Best Sewing Machine
Are you looking for a sewing machine but not sure where to start?
Searching for a sewing machine can be overwhelming as there are so many different types and so many options available to buy. We have created this article to help you find the right sewing machine for you.
This article will provide you with everything you need to know about sewing machines, including how they work, the different types you can buy, and which sewing machines are the best ones.
- What Is a Sewing Machine?
- How Does a Sewing Machine Work?
- Types of Sewing Machine
- Best Sewing Machine
- Best Electronic Sewing Machine
- Best Domestic Model Sewing Machine
- Best Industrial Model Sewing Machine
- Best Mechanical Sewing Machine
- Best Lockstitch Sewing Machine
- Best Blind Stitch Sewing Machine
- Best Chain Stitch Sewing Machine
- Best Button Sewing Machine
- Best Mini Sewing Machine
- Best Sewing Machine for Beginners
- Best Handheld Sewing Machine
- Best Kids Sewing Machine
- What to Consider Before Buying a Sewing Machine
- FAQs
- Sources
What Is a Sewing Machine?
A sewing machine is a type of machine that has a mechanically driven needle. The purpose of a sewing machine is for sewing or stitching fabrics and materials together with thread.
Sewing machines can perform a range of stitching styles and can be used for several things, such as creating hems, stitching embroidery patterns, and adding buttons to garments or other items.
There are many different types of sewing machines, and each one tends to serve a different purpose.
How Does a Sewing Machine Work?
A sewing machine works by pushing thread through fabric via the needle. Once the thread is through the fabric, a component within the machine puts a knot in the thread before it is pulled back up through the fabric.
This process binds two pieces of fabric together with the knots as the core of the seam. This is how a basic sewing machine works with a straight stitch.
However, there are many different stitch types on a sewing machine, and each one works a little bit differently. The idea with a sewing machine is that it uses thread and a needle to create stitching.
Types of Sewing Machine
If you are new to sewing machines, you may be surprised to learn that there are several different types of sewing machines.
Below, we will take a look at the different types of sewing machines and the pros and cons of each type:
Hand Operated Sewing Machine
A hand-operated sewing machine is an old-style machine that was once the only option of sewing machines. The wheel of this machine is operated by hand via a handle.
The downside to this is that it takes an extremely long time to sew things, especially when compared to modern sewing machines. This type of sewing machine is best suited to those looking for something vintage in style.
Treadle Sewing Machine
A treadle sewing machine is operated via a base stand which you treadle to move the wheel. This sewing machine works similarly to any other machine, apart from the extra manual labour that is involved.
This machine is best suited to those who would rather not use electricity to power the machine.
Mechanical Sewing Machine
This simple sewing machine is best suited for those who want to make a hobby out of sewing.
It features simple knobs for control and allows you to make simple stitches. These mechanical knobs for changing the settings are what give this machine its name.
These sewing machines tend to be very affordable and easy to use.
Electronic Sewing Machines
An electronic sewing machine has many options for combing stitches. This type of machine operates with convenient switches and offers a lot more stitch selections than a simple mechanical sewing machine.
An electric sewing machine comes with a built-in computer that runs all of the motors inside. Some machines even feature LCD’s and touchscreens.
Lockstitch Sewing Machine
This type of machine tends to sew straight stitched seams and zigzag stitching.
These machines will usually use two threads and create a stitch similar to a hand-sewn stitch. The stitching will look the same on both sides of the fabric.
These machines are great for when you want to get this particular stitching done quickly.
Chain Stitch Sewing Machine
This type of machine creates a chain stitch which is sewn onto fabric with just one thread. The thread is looped around underneath the fabric and around itself to form a chain under the fabric.
This can sew in straight stitched seams or zigzag stitching. This machine can also be used for binding and decorative sewing.
Blind Stitch Sewing Machine
This is a specialist sewing machine usually used in industrial settings to create blind stitch hemming. This is basically an invisible seam on hems. If you are looking for a machine that can create these types of hems quickly and efficiently, this is the machine for you.
These machines tend to be great for when you want to get this particular stitching done quickly, however, they have limited capabilities regarding other stitching types or additional features.
Cover Stitch Sewing Machine
These are also specialised sewing machines that create cover stitches. These can make great cover hems on clothing. You can create narrow cover stitches, wide cover stitches, or tri-cover stitches with this machine.
These sewing machines are used for binding, hemming, topstitching, or adding decorative elements. These machines are also great for when you want to get this particular stitching done quickly, but they have limited capabilities with other stitching types or additional features.
