Top 10 Best Sewing Machines for Beginners
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Many people who consider taking up sewing for recreation or practical reasons can be overwhelmed by the number and types of sewing machines available. We wanted to take a look at ten products to find the best sewing machine for beginners and help up-and-comers get an idea of what product might best fit their needs.
Product FAQ
1. What Is a Beginner’s Sewing Machine?
A beginner’s sewing machine is a machine that matches the user’s novice skill set and allows them to grow their skills as a user. The most expensive machines are sometimes too complicated for beginners, and the cheapest machines may be hard to use. A potential sewer should know what tasks they want to accomplish on their beginner’s machine and then research what machines perform those tasks in a simple, straightforward way.
2. What Is SPM?
SPM is a measurement of a sewing machine’s stitches per minute. Usually SPM is measured by its maximum number of stitches per minute.
How We Reviewed
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In our quest to find the best sewing machine for beginners, we reviewed products based on their unique features as well as cost and availability. We also looked at each machine’s warranty and some noteworthy pros and cons.
We attempted to look at a wide variety of price ranges, sizes, and features while returning to the idea of serving new users. The best machine for veteran sewers might not be the best sewing machine for beginners. Likewise, small machines are not necessarily geared for beginners; in fact, small machines can take additional time to master due to their unique parts.
What We Reviewed
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- Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine
- SINGER One Easy-to-Use Computerized Sewing Machine
- Janome 3128 Sewing Machine
- Brother XL2600I 25-Stitch Free-Arm Sewing Machine
- KPCB Mini Sewing Machine
- SINGER Start 1304 Sewing Machine
- Juki MO654DE Serger
- MICHLEY LSS-505 Lil’ Sewing Machine
- Janome Magnolia 7318 Sewing Machine
- Brother Project Runway CS5055PRW Electric Sewing Machine
Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine
Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine, Lightweight, Full Featured, 27…
- 27 Unique built-in stitches: The XM2701 includes 27 built-in stitches including…
- Automatic needle threader and drop-in top bobbin: This sewing machine includes an…
- Included accessories: The XM2701 comes with 6 sewing feet, 3-piece needle set, twin…
- Versatile free arm: This free arm sewing machine is perfect for a wide range of everyday…
- At your side support: The XM2701 sewing machine comes with Brother At your side support…
Features
A simple to use machine with 27 stitches, the Brother XM2701 is a great choice for beginners. It comes equipped with a simple drop-in bobbin to end frustration trying to get your thread right, as well as an automatic needle threader.
It also has an instructional DVD, so you don’t have to rely on written directions.
Not just that, but Brother offers free tech support by phone, or live chat, for the life of your machine.
Pros
- Easy to read dial with plenty of stitch options
- Lifetime tech support
- Automatic needle threader and drop in bobbin
CONS
- May pucker fabric for some users
- Takeup lever may be difficult to access
Warranty
The Brother XM2701 comes with a 25-year limited warranty. Return windows may vary.
SINGER One Easy-to-Use Computerized Sewing Machine
SINGER | ONE Vintage-Style Computerized Sewing Machine with 24…
- SINGER SEWING MACHINE: The SINGER One Vintage-Style Computerized Sewing Machine has 24…
- AUTOMATIC NEEDLE THREADER SEWING MACHINE: After following the threading path printed right…
- AUTOMATIC REVERSE SEWING MACHINE: Push the conveniently located automatic reverse button…
- SEWING MACHINE ACCESSORIES: A variety of accessories are included with all-purpose foot,…
- This sewing machine is warranted for use in the US and Canada at 110 volts only.
Features
The SINGER One Easy-to-Use Computerized Sewing Machine combines a traditional style with computerized technology. It offers twenty-four factory stitches along with a pair of auto-buttonhole stitches.
An automatic needle threading option avoids the frustration of straining to thread the needle eye. The adjustable foot presser can be altered for each project’s positioning. The SINGER One Easy-to-Use Computerized Sewing Machine can easily tackle multiple layers of fabric.
To reinforce high-strain areas, a reverse features allows you to go back over areas requiring extra stitching. Your purchase comes with multiple feet, needles, bobbins, spool pins, caps, screwdriver, and more.
Pros
- Reverse option
- Automatic needle threading
CONS
The SINGER One Easy-to-Use Computerized Sewing Machine offers a twenty-five-year warranty on the body of the machine. The motor and wiring are warrantied for five years. Other components, such as belts, are covered for twelve months.
Janome 3128 Sewing Machine
Features
The Janome 3128 Sewing Machine is an affordable option under $150 that still offers the finesse and strength to handle all your common sewing needs. It comes with eight built-in stitches and a four-step buttonhole option. Stitches can be selected with a user-friendly dial.
