Are you on the market for the best sewing machine for making clothes? Whether you are interested in personalizing your wardrobe, decorating curtains, purses, or pillowcases, you must buy the best sewing machine to sort you out. With a large selection of these machines available for you to select from, choosing the right sewing machine isn’t an easy task.
For that reason, we reviewed the top 10 best sewing machines that will make your clothes-making business easy and straightforward. While selecting these products, we paid attention to a variety of features, including the sewing speed, built-in needle threaders, built-in stitches, presser feet, among other features. Read on so that you can determine if there is a machine that meets your needs.
What is the Best Sewing Machine for Making Clothes?
Brother Sewing and Quilting Machine
The overall best sewing machine for making clothes is the Brother Sewing and Quilting Machine. It packs a variety of features that make it easy to use by both professionals and beginners. To begin with, it includes 60 built-in sewing stitches, and these include decorative stitches and seven styles of auto-size buttonholes. Additionally, the machine comes with nine presser feet. Because of this, it is an ideal choice for making buttonholes, quilting, monogramming, overcasting, among other functions.
Equipped with a built-in free arm, it is suitable for sewing sleeves, pant legs, and other cylindrical items. Also, it includes an extensive table suitable for working with large fabrics. The automatic needle threader is another plus for painless threading with the touch of a lever. Also, there is an LED screen. Using it, you can select your stitches with a touch of a button and view the selections on the LCD screen for effortless sewing. The machine integrates a built-in LED light to illuminate the work area while making it easier for you to sew dark fabrics.
Why Do You Need a High-quality Sewing Machine for Making Clothes?
Well, a sewing machine is an investment that will cost several dollars. But why is it worth it to spend the extra dollars and buy a high-quality machine? We shall discuss several reasons here.
1. Sew heavy and coarse fabrics
Unlike a low-quality sewing machine or using a needle for manual threading, a high-quality sewing machine can let you sew heavy and coarse fabrics. High-quality sewing machines feature metal parts and durable motors. Their motors can deliver more power suitable for stitching through tough fabrics. Not only that, but these machines provide strong stitches resulting in sustainable garments.
2. Long-lasting investment
Another reason to invest in a high-quality sewing machine is to get the best value for money. Come to think about it, a low-quality model made using plastic parts can’t withstand daily use and elements that are likely to lower its longevity. For such reasons, investing is a high-quality sewing machine that means that it will last for long to eliminate the need for frequent replacements.
3. Save time without compromising quality
Unlike sewing using hand or a low-quality sewing machine, a high-quality machine allows you to sew fast. Such a machine delivers fast stitching speeds to help you narrow down on the stitching projects quickly. Furthermore, the machines maintain their consistency and quality despite the fast sewing speeds.
4. Custom design your clothes
A high-quality sewing machine can make any kind of garment. Not only that, but these machines integrate a variety of features to provide room for decorating and expanding your creativity.
Best Sewing Machine for Tailoring Clothes Reviews
1. For Quilting – Brother Sewing Machine for Clothes, CS6000i
Pros:
- Wide work table.
- Brightly-lit work area.
- An automatic threader.
- 60 built-in stitches.
Cons:
- Not suitable for stitching thick fabric.
The Brother CS6000i responds to the need for the best sewing machine for quilting. It includes 60 built-in stitches. These include seven styles of auto-size buttonholes and decorative stitches to help you work on a range of projects. Moreover, the machine consists of an automatic needle threader. Because of this, it can push the thread through the needle, to eliminate the frustrations of manual threading. With a convenient jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin, the bobbin is easy to put in, while the machine is designed to deliver smooth sewing results.
Also, there are start/ stop buttons and a reverse button. These buttons plus the variable speed control, make the machine suitable for use by experts and beginners. Brother CS6000i sewing machine can help you work on a range of projects because of the extended working table. Also, it features a brightly lit area that allows you to view dark fabrics easily. Because of the included hard protective case, this sewing machine is a perfect option for a portable sewing machine. Moreover, it consists of an LCD screen that allows you to select your stitches with the touch of a button.
2. For Portable – Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine for Making Clothes
Pros:
- An instructional DVD.
- Versatile free arm.
- Automatic threading and bobbin loading features
- Set of six sewing feet.
- Lightweight design.
Cons:
- Its three control dials are not easy to use.
- Dim LED light.
