SINGER® M1500 Mechanical Sewing Machine
$99.99 in stock
2 used from $98.95
Brother CS7000X Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine
3 used from $271.57
Janome 2212 Sewing Machine
$199.00 in stock
1 used from $170.47
If you’re an absolute beginner sewist, or you sew at causal basis, you don’t have to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars to get a suitable sewing machine.
An entry-level model with affordable cost is all you need.
A typical entry-level machine should be able to provide you with all the essential features and functions while keeping its cost no more than $100.
That being said, we’ve researched and found the 10 best sewing machines for beginners that you can get on the market today.
Is $100 Enough for Beginners?
If you were to look at the cost range of various sewing machines, you’d be surprised to see how cheap a $100 model is. You’ll find that the cost of most machines is several hundred bucks…and some even cross the $ 1,000 mark.
And this might make you wonder if $100 is really a reasonable budget for a sewing machine.
If you’re still learning the sewing game or you sew occasionally (say for fun), then this low budget is enough for you.
However, don’t expect every machine with a low price of $100 and below to be a great deal. You’ll have to do some research to find out what features it comes with and what its capabilities are.
You might even consider going through what previous users say about the machine just to be sure you’re getting the REAL deal.
After completing our research on the best inexpensive sewing machine, we concluded that any model that gives you an automatic needle threader, multiple built-in stitches, top loading bobbin, adjustable presser foot, free arm, and a list of convenient accessories (all at the cost of $100 or below) is a good bargain.
Let’s delve into more details about the 10 cheap sewing machines we found on the market for you…
Our Best Sewing Machines for Beginners:
1. Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine
Brother is one of the most respected brands in the sewing industry. Though they’re well known for their high-end sewing machines, they also have a number of inexpensive models for beginners who are still learning to sew.
This particular XM2701 Sewing Machine comes with a wide range of user-friendly features plus a lightweight design. It offers you a total of 27 built-in stitches (including decorative, blind hem, and decorative stitches). It also presents you with an automatic one-step buttonholer to help you create virtually perfect buttonholes on your garments.
Included in the package are also 6 quick-change sewing feet—including—comprising the buttonhole, narrow hemmer, zigzag, blind stitch, zipper, and button sewing foot.
Designed for ease of use, this machine also comes with a built-in easy needle threader, an automatic bobbin winding system, and a jam-resistant quick-set top drop-in bobbin. AN instructional DVD and comprehensive user manual are also included in the box.
Highlighted features:
- Versatile free-arm sewing machine
- 27 unique built-in stitches
- 6 quick-change sewing feet
- Jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin
- 25-year limited warranty
2. SINGER | Start 1304 Sewing Machine
The singer is also a BIG name in the sewing industry. Having been around for a pretty long time, they’ve perfected the art of designing quality sewing machines for all skill levels. The SINGER | Start 1304 costs just below $150 and is designed with beginners in mind.
The basic, easy-to-use machine comes with up to 6 built-in stitches, which you select by a simple turn of a dial. Keeping in mind that the stitch width and length are present, there’s no guesswork involved—making the machine friendly to beginners and hobbyists.
Another feature that makes this machine great for novices is the built-in 4-step buttonhole. This makes it easy for you to add buttonholes in 4 simple steps on items such as pillows, fashions, and children’s garments, to name but a few. If you slide off the removable extension table, you’ll access the free arm which allows you to hassle-freely hem sleeves trousers, and other smaller sewing projects.
Even with all these impressive features, this machine maintains a simple, lightweight, and portable design—making it easy to store or carry to any place.
Highlighted features:
- Heavy-duty metal frame
- Up to 6 built-in stitches
- Free arm sewing machine
- Lightweight and portable design
- Automatic bobbin winding
- 25-year limited warranty
3. MICHLEY LSS-505 Lil’ Sew & Sew Multi-Purpose Sewing Machine
MICHLEY LSS-505 is the most affordable sewing machine on our list, making it an excellent choice for those on a very tight budget. Don’t just this machine by its cost, though. It has all the basic features and functions you need to learn sewing and work on your fun projects.
The fully mechanical sewing machine is easy to operate, even for absolute beginners. It presents you with a total of 8 built-in stitches (3 straight and 5 zigzag), which will enable you to work on a variety of basic crafts and projects. Navigating through various stitches is as simple as turning the integrated dial.
Another beginner-friendly feature of this machine is the double-speed option. This will enable you to sew a fully stable and constant line of stitches, whether you’re sewing forward or reverse.
With the free arm function, you’ll also be able to access the delicate, hard to access parts of your garments such as the sleeves, pant hems, cuffs, and collars, among others. Inside the packaging, you’ll receive additional packages—like extra bobbins, extra needles, thread spools, foot pedal, thread, and even an AC adapter.
