New to sewing? I know it can be hard to decide which product would be best for your skill level and needs.
Sewing can be a quick hobby to pick up, so you may want to invest in a machine that will grow as you do.
Buying your first sewing machine is an exciting, but at times overwhelming process with so many options on the market.
In this article, I reviewed 7 beginner sewing machines on the market today so that you can choose the best sewing machine for you.
Which of these sewing machines for beginners is the best?
I’ve condensed the seven reviews down further into some top categories to help you choose your first sewing machine.
Here’s a quick look at the top 3 best sewing machines from the whole lineup…
Top Pick
Singer 7258
One of the best sewing machines for beginners, offering embroidery, quilting, and sewing without giving up any functionality.
Singer 7258
The Singer 7258 is my top pick out of all the sewing machines for beginners. While it might seem like it comes with lots of bells and whistles, it will really grow with your skills as time goes on.
This is a machine best suited for embroidery, quilting, and sewing, so the potential creations are next to limitless!
Twin Needle
It hosts a twin needle function for neat hem finishes, an efficient needle threader, and automatic thread tension system (we all know tension can be tricky to master, no matter your skill level!).
Portability
A handle means the machine can be easily maneuvered around a workspace, although you would have to purchase a protective case to prevent damage when traveling to and from a sewing class.
An oversized extension table is included for larger sewing projects.
Best Value Beginner Sewing Machine
Luby Sewing Machine
Good for those who want to test out this hobby and for those who are looking for a compact machine with features of a domestic home sewing machine.
Luby Sewing Machine
The Luby sewing machine is the best beginner sewing machine for value.
It’s under $75 with free delivery and is a good start machine for sewists of all ages.
It’s around the size of a textbook, so it will squeeze into any workspace!
Stitches
It offers 12 stitch options to play around with and a free arm for you to really get a sense of sewing different shape items.
It whizzes through thinner and heavy duty materials easily with minimal noise.
Guide
A numbered thread guide is printed on the machine and instructions of how to change the top drop-in bobbin are situated on the needle plate.
Mechanical features include a simple reverse sew lever and a dial for stitch selection and up/down control for the needle.
Best Computerized Sewing Machine For Beginners
Brother CS6000i
A computerized sewing and embroidery machine, suitable for beginners who are just getting to grips with this craft.
Brother CS6000i
The Brother CS6000i sewing machine is the best computerized sewing machine for beginners.
This machine is so beginner friendly because Brother sewing offers lots of online resources to help get set up.
It’s also great for quilting and embroidery, no matter the skill level. I reviewed it in more detail here.
Touchscreen
The LCD touch screen is easy to navigate and see what the stitches will look like before you sew.
It has the two basic stitches, zig zag and a straight stitch, as well as 58 other decorative stitches for sewists to play around with.
I think it’s one of the best sewing machines for beginners who are looking to learn new things with the help of their sewing machine.
Top Sewing Machine For Beginners
Magic Fly Mini
Portable sewing machine that will run via a power cord or through batteries. Use it anywhere as long as you have charge on the batteries!
Magic Fly Mini
The MagicFly mini is a portable sewing machine that will run via a power cord or can be battery operated.
You can literally use it anywhere in the world, as long as you have charge on the batteries! It comes in 3 different colors, blue, white, or pink.
Threading
This beginner sewing machine is easy to thread, with a number by number thread guide instructions and an automatic bobbin winder.
There’s a ton of resources on the internet to help you with the setup and use.
The bobbin is located on the front of this machine, unlike most sewing machines that have drop top in load bobbins.
Stitch Options
Two stitch options keep this machine simple – either a slow or a fast speed for the user to play around with.
They are employed with an agile foot pedal, which can be used up on a table and operated by hand or by foot.
Accessories
The 42 piece accessory bundle includes needles and bobbins.
The removable auxiliary table and LED light opens up the work space and the times of day at which you can sew.
