You have decided to get yourself a new sewing machine, but what sewing machine is best for beginners? There are many different types, models and brands to choose from.
When you are researching the various options of beginner sewing machines, there are a few things to keep in mind.
What are you planning to sew with it? Are you mostly going to be sewing smaller projects once in a while? Or do you need a sewing machine that is better at sewing through thicker fabrics like denim?
Once you have an idea of what you plan to use your machine for, you can choose a machine with the best features for your sewing plans.
Computerized machines are best for people who like having extra features like automatic thread cutting. Mechanical sewing machines might seem easier to use for someone who is used to older machines and wants to get sewing right away.
Here I will go over 15 sewing machines and point out the differences between the brands and models to help you make the best choice for your sewing needs.
Beginner Sewing Machine Uses
Now you know that different sewing machines have a variety of features to look for, let me help you figure out exactly what features might be best for you.
Here are some sewing machine uses and what types of features you might want to look for depending on what you want to use your sewing machine for.
Sewing Basic Repairs And Hems
Someone who only needs a sewing machine for basic things like repairs and hemming does not need a machine with lots of decorative stitches. A basic machine with a straight and zig zag stitch would be all someone needs to occasionally fix their clothes or hem their curtains.
One thing to keep in mind here is that if you plan on hemming jeans, some very lightweight and lower end machines do not sew through thick fabric well. So this is a feature you might want to look out for.
Sewing Clothes
If you are a beginner sewer who mostly wants to learn how to alter, mend and sew clothes, there are a few extra features you want to consider in a beginner sewing machine.
- Stretch Stitches
If you plan to sew knit fabric (for example, Tshirts and fabrics with stretch) you want to look for stretch stitches. Stretch stitches do just that – they are stitches that stretch with your fabric.
If you make a seam with a regular stitch in stretch fabric, these stitches might break instead of stretch. You can also use a zig zag for stretch fabric, but stretch stitches give you more options.
- Double Needle Option: This is good for hemming stretch fabric
- Buttonhole Stitches: To create buttonholes in clothing
- Blind Hemming Stitch: To create hems that are less visible
Beginner Home Decor And Craft Sewing
For sewing home decor and crafts, you might want to choose a beginner sewing machine with decorative stitches. If this is what you plan to use your sewing machine on most of the time, you might not need some of the features for sewing knit fabric that someone sewing clothes might want.
Home decor fabrics aren’t usually super thick, and you are unlikely to have to fight with bulky seams under your sewing machine like you would with jeans. An exception would be if you plan to use a lot of canvas.
If you plan to make mostly curtains, pillow covers, tote bags, pencil cases, table runners and fabric napkins, a basic machine with some decorative stitches would have most of what you are looking for. This category of sewing requires fewer special features than garment sewing or quilting.
Quilting
People who quilt need a sewing machine that is good at sewing through thick fabric. You might want to look for a sewing machine that comes with a walking foot attachment.
- A walking foot moves over the fabric as you sew it, almost like it is walking! It is one of the best options for thick sewing projects.
- A free motion setting/foot: Free motion sewing is when you can manipulate your sewing machine so instead of sewing a seam in a straight line, you can sew in any direction you like. For example you can outline an image in your fabric easier than in a regular stitch setting.
If after using a beginner sewing machine for quilting and would like to upgrade, quilters look for features in their sewing machines such as a long arm and larger throat plate to accommodate the large size of their projects.
However if you are just getting started, you just need a good sewing machine that can handle thick fabric.
Beginner Sewing Machines Come At Various Price Points
Not all sewing machines are equal in quality and durability. However if you are a beginner and don’t want to spend a lot of money on the fanciest machine, look for machines with the features you think you will use the most.
Keep in mind that the lowest priced machines often don’t handle thick fabric as well as machines that cost a bit more. This tends to be the main difference between machines.
Handheld Sewing Machines
“Handheld” sewing machines are not the best choice for beginners although the price is more affordable. They are very flimsy and do not sew well – think of them as a toy. You are likely to become easily frustrated because they are just not up for sewing much.