If you are looking for a lightweight but versatile sewing machine, I would recommend the Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine. Using it, you can see your full potential, thanks to its lightweight design that packs a full range of features. The machine includes 27 built-in stitches to help you perform a variety of functions with a lot of ease. Also, it features an automatic needle threader that pushes the thread through the needle for an effortless threading experience.
Equipped with a built-in LED light, this machine offers an illuminated work area suitable for working with small projects and dark fabrics. Also, the sewing machine comprises an auto-size buttonholer to help you create buttonholes in a single step. Supplied with six sewing feet, the sewing machine is capable of meeting a variety of sewing needs. Also, the machine includes a versatile free arm to help you sew through pants, sleeves, and other cylindrical items.
3. Advanced Choice – SINGER | Quantum Stylist 9960 Computerized Sewing Machine
Pros:
- Durable metal frame construction.
- Large working area.
- The LCD screen to view the stitch functions.
- High-speed sewing speed.
Cons:
- Lack of a pressure foot adjustment.
The best choice for a sewing machine that will help you fulfill your creative dreams is the Quantum Stylist 9960 Computerized Sewing Machine. It features a load of easy-to-use features to help you meet different home decor, fashion sewing, and crafting projects. Among the included features are 600 built-in stitches. The stitches include five alphanumeric fonts and 13 built-in 1-step buttonholes. Also, there is an exclusive underplate.
The underplate has mirror imaging and stitches elongation properties for more creative possibilities. The sewing machine includes a variety of pressure feet to help you manage different sewing needs. It has a high sewing speed of 850 stitches-per-minute so that you can sew projects quickly. With a built-in needle threader. The sewing machine threads the needle for you to eliminate the chances of eye strain and frustration.
4. Easy to Use – SINGER 7258 Computerized Machine for Sewing Clothes
Pros:
- Bobbin winder stop that stops the winding when the bobbin is filled.
- A see-through bobbin case to view the remaining bobbin thread.
- self-threading needle for easy threading.
- A drop-down needle for pivoting around the corners.
Cons:
- Dim LED light.
If you are looking for a sewing machine that is easy to use, you might want to select the Singer 7258 Computerized Machine. It includes a push-button stitch selector. This feature allows you to choose the desired stitch with a simple push of a button. What’s more, it incorporates 100 built-in stitches. The stitches comprise of 8 stretch stitches, 7 built-in buttonholes stitches, 9 basic stitches, and 76 decorative stitches to help you select your stitches comfortably.
With a built-in needle threader, the machine does the threading for you to eliminate the chances of frustration and eye strain. Moreover, the threading instructions are printed on the machine for ease of use. The computerized machine includes an LED light that illuminates the working surface for optimal viewing of small and dark fabrics. Also, it has an easy-to-load top drop-in bobbin system. This system allows you to load the bobbin from the top while its clear cover lets you view the bobbin thread supply.
5. For Thick Fabric Sewing – SINGER Heavy Duty 4411 Sewing Machine for Clothes
Pros:
- Heavy-duty metal frame.
- 11 built-in stitches.
- High sewing speed.
- Adjustable needle position.
Cons:
- Small needle holes are not easy to insert the thread.
The best choice for the best sewing machine for thick fabric sewing is the Singer Heavy-Duty 4411 Sewing Machine. It derives its power from a strong motor, enabling it to sew heavy fabric, including leather, denim, and canvas. Additionally, the machine integrates a heavy-duty metal frame. Its rigid support holds all mechanisms in perfect alignment for a skip-free sewing experience. Eleven built-in stitches are another plus. These comprise six basic stitches, four decorative stitches, and one built-in buttonhole stitch suitable for handling craft, fashion sewing, and home decor projects.
Singer Heavy-Duty 4411 Sewing Machine includes an automatic needle threader so that the entire machine can get threaded within seconds. It comes with four pressure feet for enhanced sewing capability. Because of the automatic 4-step buttonholer, the machine can make buttonholes in four easy steps. Plus, it comprises an easy-to-load top drop-in bobbin system. This system allows you to load the bobbin from the top while the clear cover lets you view the bobbin thread supply easily. The sewing machine can deliver 1,100 stitches per minute for fast sewing results.
6. Brother Brand – Brother 150-Stitch Computerized Sewing Machine
Pros:
- 150 built-in sewing speeds.
- Easy to use.
- A back-lit LCD screen.
