Sewing machines are often thought of as an outdated apparatus that our grandmothers used, whether it was creating their own clothing, following a kit, or quilting a blanket that would be passed down through generations. Today’s sewing machines take the same useful and widely practiced techniques of previous models while updating the apparatus to include interactive and user-friendly improvements. Whether you’re looking for a way to easily and quickly mend clothing or want to try your hand at designing your own creations, sewing machines continue to be an item that every home should have.
Sewing machines are a great way to save money on simple mending jobs and express your creativity. We love using our sewing machines around the holidays when it’s time to make a fun and festive ugly Christmas sweater or during Halloween when we can create a one-of-a-kind custom Halloween creation. Parents can use sewing machines for mending uniforms and clothing as well as school plays, which makes creating a costume much less expensive.
What To Look For In A Sewing Machine
Consider how often you’ll use your sewing machine. If you want to be able to mend the occasional hole and attach a button, a less expensive machine with fewer capabilities may suit your needs.
What type of sewing will you be doing? There are specific machines for quilting and others that are better suited for embroidery.
Look at the number of presser feet that the machine comes with when deciding what to purchase. More presser feet, which allow users to adjust the tension of the fabric, means more design options.
Weight is important. Sewing machines can clock in at some serious poundage and if you want a machine that can easily be moved and stored, opt for a lightweight model. For those with a dedicated sewing area, a heavier machine is fine. Just remember that sewing machines need to be serviced every few years, so eventually, they will have to be moved unless you have a pro that makes house calls.
How We Chose The Best Sewing Machines
There are a handful of trusted names in sewing machines, including Brother, Janome and Singer. We’ve included models by these tried and trusted companies as well as newer additions to the world of sewing machines that are making impressive and exciting units. All the machines on our list offer a wide variety of price points and include a variety of features that will satisfy everyone from the occasional sewer all the way up to the semi-pro.
Learn more about our favorite devices below and get ready to explore all that you can do and create with a sewing machine.
1. SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960 Computerized Portable Sewing Machine
With an automatic needle threader, a computerized interface, and an extendable table, the SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960 Computerized Portable Sewing Machine is perfect for amateur sewers all the way up to seasoned stitchers. The Singer Quantum has a backlit computerized screen that enables users to choose from a wide variety of pre-selected options, including basic, stretch, and decorative stitches all the way up to fonts for personalized pieces. The automatic threader turns threading the machine into a job that takes only seconds and the exclusive buttonhole underplate is easy to use. The Singer Quantum comes with a variety of presser feet, including quilting, statin stitch, pant hemming and more. The machine has a built-in carry handle and comes with a hard dust cover.
Pros: Backlit screen is easy to read, including a buttonhole underplate, comes with several presser feet.
Cons: There is a lack of larger stitch options for both satin and embroidery.
2. Brother Sewing and Quilting Machine
A user-friendly option, the Brother Sewing and Quilting Machine is a helpful and straightforward device that gives users a choice of 60 stitches. The Brother is one of the best sewing machines on our list for beginners or those who want a simple and reliable device for sewing and quilting. Brother includes a stitch selector from 60 options and an automatic needle threader that can be accessed through the LCD touch screen. The wide table provides extra space for projects, and the built-in free arm is perfect for smaller jobs, like cuffs, pant hems, and children’s clothing. The Brother has eight sewing and quilting feet and comes with a hard protective case.
Pros: Great for beginners, wide table for big projects, large LCD screen.
Cons: The Brother is not sturdy enough for daily use.
3. SINGER Heavy Duty 4423 Sewing Machine
With a motor that is 60 percent stronger than other machines, the SINGER Heavy Duty 4423 Sewing Machine is tough enough to take on any material. The Singer Heavy Duty is a high-speed sewing machine that boasts a rate of up to 100 stitches per minute. The device includes an automatic needle threader and an all-purpose foot pedal, seam ripper, buttonhole foot, spool pin and more, with the items stored in an accessory tray. The Singer Heavy Duty has a top drop-in bobbin and a stainless-steel bedplate.
Pros: Durable for frequent use, includes a built-in accessory tray, can deliver up to 100 stitches per minute.
Cons: The Singer Heavy Duty comes with 23 built-in stitches, which is fewer than the Brother’s 60-stitches.
4. LIUMY Mini Handheld Sewing Machine
We know not all of us are cut out to be the next celebrity designer but having a small sewing machine that can take care of easy jobs is a great way to save time and money. With the LIUMY Mini Handheld Sewing Machine, users can make quick repairs and sew small jobs on fabrics like cotton and wool. The battery-powered machine comes with a threader, extension spindle, needle, scissors, and a variety of thread colors. With a simple handheld design, the Liumy will grab the flat edge of an item and begin sewing immediately. A safety button is included and with the Liumy, users can sew large items like curtains and table cloths without moving them.
Pros: Affordable and portable, easy-to-use handheld design, can tackle several small jobs.
Cons: The fabric being sewn cannot exceed 1.88 mm.
5. KPCB Mini Sewing Machine
Whether you’re looking for a second sewing machine that is easy to travel with for small jobs or you’re just starting out on your seamstress journey and want a small and user-friendly option, the KPCB Mini Sewing Machine will make a great addition. Made with eco-friendly materials for added durability, the KPCB is also UL/ETL/CE certified for added safety. Even with its small size, the machine still comes with a foot pedal which can also be used with a battery, making it easy to place the machine anywhere, even if an electrical outlet is not close by. A built-in winding pole and spool make it easy to rewind and replace bobbins when necessary. Two speeds are available and a large extension table with a cuff slot provides an easy setup for pants and cuffs. A built-in lamp makes visibility bright and clear and a winding pole and handwheel ensure users are able to tighten their thread when necessary. Safe for use with most fabric, including cloth, linen, denim, silk and wool, the KPCB comes with 90/14 needles and is compatible with 75/11, 80/12 and 10/16 needles.
Pros: Affordable, lightweight and compact, includes a foot pedal and bobbin.
Cons: The KPCB cannot stitch backward.
6. Janome 2212 Sewing Machine
For a sewing machine that won’t break the bank but will still provide ample features for newbies and seasoned sewers, we like the Janome 2212 Sewing Machine. A trusted name in sewing machines, this model from Janome comes with 12 of the most commonly used stitches built-in. A four-step buttonhole is easy for beginners to master and a dial pattern selection is designed with new sewers in mind. A free arm and convertible flatbed make it possible to take on both small and mid-sized jobs. The Janome comes with a bonus kit filled with accessories that every new sewer will appreciate, including 10 bobbins, two 90/14 needles and other must-haves.
Pros: User-friendly entry-level machine, four-step buttonhole, includes a bonus accessory pack.
Cons: A needle threader is not included.