You have probably been looking at the decorations in your curtains and wondered how the designs were made. Maybe this made you develop the desire to learn how to sew, but because of the many sewing machines in the market, you did not know which one to pick or how to start. This article will take you through the best sewing machines for beginners and the special features that come along with them.
Why Do You Need the Best Sewing Machine for Beginners?
There are many sewing machines that a beginner can use to learn sewing. Many of these machines can be difficult to understand, so you need the best. Reasons why you need the best sewing machine as a beginner are:
- They are easy to learn and use as they include all the relevant materials that are ideal for a beginner.
- They are lightweight and portable therefore you can easily carry them to class and back home for more practice.
- They are cheap and easily afforded by beginners.
- They come with minimal but ideal features that facilitate learning.
The Best Sewing Machine for Beginners Review:
1. Best For Starter – SINGER Mechanical MX60 Sewing Machine with Easy Stitching
Pros:
- It is ideal for starters.
- It is lightweight and portable.
- It is easy to make buttonholes.
- It does not have many stitch options.
Singer MX60 is perfect for beginners, as it does not require many settings and skills to use it. This sewing machine from Singer is lightweight and easy to move around thus as beginners you can easily carry your machine to class. It consists of a full metal frame that makes it last the test of time. As a beginner, you do not need a machine that will complicate your life even further or have trouble using it. Singer MX60 is easy to use and maintain. This sewing machine features six vital stitches that can be used to finish most simple sewing works.
This sewing machine has a manual dial that enables you to change the stitches and settings. Also, it includes preset stitch length and width, which is easy to use even for beginners. With Singer MX60 as a beginner, you can sew fashion, create crafts, piece quilts, or do simple repairs.
2. Best Basic – Magicfly Mini Sewing Machine with Extension Table for Beginner
Pros:
- Its operation is quiet.
- It is easy and simple to work with.
- The stitches are strong and of good quality.
- It is not meant for heavy-duty work.
This sewing machine is good for beginners. It will teach you the art of sewing faster than most other sewing machines owing to its simple nature. It comes with a superior sewing set providing all the accessories that a beginner needs to start their learning phase. Magicfly mini sewing machine is lightweight hence easy to handle. It is easy to use and comes with an extension table you can therefore practice your sewing anywhere and on different materials as well.
Magicfly mini sewing machine is powered by either AC or DC or even batteries and it is very quiet when running hence you can easily operate it in a quiet environment without worries of disturbing other people’s peace. With this sewing machine, you can adjust sewing speed to that level you are comfortable working with. It is constructed from durable metal material and requires a small space to work with.
3. Best Mechanical – Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine with Automatic Threader For Easy to Use
Pros:
- Beginners and professionals use it.
- It is lightweight and portable.
- It can be used for a variety of projects.
- The plastic on the bobbin is not long-lasting.
We cannot finish a chat about sewing machines without mentioning Brother Brand. This company is known for its excellent sewing machines. Brother XM2701 is one product that is consistent, efficient, and simple enough to provide you good results whether you are a beginner or a professional.
This sewing machine comes equipped with 27 built-in stitches such as an auto-size buttonhole, zig zag, decorative, and blind hem. It also includes a toolbox that has an instructional DVD making it easy for beginners to learn and use. Designed for various users it also comes with an inbuilt automatic needle threader that forces thread through the needle and a jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin.
The machine is built to perfection and generates the best result in working relatively fast. It is durable and steady and does not vibrate often. Brother XM2701 sewing machine is ideal for a wide variety of everyday sewing jobs such as sewing sleeves, pant legs, and cuffs. Purchasing it comes with a 25-year warranty and a customer support team to assist you throughout the life of this sewing machine.
4. Best Computerized – Brother CS5055 Electric Digital Sewing Machine For Large Projects
Pros:
- Bobbin is jam-resistant
- You can choose the right stitch to work with.
- Has a variety of stitches making it easy to sew various materials.
- The screen display is small.
Brother CS5055 Computerized Sewing Machine comes with 60 inbuilt stitches along with 7 auto-size buttonholes. It can therefore be used to do a wide range of sewing projects from repairs, sewing clothes, decorative items, and many more. It is computerized so you can easily choose the type of stitches you want to work with.