Highlighted features:
- Up to 8 built-in stitches
- Automatic thread rewind
- Forward and reverse sewing
- Integrated LED sewing light
- Approx. dimensions: 10 4/5 x 4 4/5 x 10 1/5 inches
4. SINGER | Simple 3232 Portable Sewing Machine
This is probably the best sewing machine deal, not just for beginners but also for advanced sewists with a limited budget. With its cost creeping right under $300, this sewing machine presents you with some of the features that you can only find in high-end models.
To start with, this machine is extremely easy to use. It comes with an automatic needle threader which facilitates easy and quick threading. It also features adjustable stitch width and length. The entire machine setup is simple and frustration-free.
This Singer is by far the basic sewing machine with the highest number of built-in stitches. It provides you with a whopping 32 stitches, which combine with the one-step buttonhole and set of included accessories to enable you to easily handle a wide range of sewing projects.
Additional features worth mentioning include a crazy sewing speed of 750 stitches per minute, free arm functionality, 4 Snap-On presser feet, and a heavy-duty metal frame for stability and durability.
Highlighted features:
- Singer portable sewing machine
- 32 built-in stitches
- Built-in automatic needle threader
- Built-in 1-step buttonhole
- Speed: 750 stitches-per-minute
- High presser foot lifter
- Automatic reverse sewing machine
5. Janome Arctic Crystal Easy-to-Use Sewing Machine
Halfway our list of the top sewing machines under 150, we have the Janome Arctic Crystal sewing machine. For those who don’t know, Janome also enjoys a spot among the most reputable sewing machine brands.
What makes this sewing machine appear on our list is the quality and features it offers you, which far outweigh its already low price. The machine boats of up to 15 highly popular and versatile built-in stitches. It also features a built-in bobbin loading guide that’s nearly impossible to miss.
Other convenient features that come with this machine include a 4-step buttonhole, front-loading bobbin system, removable free arm, and adjustable stitch length. You’ll also get 4 presser feet and BONUS accessories to increase the versatility and usability of this machine.
Designed with beginners in mind, the manufacturer optimized this machine to make it as easy to use as possible for you. They’ve included an easy-to-follow instructional manual, a quick start guide, and even YouTube tutorials—all of which will enable you to operate the machine without any problems.
Highlighted features:
- 15 built-in stitches
- 4-step buttonhole
- Front-loading bobbin system
- Heavy-duty interior metal frame
- Removable free arm
- Easy to follow instructional manual
- 25-year limited manufacturer warranty
6. Spiegel SP3201 Sewing Machine
The Spiegel SP3201 Sewing Machine is another great entry-level machine for all beginners. It’s an easy-to-use and feature-rich mechanical sewing machine that offers you the quality and functionality you deserve at a cost you can afford.
The Spiegel gives you a total of 32 built-in stitches (comprising the decorative and utility stitches) which are sure to meet your specific sewing needs and help you embellish any project you’re working on.
Designed with absolute beginners in mind, this machine comes with an easy-to-use drop-in bobbin, adjustable thread tension, a one-step automatic buttonhole, and the ability to easily adjust the tension as well as the length and width of your stitches.
With the removable accessory tray and feed dogs that can be lowered, you can easily begin freehand sewing. And yes, this sewing machine comes equipped with LED lighting in the sewing area, so you don’t have to strain your eye to see what you’re working on.
Highlighted features:
- 32 built-in stitches
- Easy top-loading bobbin
- Sewing area LED lighting
- Adjustable thread tension, stitch length, and width
- One-step automatic buttonhole
- Integrated thread cutter
7. Brother LX2763 27-Stitch Sewing Machine
If you’re a beginner looking for a sewing machine that you can carry with you to classes or to any place, the lightweight and portable nature of this Brother LX2763 makes it a great choice for you.
Like the other Brother machine, we’ve previously discussed, this machine also offers you up to 27 built-in stitches (including blind hem, quilting, and decorative stitches) to choose from. This makes it fun for you to work on different sewing projects with this machine. The automatic, one-step buttonholer enables you to create buttonholes on your items.
With the 6 included quick-change presser feet, the versatility of this machine is comparable to none.
To make it easy to use for total beginners who have never operated a sewing machine before, this machine comes with a built-in easy needle threader, automatic bobbin winding system, and jam-resistant quick-set top drop-in bobbin.
The instructional DVD and bi-lingual user manual included in the box will show you how to operate this machine.
Highlighted features:
- 27 unique built-in stitches
- Lightweight, portable design
- One-step, auto-size buttonhole
- Jam-resistant quick-set
- Brightly lit LED work area
- Built-in easy needle threader
8. Janome Pink Lightning Basic, Portable, Compact Sewing Machine
Is your young one interested in sewing? If yes, this Janome sewing machine is the best investment you can make for her. Featuring a sexy pink color, this model was designed with the absolute beginners (your young enthusiast) in mind.
The sewing machine comes with a super lightweight feel (weighs 5-pound light!) and compact design. This makes it one of the most portable sewing machines you can get on the market today.
