SINGER 4423 Heavy Duty
9 used from $156.20
Brother CS7000X Sewing Machine
5 used from $202.74
Janome Arctic Crystal Sewing Machine
So you’re one of the many “sewists” looking for the best sewing machine for exploring the wonderful world of sewing?
Nice move.
BUT… you’ve got a long way to go. You’re not going to find that machine as easily as you might think. A hard pill to swallow, right?
The truth is, that the market right now has more sewing machines than ever before. The models show huge variations regarding overall performance, design, ease of use, features, the load of accessories, cost, and so on.
Heck, they even come from different companies!
Trust me; trying to get the perfect machine for you will be an overwhelming, confusing, and intimidating experience for you.
Good news;
Worry not though. I’m here to help you. I spent the last 72 plus 1 hours analyzing different models, customer feedback, and consulting the experienced sewers.
The culmination of my research was the 12 top-of-the-line machines that resonate with your personal sewing needs, skill level, budget, and other expectations.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sewer, the following sewing machines will take you through the rest of your sewing journey with NO regrets:
Best Sewing Machine Comparison
I figured out that you might not have the time to read the entire guide, and I respect your time.
So, before I get into more details about the 12 top-rated sewing machines I’ve told you about above, let me give you a quick summary to save you time…
Below, I’ve put up a comparison table of the best sewing machines such that you can easily view what each machine presents you with and compare it with the other models before making the final decision.
10 Best Sewing Machine Picks:
1. Brother CS6000i Feature-Rich Sewing Machine:
Brother CS6000i is a reasonably priced, feature-rich, highly versatile sewing machine that allows you to successfully work on a wide range of quilting and sewing projects. Its simplified design makes it extremely easy to use for both beginner and advanced seamstresses.
The machine comes with a total of 60 built-in stitches. These range from functional to decorative options- they give beginners room to grow while offering experienced sewers increased versatility.
You’ll also love the load of accessories that come with this bag (typical of those found in the high-end models) to make the machine even easier for you to use. Most notably, you’ll appreciate the nine presser feet it comes with.
Using this machine is the easiest part! It comes with a simple design plus intuitive controls that make it easy to operate for beginners. Features like adjustable sewing speed, automatic needle threading, and on-machine bobbing threading and stitching guides make it even easier to use for newer users.
Highlighted Features:
- 60 built-in stitches
- Adjustable stitch length
- Easy view LCD display
- Jam-resistant Quick-set top drop-in bobbin
- 25-year limited warranty
- Variable speed control
- Dust cover included
2. SINGER 4423 Heavy Duty Model Sewing Machine:
Coming second on our top-rated sewing machine reviews is the Singer 4423 electric sewing machine. It also comes at a fair cost, making it ideal for sewers on a tight budget. Designed from a heavy-duty metal frame, this is a genuinely durable machine that promises to handle every project you throw at it for years to come.
Regarding performance, Singer 4423 gives you the best. It can do as many as 1100 stitches in a minute. This is made possible by the integrated, 60% stronger motor that lets you finish all your projects in less time than it’d take for manual models.
When sewing your fabrics, you’ll have an easy time feeding as well as stitching your fabrics, thanks to the smooth stainless steel bedplate this machine comes with.
Unlike our previous model, this Singer presents you with fewer built-in stitches (23 in total). Nevertheless, these will help you work on any project you wish as they include all the essential stitches required for any project.
Up to four feet presser are included to make the machine convenient to use. Other factors like an automatic needle threader, fully automatic 1-step buttonhole, drop-in bobbin, and of course the user manual make using this machine easy as pie.
Highlighted Features:
- Heavy-duty metal frame
- Stainless steel bedplate for smooth fabric feed
- 23 built-in stitches
- One automatic 4-step buttonhole
- Automatic needle threader
- Easy to load drop-in bobbin system
3. Singer 1304 Start Free ArmHandy Sewing Machine:
Like our second model above, Singer 1304 also comes with a heavy-duty metal frame that gives it the durability it needs to let you work on any project you can think of without affecting its quality. What’s more, it comes with a crazily low price that’s no match to its list of features and performance.