It is very simple to use since it features an inbuilt needle threader that reliably pushes the thread through the needle, a drop-in top bobbin that is easy to load and ensures that the bobbin remains in position. Brother CS5055 sewing machine also features 7 sewing feet, 4 bobbins, 3 needles, and a user manual that is in English, French, and Spanish making it easy to use and understand. The metal material used in its construction is strong enough allowing it to tackle any task while the needle is fixed in position when you are working for perfect stitches and even lines.
5. Best Portable – IRIS GEMMA Sewing Machine for Adult Beginners with Elastic Face Mask Cord
Pros:
- It is easy to use.
- It is perfect for a wide range of home projects.
- You can adjust the speed.
- Does not offer auto needle threading.
Electric Household mini sewing machine is one of the best sewing machines in the market for adult beginners. Its operations are fairly simple and anyone can use it to complete simple home sewing jobs such as making clothes, home decorations, crafting as long as you follow the instructions that come along with it.
This machine comes with an elastic face mask cord thus you can sew face masks for your family’s protection. Besides, it features 12 built-in stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length, and zig-zag width that allows you to customize the stitches. With all these stitch features, you can design whatever pattern you would like to sew in pillows, clothes, bedsheets, curtains, and many more.
Furthermore, this machine has dual setting technology for speed options high and low. This is good for beginners because you can work with the speed that ensures your safety. You can always access the high-speed button when you have advanced. This electric machine is powered in two ways, either using a power adaptor or four AA batteries. Since it is lightweight and portable you can use it to sew in your home or when traveling. However, remember the power adaptor and batteries cannot be used simultaneously.
6. Best Durable – KPCB Sewing Machine for Beginners in Affordable Price
Pros:
- It is easy and safe to use for beginners.
- It is lightweight and durable.
- It comes with a buttonhole foot.
- It is not designed for heavy fabrics.
KPCB sewing machine is a compact size sewing machine that consists of 12 popular stitches including zig-zag and buttonhole for efficient and effective learning. Accompanying the sewing machine is a buttonhole foot that guides you in using the precise presser foot for the type of stitch you have selected.
Sewing sleeves while working with this machine is easy. All you need to do is slide the flatbed attachment and you can sew your sleeves. This attachment also acts as a storage unit for all your sewing accessories. This KPCB sewing machine is beautifully designed using robust materials with a frosty and refined surface which enhances its elegance. It is safe for beginners as it features a separate main power switch.
7. Best For Kids – RUIFENG Mini Portable Sewing Machine for Beginners with Multiple Functions
Pros:
- It comes with an accessory bag.
- It is safe for children.
- It is small in size and portable.
- It can be gifted
- It does not have an automatic needle threader.
A mini portable sewing machine is small and easy to learn and use for beginners. Besides its small size, it is also lightweight therefore can be used at home and also carried to use in the office. Your children at home can happily work with this sewing machine as it can be used to sew small coats and dresses for dolls.
Mini portable sewing machine features 12 preset common stitches making it easy for beginners to sew a variety of patterns. Furthermore, it is also equipped with a light source, so it can be used at night without difficulties. The sewing machine is powered using batteries or an AC/DC power adapter.
8. Best Sewing and Quilting Combo – Brother CS6000i Sewing Machine with Drop-in Top Bobbins
Pros:
- It is affordable.
- It is lightweight.
- It is multifunctional.
- It is wobbly.
Brother CS600i (Full Review Here) is a computerized sewing machine. It features many stitch functions and it is an affordable and very quiet machine for learners. Also, it has 60 built-in stitches including 7 auto-size buttonholes and decorative stitches allowing you to work on various thread patterns. Also, it has a speed capacity of up to 850 stitches per minute.
It also features an automated needle threader, drop-in top bobbin, a wide table, 10 sewing feet, a needle set that includes twin needles, and 3 bobbins, all of which ensure that your learning process is smooth and enjoyable. Furthermore, the LCD allows you to choose your stitches, adjust the length and width, and view your selections.
When you purchase this sewing machine from Brother Brand, it comes with a lifetime technical support team at your disposal and a 25-year warranty.
9. Best Sewing and Embroidery Combo – Brother SE600 Computerized Sewing Machine with LCD Touchscreen For Beginners
Pros:
- It is easy to set up and use.
