That’s why it helps to consider what kind of projects you want to make, as well as your experience level, to ensure your machine will be best suited for your needs. For instance, mechanical sewing machines tend to be better for first-time sewers, while computerized options have more features for professional or industrial use. There are even sewing machines designed for kids so they can pick up the hobby from a young age. “Sewing machines are generally not one-size fits all,” Jacquelyn Heineken, the owner of Sew Jersey says. “A well-built sewing machine is generally one of your longest running household appliances and is oftentimes a once in a lifetime purchase,” she explains, which is why it’s important to invest in a unit catered specifically for your design needs. Here, our top picks for the best sewing machines. Dimensions: 12.1 x 5.9 x 15.3 inches | Weight: 12.6 pounds | Included Stitches: 27 | Warranty: 25 years Dimensions: 17.18 x 13.12 x 9.18 inches | Weight: 12.57 pounds | Included Stitches: 108 | Warranty: 1 year Dimensions: 13 x 7 x 11.5 inches | Weight: 10 pounds | Included Stitches: 57 | Warranty: 1 year Dimensions: 8.2 x 17.5 x 11.5 inches | Weight: 24 pounds | Included Stitches: Not Listed | Warranty: 5 years Dimensions: 10.43 x 9.06 x 7.48 inches | Weight: 2.2 pounds | Included Stitches: 59 | Warranty: Not Listed Dimensions: 10.5 x 5 x 9 inches | Weight: 5 pounds | Included Stitches: 11 | Warranty: 1 year Dimensions: 14.5 x 7.5 x 12 inches | Weight: 14.8 pounds | Included Stitches: 100 | Warranty: 25 years Dimensions: 21.18 x 15.51 x 16.54 inches | Weight: 26.24 pounds | Included Stitches: 103 | Warranty: 25 years Dimensions: 17.25 x 8.25 x 12 inches | Weight: 20 pounds | Included Stitches: 600 | Warranty: 25 years Dimensions: 15.5 x 6.25 x 12 inches | Weight: 15.71 pounds | Included Stitches: 32 | Warranty: 1 year Dimensions: 9 x 2.25 x 7.5 inches | Weight: 0.02 pounds | Included Stitches: None | Warranty: 1 year Dimensions: 48 x 20 x 4 inches | Weight: Not Listed | Included Stitches: None | Warranty: 5 years Dimensions: 10.98 x 11.73 x 13.19 inches | Weight: 8.02 pounds | Included Stitches: None | Warranty: 5 years This is an extremely popular option among beginners, says Heineken. “This machine offers a HUGE value for your money, and is built wonderfully well. Plus it comes with a 25 year limited warranty,” she shares. Dimensions: 9.8 x 18.9 x 11.8 inches | Weight: 20.5 pounds | Included Stitches: 100 | Warranty: 25 years Dimensions: 19 x 10 x 14.7 inches | Weight: 21 pounds | Included Stitches: 18 | Warranty: 25 years
Size
The size of your sewing machine matters for a variety of reasons. First, if you are working on bigger projects, you will want a bigger machine that can handle the scale of your fabric. Bigger sewing machines are especially useful for quilters who often work with large pieces. Secondly, consider where your sewing machine will be stored and how often you will be moving it. If you have a dedicated craft room or sewing cabinet or table, the size and weight of your machine will not matter as much. However, if you plan to constantly move it out of a closet or drawer, you will want a lighter option. Also, if you plan to pack it away for trips often, you should opt for a portable or even handheld sewing machine that travels well and is lightweight.
Intended Use
“Not all sewing machines are built the same, and while they all make a stitch, they don’t all offer the same durability, quality of stitch, or ability to handle multiple kinds of fabrics or layers of fabric,” says Heineken. This is why it is so important to do your own research before committing.Certain machines are made to work with embroidery work while others are better for quilting. Most basic and beginner-friendly sewing machines are perfect for thin fabrics like cotton, but if you are working with something thicker like denim or leather, you may want to opt for a more heavy duty pick. Some are better suited for making clothes while others work extremely quickly, which would be useful in a business or industrial setting.
Mechanical vs Computerized
A mechanical sewing machine means that you will move knobs, twist knobs, manually move a lever, and such to determine stitch lengths, move your needle, or decide if your stitch will be straight or zig-zagged. Computerized sewing machines will configure these features electronically, usually through buttons on an LCD screen. Mechanical sewing machines are widely considered basic machines that are suitable for beginners. For those looking to try out more features and high-tech add-ons, look towards a computerized machine. But, one is not better than the other; it depends on what projects you are working on. More detailed projects may require the likes of a computerized model, while basic stitches and sewing can be achieved perfectly with a mechanical one.
Why Trust The Spruce Crafts?
This article was written by Julia Fields, a lifestyle writer for The Spruce brands covering all things surrounding toys, gifts, and the holidays. She’s also covered similar topics in other roles, including toy reviews, product round-ups, expert-focused articles, and more. “Alternatively, you can purchase a used machine that is much older and have it simply tuned up if those options are above your budget,” Heineken says. “Machines that are older than the 1990s are generally a good choice and will last much longer and you can have it tuned up to run like new!” Consulting small sewing shops like Sew Jersey is a great option for first-time buyers and it also establishes a relationship with a store that can offer tune-ups and part replacements, if needed. “If you are sewing leather, or canvas, generally, a well built home machine will be the better choice for both your budget, flexibility and ease of use,” Heineken shares.
