foot will simply rise up with a quick push to the right with your knee! You may easily make the last tweaks to your project while utilizing it with the needle down option!
The Horizon Memory Craft 8200QCP's typical free motion quilting settings are perfect for free motion quilters! You also receive a convertible free motion quilting foot with a closed toe, open toe, and clear view foot in addition to a darning foot that can be used for free motion quilting. It only takes a quick flick of a button on the machine's side to lower your feed dogs.
The Janome 4120QDC is a top-notch computerized sewing machine that is both incredibly sturdy and light enough to move about with ease. It is a powerful sewing machine that can handle a wide range of fabrics. Despite the fact that this machine may appear to be pricey, less expensive alternatives just cannot match its level of excellence.
Threading is simple with the jam-proof bobbin, which also keeps your stitches from straying over the edge of your project. In the meantime, you can effortlessly regulate the stitching pace, make small adjustments, and pivot on corners thanks to the user-friendly control panel and LCD screen.
The machine will remain functional as your skill set expands with 120 stitch options and 7 buttonhole options. A protective case that comes with the device protects it from dust and other substances that can harm it. An instructional DVD is also included so you can learn more about the machine.
The Janome 4120QDC was created to be an all-purpose machine in general. It can complete practically any task you give it. It boasts a tonne of features that make it one of the most adaptable and powerful sewing machines available.
Which fabrics work on the Baby Lock Aria?
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Knits(Medium to heavyweight only) Upholstery Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers Leather/suede | Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber |
What are the accessories that come with Baby Lock Aria?
Standard accessories
- 13 snap on presser feet
- Digital Dual-Feed System Foot
- 1/4″ Quilting foot with a guide
- Buttonhole
- Overcasting
- Monogramming
- Zipper
- Zigzag
- Blind stitch
- Button fitting
- Free-motion quilting
- Free-motion open toe quilting
- Free-motion echo quilting
- Straight stitch foot
- Stylus
- USB cable
- Knee lift
- Specialty bobbin case
- Cord guide bobbin cover
- Straight stitch needle plate
- Soft cover for machine
- Bobbins
- Seam ripper
- Twin needle
Optional accessories
- Multi-function foot controller
- 10 spool stand
- 2-spool thread stand
- Seam guide
- Walking foot
- Side cutter foot
- Free-motion quilting foot
- Circular attachment
- Edge joining foot
- USB mouse
- Open toe for the dual feed foot
- Extension table
- Gold standard comprehensive care plan
How to maintain the Baby Lock Aria?
| Maintenance activities | After each use | Monthly | Once each year | As needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clean race hook and feed dogs | Yes | No | No | No |
| Wipe head with soft dry cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Wipe head with soft damp cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Lubricate | No | No | No | No |
| Service by sewing machine repair professional | No | No | Yes | No |
Summary: Baby Lock Aria Review
To conclude my review, the Baby Lock Aria is definitely one of the best new sewing and quilting machines out there. It has tons of great features, including a large workspace, on board accessory storage and best of all… it’s among the most user friendly sewing machines available.
I do not recommend it for beginners, but if you have been sewing for a while and are ready to step up your game or if you are in the market for a new computerized sewing and quilting machine, you definitely should take a look at this one.
Baby Lock Aria Review
Summary
The Baby Lock Aria is a computerized sewing and overlock machine that is designed for intermediate and experienced sewers. It has a variety of features that make it a great choice for a variety of sewing projects, including 87 built-in stitches, 7 one-step buttonholes, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin, speed control slider, LED light, large LCD display, ExtraordinAir™ threading, automatic thread delivery, 2 to 8 thread serging, Pure Lighting – 6 LED Lights, Knee Lift, Variable Speed Control, and Convenient Presser Foot Lever. It is easy to use and produces professional-looking results. However, it is expensive and not as portable as some other machines.
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Happy Stitching.
Thanks for this review! I read it and your review of the crescendo. I am trying to decide fit the extras on the crescendo are worth the extra $$$. I am primarily a quilter but may. Do some children’s clothing sewing when I have grandchildren. Do you have any advice to offer?