Lightweight Sewing Machines
Machines that are described as “lightweight” might be easier to carry and more portable, but in most cases are not the best choice if you think you will be sewing a lot of thicker fabrics. Very lightweight machines are best for people who only plan on doing sewing once in a while.
Heavy-Duty Sewing Machines
“Heavy duty” beginner sewing machines are usually a better choice if you plan to sew heavier materials, or do a lot of sewing. In many cases the “heavy duty” machines have more parts that are metal, and the “lightweight” ones have more plastic.
Of course this varies by model/brand and might be something to check before buying if this is important to you. Machines with metal parts often last longer.
What Are The Best Sewing Machines for Beginners in?
I’ve rounded up a few of the best sewing machines for beginners below. Remember to take into consideration what features you will need for the type of sewing you plan to do.
Sewing machine models are made at various price points, so it is best to go for the sewing machine with the best features for your budget.
- Best Overall: Janome MOD-19 19 Stitch Non-Computerized Sewing Machine
Mechanical machine with 19 stitches, automatic needle threader; quality machine with what you need to get started. - Best Budget: Brother GX37 37 Built-in Stitches Sewing Machine
Quality machine, 37 stitches, free arm, automatic needle threader, drop in top bobbin, budget-friendly. - Best for Thick Fabrics: Singer 4452 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine
Automatic needle threader, 32 stitches, non-computerized machine intended for sewing thicker fabrics. - Best to Learn On: Singer 1304 Start Basic Sewing Machine
Easy to use, 6 stitches, free arm for people learning to sew. - Best With Automatic Needle Threader: Brother XM2701 27 Stitch Lightweight Sewing Machine
Lightweight, 27 stitches, automatic needle threader, six feet and drop in top bobbin. - Best Starter Machine: Singer M1500 Lightweight Sewing Machine
Stitches straight stitch, zig zag, one decorative stitch and a buttonhole with preset stitch length and width for easy sewing. - Best Beginner Computerized Machine: Janome Electronic DC4030P Electronic Sewing Machine
Memorized needle up/down, stitch speed setting, 30 stitches, auto tension system. - Best for Making Clothes: Brother CS5055PRW Project Runway 50 Built-in Stitches Sewing Machine
Automatic needle threader, 50 stitches, double needle included, drop in bobbin. - Best With Decorative Stitches for Quilting and Sewing: Brother CS6000i 60 Stitch Quilting Machine
Automatic needle threader, 60 stitches, double needle option, and an extra wide table attachment, this is a great choice for quilters who use lots of decorative stitches. - Best Easy Non-Computerized: Singer M3500 Easy Automatic Needle Threader Sewing Machine
Automatic needle threader, free arm, front loading bobbin, 32 stitches for sewing a variety of fabrics. - Best for Quilting: Brother XR3774 Wide Table Sewing and Quilting Machine
An automatic needle threader, extra wide table, one step buttonhole, and 37 stitches for a beginner who is most interested in quilting. - Best Basic Strong Machine: Brother ST371HD Strong and Tough Sewing Machine
Free arm option, 37 stitches, heavy duty machine, automatic needle threader, drop in bobbin. - Best Beginner Embroidery Machine: Brother SE600 Computerized with 80 Designs Sewing and Embroidery Machine
Automatic needle threader, 80 designs and 6 lettering fonts, 4”x4” hoop area; add your own designs via USB port. - Best Computerized Machine for Quilting And Dressmaking: Brother CS7000X 70-Stitch Sewing and Quilting Machine
Wide table attachment, 70 stitches, computerized machine, automatic needle threader, suitable for thicker fabrics. - Best Portable Heavy Duty: Janome HD 3000 18 Stitch HD Sewing Machine
Foot pressure adjustment, 18 built-in stitches, hard carrying case, snap on feet, intended for heavy fabrics.
Best Sewing Machine for Beginners in – Comparison Chart
If you would like to quickly compare different features for sewing machines, I’ve put together this chart to make it easy for you to select the machine that’s best for your needs.