It features six built-in stitches which are better than none (and also acceptable, given its cheap cost). The fact that the fundamental zigzag and straight stitches needed to work on any project is included in the six options means you can use this machine to work on any project.
Like the previous Singer, this model also has a stainless steel bedplate that’s ultra-smooth to allow for easy feeding and sewing of your fabrics.
Included in the box are three presser feet- namely zipper foot, buttonhole, and all-purpose foot.
It’s also important to note that this machine also comes with a stronger motor and sews up to 1100 stitches per minute, saving you a great deal of time. To make it easy and convenient to use for you, it comes with an automatic needle threader, an automatic 4-step buttonhole, and even the preset stitch width and length.
Highlighted Features:
- Heavy duty metal frame
- Stainless steel bedplate
- 6 built-in stitches
- Additional sewing accessories included
- Automatic needle threader
- 1100 stitches per minute
4. NEX Sewing Machine Children Present Portable Crafting Mending Machine:
Here’s another best sewing machine for the money…The NEX Sewing Machine is ideal for people looking for people looking for a small size, lightweight, and space-saving design. It measures 10.8 x 4.8 x 10.2 inches, making it suitable for use in homes with limited space.
With its 100% simplified design, this machine is also great for beginners (including children) who want to learn sewing. It provides you with up to 12 built-in stitches to meet all your sewing needs; you can use it to hem, seam, auto wind, buttonhole, etc. Above all, it comes with a light bulb for lighting your home space for even easier sewing!
Despite the incredibly low cost, the machine also comes with a wide range of accessories that make your sewing life more convenient. These accessories include a foot controller, thread spools, bobbins, a needle threader, and two extra needles.
Isn’t that the perfect package for a total beginner?
Highlighted Features:
- 12 built-in stitches
- Size: 10.8 x 4.8 x 10.2inches
- Lightweight, portable machine
- Well-lit workspace
- Forward/reverse sewing
- Multiple accessories included
- Built-in carry handle
5. SINGER 9960 Quantum Stylist 600-Stitch Computerized Portable Sewing Machine:
SINGER 9960 boasts a compact and eye-grabbing design which gives it a classy appearance. It presents you with a whopping 600 built-in stitche options plus five different alphanumeric fonts to meet all your sewing needs. With this machine, you can complete all your embroidery, quilting, monogramming, and sewing projects.
Like all the other machines from Singer, this model comes with an array of features and functions to make it easier to use. For instance, it features an automatic needle threader that facilitates easy threading in a matter of seconds.
It also provides you with a top drop-in bobbin system w/clear cover to help you insert the bobbin effortlessly (the transparent covering lets you monitor the bobbin thread usage).
Since the machine comes with an extra-large sewing area, you won’t have issues working on larger projects like quilting. FREE accessories-including up to 18 presser feet- are also included in the box to help you expand your creative ideas. Not to forget it also comes with a heavy-duty metal frame for ultimate durability.
Highlighted Features:
- Heavy-duty metal frame
- Stainless steel bedplate
- Machine weight: 18.2lbs
- Automatic needle threader
- Top drop-in bobbin system
- 600 built-in stitches
- 13 styles, fully automated one-step buttonholes
- Up to 5 different fonts
- Size: 17L x 8.25″W x 12″H
6. Brother Project Runway CS5055PRW Electric Sewing Machine:
We’re halfway our sewing machine reviews list! The Brother Project Runway CS5055PRW Electric Sewing Machine occupies this spot for its outstanding features and functionalities that let you create your own high-end fashions at a highly attractive price.
One thing you’ll love about this machine is the 50 pre-loaded stitches options that cover utility, heirloom, and decorative stitches to ensure you complete all your project with less hassle. The integrated auto threader facilitates easy threading of the machine.