Because the machine is so small, everything is closer together.
Luckily, for this reason a needle guard is in place to protect your fingers from damaging or getting caught close to the needle.
Specs
- Stitches built in: 12
- Speed: 2 settings – high or low (fabric dependant).
- Unit dimensions: 12” x 11” x 9.5”
- Weight: 3.94lbs
Pros
- Super portable.
- Auxiliary table included.
- Dustproof bag provided.
Cons
- Battery powered – 4 x AA batteries.
- Super lightweight could get damaged easily.
Best Computerized Sewing Machine For Beginners
Brother CS6000i
A computerized sewing and embroidery machine, suitable for beginners who are just getting to grips with this craft.
Brother CS6000i
The Brother CS6000i is a computerized sewing and embroidery machine, suitable for beginners who are just getting to grips with this craft.
It comes with a plethora of features and accessories, such as stop/start button, automatic needle threader, and nine presser feet.
Display
An LCD screen is the control point for the sewing speed and the 60 stitch options, and will tell the user which foot to use for each stitch – you even get a preview of the stitch while adjusting the width and length.
It has a one step buttonhole stitch, drop in top load bobbin and automatic bobbin winder.
Features
The free arm allows the user to sew cylindrical items such as pant legs and cuffs. The machine will sew easily through thin and heavy fabrics (making sure you’re using the right foot and needle of course).
This machine can be used for monogramming and overcasting at the press of a button.
The accessory bundle includes an oversized table to prevent wrinkles and pulls during sewing projects.
Specs
- Number of built-in stitches: 60
- Speed: 850 spm
- Unit dimensions: 16” x 6.7” x 11.4”
- Weight: 13lbs
Pros
- Good for quilting.
- Generous amount of features and accessories, including a protective hardcover.
- Built in needle threader.
Cons
- Small throat size.
- Threading the bobbin can be fiddly.
SINGER Start 1304
This Singer Start is one of my favorite little machines and is a contender for the best sewing machine for beginners.
It’s a simple machine with great ease of use and was built with 6 basic stitch applications. The width and length of a stitch have been pre-set at 5mm so the user has one less thing to be concerned with.
Build
Despite being compact and portable, this machine will sew at 350-400 stitches per minute depending on the thickness of the fabric.
It’s held strong with an all metal frame to give durability during high production sewing – not bad for a mini machine!
You might enjoy the user friendly reverse sewing lever for backstitching your projects to prevent unravelling.
Features
It includes a four step buttonhole feature and three presser feet, an all purpose walking foot, zipper, and buttonhole foot.
A removable extension table will come in handy for larger projects, although the machine is compact enough to carry in a bag to a sewing class or use in smaller spaces.
LED
An LED light illuminates the workspace, eliminates shadows, and gives a clear view of your workspace no matter the time of day.
The beginner friendly instructions are on the machine to help wind the top drop-in bobbin system.
It comes with a Singer Start instructional DVD to get you started if you need a little extra help at the beginning!
Specs
- Built in stitches: 6
- Speed: 400 spm
- Unit dimensions: 13” x 7” x 11.5”
- Weight: 7lbs
Pros
- Free arm
- Four step buttonhole
- Reverse
Cons
- Pre-set length and width
Brother XM2701
A brilliant machine that Brother offers for those who are sewing and quilting beginners as well as for long-time sewists looking for an ultra-lightweight machine.
Brother XM2701
The XM2701 is a brilliant machine Brother offers for those who are sewing and quilting beginners as well as for long-time sewists looking for an ultra-lightweight machine.
It is sturdy enough to hold still during high production, yet small enough to put away easily if you’re short on space.
Features
High tech features include an LCD screen and a dial for selecting the stitch for your quilting project.
At the touch of a lever, the automatic needle threading is applied and you can begin!
It features an automatic bobbin drop-in with clear casing to allow you to keep an eye on how much thread you have on the bobbin.