Button Sewing Machine
This type of sewing machine is specifically designed to sew buttons. This can include a range of different types of buttons, and the sewing is fast and efficient.
If you are specifically looking to sew buttons quickly, this is the best machine for the job.
Best Sewing Machine
As you can see, there are several different types of sewing machines. Once you identify which type of sewing machine you need, it’s time to find the best one to suit your needs. To help you with your search for a sewing machine, we have created this list of sewing machine reviews.
We have researched various sewing machine models and narrowed down the best ones. See below for the best sewing machines in each category and the advantages and disadvantages of each one:
Best Electronic Sewing Machine
Brother FS40 40-Stitch Electronic Sewing Machine
This Brother electric sewing machine features an amazing 40 different stitches making it perfect for creating a huge range of different items. This sewing machine is best suited to advanced sewers.
However, if you’re new to sewing and want an advanced machine, this one is easy enough to use that it won’t be a problem.
It features an automatic bobbin winder, so you don’t have to worry about winding your bobbins manually. Automatic stitch selections make this machine even easier to use.
The machine comes with a DVD that explains exactly how everything works – perfect for if you’re a beginner. It also has the benefit of coming with a three-year manufacturer’s warranty for your peace of mind.
Things we liked
- 40 different stitching options
- Easy to use
- Automatic bobbin winder
- Automatic stitch selections
- Helpful DVD included
- 3-year warranty
Things we didn't like
- Quite expensive
Best Domestic Model Sewing Machine
Brother AE1700 Sewing Machine
The Brother AE1700 is a traditional sewing machine with simple controls. It features 17 different stitches, so you can easily create a huge range of different things with this one machine.
It features an automatic bobbin winder, so you don’t need to worry about manually winding your bobbins.
It features a four step buttons hole so you can sew perfect buttonholes in different sizes. This machine has many features and is very easy to use – great for beginners. It comes with an instructional DVD that tells you everything you need to know about the machine.
Things we liked
- 17 different stitching options
- Easy to use
- Automatic bobbin winder
- Great for Beginners
- Helpful DVD included
- 3-year warranty
Things we didn't like
- Not as many stitching options as the electric sewing machine
Best Industrial Model Sewing Machine
Juki DDL-8700 Industrial Sewing Machine
This particular sewing machine features everything you need from an industrial sewing machine. All of the components are strong and heavy-duty, allowing you to perform even the most difficult sewing tasks.
The machine comes almost completely assembled – the only thing that needs to be assembled is the thread stand. It runs quietly and is very easy to control. With so many great reviews, it’s no wonder this machine is so popular.
Things we liked
- Heavy-duty machine
- It comes almost completely assembled
- Easy to use
- Easy to control
- Able to perform a huge range of sewing tasks
Things we didn't like
- Very expensive
Best Mechanical Sewing Machine
Singer Classic 23-Stitch Heavy-Duty Mechanical Sewing Machine
The Singer Classic heavy-duty mechanical sewing machine features a metal interior frame and a stainless steel bed plate. It provides extra-high sewing speeds so you can easily get through a lot of sewing tasks very quickly.
With the powerful motor, this machine can sew through just about anything. It is an easy-to-use machine and features an automatic needle threader to make it even easier to use.
If you are looking for a powerful mechanical sewing machine, this is the perfect option for you.
Things we liked
- Heavy-duty machine
- Extra-high sewing speeds
- Powerful motor
- Easy to use
Things we didn't like
- Very expensive
Best Lockstitch Sewing Machine
Brother S-7100DD Heavy Weight Lockstitch Industrial Sewing Machine
This lockstitch sewing machine can help make heavy-weight sewing a breeze. The direct-drive motor operates without a drive belt and can operate on a lower power voltage than standard sewing machines.
The machine is very easy to use and comes fully equipped with a motor, table, cotton stand, and head. If you’re looking for a powerful and reliable lockstitch sewing machine, this is the right choice for you.
Things we liked
- Powerful machine
- It comes with everything you need
- Reliable
- Easy to use
Things we didn't like
- Quite a large machine
- Very expensive
Best Blind Stitch Sewing Machine
Success Blindstitch Machine
This small and handy blind stitch sewing device is perfect for those who want to perform blind stitches at home. The machine features everything you need to easily create things using blind stitches.
You can easily create great hems on your garments and other sewing items. This particular machine also has the benefit of coming with a two-year parts and labour warranty.