While the quick-set top bobbin allows you to quickly wind the bobbin and start working on your project. With the vertical spool pin function, it becomes easier to achieve more consistent feeding- especially when working on specialty threads, e.g., metallic ones.
Using this machine is a breeze! It comes with a super brought workspace to help you correctly sew our fabrics. It also comes with an easy-view LCD display (with an intuitive stitch selector) for even easier sewing.
The lightweight and portable design (with a convenient carry handle) make this machine easy to carry from one place to the next- e.g., from one class to another for sewing students.
Highlighted Features:
- 50 built-in stitches
- Ultra-light portable design
- Quick-set top bobbin
- Automatic needle threader
- 1-step, custom-sized buttonholing
- Easy-view, large LCD display
- Super-bright work area
7. SINGER 7258 Stylist Award-Winning 100-Stitch Computerized Sewing Machine:
Did you know that SINGER 7258 is a two-time award-winning machine at Consumer Digest? The publications rank products according to their performance, construction quality, ease of use, efficiency, styling, features, and maintenance and service requirements. With that in mind, it’s no-brainer that this Singer machine will make your sewing career fun and exciting!
The computerized machine comes with an array of features that enable it to achieve its primary role in helping you create elegant garments and other stuff from the comfort of your home. For instance, it presents you with up to 100 built-in stitch options to expand your creativity.
Besides, it gives you up to 6 styles of fully automatic one-step buttonholes to pick from. The fact that you can program its needle up/down when it stops facilitates easier applique and quilting.
Like we have seen in all the other Singer sewing machine reviews, the manufacturers focused on making this machine extremely easy to make. This is made possible by crucial functions like automatic needle threading, a fully illuminated workplace, easy easy-to-load bobbin system, and even the ability to control your stitching speed to meet your sewing needs.
Highlighted Features:
8. SINGER Sewing 4432 Heavy Duty Extra-High Speed Portable Sewing Machine:
Our eighth position of the best sewing machine reviews goes to the SINGER Sewing 4432 sewing machine. One thing that sets this electric machine from the other low-quality models out there is its extra-high sewing speed of up to 1100 stitches per minute plus an extra powerful motor. This gives it the ability to sew through anything you throw at it!
The fully automated one-step buttonhole allows you to automatically make beautiful buttonholes in a single step. Not to forget the easy loading bobbin system that saves you time when setting up your bobbin.
As you’d expect in any other Singer machine, the Singer Sewing 4432 comes with a handful of accessories (including a variety of presser feet, extra spool pin, dust cover, spool pin felt, quick user guide, etc.) neatly packed in the accessory case to make your sewing journey even simpler.
And as you’d expect for all the machines from the top sewing machine brands, this model comes with a heavy-duty metal frame that allows you to sew steadily for countless years to come.
In addition to this, it also comes with a stainless steel bedplate whose ultra-smooth nature gives you an easy time feeding the fabric for even stitching.
Highlighted Features:
- Ultra-high sewing speed; 1100 stitches per minute
- Heavy-duty metal frame
- Stainless steel bedplate
- 32 built-in stitches
- One automatic 4-step buttonhole
- Easy to load bobbin system
9. Brother XM2701 Lightweight, Full-Featured Sewing Machine:
Brother XM2701 is a value-packed, easy to use, and highly versatile sewing machine that allows you to sew through a wide range of your day to day sewing projects. It comes with a super lightweight and compact design for easy transportation. And its wallet-friendly price tag makes it affordable for all sewers experiencing hard economic times.
For this particular Brother, you’ll get up to 27 pre-loaded stitching options that include the basic ones as well as the decorative, stretch, and blind hem stitches. These are sure to meet all your sewing needs, regardless of what project you’re working on.
Moreover, the machine comes with an auto-sized, one-step buttonhole that enables you to create virtually perfect buttonholes for your projects. With the six included presser feet, you’ll have an easy time working on different projects.