Hello, Elisabeth –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
Both machines are excellent and I think you will be happy with either one. From the type of sewing you say you do, I think you would probably be happier with the Aria, simply because it can do more. If budget is a concern, however, I would say go with the Crescendo.
Either way, you can’t go wrong.
Happy stitching.
I have the aria and I love it. I have had it 5 months now and made numerous quilts. I decided the extras the crescendo had were not worth the extra money. And it’s great I’ve never regretted my decision.
I am considering purchasing the Aria. Mostly so I can quilt my own quilts. The large decorative stitches is what has really peaked my interest. Thinking I could use these in sashing & border areas. Any opinions on this? Also, I am being quotes a price if $3000. Is the a good deal?
Hello, Jan –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
My sources tell me the Manufacturer’s Suggest Retail Price for the Aria is about $5000, so if you can get it for $3000, I’d say you are getting a very good deal.
Happy Stitching.
I got an Aria about 2 months ago. Of course I got it from my dealer Sprinkles in Pueblo co. I LOVE IT!!! It does anything I want it to. It is TOUGH CONVENIENT, STEady lil machine I have quilted quilts— made clothing —and sewn LACE curtains. I have AN Ellissimo but I wanted something that I can just jump up and sew anything in a sec. This machine is wonderful. My ellissimo of course is first but this machine is a good second (the aria does not emb.)
I have the Aria. I had an Ellure but I don’t do embroidery. I sew. I don’t quilt but this machine had tons of features I use for sewing. Ease of use and the seld threading needle is worth it’s weight in gold. Awesome machine!
I am undecided whether to buy the Baby Lock Aria sewing machine or the Brother DreamCreator Innov-is VQ2400. Supposedly they are the same machine. Any insight would be appreciated.
I heard brother bought out babylock. Not sure if it’s true but my Brother Dreamweaver vq3000 looks exactly the same as the babylock Aria.
Hello Cheryl –
The matter concerning Baby Lock and Brother is somewhat confusing to all of us – even some sales associates. SOME Baby Lock machines are made in the same factory as Brothers. SOME Baby Locks are made in the US but not all. I, too have been perplexed as to which Baby Locks are made in the US and which models are not. The debate will continue for as long as there is a relationship between Baby Lock and Brother. My latest information indicates that Baby Lock sergers are made in the US but nothing else. This could very well change as decisions are made at the corporate level based entirely upon the bottom line. As far as I’m concerned, the best way to determine which machines are made by Brother is to look at them. If a Baby Lock model resembles a Brother model, then it is a sure bet that it was made by Brother. There are people who swear that there is a real difference under the hood. When this practice started, I could feel a difference. Lately, however, I have noticed very little difference if any. When it comes to working on Baby Locks and Brothers, they are more and more alike than ever before. There continues to be a difference in pricing, however. With this in mind, I am inclined to think that perhaps Baby Lock may have a little more to offer that is not visible to the naked eye. I am also inclined to believe that Brother is stepping up its game and rapidly catching up to the Baby Lock level of quality and workmanship.
Happy stitching.
Vernelle, I’ve had the privilege of speaking with some higher-ups in the Brother and Baby Lock companies, and the cost difference has consistently been attributed to the additional quality control checks that Baby Locks go through. Before leaving the factory, every Baby Lock is indivually inspected not only visually on the outside with a random few receiving a more thorough review to represent the batch, but tested. Each. And. Every. One. Even without mine being on sale, taking its cost down to below the Brother that I found out is its twin, I had decided on Baby Lock for this reason.
Any negatives on the Aria?