Things we liked
- Compact machine
- Easily performs blind stitches
- Great for sewing enthusiasts
- 2-year warranty
Things we didn't like
- Limited on capabilities
- Expensive
Best Chain Stitch Sewing Machine
Juki MCS-1500 Cover Stitch and Chain Stitch Machine
This machine is great for creating things such as simple hems, sleeve cuffs and necklines. The stitching stretches, so it is also ideal for stretch fabrics.
This machine allows you to adjust the differential feed to sew beautiful finishes.
If you’re looking for a reliable chain stitch sewing machine, this is the one for you. It also has the benefit of coming with a 30-day Amazon warranty followed by a two-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Things we liked
- Great at performing chain stitches
- Create beautiful finishes
- Reliable
- 2-year warranty
Things we didn't like
- Quite a bulky machine
- Limited on capabilities
- Very expensive
Best Button Sewing Machine
KPCB 505 Sewing Machine with Buttonholing
This machine is great for creating things such as simple hems, sleeve cuffs and necklines. The stitching stretches, so it is also ideal for stretch fabrics.
This machine allows you to adjust the differential feed to sew beautiful finishes.
If you’re looking for a reliable cover stitch sewing machine, this is the one for you. It also has the benefit of coming with a 30-day Amazon warranty followed by a two-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Things we liked
- Great at performing chain stitches
- Create beautiful finishes
- Reliable
- 2-year warranty
Things we didn't like
- Quite a bulky machine
- Very expensive
- Limited on capabilities
Best Mini Sewing Machine
Magicfly Portable Sewing Machine for Beginners
The Magicfly portable sewing machine is a brilliant compact machine that comes with a range of features. It has 12 built-in stitches, so you have a range of sewing options with this machine.
It also comes with a range of additional accessories such as changeable feet, bobbin accessories, a tape measure, scissors, and more.
The machine comes with an expansion table which is perfect for when you’re sewing larger pieces of fabric. This machine can be powered by electricity or batteries, so you can take it with you on the go.
The small size means that it is easily portable and won’t take up too much room wherever you decide to place it.
Things we liked
- Compact Machine
- Portable
- 12 stitching options
- It runs on electricity or batteries
- Range of additional accessories included
- It comes with an expansion table
Things we didn't like
- It doesn’t have as many features as other models
Best Sewing Machine for Beginners
MARIG Sewing Machine for Beginners with Instructional DVD
This beginners sewing machine is the perfect starter machine for anyone who is looking to get into sewing. It comes with 20 built-in stitches, so you can create a range of designs and produce a variety of different items.
Some of the stitches include zigzag stitching, stretch stitches, blind hem stitches, and decorative stitches, among many more.
The machine works by a hand switch or foot pedal, so you can easily control the machine in a way that you’re comfortable with.
There are many accessories included with this machine – you will get everything you need to get started with sewing.
It also comes with a DVD that provides you with instructions about the machine so that beginners can learn how to use it and learn more about sewing.
Things we liked
- Great for beginners
- 20 built-in stitches
- Range of accessories included
- Easy to use
- Easy to control
- It comes with an instructional DVD
Things we didn't like
- N/A
Best Handheld Sewing Machine
Mini Handheld Sewing Machine by LIUNOVIP
This handheld sewing machine is a great, portable sewing machine that works effectively at creating simple sewing stitches. It works via a battery, so the machine can be taken with you wherever you go.
The one-button operation makes sewing a breeze with this handy little machine.
It features an automatic cloth feeding function, making the sewing even easier for you. The machine is suitable for sewing a range of fabrics.
It comes with a handy user manual that teaches you how to thread the machine and sew easily with it.
Things we liked
- Effective sewing
- Portable
- One-button operation
- Easy to use
- Suitable for a range of fabrics
- It comes with a helpful user manual
- Great for small sewing tasks
Things we didn't like
- Very small device
- Limited on capabilities
Best Kids Sewing Machine
Cool Maker Sew Cool Sewing Machine for Kids
This children’s sewing machine is safe for children aged over six. If your child is interested in sewing, but you’re worried about them getting injured on an adult sewing machine, this child’s sewing machine is the perfect alternative.
It allows you to magically sew without thread, foot pedals, bobbins or sewing machine needles. So with this in mind, this machine is very safe and easy for children to use.
It comes with five trendy pre-cut projects for the child to work on.
The machine is powered by four AA batteries and comes with all of the tools and accessories that your child needs to create those five pre-designed items.
