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A resurging interest in sewing is fueled by sewing machines that let you do amazing things with a needle and thread. Whether you’re making your own custom window treatments, repairing a shirt, or DIY-ing your own formal wear, a sewing machine with the right stitches and features can breeze through delicate or heavy-duty fabrics like tissue paper. Finding the best sewing machine depends on your sewing skills and what you hope to make. Beginners don’t need a plethora of stitches, free-motion capabilities, or specialized presser feet. Advanced sewists, on the other hand, may need a wide range of stitches, a long free arm, and an extended sewing table to make their creations. If you’re somewhere in the middle, there’s a model for you, too. Here are our recommendations for the best sewing machines.
- Best overall: SINGER 7258 Sewing & Quilting Machine
- Best value: Brother GX37 Sewing Machine
- Best computerized: Brother CS7000X Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine
- Best heavy duty: SINGER Heavy Duty 4452 Sewing Machine
- Best for quilting: Janome MC6650 Sewing and Quilting Machine
- Best professional machine for home use: SINGER Professional 14T968DC Serger Overlock
- Best for kids and beginners: Magicfly Mini Sewing Machine with Extension Table
- Best budget: SINGER Mechanical MX60 Sewing Machine
How we chose the best sewing machines
Sewing machines available on today’s market vary from simple, no-frills models to computerized machines that offer state-of-the-art automated features. Newbies and seasoned sewists deserve a machine that treats them right, so we considered several factors. Although mechanical, electric sewing machines work well for basic tasks, the computerized models offer a variety of memory functions that save time and produce consistently positive results. We also considered how easily you can adjust the thread tension, thread the machine, whether the manual is helpful, and if an instructional DVD is included, etc. We looked for machines with a greater selection of stitch options (both decorative and utilitarian) so they can extend the possibilities for creativity in sewing. A presser foot holds the fabric flat as it moves through the machine, and manufacturers deliver added value by including specialized presser feet for various sewing tasks. These are just some of the things we looked for in models that delivery versaliity—from quilting to embroidery for beginners to pros.
The best sewing machines: Reviews & Recommendations
Whether you’re new to sewing and don’t know your hands from your feet or you’re a longtime quilter looking for a computerized machine that can save your stitch patterns, there’s an option for you in our recommendations. We looked at these machines for frame durability, overall versatility, wealth of features and accessories (such as extra bobbins, screwdriver, and other tools needed to care for the machine), their work capacity, but also their overall value.
Best overall: SINGER 7258 Sewing & Quilting Machine
Best overall
Wide and Feature Filled
Pros
- Push-button stitch selection with 100 built-in stitches
- One-step buttonhole foot
- Programmable up/down needle stopping position
- Speed control
Cons
- Soft-sided dust cover, not a hard-sided case
Why it made the cut: Manufactured by a company with a long-standing reputation for high-quality sewing machines, the SINGER 7258 offers automated features and an exceptionally large range of stitch options.
Specs
- Machine weight: 14.6 pounds
- Machine dimensions: 14.5 inches long by 7.5 inches wide by 12 inches tall
- Material: plastic and metal
The SINGER 7258 sewing machine offers a heavy-duty, durable metal frame as well as convenient features that make it versatile and easy to use. Simply push a button to choose from 100 stitches, including 9 basic, 8 stretch, 7 buttonhole, and 76 decorative choices. The machine automatically sets the stitch length, width, and tension, or users may customize the stitch length and width for specific sewing projects. Stitch specifications are visible on an LCD screen.
With threading instructions printed on the machine, a built-in needle threader, and a drop-in bobbin holder with a transparent cover, the machine is ready to go in mere seconds. You can program the needle’s up/down position for different sewing tasks. Quilting and appliqué jobs are made easier when the needle is programmed to stop in the down position, or users may program the needle to stop in the up position for straight seams.
The built-in LED light with a 100,000-hour bulb stays cool to the touch, and speed controls allow the user to specify slow speeds for intricate sewing projects or faster speeds for straight seams. Remove the storage compartment to access the free arm, making it easy to sew around trouser hems, sleeves, and cuffs, or small pieces such as children’s clothing.
The simple, one-step buttonhole foot offers a selection of 6 buttonhole styles. A built-in storage compartment is loaded with additional accessories, including an all-purpose foot, a zipper foot, a blind hem foot, bobbins, thread spool caps, a spool pin, a soft-sided dust cover, and more.