- It is portable.
- Users complained about breaking needles.
If you have been looking for the best sewing machine for your work, Brother SE600(Full Review Here) is here for you. The machine is not only computerized but also comes with 103 inbuilt stitches, an automatic needle threader and drop-in top bobbin, a maximum sewing speed of 710 stitches per minute, and a large LCD touchscreen.
Furthermore, it comes with many accessories, 7 sewing feet, an embroidery arm, 4 x 4 inches embroidery hoop, a dust cover, and many more. Now, the best thing that no other machine has is that Brother SE600 comes with 80 built-in designs and 6 embroidery lettering fonts that allow you to personalize all your works.
If you are a beginner or someone that is looking to upgrade their machine, Brother SE600 is the best product for all your projects. It also comes with a 25-year warranty with a dedicated technical support team that answers all of your questions.
How to Choose the Best Sewing Machine for Beginners
Picking a specific product from a wide range of products is not easy, you need to have enough information about the product and compare different products. To increase your chances of having the right item consider the following:
– Experience
Have you ever tried sewing or you are a complete beginner? This question will guide your selection in picking the best product for yourself. As a beginner, you do not want to struggle with a complicated machine as this will not only demoralize you but also extend your learning time. You should therefore go for a simple and regular machine. It will come with the features that you require for learning.
– Brand
Many companies are manufacturing sewing machines. Some are just starting while others have been in the industry for ages. Those brands that have been there for decades know what learners need and have gone ahead to develop sewing machines that will convenience your learning process. You should always go for renowned brands as their machines have been tested and reviewed by customers to be working perfectly.
– Number of stitches
The best lightweight quilting machine should feature multiple built-in stitches. Generally, the best quilting machine should consist of at least 100 built-in stitches. Multiple built-in stitches allow you to handle different quilting projects while optimizing creativity.
– User friendly
Advancement in technology has led to the development of electric sewing machines abolishing the need for manual machines. These electric machines also vary in features such as automated needle threading and the different number of stitch patterns. Choose one that is simple, easy to use and learn, and also offers you a wide range of automated options.
– Stitch function
Generally, a good stitch function means that you can create a better, unique, and complex design. Consider adjustable stitch length and width. The font function is another versatile feature that comes in hand with the stitch function. It permits you to add a unique touch to your projects, thereby providing very unique results as well as enhancing creativity.
– Budget
The stiff competition has led to more items in the market. Producers are continually investing in new and improved technologies. Owing to the competition, prices have also been going down. You should have an idea of how much you want to spend before beginning the search. Failure to have a budget puts you in danger of spending too much, which may leave your pockets dry. As a beginner, you should concentrate more on finding a product that helps you learn well and has a shorter learning curve at a lower cost.
What Types of Sewing Machines Are Best for Beginners?
There are many types of sewing machines that a beginner can use to learn, they include:
– Computerized
Basic computerized sewing machines have all the relevant things a learner needs. These machines come with automatic needle threading hence you do not have to struggle to insert the thread into the needle. They also come with inbuilt stitch patterns of different types providing you with all the necessary tools you need to learn.
– Portable
As a beginner, you may be required to carry your sewing machine to class. Portable sewing machines are lightweight but with all the necessary learning accessories hence, you can easily move around with it.
– Mechanical
Mechanical sewing machines are more reliable, as there are no electronics, which can be destroyed while at the same time you don’t require electric power. They also provide you with a few stitch options that are needed for basic learning. You will get more experience using this sewing machine as you are the main controller.
– Mini type
A mini portable sewing machine is small and easy to learn and use for beginners. Besides its small size, it is also lightweight therefore can be used at home and also carried to use in the office. Your children at home can happily work with this sewing machine as it can be used to sew small coats and dresses for dolls.
What Brands of Sewing Machines for Beginners Worth Buying?
– Singer
Since its invention, the Singer brand has been in the industry for years, so it needs no introduction, as its products are known for their performance quality. With some of the most remarkable features, you can find the best sewing machine, the Singer brand builds sewing machines for beginners that are easy to use. The Singer brand’s machines are durable and efficient.