Top 15 Beginner Sewing Machine Reviews
My top sewing machine reviews will help you pick the machine that is right for your sewing level and desired use. I will point out the features that set each machine apart so it will be easier for you to choose the best machine for your needs.
Janome MOD-19 Easy to Use 19 Stitch Non-Computerized Sewing Machine
(Best Overall)
This is a good non-computerized sewing machine for a beginner who plans to do a lot of sewing.
The stitches are easy to select with knobs on the front of the machine. With 19 stitches, you can sew a variety of sewing projects and fabrics.
The front of the machine adapts to a free arm to make sewing items like cuffs easier. This is a versatile machine for almost any beginner sewing project and can also be used for sewing items like clothing when you gain more sewing experience.
Key features
- 19 stitches are enough variety for many sewers.
- Includes 4 presser feet for different sewing applications
- Free arm
- Top loading bobbin
Pros
- Automatic needle threader makes threading the needle easy
- With 19 stitches and a free arm, it can be used for many different types of sewing projects
Cons
- Changing presser feet can be fiddly
- Does not have settings for needle up/down, only has basic features
Product Specifications
| Brand | Brother |
| Weight | 11.7 pounds |
| Dimensions | 4 x 16 x 12 inches |
| Type | Mechanical |
| Number of stitches | 19 |
| Material | Metal |
| Color | White |
| Warranty | 25 year limited |
Learn how to use automatic needle threaders on Janome machines:
Brother GX37 37 Built-in Stitches Sewing Machine
(Best on a Budget)
This machine has a lot of features for a reasonable price! A great choice for the price-conscious consumer who does not want to sacrifice quality for price.
Easy stitch selection, automatic needle threader and drop in bobbin make this a great choice for beginners who want a machine that is easy to figure out, but still have lots of stitch options.
Automatic buttonhole stitch and buttonhole foot make sewing buttonholes simple. Comes with 6 different presser feet to help you sew all kinds of projects.
With 37 different stitches and a free arm to make sewing smaller openings easier, this machine can sew most sewing projects! Great selection of features with a modest price tag.
Key Features:
- 37 stitches
- Auto sized buttonhole stitch
- Automatic needle threader
- Free arm
- 6 sewing presser feet
Pros
- Comes with an instructional DVD and access to phone or online tech support for help with your machine
- Large dial makes stitch selection easy
Cons
- Not the best choice for thick materials
- Foot pedal is lightweight and can move around
Product Specifications
| Brand | Brother |
| Weight | 15.4 pounds |
| Dimensions | 16.26 x 12.48 x 7.01 inches |
| Type | Mechanical |
| Number of stitches | 37 |
| Material | Metal |
| Color | White |
| Warranty | 25 year limited |
Watch this video to know more:
Singer 4452 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine
(Best Machine for Thick Fabrics)
If you are looking for a machine that is suitable for beginners but also is built to handle thicker materials with ease, consider the Singer Heavy Duty 4452.
There are a few heavy duty machines out there, what makes this one different is that it does have a few extra features such as a walking foot option to handle thick fabrics. A walking foot is a special presser foot that looks like it “walks” as it sews over your fabric to make sewing thick fabrics easier!
This is also a high speed machine with a motor 60% stronger than most sewing machine motors to get your heavy duty sewing done without fighting your fabric through the machine.
Key features
- 32 built in stitches
- Automatic needle threader
- Includes a walking foot option for thick fabrics
- Free arm
- Compatible with the Singer HD extension table (not included)
Pros
- High speed machine sews 1,100 stitches per minute – this is 30% faster than most sewing machines!
- The motor is stronger than most other sewing machines which makes handling heavier materials easier.
Cons
- Foot pedal is lightweight and can slide around
- Needle threader not very durable
Product Specifications
| Brand | Singer |
| Weight | 14.6 pounds |
| Dimensions | 15.5 x 6.25 x 12 inches |
| Type | Mechanical |
| Number of stitches | 32 |
| Material | Metal |
| Color | Grey |
| Warranty | Limited 25 year warranty |
Watch the Singer Heavy Duty 4452 Unboxing Video:
Singer 1304 Start Basic Sewing Machine
(Best to Learn On)
If you are looking for a super simple sewing machine for lighter sewing, this is a good choice to learn how to sew.