Despite its compactness, this machine is armed with all the essential features you need for tackling different types of projects. It has a total of 11 built-in stitches—including straight, crescent, and zigzag—to enable you to work on a variety of projects.
Additional features worth mentioning include a top drop-in bobbin (with a clear cover for easy setup), free arm, easy reverse, accessory storage, and presser foot (with finger guards to protect your kid’s little fingers).
Highlighted features:
- Portable, compact machine
- 11 built-in stitches
- Top drop-in bobbin
- Presser foo w/finger guard
- Free arm, easy reverse, and accessory storage
9. oakome Household Sewing Machine
Similar to most of the machines we’ve featured on this list, oakome Household Sewing Machine is a simple, easy to use that’s also priced below 100. It’s an excellent choice for beginners as well as those with some previous sewing experience.
It comes integrated with up to 12 built-in stitches, which you select by simply turning a selection dial. All these stitches are sure to meet all your sewing needs.
Since this is an automatic sewing machine, operating it is easier than you can imagine the needle bar engages automatically when winding the bobbin, resulting in a winder winding process. The bobbin will also automatically stop when filled. The fact that this machine allows you to switch between two speeds (low and high) ensures that even beginners who have never used a sewing machine will operate it without any frustrations.
On top of it all, the machine has a portable and lightweight design. It weighs 6 pounds only and measures 13.78 X 11.81 X 6.5 inches, so you can easily take it to sewing classes or any other place.
Highlighted features:
- Up to 12 built-in stitches
- Automatic sewing machine
- Adjustable sewing speed
- Portable and lightweight design
- Easy to operate
10. AGM Portable Sewing Machine
Our list of the best sewing machine for beginners under $150 comes to a close with the AGM Portable Sewing Machine. This is the perfect choice for sewists looking for a multi-function machine at an affordable cost.
The machine equips you with a total of 12 built-in stitches to meet all your sewing needs. As a multi-function sewing machine, it provides you with double thread and double speed functions—which enable you to create neat, firmer, and straight stitches. With the included free arm, circular sewing on hems, cuffs, etc., will not be a problem.
The anti-slip bottom pads help ensure that the over lock sewing machine firmly remains in position during sewing. The included LED sewing light enables you to clearly see the tiniest details in your sewing area for even easier sewing.
Highlighted features:
- Multi-function sewing machine
- Built-in 12-stitch patterns
- Safe and easy to use for beginners
- Reversing and over lock functions
- 1 year after sale service
Should You Increase Budget When You Become a Pro?
Absolutely!
All the machines we’ve outlined in this post are ideal for beginners or those who are still learning to sew.
After you’ve bought your preferred entry level machine, it’ll walk with you through the learning curve as you learn more and more about sewing.
Once you become an advanced sewist, you’ll feel like the basic machine isn’t meeting most of your needs. Remember we said that these machines are built with beginners/inexperienced sewist in mind, so they come with only the essential features you need to learn the sewing game.
And this will bring up the need for a more advanced sewing machine to match your new skill level. Needless to mention, the new machine will cost you more than $100.
Some of the features you’ll enjoy in a more advanced model include:
- Increased number of stitches
- Computerized sewing machine
- Sewing and embroidery capabilities (all in one machine)
- A myriad of automatic features to make sewing even faster and easier
- A completer (bigger) set of accessories for increased versatility in your sewing projects
- Greater sewing speeds, to enable you to complete bigger loads of projects faster
Obviously, a machine intended for advanced sewers who usually sew on a daily/regular basis will feel more durable. This will enable it to hold up to regular last and last longer than the basic sewing machines we’ve discussed earlier.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best inexpensive sewing machine for an absolute beginner?
1. What is the best inexpensive sewing machine for an absolute beginner?The best machine for absolute beginners is one that’s easy to operate and has a list of basic features that will help a beginner learn to sew.
Our reviews section outlines 10 beginner-friendly machines that come with pocket-friendly prices.
2. What can you sew with a sewing machine below $100?
Unlike what many people think, a sewing machine under $100 has average sewing capabilities and will help you work on a variety of projects to completion. Some of these projects include baby quilts, tote bags, throw pillows, monogrammed handkerchiefs, etc.
3. Which is the best budget sewing machine for a young enthusiast?
If your kid is interested in sewing, you should consider buying them a simple machine with user-friendly features and design. It should also come in bright colors to encourage her to use it more.
In our list of top machines above, we’ve reviewed Janome Pink Lightning Basic, Portable, Compact Sewing Machine as the perfect sewing machine for kids.
Final Verdict
As a pure novice or a hobbyist in the sewing world, you don’t need to invest in high-end sewing machines to learn the sewing game.
All you need is a simple machine that’s built with a beginner like you in mind. Such a machine will offer just the essential features you need to learn sewing and make simple beginner projects and crafts.
In this guide, we’ve outlined for you up to 10 such best sewing machines for beginners which are packed with impressive, beginner-friendly features.
We hope that this guide will help you find a good quality machine at an affordable price to help you develop your sewing skills.