Designed for ease of operation, the machine comes with an automatic needle threader for hassle-free threading, a quick-set bobbin system for easy bobbin loading, and an automated bobbin winding system. Above all this, it comes with an instructional DVD and a detailed user manual in both English and Spanish languages.
Highlighted Features:
- 27 unique built-in stitches
- 6 quick-change sewing feet
- Built-in needle threader
- Jam-resistant top drop-in bobbin
- Brightly lit work area
- Instructional DVD & bilingual user manual
- 25 year limited warranty
10. Michley LSS-202 Lil’ Sew & Sew Mini 2-Speed Sewing Machine:
If you’re looking for the best home sewing machine, this is the ideal machine for you. The Michley LSS-202 Lil’ Sew & Sew is a mini sewing machine that comes with a classic style that adds a classic appearance to your home. The best part is that it comes with such a low cost that you have no excuse as to why you shouldn’t take it home today.
The mini sewing machine has vital functions that include double speed, double thread, and automatic thread wind. As you can tell from their descriptions, these features will team up to make your sewing journey easy with this machine. Because it measures around 7-2/3 by 4-1/2 by 8-2/7 inches only, it doesn’t occupy much space in your home.
Operating the machine is also easy; you just need to use the foot pedal or the hand switch to get it ready for the project at hand. Even with a low price tag, the machine comes packed with convenient accessories- including a foot pedal, threader, needle, and up to 4 bobbins.
Highlighted Features:
- Mini 2-speed sewing machine
- Double thread function
- Easy to operate
- Comes with a list of accessories
- Measures approx. 7-2/3 by 4-1/2 by 8-2/7 inches
- Automatic thread rewind
Sewing Machine Buying Guide: Things To Check
Now that we’ve reviewed the 12 top-rated machine models that my team and I analyzed and picked for you, what’s next?
In this section, I want to take you through a step-by-step guide that will greatly help you when shopping for the best sewing machine at the stores.
Here’s the list of KEY things to check in a sewing machine:
Built-in Stitch Patterns
One of the top factors to check in any sewing machine is the type as well as the number of stitches available.
While most machines come with tons of stitching patterns for you, it’s important to note the two main patterns you’ll need to sew juts anything your need are zigzag and straight stitches. With these two, you can successfully work on any project at hand.
However, if you want to have fun trying out and using additional stitches in your sewing journey, then you can pick a machine that offers you plenty of them.
Frequency of Use
Being aware of the frequency at which you plan to be using the new machine you’re about to buy will also greatly help you pick a suitable model.
If you just plan to few for hobby (i.e., once in a while), you’ll be better off with a simple machine that doesn’t come with a load of high-end features.
For those who plan to use their machines on a daily/weekly basis, however, you’d want to look for quality, durable machine that can withstand the regular use.
Your Skill Level
If you’re reading this sewing machine, there could be high chances you’re a beginner. Don’t worry though; everyone has to start somewhere, and there’s nothing wrong with being a starter seamstress.
When choosing a machine for sewing, I’d suggest that you look for something simple, with the essential functions to help you learn the basic sewing skills. As you become versed in the field, you can then upgrade to a higher-end model.
As for experienced sewers, I believe you’ve been in the industry for long, and you already know what you need, so go for it!
Accessories Load
Finding what accessories and add-ons your machine comes with is also important when purchasing to ensure you get a good quality sewing machine for your needs.
A good machine should offer you a wide selection of foot pressers as these will help significantly improve your sewing capabilities. Generally, the higher the number of accessories accompanying your machine, the better.
An added benefit of buying a machine that comes with accessories is that it saves you the money you’d used to buy them separately.
Plus more accessories make your work even easier.
Size and Weight
If you plan to be carrying your machine with you to every place you go (or you’re taking sewing classes that require you to bring along your machine), then you should consider looking for a portable model.