The machine’s lay-in thread design makes it easy to use. Your purchase comes with a pair of feet, needles, bobbins, pin cushion, and a seam ripper.
Pros
- Affordable but still durable
- Lay-in thread design
- Easy to use out of box
CONS
- Limited stitch options
- Fewer bells and whistles at low price point
The Janome 3128 offers a twenty-five-year warranty on defective materials and craftsmanship. A separate electrical warranty covers two years from your purchase date.
Brother XL2600I 25-Stitch Free-Arm Sewing Machine
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Features
A perfect sewing machine for beginners, the Brother XL2600i is affordable and dependable. A lightweight design and easy-to-use features can help users grow from basic sewing to customized projects.
The product is sufficient for all common tasks, such as altering and mending clothes, crafting, or creating original quilts and keepsakes. It comes with twenty-five built-in stitches, a free arm for sewing tricky locations, and a simple, auto-size buttonhole.
The needle is easily threaded, and the drop-in bobbins are perfect for Brother XL2600I users.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Simple but full of features
- Affordable price point
CONS
- No display screen
- A lot of plastic construction
The XL2600i comes with a twenty-five-year limited warranty that covers the body of the machine. Electrical parts are covered for two years, and a one-year warranty is offered for parts, labor, and accessories.
KPCB Mini Sewing Machine
KPCB Mini Sewing Machine with Upgraded Eco-Friendly Material
- 【Upgraded Material】Compared to the ordinary sewing machines, it features upgraded…
- 【Extension Table】Large extension table stabilize the machine and makes the sewing…
- 【Foot Pedal Operation】Electrical sewing machine with foot pedal. Concentrated your…
- 【Automatic Bobbin Rewinding】Built-in winding pole and spool assist to rewind the…
- 【Three Month Guarantee】Please learn the machine due to its multifunction. Please do…
Features
The KPCB Mini Sewing Machine is certainly unique among the products we have looked at so far. Weighing less than three pounds, the KPCB is a lightweight model for simple stitching. However, the design is advanced enough to allow the three-pound wonder to get important jobs done.
The KPCB has a built-in lamp and thread cutter. Though small, this is not a kid’s toy. It’s an easy-to-use, eco-friendly sewing machine perfect for many small jobs. There is an upgrade package available that adds an extension table, foot pedal, needle, threader, bobbins, and more.
Pros
- Advanced design allows extremely compact product
- Automatic rewind on bobbin
- Affordable price point
- Very low price point
CONS
- Only used for simple jobs
- One straight-line stitching option
- Short warranty
The KPCB Mini Sewing Machine comes with a three-month warranty.
SINGER Start 1304 Sewing Machine
SINGER Start 1304 6 Built-in Stitches, Free Arm Best Sewing Machine…
- BEST SEWING MACHINE: The SINGER Start 1304 sewing machine is basic, simple, and…
- : SINGER Start 1304 Start Free Arm Model Sewing Machine has 25 Year Limited
- LIGHTWEIGHT AND PORTABLE: This lightweight and portable machine weighs only 7 pounds,…
- AUTOMATIC BOBBIN WINDING SEWING MACHINE: To wind a bobbin, simply follow the numbered…
- SINGER Start 1304 ACCESSORIES: Includes All-Purpose Foot, Zipper Foot, Buttonhole Foot,…
Features
The SINGER Start 1304 Sewing Machine comes with six built-in stitches that can be selected on a simple dial. Stitch length and width are preset on the SINGER Start 1304, so what can be a limitation to veteran sewers is a perk for beginners.
The six stitches serve the most basic functions, including straight stitching, zigzags, hemstitching, or fancy embellishments. There is also a four-step buttonhole feature that adds even more practicality to your SINGER Start 1304 tasks.
The machine also offers easy threading, twin needle sewing options, and lightweight portability.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Affordable
- Great for beginners
CONS
- Limitations for advanced users
- Only six stitch selections
This product comes with a twenty-five-year warranty on the body of the machine. The motor and wiring are warrantied for five years. Other components, such as belts, are covered for twelve months.
Juki MO654DE Serger
JUKI MO654DE Portable Thread Serger Sewing Machine
- 2/3/4 Thread serger with automatic rolled hem
- Color coded threading breakaway looper external adjustment for stitch length and…
- Powerful knife system with dedicated drive mechanism. Sewing Speed: Max. 1500 spm
- Sews light to heavy weight fabric. Max. Stitch Length- 4mm
- Safety Switch machine will not run when swing cover is open.Differential Feed:0.7 : 2.0…
Features
The Juki MO654DE Serger is an industrial-strength sewing machine made for use in your home. As a serger, the JUKI product can trim a seam and enclose the edge of the fabric. The seem cut and casing are accomplished in one step. It offers two, three, and four-thread serger. The threads are color-coded to allow for easy differentiation.