I have been looking (only on the computer) at Baby Lock. I have liked the Quest and tonight saw posts on Aria … on this site I see the Aria is between 3000 and 5000 I was never able to find a price on the Quest. Any suggestions or information regarding these machines would be appreciated. I would like to have some information in my head before I would go into a store. I read the Baby Lock vs Brother post … should I be checking Brother out also? I do mostly sewing/quilting I am not sure I would use the embroidery stuff. Ease of operation would be my thing … I am retired, sometimes all the computer stuff kind of puts a challenge to my brain but once I learn it I think I would have it … ha ha …thanking you for any information and I did enjoy reading all these posts.Gerry
I just purchased my first Baby Lock. I choose the Aria. I did take the time to try out quilting machines from all the Big Name Sewing Companies. I am very happy with my purchase. I have not even had my first class yet but I have been sitting down trying to get use to it and become somewhat educated before I have my first class. I will say that is is a new experience for me because all I have are vintage Singers. The mechanical all steel machines have their place but so does the Aria. I found that the Aria has many decorative stitches that I can use to embellish by quilts. It will be great to make a crazy quilt! I also want to quilt and sew, the Aria fits that niche. As far as price goes I paid 2799.00 for my new machine. it was called open stock and was used once at a quilt show. My local store did not consider the Aria brand new however I was reassured that Baby Lock did. I feel very comfortable with my purchase. I was given a generous discount from my quilt store and a Mothers Day Special including no interest financing for 3 years. This has made it easy to have a dream machine that I never thought I could afford. I hope this helps you make the right choice for yourself.
The Quest/Quest Plus were WONDERFUL machines. They did a superior job, were quiet and a true work horse. They have not made them in about 10 plus.
The very first ones had some mother board issues and a lot had to be replaced, but once that was taken care of – I have not heard of any other problems. You can find them on Ebay off and on – and most of the time that are still wonderful machines.
The only negative part is that they are pretty heavy…so if you were looking to take on to classes – I would have a tote..my guess is they weigh about 35 Lbs. I also
love the attached walking foot. I used it almost all the time.
Why do you suggest this is not a good beginners machine? I did very little sewing as a young child on my mom’s machine, and I am now looking to get my own machine to learn how to quilt as well as learn to sew better than just using a standard stitch. I am very interested in this machine so I am consider myself a beginner for sure! So I’m curious why this might not be the machine for me. Thank you for all your help!
Michelle, someone who is a beginner may both be overwhelmed by how much this machine can do, and not yet understand what all the specialized features are for. I have this machine, and also hesitate recommending it to beginners who aren’t extremely head-strong and willing to admit that problems they have are likely going to be due to inexperience. I’m a professional, have been for many years, and was still a big overwhelmed by this machine for a while.
Thank you for all the reviews that you do! I find them extremely helpful! I’m looking for a new machine and the Babylock Aria is one of the machines I’m considering. When you tested out the machine, did you notice any vibration when sewing at high speeds? I currently own a Babylck Quilter’s Choice, and it has a lot of vibration at high speeds.
Thank you,
Jo
I too experience vibration at speeds past medium. Very annoying especially considering the price. I have the Crescendo. Also I hate the bulky dual feed foot as fabric bunches under it once past the needle. I do like the babylock for its quality stitching and minimal bird nests of thread when starting a seam. I seldom need a leader unlike the Janome 7700, 8900 that I also own.
Thanks to all for your questions and comments. With regard to price, I don’t mind second hand machines if I can verify the purchase/mantenance records and take a “test drive.” Patience pays off. Earlier this year, I found a two year old Aria on Craigslist. It was part of an estate. The executor was asking $550. I paid $300. The machine is perfect and came with a nice wheeled case. I similarly purchased my Baby Lock Imagine serger and Sashiko. Based on my experience, I encourage readers to look on-line for gently used, “young” machines. Just like cars, new sewing machines depreciate once they leave the dealer. Best wishes!
I am looking at upgrading from a BabyLock Quest Plus to an Aria. I have had a lot of problems with free motion quilting on the Quest + with the bobbin thread jamming. Can any of you tell me how the Aria performs on free motion quilting?
Hi,
I have a Blar Aria baby lock seeing machine that I am interested in possibly selling for $2500 OBO that had only been used a handful of times. It belonged to my grandmother who we recently lost. She loved quilting but at 85 had issue figuring out the technology and continued to do it but hands and used the machine one occasion. I am waiting to hear back from a family member but If she passes up the offer and you are interested you can give me a call and I will let you know what she decides.