With only 6 stitches, this non-computerized machine has what you need to get started sewing without being overwhelmed by different stitch options.
The easy stitch selection dial on the front has pre-set stitch length and width to get the stitch you need in just one selection.
Comes with three presser feet – just what you need to get started – and a four step buttonhole stitch.
Key features
- Simple dial on the front makes picking the right stitch easy.
- Four-step buttonhole stitch
Pros
- Lightweight machine that is simple to use
- Easy to follow thread guides to make threading a machine easier for a beginner to learn
- Pre-set stitch length and width so beginners don’t have to worry about which stitch length and width is best for different types of stitches.
Cons
- Because the machine is so lightweight and only has a few stitches, this is more of a starter machine but it will get light sewing jobs done.
- Not a good machine for sewing heavier fabrics
Product Specifications
| Brand | Singer |
| Weight | 7 pounds |
| Dimensions | 13 x 7 x 11.5 inches |
| Type | Mechanical |
| Number of stitches | 6 |
| Material | Metal |
| Color | White |
| Warranty | 25 year limited |
Watch the Singer Start Owner’s Class to know more:
Brother MX2701 27 Stitch Lightweight Sewing Machine
(Best Beginner Machine With Automatic Needle Threader)
A machine suitable for beginners, but with more options for people who plan to do more advanced sewing once they know the basics!
This machine has a dial on the front for easy stitch selection of 27 stitches. Included are decorative stitches, stretch stitches, and one auto-sized buttonhole.
An automatic needle threader and drop in bobbin makes threading easy. A free arm and 6 sewing feet make this machine both easy to use and versatile for different projects, fabrics and skill levels.
Decorative stitches are suitable for crafts, home decor and clothing.
An instructional DVD and tech support help you get your sewing machine set up easily.
Key Features
- 27 stitch options are easy to see on the front of the machine.
- Includes decorative and stretch stitches
- Automatic needle threader
Pros
- This machine has what you need for most sewing projects, while still being a simple to use, beginner friendly machine.
- Also includes an instructional DVD and customer support is available to help you with your machine when you run into problems.
Cons
- It can be tricky to get the right speed
Product Specifications
| Brand | Brother |
| Weight | 12 pounds |
| Dimensions | 12.1 x 5.9 x 15.3 |
| Type | Mechanical |
| Number of stitches | 27 |
| Material | Metal |
| Color | White and blue |
| Warranty | 25 year limited |
The Overview of Brother MX2701 Sewing Machine with this video:
Singer M1500 Lightweight Sewing Machine
(Best Starter Machine)
This sewing machine looks like the Singer Basic above, but it’s a bit heavier at 10 pounds. The extra weight makes it more suitable for bigger projects than the Basic, while still only having a few stitches to learn to use.
There are 6 stitches with preset stitch length and width, making sewing easy for beginners. The stitches are clearly marked on a large dial on the front.
The front storage compartment is removable, exposing a free arm which is convenient for sewing cuffs and hems.
If you are new to sewing, you will have this machine up and running quickly without a lot of extra features to figure out.
Key Features
- Easy stitch selection with 6 stitches
- Including four step buttonhole stitch
Pros
- Minimal features for the beginner sewist who wants a machine that is a bit sturdier than the Singer Basic.
- Preset stitch length and width are helpful for beginners who may not know which stitch length and width to use for which stitch.
Cons
- Best for light use
- Not the most durable machine
Product Specifications
| Brand | Singer |
| Weight | 10 pounds |
| Dimensions | 13 x 7 x 11.5 |
| Type | Mechanical |
| Number of stitches | 6 |
| Material | Metal |
| Color | White |
| Warranty | 1 year limited |
Unboxing and checking the features, advantages and disadvantages of the Singer M1500:
Janome Electronic DC4030P 30-Stitch Electronic Sewing Machine
(Best Beginner Computerized Machine)
Computerized sewing machines offer extra features that most mechanical ones don’t. This one has a memorized needle up/down – so you can choose to keep your needle down in the fabric when you stop sewing, which can be useful for things like sewing corners.