- Push-button controls for easy adjustment of the stitch length and width.
Cons:
- Limited instructions
If you are looking for a Brother brand sewing machine, I would recommend that you buy this 150-Stitch Computerized Sewing Machine. It includes 150 built-in stitches, and these comprise quilting stitches, decorative, and satin stitches. Additionally, there is a start/ stop button and a reverse button for ease of use. With variable speed control, this machine is an ideal choice for new sewers and experts. Plus, it features a large working surface suitable for accommodating a wide range of projects.
You can use the computerized machine to personalize your projects with messages, quotes, and monograms, thanks to the 55 alphanumeric sewing stitches. Also, the machine is a perfect choice for sewing dark fabrics because of the bright LED light that illuminates the area around the needle. With an exceptional feed system, the sewing machine can offer smooth and even stitches. Also, the machine includes 10 versatile feet to help you meet a variety of quilting and sewing projects.
7. Wide Usage – Singer CG590 Commercial Grade Sewing Machine for Clothes Making
Pros:
- A regulating dial allows you to adjust the sewing speed.
- Stitch width lever for effortless adjustment of the stitches from narrow to wide.
- Needle position selector to help you adjust the position of the needle.
- Fast sewing speed.
Cons:
- Limited instructions
A perfect choice for a sewing machine that combines speed and quality is Singer CG590 Commercial Grade Sewing Machine. It includes 18 built-in stitches, including a 4-step buttonhole stitch. Because of this, the sewing machine is easy to use and designed to make buttonholes in a simple four-step procedure. What’s more, it sews at an impressive speed of up to 1100 stitches per minute. Hence, it is one of the best choices for a sewing machine that delivers fast results.
Made using a heavy-duty metal frame and equipped with a 60% stronger motor, the sewing machine is durable and designed to sew thick fabrics easily. Moreover, it integrates a stainless steel bedplate to ensure smooth feeding of the fabrics. The top drop-in bobbin is another plus for the effortless installation of the bobbin. Also, there is no bobbin case to guarantee easy viewing of the bobbin thread supply. The Commercial Grade Sewing Machine is suitable for sewing pants, sleeves, and other cylindrical items because of the free arm capability.
8. For Leather Sewing – SINGER | Heavy Duty 4423 Cloth Making Sewing Machine
Pros:
- Plenty of accessories to enhance versatility.
- Heavy-duty construction.
- Easy-to-use bobbin threader.
- Compact size doesn’t occupy a lot of space.
Cons:
- The bobbin empties quickly.
This is a heavy-duty clothes sewing machine. If you are looking for a machine to sew leather, it is one of the best choices. It features a heavy-duty frame for durability. Furthermore, it features a stainless steel bedplate for the smooth feeding of the fabric. A 60% stronger motor is another plus. It provides great piercing power on thick seams. Also, there are 23 built-in stitches. You can choose among the integrated stitches for basic sewing, making buttonholes, or decorative sewing.
The sewing machine can sew at high speeds of up to 1,100 stitches per minute. It incorporates a drop feed system that allows you to lower the feed teeth for free-motion sewing or button sewing. The built-in needle threader is another addition to protect you from straining your eyes when pushing the thread through the needle hole. Also, there is a one-step buttonhole that helps you make buttonholes in one single step.
Tips for Choosing An Ideal Sewing Machine for Clothes Making
Sewing machines incorporate a variety of add-ons, capabilities, and accessories, which makes one machine different from another. While these add-ons may be useful to several users, they might not be relevant to you. That said, let’s have a look at the features to look for before purchasing a sewing machine for you to determine if you will need such features.
1. Sewing speed
How fast can the sewing machine sew? Well, if you are looking for a sewing machine that is designed to deliver fast results, then you must select a sewing machine that offers fast sewing speeds. For instance, you could consider a model like SINGER Heavy Duty 4411 Sewing Machine. It delivers fast sewing speeds of up to 1100 stitches per minute. Besides that, find a machine that integrates an adjustable speed control. This feature is particularly useful for kids and beginners to help them slow down on the stitching speed.
2. Built-in Stitches
Do you want to buy a sewing machine that will offer more control over your sewing? Well, you must consider the number of built-in stitches. If you are purchasing a machine for beginner sewers, it should be good to start with a sewing machine that includes two stitches: straight and zigzag stitches. However, if the sewing machine is for use by experienced sewers, it should consist of more built-in stitches.