There are many more high-quality SINGER sewing machines, but we also love the Brother CS6000i Sewing and Quilting Machine. It brings a little bit of everything to the sewing table with a wide table, hard case, nine presser feet, and 60 built-in stitches that easily let you expand your sewing abilities. For more options, here are the best-rated Brother sewing machines.
Best value: Brother GX37 Sewing Machine
Best for beginners
Simple and Reliable
Pros
- Automatic needle threader
- Includes instructional DVD
- Small footprint and lightweight
Cons
- Durability
Why it made the cut: It gives a simple way to build skills with reliable performance and enough stitches for beginners to expand their abilities as they learn and master the art of sewing.
Specs
- Machine weight: 10.14 pounds
- Machine dimensions: 12.48 x 7.01 x 16.26 inches
- Material: Metal
The Brother GX37 sewing machine is a dependable model available at a modest price. Although it is not computerized, the Brother GX37 offers numerous features for convenience and versatility.
A dial on the front of the machine facilitates selecting from among 37 built-in stitches, including decorative and utilitarian choices. Stretch, zigzag, and straight stitches are clearly marked on the selection dial. Additionally, the one-step buttonhole stitch and the included buttonhole foot increase the versatility of this machine. The free-arm feature accommodates sewing trouser hems, shirt cuffs, or other projects that require maneuvering around tight spaces in the fabric.
An optimal choice for beginners and experienced sewists, the GX37 includes an automatic needle threader and a jam-resistant drop-in bobbin. These features smooth the way to a pleasurable sewing experience. If assistance is needed, Brother offers free technical support via live chat online or by phone.
Included accessories such as the zigzag foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, button-sewing foot, blind stitch foot, narrow hem foot, free arm, and instructional DVD add to the versatility and functionality of this machine.
Best computerized: Brother CS7000X Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine
Pros
- Automated needle threading and stitch selection
- Accommodates large projects and bulky materials
- Wide range of stitch choices
- Hard-sided, protective storage case
Cons
- May have issues with bobbin and tension
- May not sew well through thick layers of fabric
Why it made the cut: The Brother CS7000X sewing machine provides automated features and built-in stitches that make it an optimal choice for sewists who engage in specialized projects such as embroidery, quilting, and appliqué.
Specs
- Machine weight: 10.5 pounds
- Machine dimensions: 12.2 x 6.65 x 16.26 inches
- Material: Metal
Computerized sewing machines offer several advantages over their mechanical counterparts. The automation of functions—including needle threading, bobbin winding, tension adjustment, and seam securing—provides time-saving convenience for sewists. Additionally, computerized sewing machines make it possible to engage in specialized projects such as appliqué, embroidery, quilting, and heavy-duty sewing tasks.
For quilting and sewing, the Brother CS7000X machine offers the precision, automation, and convenience of computerized features. Stitches can be selected with the touch of a button, with a read-out on the LCD screen. Users may select from among 70 built-in stitches that include decorative, heirloom, and quilting choices as well as straight and utilitarian stitches.
The one-step buttonhole feature offers a choice of seven styles along with automated sizing to produce consistent results. For added convenience, the drop-in bobbin casing is jam-resistant. Brother includes numerous accessories with this sewing machine, including ten sewing feet, a quilting guide, and a hard-sided storage case.
The Brother CS7000X is constructed with durability and work capacity in mind. The metal frame is built to facilitate heavy-duty sewing projects, and a larger needle-to-arm workspace makes room for bulky materials such as quilts. The detachable quilting table provides an extended flat surface accommodating large projects.
Best heavy-duty: SINGER | Heavy Duty 4452 Sewing Machine , Gray
Best heavy duty
Sturdy and Strong
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Strong metal frame
- Stainless-steel bed plate
- Even-feed walking foot for thick, heavy materials
Cons
- Less portable than other machines due to heavier weight
- Not computerized
- Soft-sided dust cover, not hard-sided
Why it made the cut: Constructed with a strong, reinforced, metal frame and a powerful motor, the Heavy Duty 4452 by SINGER can sew through thick fabrics, multiple layers, leather, and vinyl.