– Brother
This company has several machines that come with the best sewing machine features you would desire. Brother brand sewing machines are reliable, strong, and convenient. The Brother Brand machines live up to the requirements. Their machines are arguably the best because they have all the essential learning tools. Another nice thing is that their sewing machines are cheap while offering you outstanding results.
– Janome
This is a Japanese brand that promises you quality performance from their machines. Japan is normally associated with quality products from electronics to cars. Janome sewing machines also bear that logo of quality therefore purchasing its products guarantees you quality performance.
– Bernina
Bernina brand is a sewing machine company from Switzerland that produces quality sewing machines. It has machines for both beginners and professional sewers. This brand has invested in modern technology and their machines offer quality performance. Their beginner sewing machines have all the right materials that assist the learner to become a professional sewer within the shortest time possible.
What Features Should a Basic Easy-to-use Sewing Machine for Beginners Have?
A sewing machine for a beginner should have basic features such as stitch selector, bobbin winder, foot pedal, and speed control mechanism.
– Stitch selector
Beginner sewing machines come with various types of stitches that you can select. Beginners only require a sewing machine that has both straight and zig-zag stitches.
– Speed control
Most beginner sewing machines come with 2-speed control, high and low speed. It is always advisable to begin learning with the low speed then as you advance, you can access the high speed to test your progress.
– Foot pedal
This foot pedal is similar to the accelerator pedal in your cars. You start sewing by stepping on the pedal and stop sewing by lifting your leg off the pedal. Computerized sewing machines come with buttons that achieve the same work.
– Extra decorative stitches
In addition to straight and zig-zag stitches, the best sewing machines come with extra decorative stitches that can make your training more enjoyable.
Simple Sewing Machine or Sewing and Embroidery Combo, Which to Buy for Beginners
As a beginner who has just started sewing, you need a basic, easy-to-use sewing machine. This machine has been designed to offer you all the essential lessons you need, the number of stitch patterns that you need when learning, and essential speed controls. An embroidery combo has advanced features that will not only make your learning difficult but you might also end up being confused and decide to quit learning altogether.
For a person who has never sewed before, all you need is a sewing machine that can sew straight stitches and other basic stitches, and is user-friendly.
FAQ:
1. How to use a sewing machine for beginners
Different machines come with a user manual on how to use but the basic guide is as follows:
– Join the upper and lower threads. Pull the lower thread out and keep them together towards the back of the machine.
– Stitch a sample. Test your machine on a piece of material to see whether it is functioning correctly.
– Check your tension. Look at your stitch sample and see if it is good and flat or it has loops on either side of the material. If the stitches are straight and without loops, you are ready to begin your first sewing task.
– Try exploring the different types of stitches your machine has.
– Use your manual on how to sew buttonholes and use the zig-zag stitch pattern or the decorative stitches.
2. Should I pick heavy duty sewing machine for beginners to use and why?
As a beginner, you only need to learn the basics of sewing and using a user-friendly sewing machine. A heavy-duty sewing machine is designed for large-scale production, therefore, its stitching patterns, speed controls, number of stitches per minute among other things are more advanced and complicated for a beginner. A beginner should not use a heavy-duty sewing machine as it is more advanced and according to your level, difficult to use.
3. Can I use a beginner sewing machine for leather?
Yes, you can use a beginner sewing machine for leather works. The aforementioned best sewing machines are of good quality and therefore can be used to handle leather projects. All you need to do is make a few simple modifications to make your sewing machine leather ready.
4. What am I to sacrifice on buying a low-cost sewing machine for beginners?
You should always stick to your budget when purchasing the best sewing machine. Before you decide whether you are going with the low, medium, or high budget sewing machine, research the features that come with the machines.
Most machines are always priced based on the brand name. You might be surprised to find the low-cost machine has the same features and quality performance as the highly-priced sewing machine. If the low-cost sewing machine promises you quality performance and features all the needed learning materials, then it should be your best option.
However, other cheap sewing machines have limited features and you might end up sacrificing some of the important features that you need as a beginner.
Conclusion
If you are a person that wants to start sewing, choosing the best sewing machine will make your journey a success. Importantly, buying the best sewing machine will make you enjoy sewing and explore the many stitch patterns and designs that come along with it. The best sewing machines are good value for your money and they will help you produce quality work. Go out there, pick the best sewing machine, and start your journey!