A sewing machine is a sewing machine, right? Turns out, not so much. And if you’re just learning how to sew, there are some that are going to make your first few stitches much easier (and much neater). The best beginner sewing machine is uncomplicated and easy to use because it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of a higher-level model. So, where to start? We suggest with one of these eight easy-to-use beginner sewing machines.
What’s the Best Sewing Machine for Beginners? Here Are 10 Simple Models We Love
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The Best Sewing Machines for Beginners
1. Baby Lock Zest Sewing Machine
Best for Kids
If you’re looking for a beginner sewing machine for children, this is an excellent choice because of its thorough safety features. This simple model has slow speed options and 15 simple stitches, including a four-step buttonhole. It’s designed to be portable, (it weighs 13 pounds) meaning you or your kid can carry it to and from a sewing class with ease. Ask any advanced sewer in your life and they’ll likely list Baby Lock as a respected brand for higher-end machines, so you know even the beginner models are high quality. Plus, the Baby Lock website has lots of instructional videos tailored to each model, if you’re more of a visual learner.
One of the absolute best things about the Janome MOD-19 is the crystal-clear dials and buttons. They might have a bit of a retro vibe, but they make it incredibly easy to select exactly which settings you want to use. As you might have surmised from its name, this machine has 19 stitch options, including stretch-stitch settings for knits or spandex. There’s also a built-in needle threader, four presser feet and four-step buttonhole capabilities. It also comes with a 25-year limited warranty so you can enjoy this easy-to-use machine for decades to come (and maybe even pass it along to another beginner, once it’s time for you to upgrade).
Despite its name, the Singer Heavy Duty 4423 works for all types of projects, not just quilting or notoriously tricky materials like denim and leather. There are 23 stitches for a variety of fabrics, a top drop-in bobbin, a one-step buttonhole and four presser feet. Although it does have the ability to move at extra-high sewing speeds (ideal for heavier fabrics), the foot pressure is totally adjustable so you can start off nice and slow before you work your way up to trickier projects.
4. singer Promise Ii 1512 Sewing Machine
Most Portable
Coming in at just under 11 pounds, this lightweight machine is phenomenal for mastering the basics. The dials are very clearly marked for stitch type, width and length selection, and it’s even capable of sewing in reverse (great for professional looking finishes on seams). There are 13 stitches to choose from, including a four-step buttonhole, and while it’s best for those looking to sew at slower speeds, it does have a high-speed capability for tackling projects with canvas or denim. It also comes with four presser feet to get you started.
Computerized sewing machines are almost always more expensive than non-digital versions, but this particular model has a bunch of features that beginners who are really committed to getting their money’s worth (or who have the spare cash to spend) can really benefit from. There are 60 stitches to choose from, including a whopping seven different types of one-step buttonholes, and it uses an automatic needle threading system. It also comes with nine presser feet and a slew of easy-to-follow threading diagrams to help you out. The machine’s buttons are super-easy to use, and the LCD screen used to select stitches is clear and simple (although some may prefer the ability to see all their options at once, as you would with a dial).
If you’re interested in trying your hand at embroidery on a machine, this is a great place to start. With 37 stitch options built in and the inclusion of an instructional DVD, you can hop right in and attempt adding flowers, inspirational phrases or dirty limericks to your T-shirts. It comes with six presser feet and features an automatic needle threading system, a top drop-in bobbin and, of course, those easy-to-read dials we love so much.
7. Singer 7363 Confidence Sewing Machine
Most Comprehensive User Guide
A drop-in bobbin makes threading this machine an absolute cinch. The speed is adjustable, so you can start off super slow and then increase as you get the hang of things. There’s also a start/stop button so you can halt the machine if you make a mistake and five presser foot options included. In addition to six one-step buttonhole options, there are 30 stitches (with variations on the zig-zag and straight stitches) that you can select with the touch of a button and the option to program the machine to either bring the needle up when you stop or leave it down, so you can pivot whatever fabric you’re working on. Plus, with the Singer Sewing Assistant App you’ll have access to videos and guides to every part of your specific machine (this goes for all Singer machines, by the way).
Best for Small Spaces
Sewing machines can take up a lot of space, especially the kinds with all the bells and whistles, but not this one. It's specifically designed to help you save space, and it's even small enough to carry on the go. Oh, and don't let its small size fool you. It has the same features as any other good sewing machine, including a large extension table for smooth and stable sewing, a two-speed control, a built-in lamp, a thread cutter and a cuff slot. It also comes with a great beginner's sewing kit, including 32 bobbins, five needles, a threader, thimble, scissors and seam ripper.
Great things come in small packages. If you're looking to test trial your new sewing hobby or not quite sure if you want to fully invest in a big machine just yet, this mini adjustable machine with 2-speed double thread and a foot pedal may be perfect for you. This machine has a bottom line and surface line design to give you stable and high quality sewing for all your projects. Not to mention, she's lightweight and easy to carry around the house if you want to be mobile.
This machine is fool proof. It's a decidedly easy machine to use as it comes with several convenience features such as a 3-Piece Feed dog system, removable free arm, and dual retractable spool pins. It also comes equipped with beginner accessories and a very simple instruction manual (accompanied with tutorial videos). This machine was made for beginners. Not to mention, it comes in three fun colors.