Specs
- Machine weight: 14.6 pounds
- Machine dimensions: 15.5 x 6.25 x 12 inches
- Material: Metal
For heavy-duty sewing projects, the average machine simply does not provide the required capacity to sew through thick, heavy fabrics. Projects such as upholstering furniture, sewing through leather and vinyl, and fashioning heavy draperies may require a heavy-duty sewing machine. The SINGER 4452 machine offers a strong, interior metal frame along with powerful features to facilitate sewing jobs that might exceed the capacity of other machines.
The motor in the SINGER 4452 is 60 percent stronger than standard sewing machine motors, providing the power to sew through heavyweight fabrics, leather, and vinyl. Additionally, the strong motor functions at a maximum speed of 1,100 stitches per minute, facilitating the swift completion of big jobs.
This machine offers a selection of 32 stitches, including 6 basic, 7 stretch, and 18 decorative stitch choices. Additionally, users may choose the fully automated one-step-buttonhole stitch to create uniform buttonholes with ease. With the variety of stitch choices, users may fashion clothing, crafts, home decor items, and gifts for friends.
SINGER optimizes several features of this machine for heavy-duty service. The stainless-steel bed plate keeps heavy fabrics moving smoothly. A specialized even-feed walking foot makes it easy to sew through thick layers of fabric, and the nonstick foot is specially made for sewing leather and vinyl.
Best for quilting: Janome MC6650 Sewing and Quilting Machine
Best for quilting
Complete Package
Pros
- 20 memory banks store stitch sequences
- Nine one-step buttonholes
- Needle up/down memory
- Extra-long free arm and sewing table
Cons
- Expensive
Why it made the cut: A breathtaking number of stitches, 20 memory banks, a high-presser foot lift, and an aluminum body make this the best sewing machine for quilting. Get your hands on a machine that will make quilts for years.
Specs
- Weight: 25 pounds
- Machine dimensions: 8.6 x 20.3 x 11.8 inches
- Material: Aluminum
Janome is well-known for the quality of their machines, and their machines come with the price to prove it. Quilters will love the 172 stitch options, two alphabets, and extra-long free arm and sewing table. A large LCD display makes it easy to see the settings and make adjustments as needed. This model also features 20 memory banks to store stitch sequences for quilting.
Among the plentiful stitch and accessory options are nine one-step buttonholes, 12 presser feet, and two easy-change needle plates. This model also features an up/down needle memory to help make precise turns. This model gives sewists the power of choice and creativity. However, the high price is a commitment not meant for the beginner or casual user. For additional options, here are some good sewing machines for quilting.
Best professional machine for home use: SINGER Professional 14T968DC Serger Overlock
Pros
- Serger produces professionally finished seams
- Self-adjusting tension
- 2-3-4-5 thread capability
Cons
- Fewer decorative stitches than other machines
- Not as portable as other machines due to heavier weight
Why it made the cut: For serious hobbyists and cottage-industry sewists, the SINGER Professional 14T968DC fits neatly into the home setting while producing the polished results associated with expert craftspeople.
Specs
- Machine weight: 18.6 pounds
- Machine dimensions: 13.5 x 10.5 x 11.5 inches
- Material: Metal
When sewing becomes a serious hobby or a side hustle that might provide income for the avid sewist, a professional machine might be the ideal choice. Small enough to fit neatly in a craft room or home setting, the SINGER Professional 14T968DC sewing machine offers 2-3-4-5 thread capability to produce overlocking stitches for professional results on a plethora of sewing projects.
The outstanding advantage of a serger machine such as the SINGER 14T968DC is that it sews, finishes, and trims seams in one step. Frayed seams and raw edges are a thing of the past, as the machine delivers professionally finished outcomes every time. Choosing from among 14 built-in stitch choices, users may select decorative as well as utilitarian finishes.
Turn a simple dial to access a selection of varied stitch styles, and the machine will automatically adjust the tension setting. This self-adjusting feature takes the guesswork out of sewing, as the machine delivers consistent results on cover hems, chain stitching, rolled hems, flat locking, and more. With a maximum speed of 1,300 stitches per minute, users may turn out completed projects in record time.
Best for kids and beginners: Magicfly Mini Sewing Machine with Extension Table
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Tutorial videos for beginners
- Included sewing supplies
- Finger guard for safety
Cons
- Not suitable for large sewing projects
- Offers only one basic stitch
- No automated features
Why it made the cut: The Magicfly Mini sewing machine’s diminutive size and lite weight, along with basic functionality and simple operation, will produce satisfying results for children and beginners.