Learning Resource
The instructional DVD manual is a quick and easy watch and will get you exploring the 27 built-in stitches for embroidery designs in no time at all.
The 6 included feet are simple and quick to change.
Support
Like all Brother products, the Brother XM2701 sewing machine comes with Brother At Your Side Support and a 25 year limited warranty.
They offer free technical support via links online, live chat, or over the telephone throughout the life of your machine.
Specs
- Built in stitches: 27
- Speed: 800
- Unit dimensions: 15.3” x 5.9” x 12.1”
- Weight: 12.6lbs
Pros
- Built in needle threader.
- Inexpensive.
- Transportable
Cons
- Not suitable for thick materials.
- Dim LED light.
Best Value
Luby Sewing Machine
Good for those who want to test out this hobby and for those who are looking for a compact machine with features of a domestic home sewing machine.
Luby Sewing Machine
The Luby mini sewing machine could be the best sewing machine for beginners, as there is an abundance of resources online to help guide you through the setup and use of the machine.
Build
This sewing machine is good for those who want to test out this hobby and for those who are looking for a compact machine with features of a domestic home sewing machine.
The machine comes with a double thread, LED light, and an extension table – all features you’d find on a regular sized sewing machine!
Design
The machine has a simple aesthetic with a few colorful designs on the front, and is very small in size – no bigger than a textbook!
The mechanical machine comes with dials to adjust stitch width and length rather than an LCD screen or computerized elements.
Features
The automatic needle threader and thread cutter are rarely seen on small sewing machines, but are featured here.
It’s operated with a pedal and is packaged with 2 needles.
The 12 stitches are plenty on this small machine, as you likely won’t be making huge projects with it.
It comes with a 4 step buttonhole presser, 3 presser feet, and a seam ripper.
Specs
- Stitches built in: 12
- Speed: 350 spm
- Unit dimensions: 11.4” x 5.1” x 9.6”
- Weight: 6lbs
Pros
- Affordable.
- Sliding lever to activate the light.
- Two different speed settings.
Cons
- Confusing manual.
- No protective case.
Singer Heavy Duty 4452
Great for beginners looking for a simple machine its built only with one straight stitch, and will power sew at 1,100 stitches per minute.
Singer Heavy Duty 4452
The Singer 4452 could be the best sewing machine for beginners, who are looking for a real simple machine.
This one trick pony has been built only with one straight stitch, and will power sew at 1,100 stitches per minute.
Although that might seem intimidating for a beginner, it’s a really simple machine without an LCD screen or lots of buttons.
Build
The Singer 4452 is the best heavy duty machine with one dial for thread tension control, and another one for the adjustable stitch length.
The metal frame ensures a lifetime of durable and heavy duty work matched with the classic Singer 25 year limited warranty.
Power
An industrial style motor means it can sew through fabrics like denim, leather, and canvas, so should cover all creative projects.
It has twin needle capabilities so you could sew a double hem on your favorite pair of pants if you wanted to.
Accessories
An extra high presser foot means even the thickest of quilts and materials can be squeezed through the machine.
Accessories with the best heavy duty machine include needles, a clearance plate for thick seams, non-stick material, and a walking foot.
Other highlights and accessories include a Singer one-step button-hole foot, drop feed, and free arm.
Specs
- Speed: 1100
- Built in stitches: 32
- Unit dimensions: 15.5” x 6.25” x 12”
- Weight: 14.6lbs
Pros
- Easy to use.
- Good for thick fabrics.
- One of the best sewing machines for beginners.
Cons
- Easy dials instead of buttons to control the machine.
Top Pick
Singer 7258
One of the best sewing machines for beginners, offering embroidery, quilting, and sewing without giving up any functionality.
Singer 7258
Singer 7258 is an easy to use computerized sewing and quilting machine, good for entry level sewists.
Is one of the best sewing machines for beginners, offering embroidery, quilting, and sewing without giving up any functionality.