The product features adjustments for stitch length and differential feed and has a multi-purpose foot for a wide range of jobs. The machine’s knife is calibrated for accuracy, and a safety switch helps protect users from accidents when the cover is open.
Use your Juki MO654DE Serger for blind stitching, piping, cording, and much more. Sew at speeds up to 1500 SPM.
Pros
- Safety features
- Color-coded thread options
- Seem cut and casing in one step
CONS
- Serger threading is always tricky
- Short warranty for an expensive product
The Juki Serger comes with a two-year warranty on the motor and electrical components. Consumables, such as knife blades and bulbs, have no warranty. All other parts fall under a five-year mechanical warranty.
MICHLEY LSS-505 Lil’ Sewing Machine
Features
The MICHLEY LSS-505 Lil’ Sewing Machine is a double-thread product with eight factory stitch patterns. The double thread feature can be used at double speed with forward and reversible sewing.
At barely over five pounds, the small machine is useful for sewing small tears or similar jobs. It also has a built-in sewing light, a drawer for accessories, automatic winding for the bobbins, and a thread cutter.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Can run on batteries
- Eight stitch count for small machine
CONS
- There is no buttonhole stitch
- Machine lacks seam guides
The MICHLEY LSS-505 Lil’ Sewing Machine includes a one-year warranty against material defects and related labor.
Janome Magnolia 7318 Sewing Machine
Janome Magnolia 7318 Sewing Machine with Exclusive Bundle
- Top loading jam proof bobbin system for tangle free sewing
- 7-piece feed dog which ensures precision fabric control
- 18 stitches including a built-in buttonhole
- Handy carrying handle | 110-volt machine, for use in US only
- Bonus Package Includes: Janome Muffling Mat, Schmetz 90/14 Universal Needles (5pk), 10…
Features
The Janome Magnolia 7318 Sewing Machine offers eighteen factory stitch options with a four-step buttonhole. It is a precise machine capable of servicing high-end and specialty fabrics.
The bobbin system is a top-loading, jam-resistant scheme alongside a seven-part feed dog. Many users complain of its complicated setup from the box.
Pros
- Jam-resistant
- Eighteen stitch options
CONS
- Cost-to-performance ratio
- Complicated setup
This product comes with a fifteen-year warranty on the body of the machine. The motor, pedal, and belts are warrantied for one year, and the remaining components feature a two-year warranty.
Brother Project Runway CS5055PRW Electric Sewing Machine
Brother CS5055PRW Sewing Machine, Project Runway, 50 Built-in…
- 50 UNIQUE BUILT-IN STITCHES: The Brother Project Runway CS5055PRW features 50 built-in…
- AUTOMATIC NEEDLE THREADER AND DROP-IN TOP BOBBIN: This sewing machine includes an…
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: The CS5055PRW comes with 7 sewing feet, 3-piece needle set, twin…
- LCD SCREEN: Simply select your stitches with the push of a button and view your selection…
- AT YOUR SIDE SUPPORT: The CS5055PRW sewing machine comes with Brother at your side support…
Features
The Brother Project Runway CS5055PRW Electric Sewing Machine offers a wide range of fifty factory stitch options, each with high-end, consistent quality. Users have the ability to customize styles, and the free arm makes it easy to sew cuffs, inseams, and sleeves.
This Brother machine can sew at speeds of 850 SPM, combining speed and precision. It includes six feet as you create overcasting edges and blind hems, install zippers and buttons, perform twin needle top stitching, and much more.
Pros
- Plentiful stitch options
- Speed and precision
- Great price-to-performance ratio
CONS
- Lightweight, but can shake when working
This Brother product comes with a twenty-five-year limited warranty that covers the body of the machine. Electrical parts are covered for two years, and a one-year warranty is offered for parts, labor, and accessories.
The Verdict on the Best Sewing Machine for Beginners
Choosing the best sewing machine for beginners is a difficult task. We attempted to review a very wide variety of machines in order to match the unique needs of each new user. In the end, we gave our official nod of approval to the Janome 3128.
We feel this machine has a wide variety of perks to fit the needs of many potential beginners. We found the Janome 3128 available for under $150 in multiple locations. The price point is enough to equal a meaningful investment while still being affordable for most buyers.
The Janome 3128 also brings versatility to the table thanks to its 1/4-inch seam foot and free arm. While there are many great products on the market, we believe the Janome 3128 is the best sewing machine for beginners.