Specs
- Machine weight: 2.2 pounds
- Machine dimensions: 10.43 x 7.48 x 9.06 inches
- Material: Metal
Many sewing enthusiasts and professionals learned to love the craft as children. After starting with hand sewing, children around ages 7 to 9 and older beginners may be ready for a sewing machine. A small, lightweight machine with sufficient capacity to deliver results on basic sewing projects may be the optimal choice.
The Magicfly Mini sewing machine is a mechanical, electrical machine that works on AC power or on batteries. With its small size and 2.2-pound weight, it’s conveniently portable, even for children. An included extension table attaches easily to the machine, providing an enlarged work surface. Additionally, the included sewing kit contains 42 pieces of sewing supplies to get beginners started with their new hobby.
This machine offers a double-thread design that automatically reinforces the stitches and allows users to stop seams neatly without tying off the thread. Threading the needle becomes a simple job with directions imprinted on the front of the machine. To keep procedures uncomplicated, the machine offers one stitch that accommodates most basic sewing projects.
The Magicfly Mini starts with either a button or the foot pedal, and a speed button allows users to choose between fast or slow stitching paces. As an important safety feature, the transparent plastic finger guard keeps kids and beginners from experiencing painful needle punctures. Check out our guide for more beginner-friendly picks.
Best budget: SINGER Mechanical MX60 Sewing Machine
Best value
Affordable Durability
Pros
- Six most common stitches, including buttonhole
- Durable full-metal frame
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- Cannot adjust the stitch length and width
Why it made the cut: This Singer sewing machine has the durability of much more expensive models but keeps things simple with an automatic stitch length and width, making it an excellent budget-friendly choice.
Specs
- Weight: 12.12 pounds
- Machine dimensions: 14.57 x 7.12 x 13.6 inches
- Material: Metal
The Singer MX60 saves dollars on extra stitches and features but provides excellent durability and only the most used six stitches. It even has a four-step automatic buttonhole stitch and a buttonhole foot as one of the three included presser feet.
With a full-metal interior frame, this machine is made to last, yet its compact size remains lightweight and portable. It’s the kind of machine you can take to a friend’s house or a sewing class. If you’re looking for a cheap sewing machine, it’s reasonably priced as well.
This small sewing machine has a feature that’s both a pro and a con. It automatically adjusts the stitch length and width, which is to say you can’t change them. That’s one less step for you to worry about, but there are times when you’ll miss that feature. For example, sewing thick fabrics often works better with some extra stitch length. A zigzag stitch may need to be narrower or wider for different fabrics, too. So, for beginners, it’s one less thing to worry about, but you might miss it when you get more experience.
Things to consider before buying the best sewing machines
Purchasing a sewing machine is not an offhand decision. With numerous options available on today’s market, shoppers may consider several criteria before making a choice. Avid sewists with advanced skills may select a sewing machine with advanced, high-tech capabilities, but a beginner or occasional user might prefer a simple model with straightforward operating procedures. Here’s what to consider before choosing a machine for yourself:
Mechanical vs. computerized
Hobbyists who learned to sew on mechanical models feel more comfortable with these types of sewing machines. However, computerized models offer time-saving and convenient automated functions.
Mechanical sewing machines have mechanical dials, levels, and buttons that control stitch selection, stitch length, stitch width, and tension settings. These models cost less, weigh less, and offer simplicity of use. Mechanical models are also easier to maintain and clean because there’s no computer involved. However, they have a smaller stitch selection and may not offer as many functions.
Computerized sewing machines have a digital display and hundreds of stitch options. The most advanced machines may also have a touchscreen to scroll through menus or download embroidery patterns. The more common ones have buttons that let you scroll through the stitches and make adjustments to length and width. These machines offer more of everything, including dollar signs on the price tag. The downside is they aren’t always the easiest to use, and there is the possibility of computer problems, which take more than a good cleaning to fix.
Number of built-in stitch choices
Highly creative and complex sewing projects require a wide array of decorative and utilitarian stitches. On the other hand, a limited selection of stitches will suffice for most sewing tasks.
The array of included accessories
Sewing machine manufacturers include functional accessories with their products. For example, an array of accessory presser feet allows users to accomplish a variety of sewing tasks. Shoppers may consider the accessory packages included with various sewing machine options.