In all, it’s a relatively basic sewing machine that could be just the right fit for those just diving into the craft.
Display
The LCD screen enables the user to adjust and preview the type, stitch width, and length before doing test stitches.
The presser feet can be raised to two levels, so all materials can be squeezed under during quilting.
It has a twin needle function for neat hems and embroidery and drop feed dog feature for free motion sewing.
Needle Position
One thing I like about this quilting and sewing machine Singer offers is that the needle will move into the up position automatically when the pedal isn’t being pressed down to prevent the one needle from breaking.
During bobbin refill, it will automatically stop when it has been registered as full.
Accessories
A generous bag of accessories includes a walking foot and buttonhole foot (plus eight other feet!) and are all neatly storable in the accessory built-in storage unit. Speed can easily be changed using the speed slider.
Specs
- Stitches per minute: 750
- Built in stitches: 100
- Unit dimensions: 12” x 7” x 14.5”
- Weight: 14.6lbs
Pros
- Quiet when in use.
- Error codes show on the screen for troubleshooting.
- Twin needle sewing and quilting machine.
Cons
- No carrying case.
- Limited width of 5mm.
Things to consider
When looking for the perfect sewing machine perfect for beginners, there are many things to take into consideration.
Before you buy a sewing machine, be sure to check out the list below:
Purpose
Contemplate what you want from the sewing machine.
Will it be used to get a feel for the craft, or is it a beginner machine for a person who has an understanding of sewing?
It might not be long before a beginner sewist becomes quite ambitious in sewing more advanced projects.
So, it could be worth considering a machine that has more stitches built in already to expedite that transition..
NOTE
If it’s just to have a test run on a sewing machine, hundreds of fancy features aren’t necessary and a better quality sewing machine could always be purchased in the future.
Price
Like everything, you can either buy cheap or spend a lot on a beginner machine.
Basic sewing machines with less features are generally inexpensive, so they won’t break you financially if you decide sewing isn’t for you.
Don’t forget – the machine is only one thing to consider when purchasing a sewing machine.
TIP
You will need to buy needles, thread, and fabric to use. Do thorough research, as the most expensive isn’t always the best.
Brand
When selecting a sewing machine for a beginner, there are many brand names that you may have heard of.
The lesser known brands aren’t necessarily worse.
I wouldn’t let a brand name sway you into spending more money on a sewing machine for a total beginner.
The machine best suited for your needs might be from a brand you’ve never seen before!
Warranty
Most manufacturers will offer a decent and reliable warranty cover, although it may vary depending on the seller you buy from.
Brother and Singer both offer a 25 year limited warranty on their sewing machines, but if the purchase isn’t made directly from a brand dealer, the warranty may not be valid.
NOTE
Make sure the product you buy comes with a warranty that you fully understand and will cover you for any malfunctions, should they arise.
Size
Consider the size of your workspace the machine will be used in and where you can store it.
If the sewing machine will be moved frequently or transported to and from sewing classes, a large or heavy sewing machine may not be most suitable.
The smaller the throat space on a machine, the harder it may be to sew heavy duty materials, so make sure you evaluate the viability of all sewing projects that may arise.
Type
There are mechanical sewing machines, computerized sewing machines, handheld, industrial sewing machines and vintage sewing machines.
Modern sewing machines often come with a collection of built in stitch options and automatic features.
TIP
Assess your needs. Try to consider what you might want in the future to save you from buying twice!
Durability
Typically, a metal frame will be more durable than a machine made from plastic parts.
A heavy duty sewing machine is a favorite amongst high production sewists due to their stability during high production work – the machine will not shake, which can cause skipped stitches.
Features
The features and accessories are the most important things when it comes to the best sewing machine.
Take a look at the features of the CS6000i
Some of the most important include the following:
Free arm
By removing a section of sewing machines (usually the accessory storage area) a free arm can be deployed, which is used to sew tubular or small items such as pant legs and small purses.