Size and weight play a huge role in the portability of a machine. Some machines come with huge sizes as well as weight, which makes them impossible to move from one place to another easily. On the other hand, some machines come with smaller sizes and feel light, making them easy to move around.
However, don’t go for feather-light machines if you plant to sew hard and tough fabric as you might end up getting frustrated.
Motor Size
The motor size dictates the durability of your machine.
The heavier the motor of a given sewing machine is, the stronger the machine becomes. This factor is especially important for people who plan to work with tougher fabrics, like denim, upholstery, etc., as a strong motor will hold up to such fabrics.
What kind of fabric do you plant to sew with your machine?
Noise Level
It’s a known fact that all sewing machines make noise. As the needle moves up and down to create stitches on the fabric you’re working on, it’s inevitable that some sound will be produced.
But how much noise does the machine you wish to buy produce?
Some models are usually louder than the other…they’re so loud that if you start working on your project at night when your kids and neighbors are asleep, you’ll disturb them.
Its, therefore, necessary that you do your research well to ensure the machine you bag home does not produce a lot of noise. Checking the manufacturer’s specs and customer feedback is an easy way to tell how loud the machine you want to buy is.
My recommendation: look for the industrial grade models or those featuring servo motors as they tend to work smoothly while producing less noise.
Brand
Yes, brand matters too.
Just like in any other industry, there are some top brands in the sewing industry that are known to make top-notch models that work according to your expectations.
Some of these brands are too old that even your grandmother knows them.
Names such as Brother, Singer, Janome, Juki, and several others have, for many, many years, set records for unrivaled quality and durability.
I’ll tell you a short story about each of the top brand in the sewing industry later in this post (see you there!)
Warranty
Another thing you ought to look for when buying a machine is the length of warranty it comes with.
While most sewing machines don’t come with many parts that can easily break down, they might show some malfunctioning at some point, e.g., issues with the display screen. Thus, an extended warranty will give you some peace of mind with your new investment.
As you have seen in our favorite sewing machine reviews list above, all the top brands in the industry offer you extended warranties, so you won’t have a problem getting a machine with longer warranty.
Budget
If you set the amount of cash you want to spend in a sewing machine in advance, it’s going to help you narrow down your choices to only the machines that fall within your budget range.
As you already, trying to select the ideal machine from the hundreds of styles and brands already in the market will take you years and headaches. But when choosing from models that are in your budget range, things will get pretty easy.
While setting your budget, keep in mind that you can get a good machine that meets your needs at a cost you can afford, even when on a tight budget.
Later, you can advance to more advanced machines to suit your growing sewing need and skills.
Important Features
In addition to all the top factors we’ve mentioned above, I’d also recommend you to look for some extra features that come with your machine.
According to the experienced sewers, these features make your sewing machine easier and more convenient to use.
Let’s look at these features:
- Speed control
- Lighting
- Automatic needle threader
- Reverse button
- Extra sewing are
- Automatic thread cutter
- Bobbin winder
- Auto buttonhole maker
- Different presser feet
- Tension adjuster
- Top-load bobbin
- Stitch recorder
While your machine might not feature all these extra features, featuring most of them will make it a great model that will see you through your sewing jobs easily.
Sewing Machine Ratings: How We Tested
Remember what I told you earlier?
I spent a total of 72 plus 1 hours researching the top sewing machines that will suit your sewing needs.
Now, you might be wondering how I did my research.
In this section, I’ll show you how I settled on the 12 top-rated machines we’ve just reviewed above…
First, I looked for a team to help me with the task; luckily, I’m surrounded by experienced sewers, so getting the team up and running was quite easy.
We took a list of the 20 sewing machines that had some excellent overall customer ratings. Then, we rated them using three main things- Performance, Ease of use, and Manufacturer customer service.
Below is a quick list of the things we looked for in the sewing machines:
All these factors enabled us to settle on the 12 finest sewing machines that are fit for beginners, intermediate, and advanced users, and can be used to perform all the basic things you’ll expect from a sewing machine.