Weight, size, and portability
Shoppers may consider where the machine will be used, how often it must be transported from one location to another, and the size of an available storage area. Lightweight machines are more portable, but heavy-duty sewing projects may require heavier sewing machines.
Purpose
What do you plan on sewing? Making garments is different from quilting or embroidery. Some models let you do it all from a single machine, while others are more specialized. A standard sewing machine can do embroidery and quilting, but it won’t have presser feet and stitch settings that make quilting or embroidery easier and more precise.
Skill level
The majority of sewing uses two stitches—a straight stitch and a zigzag stitch. Beginners don’t need more than that either, which makes buying a machine with hundreds of stitches unnecessary. A simple model with a few basic stitches and a buttonhole stitch will take care of the majority of sewing needs. However, as you gain skills and expand your sewing repertoire, you may want a more advanced set of stitch options. Advanced sewists may want to download their own patterns directly onto the machine, a feature that’s only found on the most advanced embroidery or quilting sewing machines.
Automatic buttonhole
It might seem strange to base your sewing machine choice on a single feature. But if there’s one feature most people find they miss, it’s an automatic buttonhole feature. Buttonholes are notorious for their difficulty. A machine with this automatic feature does the work for you. It’s still a process and takes some practice, but if you are doing any sewing with a buttonhole, you’re going to need this feature. You might have to do a couple of practice rounds to get the right placement, but an automatic buttonhole and buttonhole foot will do the rest of the work for you.
FAQs
The cost of a sewing machine can range from less than $130 for basic models to more than $1,600 for sewing machines that perform many functions. Options like The Brother CS6000i Sewing and Quilting Machine are good for both beginners and will continue to be useful for people as they develop their sewing skills.
You can embroider with a sewing machine. It’s not as easy, exact, nor will a standard machine have as many options as an embroidery machine. You’ll need an embroidery hoop, embroidery thread, and a tutorial (there are many free ones online) to create your first embroidered creation with a standard machine.
Thomas Saint invented the first sewing machine in 1790. However, there’s only evidence of the first sewing machine, not an actual model still in existence. Saint’s original design wasn’t widespread for many years until improvements in the design made it practical for widespread use in the clothing industry.
Sewing machine designs vary from model to model. However, there are some universal features involved in the setup process. First, place the sewing machine on a sturdy, flat surface. Plug the pedal into the machine. Some models have the electrical cord and pedal on the same cord, while others have separate cords for each. Before turning on the machine, thread the needle following the instruction manual or guide imprinted on the machine (a common feature on modern sewing machines). Drop the bobbin in, pull its thread through, and choose your stitch. From there, you should be ready to go.
SINGER and Brother emerged as the most reliable brands on the U.S. market, demonstrating quality over many years of service. BERNINA is also a dependable and well-known brand offering high-end sewing machines at more expensive prices.
The SINGER brand started in 1851, when Isaac Singer patented his sewing machine invention.
Mechanical sewing machines are electrical machines with simple dials and knobs for making adjustments. Electronic and computerized sewing machines offer many built-in stitch options, automated functions, touch screens, and LCD displays as well as programming for intricate embroidery projects.
Final thoughts on the best sewing machines
- Best overall: SINGER 7258 Sewing & Quilting Machine
- Best value: Brother GX37 Sewing Machine
- Best computerized: Brother CS7000X Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine
- Best heavy duty: SINGER Heavy Duty 4452 Sewing Machine
- Best for quilting: Janome MC6650 Sewing and Quilting Machine
- Best professional machine for home use: SINGER Professional 14T968DC Serger Overlock
- Best for kids and beginners: Magicfly Mini Sewing Machine with Extension Table
- Best budget: SINGER Mechanical MX60 Sewing Machine
When selecting a sewing machine, shoppers may begin with an assessment of their personalized sewing needs. Numerous product options available at various price points suit those who sew occasionally for clothing repairs and simple home decor, as well as those who complete large, complex sewing projects on a regular basis. Shoppers may evaluate their level of competence and interest in advancement in the art of sewing before investing in a sewing machine. The Brother CS6000i Sewing and Quilting Machine provides a balance of features with ease of use that make it our top choice. Beginners can grow and use it for years, while advanced sewists will get a high-quality machine with an array of stitches and a wide sewing table. However, if you’re looking for the best sewing machine that can take heavy use daily, including heavy fabrics, look no further than the SINGER 4423 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine.