The best sewing machines include a lot of in-built stitches up to 600, and a good example is Quantum Stylist 9960 Computerized Sewing Machine. So, be sure to get a machine that allows you to perform embroidery and quilting tasks if you want a sewing machine for such tasks, given that you can’t add some of these features. Moreover, ensure that the machine provides you with the capacity to adjust the length, width, and tension of the stitches for more user control.
3. Mechanical vs. Computerized
Sewing machine mechanisms are of two types. You can select a mechanical system or a computerized system. Note that each of these systems has its advantages and disadvantages; the reason you should compare their pros and cons before making a decision. For instance, mechanical machines are cheaper while compared to computerized systems, thus an ideal option for beginners. However, computerized machines include a variety of add-ons, making them an ideal choice for users who are ready to handle complicated projects and designs.
4. Size of the working area
You do not want to settle for a sewing machine that will limit the size of fabrics you can work with. For that reason, consider the size of the working area. If you are looking for a sewing machine with a big work area, find a model such as the Brother CS6000i Sewing Machine. It offers a large work table suitable for a variety of quilting projects.
5. Durability
For you to make a good and long-term investment when purchasing a sewing machine, you must buy a durable sewing machine. Such a machine should feature sturdy and high-quality materials designed to withstand daily use. In such a case, consider a sewing machine like Singer Heavy Duty 4423 Cloth Making Sewing Machine. It is made using a heavy-duty metal frame that doesn’t deteriorate fast like plastic frames.
6. Accessories
The best sewing machines come with a variety of accessories to expand your capability and provide you with the best value for money. Therefore, get a sewing machine that includes accessories such as different types of pressure feet, a removable extended work table, bobbin, and an accessory storage area.
How to Make Clothes With A Sewing Machine?
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Familiarize yourself with the tools required in the sewing process.
Making clothes with a sewing machine starts with learning about the different tools needed for sewing clothes, besides a sewing machine. Therefore, find out about the extra devices required for sewing clothes. Such tools include a seam ripper, iron and ironing board, a pair of scissors, chalk to mark the fabric, tape measure, tracing paper, ruler, among other tools.
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Learn the basics of a sewing machine
Once you are done learning the essential tools, learn the parts of your sewing machine so that you can determine the component to use for particular tasks.
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Start with simple clothing designs.
When that is done, you can start to make your clothes. In this case, start with simple designs. For instance, you could choose to make a 3-piece suit, given that it requires a few measurements. When starting, avoid making clothes with zippers and buttons. Instead, make pajamas with elastic bands.
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Take the required measurements.
If you want to make fitting clothes, you must take the appropriate measurements. With skirts, for instance, measure the waist, hips, and length that the wearer desires. For shorts, you will need to measure the shoulder width, neck, armhole length, shirt length, and arm length.
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Pick a pattern
Once you are done with taking the appropriate measurements, you will be required to pick the desired pattern. Sketch the pattern of the garment you shall make utilizing the measurements you took. When that is done, lay the fabric on a work table and place the pattern pieces on the fabric.
Iron any wrinkles out of the fabric so that it doesn’t mess up with the final piece. After ironing, pin the pieces of the pattern to the fabric as this will help you know where to cut. Cut the material based on the pattern so that you can remain with a fabric that resembles the patterns. When that is done, separate the pattern pieces from the fabric and get ready for sewing.
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Make test garments
To ensure that your final result will be a high-quality one, make test clothes before using the fabric; more importantly, if you are not familiar with the design, you are about to make. This measure will help you to determine where improvements are required, while it protects you from wasting the final fabric.
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Actual sewing
Pin the fabric pieces along the seam edges. In so doing, insert pins at a 90 degrees angle from the edge to eliminate the need for removing the pins while sewing a garment. Next, sew the fabric pieces together, one edge at a time. If you mess up with the sewing, you could use a seam ripper to rip out the stitches. While sewing, ensure that you are using the machine correctly, with the right type of thread and needle. Once you are finished with the edges, fold the edges up with the wrong side facing in so that you can hem the edges for clean-finished edges.
Final Words
Sewing machines provide an excellent means of saving money on new clothing and repairing old clothes. That’s not all, but these machines are an ideal means of learning new skills and using your free time. So, buy one of the reviewed sewing machines, whether you are a beginner or professional, and be sure to have settled for an ideal option that will help you sew conveniently.