Top Sewing Machine Brands and Their History:
Here’s what I promised you- the trusted brand names in the sewing world…
Singer
Who doesn’t know Singer sewing machines?
The Singer Corporation was started as I.M. Singer & Co. Boston back in 1851 by Isaac Merritt.
It enjoys its place as the inventor of the very first motorized sewing machine. Not just that, it was also the first machine in which the needle was moving up and down as opposed to side to side.
After its mass production of this machine, the company expanded to Canada, Russia, Germany, with its largest factory (on the entire planet) based in Clydebank, Scotland (it was later closed in 1980).
Today, the brand is owned by the SVP worldwide, the same owners of other sewing machines brands like White and Husqvarna Viking. They offer you a wide variety of models- including computerized, mechanical, and electronic- to pick from.
For those who don’t know, most of the Singer products today are made in China.
Brother
Brother Industries is a Japanese sewing company that also commands respect in the sewing world with its production of top-notch products.
The company was initially started as Yasui Sewing Machine Co. in 1908. And it was named after the sons of the brothers who founded the company inherited it. Before they inherited it, a large population of Japan used the Singer machines, which changed the founder’s sons made significant improvements to the company and started mass production of machines.
Currently, their machines are used all over the world. Their European head office is based in Germany, and the US cooperate office in Bridgewater, NJ (dates back to 1954).
They also offer you a wide range of quality sewing and quilting machines, most of which are quite affordable.
Husqvarna Viking
You may not know this, but Husqvarna Viking is (probably) of the oldest brands in the sewing machines industry. It was started back in 1689 in the Swedish royals arms factory.
The company began production of sewing machines in 1872, and their first product was called Norsdjernan, or Northern Star. Between 1883 and 1925, they produced Freja model which rose to popularity quickly given that its mechanical parts were internally placed, plus it had superior stitching performance.
Around 100 years after producing Northern Star (in 1972), the company made headlines again with their first ever lubrication-free machine, and (in 1980) the first-ever sewing machine that featured letters.
Right now, the company has Emerald and Sapphire lines of quilting and sewing machines, both electronic and computerized models, not to forget overlock machines.
However, most of their machines hang at the higher price end.
The company is also owned by SVP (the owners of White, Pfaff, and Singer sewing machines).
White
The company also stands among the oldest names in the sewing industry, having been founded in 1858 by Thomas White in Massachusetts. It was later moved to Cleveland, Ohio (in 1866).
Thomas’ son Rollin approached his father and convinced him to allow him to start an automobile in one of the sewing company’s corner. The company soon became The White Motor Company that produced bicycles, trucks, automobiles, and so on, from 1900 to 1980.
Later the two companies merged and got a new name- White Consolidated Industries.
During the Second World War, the company halted its production of sewing machines to help manufacture war items.
In 1909, they experienced difficulties trying to market the American made products in foreign market, prompting them to merge with Husqvarna Viking.
Fast forward, in 2006, the White machines were consolidated with the lower end of Husqvarna machines.
Janome
Janome is a Japanese-based sewing machine company. It was founded in 1921, under an initial name Pine Sewing Machine Company.
Later the company switch sits name to Janome. And that was for a particular reason…Janome is Japanese name for snake eye- this was the shape of their new bobbins at the time the company was founded.
The company today has a wide variety of quilting, sewing, overlock, and embroidery machines that fall between mid-range and high price range.
They’ve established their presence in Japan, Thailand, and Taiwan.
Juki
Another sewing machine company based in Japan…
Founded back in 1947, the company opened its first ever US home office in 1974. They are still expanding their business internationally.
Juki is known for having developed the first automatic needle threader and thread trimmer in 1978.
The brand today enjoy far and wide recognition for manufacturing top-of-the-line industrial machines. Besides, they produce top-quality electronic, mechanical, and computerized machines for homes.