The speed control slider lets you control the pace you sew – slow for tricky items and faster for something like sewing basic straight seams. There is also a stop/start button.
With 30 stitches, this is a great computerized machine for beginners. It has what you need for most projects without an overwhelming amount of stitches you might not use. Choose the stitches by pressing the buttons; the display has a backlit LED screen.
This is a great choice for someone who wants a computerized machine with some extra features, but does not need a deluxe amount of options
Key Features
- 30 stitches
- Auto tension system
- Speed control slider
- Start/stop button
Pros
- Memorized needle up/down allows you to choose whether the needle goes up or down when you stop sewing. This can be helpful for sewing corners, where you want the needle in the fabric while you pivot the fabric.
- Speed selection and stop/start button allow you to have greater control for your sewing project.
Cons
- You may find some of the parts, especially bobbins, a little flimsy.
Product Specifications
| Brand | Janome |
| Weight | 18 pounds |
| Dimensions | 19 x 11 x 15 |
| Type | Computerized |
| Number of stitches | 30 |
| Material | Metal |
| Color | White |
| Warranty | Unlisted |
How easy it is to thread the Janome DC 4030P. Watch this video:
Brother CS5055PRW 50 Built-in Stitches Sewing Machine
(Best for Making Clothes)
This machine has a lot of features for home garment sewers to create the wardrobe of their dreams. It has 50 built-in stitches, a double needle option (great for hemming knits) and 5 different buttonhole types so you can pick the one with the best design detail for your garment. This is a great choice for people who want to sew a variety of clothes.
The 50 stitches include decorative and knit stitches and blind hem so you have many stitch options to sew beautiful clothes with great detail. Comes with 7 sewing feet to sew different applications.
With an automatic needle threader and drop in top bobbin, this computerized machine will bring out the fashion designer in you.
Key features
- 50 stitches and 5 buttonholes are great for fashion sewing
- Computerized machine
- Automatic needle threader
- Comes with 7 sewing feet
Pros
- Online or phone technical support available to help you when you have sewing machine issues.
- Lots of different stitches with clothing sewing in mind. A selection of stretch stitches, decorative stitches and buttonhole stitches allows you to have more options for your DIY fashion projects.
Cons
- Most of the features are designed for sewing clothes, not quilting.
- Light is not very bright
Product Specifications
| Brand | Brother |
| Weight | 14.75 pounds |
| Dimensions | 19.48 x 10.75 x 15.96 |
| Type | Computerized |
| Number of stitches | 50 |
| Material | Metal |
| Color | White |
| Warranty | 25 year limited warranty |
Brother CS6000i 60 Stitch Sewing and Quilting Machine
(Best for Quilting and Sewing)
This computerized sewing machine comes with attachments to make quilting easier, but is also a good choice for other sewing projects.
For quilting ease, it comes with a wide table attachment, but for sewing clothes, it also has a free arm for things like hemming pants. There are 7 auto sized buttonholes to choose from.
With 60 built in stitches, LCD screen and button selection, this machine has lots of options for the quilter and garment sewer. Nine sewing and quilting feet are included to help you sew clothes, quilts and crafts.
A hard protective case is included so you can bring it with you for travel or a sewing class.
Key features
- 60 stitches to choose from
- 9 sewing feet
- LCD Screen
- Automatic needle threader
Pros
- Comes with a table attachment to create a wider work surface which is useful for quilting
- Free arm useful for sewing clothes
- Double needle option included which is useful for hemming knit fabrics
Cons
- Tension can be a little tricky to get right
Product Specifications
| Brand | Brother |
| Weight | 13 pounds |
| Dimensions | 16 x 6.7 x 11.4 inches |
| Type | Computerized |
| Number of stitches | 60 |
| Material | Metal |
| Color | White |
| Warranty | 25 year limited parts, one year limited labor |
How to set up your Brother CS6000i machine. Watch this video to know:
Singer M3500 Easy Automatic Needle Threader Sewing Machine
(Best Easy Non-Computerized With Extra Features)
This machine looks similar to the Singer M1500, but it has a few more features. It is still quite easy to use and lightweight, but this one has more options to choose from.