Things we liked
- Safe for children aged over six
- Perfect first sewing kit for kids
- Fun to use
- It comes with everything your child needs to create pre-made designs
- Portable
Things we didn't like
- Batteries not included
- Only a novelty sewing machine
What to Consider Before Buying a Sewing Machine
There are several things that you may need to consider when buying a sewing machine. Below is a list of the things that you may want to think about before you commit to buying one:
Type of Sewing Machine
The type of sewing machine is a very important factor to think about when you’re looking to buy a sewing machine. There are many different types of sewing machines, and they all tend to do different things.
If you already know what you want to achieve from your sewing machine, you can narrow down your search to a specific type of machine.
If you are unsure or new to sewing, then it may be worth researching the right type of machine for you before you commit to buying a sewing machine.
Cost of the Machine
The cost of the machine can play a part in your search for a sewing machine. Some machines can be extremely expensive, so if you’re on a tight budget, you may end up disappointed.
It would be smart to have a budget in mind before you start your search so that you can narrow down the search to within your budget and avoid disappointment.
Size of the Machine
The size of the sewing machine is an important factor to think about when purchasing a sewing machine. Sewing machines come in a variety of different sizes, and some can be quite bulky.
If you’re limited on space or plan on transporting your sewing machine, you’ll want to choose a smaller machine. However, if space isn’t an issue, you could opt for one of the larger machines.
Accessories Included
Some sewing machines will come with a range of additional accessories such as scissors and a tape measure to make sewing easier. You may already have these items at home, so you may not need to worry about the additional accessories.
However, for those who are new to sewing, these additional accessories can sometimes be great. It’s worth thinking about which accessories you would like to be included with your machine so that you can narrow your search down to those specific machines.
FAQs
How do you thread a sewing machine?
Threading a sewing machine may seem like an unnerving task to anyone who has never done it before. However, it is actually quite simple once you know what you’re doing. Follow the steps below to thread your sewing machine easily:
- Place the spool of thread onto the spool pin located on the right side of the machine.
- Pull the end of the thread from the spool on the top of the machine and bring it across to the left. Then, thread it through the thread guide on the top of the machine.
- Next, follow the directional arrows and pull the thread through the guide and towards you. You will need to loop the thread around the tension disk at the bottom and then back upwards towards the top and through the second thread guide.
- Once you’ve created that ‘U’ shape, you then need to wind the thread around the take-up lever at the top and then back down towards the needle. The lever will have a hole cut out near the top that the thread needs to go through.
- Finally, you can then thread the needle. Once threaded, pull several inches of thread through the hole and out of the other side and then pull this excess thread through the gap in the small metal presser foot underneath it.
How do you wind a bobbin?
Again, winding a bobbin can seem like a difficult task if you don’t know what you’re doing. Take the steps below to easily wind the bobbin on your sewing machine:
- Place your spool of thread on the spool pin on top of the sewing machine. The spool should be placed so that the thread will be released counterclockwise.
- Pull the thread out and wind it around the bobbin winding tension disk at the top of the sewing machine. This will be on the opposite side of the machine to the spool pin and will be located above the needle.
- Next, take the end of the thread, insert it into one of the bobbin holes, and wrap the thread around the bobbin a few times to secure it.
- Then, place the bobbin on the bobbin pin and slide the pin over to the right to lock the bobbin in place, ready for winding.
- Next, start winding the bobbin for a few seconds by pressing the bobbin winding button or by pushing on the foot pedal. This will ensure the thread is securely wrapped around the bobbin. After a few rotations, you can stop and cut off the excess thread that is sticking out of the bobbin hole.
- Then, finish winding the bobbin completely with thread until it is full and then slide the bobbin back to the left
Can you hem trousers with a sewing machine?
Yes, you can very easily hem trousers using a sewing machine. It is a simple case of taking the measurements, cutting the excess fabric away and then pinning the fabric up to the desired hem. Once pinned, you can then sew your new hem using the sewing machine.
Why does my sewing machine keep skipping stitches?
There are several reasons why this may be. Below is a list of the reasons that could be causing your machine to skip stitches:
- Your needle may be bent
- The needle may be blunt
- The needle may be inserted incorrectly
- The pressure on the foot when sewing may be insufficient
How often should I have my sewing machine cleaned and serviced?
This will depend on how often your sewing machine is used and what type of work is being done using the machine. Cotton fabrics and thread will usually create more lint build-up in your machine than other materials.
When you service and clean your machine, it allows it to operate smoothly. If you notice a build-up in your machine or it starts performing to a lower standard, then it may be time for a clean.
If your machine has been in storage for some time, then it will need to be serviced before use as the lubricants tend to dry up over time.