Bernina
Bernina is also a remarkable sewing machine company on this planet. It was founded back in Steckborn, Switzerland, 1893. The company later expanded its product reach to international level. And in 1969, they moved their headquarters to Chicago, USA (where they’re still located up to now).
Bernina is known for high-end manufacturing machines that come with a higher price range.
Nearly all their models are computerized sewing or both sewing and embroidery machines. They also manufacture quilting machines.
Pfaff
Last, on our list of the sewing machine brands, we have Pfaff, which was founded in Kaiserslautern, Germany back in 1862. Its founder, Georg Michael Pfaff, was an instrument maker as well as a guitarist.
In 1885, the eldest son of George Pfaff, Jakob, set up the first shop for Pfaff sewing machines in London.
After 50 good years of production, the company was already enjoying massive saves of their machines in up to 64 countries in Africa, Australia, Asia, and Europe.
The sewing machine manufacturer still produces high-end sewing machines in Germany. Like I told you earlier, it’s also owned by SVP.
Fun fact: If you’d want to see the first ever sewing machine that Pfaff made, visit the Munich Museum of Technology in Germany!
Sewing Machine Maintenance Checklist
Regular maintenance of your sewing machine is crucial. It enables your machine to sew better, last longer, and require minimal repairs.
Below, I’d like to share with you some top tips to help you take care of your sewing machine the best way:
Clean Your Machine Regularly
The first and most important step in maintenance of your machine involves cleaning it frequently.
Cleaning helps remove any lint, dust bunnies, and thread bits that might have accumulated around the feed dog and throat plate.
The cleaning process is quite easy as you can do with a nylon brush or small lint brush only.
WARNING: When cleaning your machine, avoid using canned air since the moisture can lead to gunky lint that easily jams up your machine.
Oil Your Machine Regularly
As you already know, your machine comes with many moving parts which need regular lubrication to keep your machine running smoothly and for longer.
However, note that it’s important to use a good sewing machine oil since its intended for use with your sewing machine- without ruining your projects or the machine itself.
Like the cleaning process, oiling is also simple. You only need to put a few (1-3) drops of oil and your machine user guide will show you exactly where to put it.
Use the Appropriate Needle and Thread
Using low-quality thread for sewing won’t do any good to your machine. Likewise, using glazed or waxed thread with your machine isn’t recommended. The coatings are bad for your machines. Have a look at these sewing tutorials, this will help you if you are just starting out.
As for the needle, avoid using bent or dull needles for your sewing needs might result in skipped stitches, looped/broken threads, pulls or runs in your fabric. Worst part- it can damage your machine easily.
I’d advise you to change the needles after every 8 hours of intensive sewing, or after completing a project. You’d also want to use the right needle to match the type of fabric at hand.
Cover Your Machine When Not In Use
When not in use, cover your machine to prevent dust and air from getting access to your machine and reducing its lifespan.
Usually, most machines come with a dust cover. But you can also opt to make your own- provided it keeps off dust.
And oh! Keeping your machine out of sunlight from direct sunlight.
Give Your Machine Annual Professional Servicing
Once every year, take your machine to an expert you can trust for expert servicing of your machine.
A good service should involve cleaning the parts you might not be able to clean without disassembling your machine as well as adjust the tension.
TIP: For more tips on how to take care of your specific sewing machine, read your machine instruction manual.
Types Of Sewing Machines: Which One Is For You?
Did you know that sewing machines come in different types? Below, we take a closer look at the four most popular models you’ll find on the market today:
Mechanical (Manual) Sewing Machine
As the word implies, mechanical sewing machines are operated manually. You’ll need to drive the wheel using one hand while using the other hand, to guide the material you’re sewing through the needle.
They’re generally considered outdated, and most people usually buy them for them as collectible.
However, they still find use in occasional sewers who are on a budget. They can handle basic sewing jobs like cloth repairs, simple clothing, hems, and craft jobs.