Large, simple white dials are on the front of this machine with 12 built in stitches. For this model, you choose the stitch length and width. It comes with 5 sewing machine feet to help sew a greater variety of projects.
An automatic needle threader and an auto one-step buttonhole stitch make this machine easy to use, with features to help sew a variety of projects which the more basic Singer options do not. A free arm option helps make hemming cuffs easier.
Key Features
- Automatic needle threader
- 5 sewing machine feet
- Free arm option
Pros
- Easy to use design with basic stitches for most sewing needs.
- 110 Stitch applications for many sewing uses!
- Large dials for easy stitch selection.
Cons
- Not great for thicker fabrics
Product Specifications
| Brand | Singer |
| Weight | 15.25 pounds |
| Dimensions | 15.16 x 7.35 x 10.9 inches |
| Type | Mechanical |
| Number of stitches | 12 |
| Material | Metal |
| Color | White |
| Warranty | 25 year limited warranty |
Watch the Singer M3500 Introduction Video:
Brother XR3774 Wide Table Sewing and Quilting Machine
(Best for Quilting)
This non-computerized machine with 37 stitches has lots of features for people who want to sew and quilt. The extra wide table attachment is great for quilting and other large projects, but it also has a free arm for sewing items like pant hems.
There is a large dial on the front to select the stitch you want, and an automatic needle threader and drop in top bobbin make this machine easy to set up and sew.
The 37 stitches include decorative stitches, blind hem, and automatic one step buttonhole. Eight sewing feet are included along with a twin needle and quilting guide for sewing lots of different projects more easily.
Key Features
- Comes with an extra wide table attachment
- 37 stitches
- Automatic needle threader
- One step buttonhole
Pros
- Suitable for heavier fabrics like denim
- Comes with an instructional DVD and access to tech support to help you with your machine when you need it.
- Table attachment is useful for quilting
Cons
- No automatic bobbin winder
Product Specifications
| Brand | Brother |
| Weight | 15.87 pounds |
| Dimensions | 15.3 x 5.8 x 12 inches |
| Type | Mechanical |
| Number of stitches | 37 |
| Material | Metal |
| Color | White |
| Warranty | 1/2/25 year limited warranty |
Watch this video Brother XR3774 Overview:
Brother ST371HD Strong and Tough Sewing Machine
(Best Basic Strong Machine)
If you want a strong mechanical sewing machine without a ton of extras, this is a good choice for you. This machine is built tough but still has an automatic needle threader and drop in top bobbin to make sewing machine set up easy.
A dial on the side of the machine selects your 37 stitches which are displayed on the front. Stitch choices include one one-step buttonhole, decorative stitches and stretch stitches. A free arm option lets you sew jean hems with ease.
This heavy duty machine comes with 6 sewing machine feet and heavier needles. There is a feed dog drop option which allows for free motion sewing. This machine is suitable for heavy fabrics, whether you are hemming jeans or sewing durable fabric.
Key Features
- Automatic needle threader
- 37 stitches
- 6 sewing feet
Pros
- Strong machine for heavier fabrics, but can still be used on lightweight fabrics too.
- Comes with needles for heavy fabrics so you can start sewing without buying extra needles for your heavy sewing jobs
Cons
- Heavier machine at 14.52 pounds
- Light could be brighter
Product Specifications
| Brand | Brother |
| Weight | 14.52 pounds |
| Dimensions | 7.87 x 16.1 x 12.21 inches |
| Type | Mechanical |
| Number of stitches | 37 |
| Material | Metal |
| Color | White and Black |
| Warranty | Not listed |
Watch the ST371HD sew through fabrics of different thicknesses easily:
Brother SE600 Computerized with 80 Designs Sewing and Embroidery Machine
(Best Beginner Embroidery Machine)
For someone who wants to sew and make crafts with embroidery, this is a good beginner computerized embroidery and sewing machine.
