New to sewing? Don’t worry, you’ll get the hang of it by the time you’re done reading this. Whether you intend to pursue it as a hobby or perhaps professionally from kids to adults, we will help you compare the best sewing machines for beginners. There are so many makes and models out there, but not all of them are good for beginners. That’s why we have this guide – to help you get it right from the get-go. But first…
Our recommendations on best sewing machine for beginners
comparison chart
| Picture | Brand & Model | Built-in Stitches | Ratings | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Brother CS6000i | 60 stitch patterns | (4.5 / 5.0) | $$ |
 | Singer 7258 | 100 stitch patterns | (4.6 / 5.0) | $$ |
 | Janome 2212 | 12 stitch patterns | (4.5 / 5.0) | $$ |
 | Singer 7256 | 70 stitch patterns | (4.4 / 5.0) | $$ |
 | Brother XR9500PRW Project Runway Limited Edition | 100 stitch patterns | (4.5 / 5.0) | $$ |
 | Janome 11706 Hello Kitty | 11 stitch patterns | (4.3 / 5.0) | $ |
 | Singer 4423 | 23 stitch patterns | (4.3 / 5.0) | $$$ |
 | Brother HC1850 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine | 130 stitch patterns | (4.5 / 5.0) | $$ |
 | Singer 4411 | 11 stitch patterns | (4.2 / 5.0) | $ |
 | Brother XM2701 Lightweight | 27 stitch patterns | (4.5 / 5.0) | $ |
Why You Need a Machine Specifically Designed For Beginners
When you are a beginner in sewing, the difference between an exciting experience and a full
blown nightmare largely depends on the sewing machine you pick. Many people usually quit out of frustration, not because they don’t have the necessary skills but because they chose machines that are not made for beginners.
If you make the same mistake you may end up with an expensive model that is complicated to use, unreliable and definitely not ideal for learning. It will hinder your progress and development in sewing. Luckily, avoiding all that is as simple as knowing how to choose the best sewing machine for beginners. Read on and learn all about that.
Things to Consider When Buying the Best Beginner Sewing Machine
So what should you look for in a beginner machine? Here is a guide:
1) Start with a mechanical machine
Don’t get it wrong, computerized sewing machines are absolutely great; but not when you are a beginner. They have so many features and functions that are likely to confuse you. On the other hand, a mechanical model will help you learn all the basics of sewing. That’s where you need to start before even considering a computerized machine.
2) Should be easy to control
Make sure your entry-level sewing machine has all the basic controls. That includes the thread tension adjuster, the pedal, speed, stitch selector and the bobbin winder. You need them for an easy experience. For example, the thread tension adjuster will help you determine the ideal tautness of your thread. Otherwise you might end up with loose stitches. On its part, the speed selector will make the machine run either faster or slower. Your ideal speed depends on how fast you can guide the fabric. As a beginner you will be slow, but with time it will be easier and you will pick up some speed. So you need a speed selector that can serve you under both circumstances. The same goes for the pedal, stitch selector and bobbin winder; make sure they have settings for complete beginners but with the ability to increase as your experience increases.
3) Built-in features and accessories to look for
You will find it very easy to sew and learn if your machine has some built-in features. Top of the list is a needle threader. Remember that you will have to thread the machine each time you sew. And as a beginner you will do a lot of sewing what with all the excitement and hype that comes with the learning phase. One way to ensure that you save a lot of time and enjoy the process is by having a machine that has a built-in threader to help you in threading.
The presser foot is yet another important feature to consider. It influences the type of sewing your machine can do easily. For instance, a machine that combines a buttonhole foot, blind hem foot and zipper foot is fantastic for sewing clothes. On the other hand, a machine with a walking foot is perfect for quilting. And if you are going to do some freehand quilting you may also want to consider a sewing machine with a freehand embroidery foot. It’s important to mention that while every beginner sewing machine will come with at least one type of presser foot, you can always buy one or more different presser feet and affix them to the machine as separate attachments. Of course you will attach a particular presser foot depending on what you want to sew.
Finally, you may also want to consider the number of built-in stitches in the beginners’ sewing machine. Most models will have at least zigzag stitches, buttonhole patterns and a few other decorative stitches that will make sewing fun.
4) A top loading bobbin is always better
With a top loading bobbin system, you won’t have to remove the whole bobbin casing just to get to the bobbin itself. It simply pops out when you need it to and drops back into place when you are ready to sew again. If you can get a model whose bobbin system is covered with a transparent casing that will be even better. You will be able to see when you are running low on bobbin thread.
5) Don’t break the bank
It’s okay to be excited over the prospect of owning your first sewing machine. But don’t spend more than you should in the process. There are great beginner models that cost as little as $100 to $200 dollars. But if you have the budget for it you can still get a high-end machine for up to $300. The bottom line is, buy what you can afford.
6) The brand matters
Not all beginner sewing machines are created equal. Some are backed by a powerful brands while others are not. The reason why you want a model that is manufactured by a reputable brand is because then you will get a good quality machine that will not only perform well, but will also last long. Some of the best brands in the market today include Singer, Janome and Brother. We have sewing machines from all those manufacturers on our site, feel free to look around.
Conclusion
So there you have it, a simple guide on choosing the best sewing machine. With all the key considerations above you can be sure that choosing your sewing machine will be a walk in the park. But if you still find it hard to settle on one model, feel free to consider one of the ten above. Those are the most recommended, but we have many more options for you right here on our site.