If you’re looking for a simple, affordable machine to learn sewing with, then a mechanical model will do.
Electric Sewing Machine
These machines are powered using electricity. They feature a single motor that relies on the electric power to run the sewing needle.
Unlike the mechanical model, electric machines are simpler to operate as they only require you to control the speed of your machine by exerting pressure on its electronic foot pedal. This leaves your hands totally free to guide the fabric you’re working on.
They also offer you more features than the manual models.
Above all, they come with reasonable prices.
Computerized Sewing Machine
Next, we have the computerized machines which basically automate most of the things you’d do with your hands in the mechanical models above.
For your info, nearly all the models on the market today are computerized.
A typical computerized model presents you with an array of features like an LED screen, a well-lit working area, a myriad of presser feet, touchpad controls, and multiple stitching options.
All these features make them extremely easy to use for both beginners and advanced sewers.
However, computerized models will cost more than mechanical models. I’ll recommend everyone who sews regularly to go for a computerized model.
Overlocker Sewing Machines
The overlocker comes with a unique stitch style that gives your garment seams a professional and neat finish.
And as they do this, they also trim off excess seams.
Since these machines are used for specific purposes, you don’t expect to present you with the features of a typical sewing machine. You’ll just need to use them alongside your electric or computerized machine.
Or you can look for a computerized machine that comes with the overlocking feature.
Also, note that the machines vary in features capabilities, sizes, quality, and price. They’re more popular among dressmakers.
Embroidery/Sewing Machine
Some machines come with both sewing and embroidery functions and capabilities, hence the name embroidery/sewing machines.
If you’d want to do embroidery or customize your fabrics- e.g., pillowcases, garments, bedspreads, etc. – then you can opt for this machine.
Buying such a machine to meet both your embroidery and stitching needs is a great way to save money as opposed to buying separate units.
Which of the three types of sewing machines above blends with your sewing needs and expectations?
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which is the best machine to buy for working on your projects?
1. Which is the best machine to buy for working on your projects?Because different machines come with different specialties, keeping in mind what you’ll be using your machine for when buying it will help you get the best machine for your needs.
2. How much should you spend on a sewing machine?
Sewing machines usually come with a wide range of prices- from a few hundred bucks to over a thousand dollars. This means that if you come up with a reasonable budget, you’ll get a machine that will help you successfully work on your projects.
And if you’re on a tight budget, you can get a basic model for less than $100.
3. Is it necessary to buy a machine that comes packed with accessories?
Most machines come with additional accessories included in the box. If you’re an experienced sewer, you might have invested in the necessary accessories already, so you might not need to consider these accessories. But beginner sewers will absolutely need these accessories.
Overall, buying a machine with accessories isn’t an issue as they’re given to you for FREE.
4. How do I ensure that my kids are safe when around my sewing machine?
Some machines come with safety lock function that facilitates safety for your kids- e.g., finger guards to prevent them from hurting their fingers when around your machine. Others come with their feed dogs placed in such a way that the needles remain in fixed position when not in use.
5. What’s the difference between an electric and computerized sewing machine?
An electric machine is powered using electricity, and you operate it by pressing its foot pedal. A computerized machine, on the other hand, comes with more advanced features and programmed settings to make it easier and more convenient to use.
Final Verdict
Honestly, coming up with the above list of the top-rated sewing machines on the market today wasn’t an easy task. We did a lot of work to ensure you have the very best information at hand. We analyzed various models based on crucial factors like construction quality, performance, ease of use. We also analyzed customer feedbacks for various machines and consulted experienced sewing machine users.
The whole process that took a total of 72 plus 1 hours.
That said, I’m fully confident that the 12 best sewing machines we’ve reviewed above will meet ALL your sewing needs- whether you’re a seasoned, intermediate, or beginner sewer.
I couldn’t be of more help, really
Happy shopping and keep sewing!