I will say that embroidery machines tend to have lots of features – more features than what a beginner sewer would usually use. But if you want an embroidery machine, they are usually computerized machines with lots of features and options.
This machine comes with 80 embroidery designs, 6 fonts for lettering, and 103 stitches including 10 auto buttonhole stitches. That is a lot! It also has 7 different sewing feet included and automatic thread cutting.
You can even add your own digital embroidery designs via a USB port if you want to get really creative and do custom work.
Key features
- Automatic needle threader
- Comes with 80 embroidery designs and 6 fonts
- Can also be used for regular sewing
- 4” x 4” hoop
- 103 sewing stitches including 10 auto sized buttonhole stitches
- 7 different sewing feet
Pros
- You can add your designs via USB port if you want to do custom work
- Lots of designs built in for easy embroidery
Cons
- At 26.24 pounds, this is a heavy machine!
- There would be a lot to learn on this machine for someone who is brand new to sewing.
Product Specifications
| Brand | Brother |
| Weight | 26.24 pounds |
| Dimensions | 21.18 x 15.51 x 16.54 inches |
| Type | Computerized |
| Number of stitches | 103 |
| Material | Metal |
| Color | White |
| Warranty | 1 year limited warranty for machine, 90 days for accessories |
A sewer talk about her experience with this machine and the embroidery stitches. Watch this video:
Brother CS7000X 70-Stitch Sewing and Quilting Machine
(Best Computerized Machine for Quilting and Dressmaking)
For a committed sewer and quilter who wants a computerized sewing machine. This machine is fairly strong with a metal frame and fixed needle bar.
Machine includes a free arm option (useful for hemming pants) and a wide table attachment for quilts and other large items. With 70 stitches and 7 1-step buttonholes to choose from, this machine will sew your choice of clothes, quilts and decor.
Stitch selection is on the front with buttons and a LCD display.
Ten sewing feet plus a quilt guide make this a good choice for a creative quilter. A protective hard case means you can transport your machine for travel or a sewing class.
Key Features
- Wide table attachment for quilting
- 70 stitches
- 7 1-step buttonholes
- Automatic needle threader
Pros
- Metal frame and fixed needle bar for sturdy sewing
- An extra wide table attachment for quilting and a free arm for sewing things like cuffs and hems makes this a good choice for someone who sews clothes and also quilts.
Cons
- Heavy machine at 26.24 pounds
Product Specifications
| Brand | Brother |
| Weight | 26.24 pounds |
| Dimensions | 16.26 x 6.65 x 12.21 inches |
| Type | Computerized |
| Number of stitches | 103 |
| Material | Metal |
| Color | White |
| Warranty | 25 year limited |
Watch unboxing of CS7000X with this video:
Janome HD 3000 18 Stitch Heavy Duty Sewing Machine
(Best Portable Heavy Duty)
For someone who wants a heavy duty mechanical sewing machine with an automatic needle threader and a hard carrying case.
With 18 stitches, this heavy duty machine is quite versatile. A foot pressure adjustment helps you adapt the machine to sewing different types and weights of fabric – suitable for when you are sewing something that is not heavy duty.
Stitch selections include decorative, stretch, and blind hem. This machine would be useful for a variety of applications such as garment and home decor sewing. A free arm means this would be a good machine for hemming jeans as well.
Key Features
- Automatic needle threader
- 18 stitches, 1 step buttonhole
- Free arm
Pros
- Extra high presser foot helps to sew over very bulky areas like side seams and hems.
- Hard carrying case makes this machine a good option if you plan to travel with it
- Good for a variety of thicker and heavier fabrics
Cons
- Foot pedal is lightweight and can move around.