Automatic needle threader
An automatic needle threader saves you time and frustration by trying to match the thread through the eye each time there is a color change or thread breakage (literally, it can be a life saver!).
Built in stitches
May not be so important to a complete beginner, as long as there is the straight and zig zag stitch.
These will eventually open up the sewist to more creative sewing ideas – hem with a tree pattern? Why not!
Presser foot
The higher the presser foot can be raised, the thicker the items are that can be squeezed between the needle and throat plate.
If the machine will be used for simple repairs or making simple clothes, this won’t be too much of a concern.
Adjustable speed
Important no matter your sewing ability. Smaller and more portable machines that can be battery operated often come with only 2 speed control selections at a slow and fast speed.
These can be operated with a slider on the machine, a touch button, or more traditionally, a foot pedal.
FAQs
Still got questions about which machine is perfect for you, and if you should even buy one? I’ve got you covered.
What can a beginner sewing machine do?
A sewing machine uses thread to attach two or more pieces of fabric together through a weaving process, as the thread is passed up and down through the needle.
The best sewing machine for a beginner will most likely be a regular sewing machine that has been simplified to prevent overwhelmingness but can perform tasks that a regular sewing apparatus can do.
What do you need to start sewing?
You don’t need a haberdashery to start sewing, and you definitely don’t need to spend a fortune.
You might be surprised at how many people you know have sewing toolkits, patterns or clothes to make patterns from.
- Whether you rent or buy one, you’ll obviously need a sewing machine.
- A basic toolkit, with a seam ripper, thread, scissors, and needles.
- Fabric.
- An idea for the first project or a pattern.
- Confidence to give the machine a test drive!
What is the easiest thing to sew for beginners?
If you’re anything like me, you want to be the best at something as quickly as possible! But, when it comes to sewing, it can be easy to bite off more than you can chew.
One of the first things I ever sewed was a guitar strap, with straightforward, simple stitching.
I would suggest something similar with straight edges that are not too fiddly – a tote bag or laptop cases with buttons rather than a zip are probably the easiest.
You can find more inspiration here.
Why buy a beginner sewing machine?
Sewing is a fantastic skill and hobby to learn, and the possibilities of owning a sewing machine are endless.
A beginner sewing machine can be used for:
- Alterations, of anything.
- Repairing items around the house (the hole in the cushion cover!)
- Making clothes.
If you end up becoming a sewing master, you can even make money from your sewing machine, and reimburse your costs.
Over time you can even save yourself money by giving homemade gifts.
What type is the best sewing machine for beginners?
Simple; low budget are the best sewing machines for a total beginner.
Basic stitches straight and zig zag (or only straight) are plenty for a novice to get to grips with.
Once you know sewing is for you and want to make it a regular part of your life, you can then invest in a nicer new sewing machine with more decorative stitches. You can even get a sewing subscription box, so you’ll never run out of new ideas and develop new sewing skills.
Conclusion
For beginners, the process of buying a new sewing machine could seem intimidating or confusing.
I hope this has given you some insight into the possibilities of what you need.
Top Pick
Just to recap, my top rated sewing machine for beginners is the Singer 7258.
This device will really grow with you, meaning you might only have to make that initial investment once.
Best Value
The best value sewing machine for beginners is the Luby sewing machine. Not only is it affordable, it’s simple to navigate for users at all skill levels.
Best Computerized Sewing Machine For Beginners
The best computerized sewing machine for beginners is the Brother CS6000i.
This sewing machine comes with all the help you could possibly need from a long-standing household name in the sewing world.
Happy Sewing!
When looking at the best sewing machines for beginners, there’s an abundance of information online.
When learning to sew, there’s lots of trial and error, so stick with it.
There’s a real sense of accomplishment when gifting or using something that’s handmade and I can’t help but feel more rewarded when I look back at a finished project.
Good luck when choosing from the best sewing machines for beginners. You’re going to love having one!