The walking foot on the Aria is a nice feature, however, as I quilt I have to keep checking the back of the foot. The fabric bunches up under it and is a bit of a problem if you are not checking it often. It has to go through flat and smooth and you have to keep pulling it through the back as you go to keep it from bunching up. A walking foot with more clearance would have been a better design.
I am looking at buying a new machine. I have always been a Viking sewer but the ones I want are way more expensive than I can justify. I want one that I can use for quilting, regular and very fine sewing, and embroidery. I did not know anything about Babylock until my niece, who sews professionally, recommended an Aria to me. I would appreciate your ideas. I really do not feel I can spend over $4000.
The Aria is not an embroidery machine. It is for sewing and quilting only. However, if you do not need the embroidery part very often, you could buy a separate machine for embroidery only.
I want to upgrade to a machine with a larger harp space because I enjoy doing my own quilting and use quilting rulers and some free motion techniques. I am debating
between the Janome Memory Craft 9400, the Aria and the Crescendo. I’d appreciate any advice about which machine might be best for my needs. I was surprised to read Vernelle’s comment from 2013 that the Aria does more than the Crescendo. I thought the Crescendo was newer, so would have more features. Thank you in
advance-this is a fantastic website!
I’m looking for a new machine-I like to do my own quilting using rulers and some free motion techniques. I am debating between the Janome 9400, the Aria and the Crescendo. Vernelle mentions that the Aria can do more-I thought the Crescendo was newer and would have more features? I’d appreciate any thoughts on choosing between these machines. This is a great website!
I purchased my first Babylock (the Aria) just a week ago for its large throat space that can accommodate a large quilt. So far I’m impressed with the machine. However, I am disappointed that Babylock couldn’t make an extension table that actually sat flush with the machine bed. I thought I had been given the wrong extension table, but on checking with the retailer and in my manual, it appears I have the correct extension table. The back part of the table is fine, but at the front the table overlaps the machine bed by around an inch, which creates a ridge all the way along the front of the needle plate, so you really don’t get the smooth surface with the extension table that the brochure claims.
I have had an Aria since 5/17 and love it. Have made several quilts and some fancy stitch embellishment on them. I mainly bought it for the larger neck to do better free motion quilting. I love almost everything EXCEPT it seems to be very temperamental. It will skip stitches while free motion quilting certain directions. Have taken it back to dealer Twice and was supposedly fixed. Try new needles, tension adjustments, cleaning, different thread to no avail. I have never had a problem with my old Pfaff. Spent $3k and do expect better effortless sewing. If you’re looking to do free motion or ruler work this might not be for you.
I am looking to buy a new machine. I was considering a sweet sixteen sit down because I love to quilt and the main feature is all the harp space. But it only quilts. I am looking for a sewing machine that would offer me as much space as possible to quilt, but would do more than just quilt . Not sure I need so much. But I love everything I have read about baby lock , and the aria looks amazing. I am also trying to be cost conscious . I am thinking of this as the last machine I should buy. I had a singer that I wore out. I have a Bernina activate 220 and can free motion quilt on it. I have quilted many quilts on it, but would love more space .
Gosh, this review process was fabulous! I feel more confident and was able to ferrit out questions to ask when test driving a new machine. I am considering the Aria.
I bought my Aria 3years ago to do quilting and fabric art. My machine has been in the shop about every 7months. Has trouble holding tension, skips stitches. Recent issue is the stitching speed racing, broke two needles finishing a quilt last week and today it bobbin thread won’t knit with them top thread. Putting in the shop tomorrow. Good thing I purchased the extended warranty. Pretty disappointing. Wondering if anyone has had similar problems.
Do you know anything about the Babylock Altair?
My Aria has been in the shop a lot also replaced so many parts and now the NO needle plate cover keeps flashing on and stops sewing then clears — does not stay in memory when I take machine to shop They adjusted but it is still doing it>> Not very Happy with this machine , in the shop too much not such what to do. The shop has been great and most of the work is warranty but I live 65 miles from the shop, so a day is waisted