- This machine has fewer features than the Singer 4452 Heavy Duty and would be more of a beginner machine than that one.
Product Specifications
| Brand | Janome |
| Weight | 18.7 pounds |
| Dimensions | 10 x 19 x 15 |
| Type | Mechanical |
| Number of stitches | 18 |
| Material | Metal |
| Color | White |
| Warranty | Not listed |
Watch a demonstration of the Janome HD 3000:
Buying Guide: What Factors Should People Care About When Buying A Beginner Sewing Machine?
When buying a beginner sewing machine, you need to think about what factors are important to you. Do you like extra features like needle up/down, speed selection, special stitches? What about your budget, and how often do you expect to use your machine?
Different sewing machines are best for different people depending on their sewing needs.
Price and Quality
With sewing machines, there is a difference in quality and durability of the machine. Cheaper sewing machines are usually less durable and aren’t as suited for sewing through thick fabrics as heavier, more expensive machines.
Do You Want A Computerized Or Mechanical Sewing Machine?
Sewing machines that are computerized usually have more features to make sewing easy. Some common ones are automatic thread cutting, needle threading, or more options for decorative stitches.
Mechanical sewing machines may be easier to use for a beginner who does not want extra stuff to learn how to use. They often have fewer stitches than computerized machines. Some may have an automatic needle threader, but this varies by model.
Portability
Some sewing machines are labelled as “portable” – this basically just means that the sewing machine is not built into a table or cabinet. This means you can move it around and is a good option for someone who does not have a dedicated sewing space and has to pack it away when not in use.
Sewing machines that are light weight are easier to carry, but usually not as good at sewing through thick materials. Some machines come with a hard case to carry it in, making it easier to take with you to a sewing class or a road trip.
Vintage Sewing Machines Are Good For Beginners
Another choice for beginner sewing machines are vintage machines in good condition. They usually have metal parts and are quite heavy duty. Old machines are typically built well but have fewer features than modern machines.
Vintage sewing machines (early 1990’s and before) typically have fewer features for stretch sewing in particular, but can be a very good choice for dependable straight stitch sewing.
Of course if you buy something secondhand, make sure it works well before you buy it. It is a good idea to have an old machine professionally serviced from a local sewing machine repair shop before you use it.
Beginner Sewing Machines Versus Sergers
Some people new to sewing ask if they should buy a serger or a sewing machine. A serger is a great machine, but not everyone who sews really needs it.
A serger uses 3 or 4 spools of thread to overlock a seam. There is a blade on the edge to trim fabric as it serges, before it goes under the sewing needles.
Sergers are great for sewing knit projects like leggings or soft hats, but if you only had a serger, what you can sew is very limited. If you only have a serger, you won’t be able to do basic common household sewing tasks like hemming or mending. A serger also isn’t really used for quilting or clothing alterations.
I recommend getting a sewing machine first, and learning basic sewing. Then if you end up sewing a lot of knit clothes, get a serger if you think it would be helpful for your sewing projects.
FAQ’S
Do you have more questions about the sewing machines for starters? Find your answers below!
My Top Pick
My top pick for a beginner sewer overall is the Janome MOD-19 Easy to use 19 Stitch non-computerized Sewing Machine.
This machine has all you need to sew most projects. It has large knobs on the front that make it easy to select the stitch you need. Mechanical sewing machines can last longer than digital ones, as they are easier to repair.
What is nice about the MOD-19 is that it strikes a balance between being easy and having extra features. Nineteen stitches is enough to sew most sewing projects, without getting overwhelmed by learning tons of features.
It is a bit heavier than some of the other super basic models, and heavier machines often sew through thick fabric easier and are a bit more durable than very lightweight models.
If you are on a budget, my suggestion would be the Brother GX37 37 Built-in Stitches Sewing Machine.
Why?
It’s a straightforward mechanical machine that gives more than the bare minimum to get started, for a good price. It is a good value, easy to use and suitable for most beginner sewing projects.
What is your favourite sewing machine for beginners, and why is it so great? Let us know in the comments below.
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