Does the quilting frame have three rails?
Basting is eliminated by having the backing fabric on a separate rail. Fabrics roll off of two rails and onto one as you quilt in between.

Is infinite tension or ratchet tension control available for rail positioning?
Infinite tensioning allows for equal tension on top and backing fabrics. Ratchets give incremental control and either top or backing may be too tight or too loose.

Is it narrow enough to reach the design area from both sides and can you quilt from both sides?
Being able to switch sides and reach the same design area eliminates the need to quilt away from your body. This makes it easier to quilt feathers and circular type designs. You must be able to reach over the third rail.

Can I use a floor quilting frame if I only quilt with the needle pointing toward my body?
Yes! Technically you need to quilt 360 degrees, but there are ways to circumvent such. On circular style designs, simply quilt from the top most point in two directions. Being able to quilt on both sides of the frame eliminates the need to start from the same point twice. In addition, you will compensate for the less desirable directions by angling your body as much as 45 degrees to the rail, thereby reducing the quilting directions to 90 degrees — not quite a single direction, but very manageable.

Can a large group quilt on the frame?
For large groups, it is necessary to have a frame wide enough to sit directly opposite one another in order to seat everyone for quilting at the same time. The main problem is not usually the width, but reaching over the third rail. Floor frames with a sliding third rail can be positioned so that you can reach over it and still have no-basting for group quilting. Some manufacturers suggest removing the third rail for group quilting meaning you will have to baste your quilt. You need to allow approximate 24" space per person to quilt.

Does it tilt and how?
Tilting allows you to see your work much better and provides comfort for your back. Some tilt mechanisms are much easier to use than others. A pivot point is the simplest to use. Having a center pivot point is preferable because the height can be set for working at the center of the frame.  The height needed for your lower arm changes as you reach closer in or farther away, and adjusting the tilt will automatically change the height of the front rail.  If it has a front pivot point, the height of the front rail will need to be adjusted separately as you change the tilt to prevent your arm beneath the quilt from being too high or too low.

Yes, pivot in center

Is end tensioning provided?
End tensioning gives better control on the edges making it easier to quilt.

Is it adjustable for height?
An important feature because both people and chairs come in different sizes.

Does it have a place for lights?
As with any intricate, detailed work, good lighting is a must.

Does it have a cross bar underneath?  If not, will it be stable?
On friction type rail systems, the cross bar is not necessary. It is necessary on ratchet type systems to lock the end posts together. When sitting straight and still, the bar is generally not a problem; but, you may bump it as you move and it may be in the way if you cross your legs.  Without a cross bar, the friction-lock frame is stable.  The end posts are locked together by the friction lock system, allowing for a frame that is easier and more comfortable to use without being the Rock of Gibraltar.

How do I choose rails and what types are available?
You will always need rails long enough to accommodate the width of your quilt and can always do smaller quilts on the longer rails. Rails are available in one piece units or with extensions. Multiple sizes are available (usually at a discount) to save space when doing smaller projects. Long rail sections that are finger jointed material are not prone to warppage. An extension set gives a variety of lengths in one set. Extension rails have been known to sag at the extension over time.

One piece finger jointed rails

Will it be easy to move or store with a quilt in progress?
Some have a very small footprint and use minimal space and can be pushed against the wall and/or come apart easily for storage leaving the quilt in tact, while others fold; and some must be disassembled.

Is the wood finished?
Unfinished wood contains acids which will damage your fabrics. If you are uncomfortable with finishing wood, or would just rather quilt than apply finish, buy a frame that comes completely finished.

Lacquer finish
or
Unfinished kit

Will it fit in your room?
Many homes have limited space. You must consider the dimensions not only of the quilting width but of the rail lengths needed based on the width of your quilt. Remember, if you want your family to support your hobby, you must still allow them to be in the living room with you! With a negative answer, the alternative is not necessarily bad, as quilting hoops on a stand have their own special unique advantages. See the article on Questions To Ask When Looking For a Quilting Hoop and Stand