If you are a creative looking to get into sewing – whether for small mending tasks that a needle and thread can't quite manage, or eventually for large tailoring projects – you need to start out with a reliable machine. With so many models on the market, it's tough to know which to choose, especially if you are only starting out. Not all machines are created equal, which is why we have created this guide to help you find the best sewing machine for beginners.

In This Guide:

Best Beginner Sewing Machines
What to Look for in a Sewing Machine

Best Beginner Sewing Machines

1. Best Handheld: Singer Stitch Quick Hand-Held Mending Machine

One of the most basic sewing machines available is the Singer Stitch Quick Hand-Held Mending Machine. This lightweight portable machine has everything you need to get started, including the simple space saving design. This model offers basic functions such as thread tension control and adjustment, an LED sewing light, and two speed options. As an added bonus, there is a secondary battery power option just in case you don't have a power source nearby.

2. Best Beginner: SINGER® Simple™ Sewing Machine

The best sewing machine for beginners to learn on is the SINGER® M3300 Sewing Machine. This model was created with beginner sewers in mind and offers all the basic features you could need and then some. After the easy set-up, you have your choice between 97 built-in stitch selections, a 1-step button hole, and built-in needle threader for ease of use. As an added bonus, the free arm allows you to sew hard-to-reach places.

3. Best Aesthetic: Janome Easy-to-Use Mechanical Sewing Machine

The vibrant Janome Easy-to-Use Sewing Machine is the perfect beginners sewing machine for you to grow into. As the name suggests, this model is made to be easily used and understood. The built-in bobbin loading guide means you have a handy reference at all times, while the easy-to-follow instruction manual, quick-start guide, and Youtube video tutorials all ensure you get to improve your sewing skills before you know it.
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4. Best Portable: Brother 27-Stitch Sewing Machine

When it comes to versatility, the Brother 27-Stitch Sewing Machine hits the mark. This portable model is a good sewing machine for beginners and more intermediate users – giving you the chance to improve your skills without being limited. Not only does this quality machine offer 27 built-in stitches and 63 stitch functions, but it also comes with a built-in easy threader, a jam-resistant Quick-Set™ top drop-in bobbin, and an automatic bobbin winding system. With this sewing machine you will become a seasoned pro in no time.

5. Best Computerized: Juki Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine

If you are serious about sewing, the Juki Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine is a quality purchase. Although this computerized model it is straightforward and easy to use, this is more than a starter sewing machine. In fact, it is packed with features to allow for both sewing and quilting, making it ideal for a creating variety of unique projects. The 197 stitches options, 7 buttonhole patterns, and lettering font combined with the slide-out stitch reference guide that displays all the stitches, can all programed into the number pad control panel so you can create works of art with ease.

6. Best Budget: Fbsport Household Mechanical Sewing Machine

Another great beginners sewing machine is the Fbsport Household Mechanical Sewing Machine. This model is the ideal starter sewing machine to learn on thanks to its small size, portability, and basic no-frills functions such as backstitch, thread tension, and winding function. This hand-held sewing machine is best used for basic clothing adjustments and mending and small home projects. You can easily take this machine to classes with you, and once you have mastered the fundamentals, confidently graduate to a more advanced model.

7. Best Intermediate: Janome Sewist 709 Mechanical Sewing Machine

Whether you are an experienced seamstress or a beginner hobbyist, the Janome Sewist 709 Mechanical Sewing Machine is a worthwhile investment. This is a good sewing machine for beginners who want to sew every now and again, or for more enthusiastic learners who want to take their skills to the next level. The basic nine built-in stitches and four-step button hole functions are elevated by this machine's adjustable foot pressure and the extra-high foot lifter to accommodate thicker fabrics. As an added bonus, the elevated free arm allows you to sew tubes of fabric with ease while the patented needle plate markings make for precision sewing.

8. Best Mechanical: Singer M2100 Mechanical Sewing Machine

The Singer M2100 Mechanical Sewing Machine a good sewing machine for beginners but powerful enough for experts. The straightforward design of the sleek machine makes it a popular and well-loved option. Use the easy stitch selection to choose from 63 different stitches for essential sewing techniques. For your ease of use, this machine comes pre-threaded so you can get right to sewing as soon as it arrives!

9. Best Advanced: Uten Computerized Electronic Sewing Machine

For the most bang for your buck, the best beginner sewing machine is the Uten Computerized Electronic Sewing Machine. This computerized machine is great for advanced beginners and for more experienced sewers, giving you plenty of room to grow. This model is jam-packed with features ranging from basic stitches to more advanced needle-stop position memory and easy-start seam function. The automatic needle threader and precise-stop features allows you to create a range of neat and well-made sewing and quilting projects.

What to Look for in a Sewing Machine

The search for a good sewing machine for beginners may seem daunting at first, particularly if you are only just starting out. Truth be told, you don't need one with all the bells and whistles – a starter sewing machine will likely be enough for you, especially if you are uncertain if you will continue this hobby for years to come. To help you choose the best beginners sewing machine, here are a few considerations to bear in mind.

Size: Sewing machines come in a broad range of sizes, your crafting space will help you decide what will fit best. Do you have a dedicated sewing room where your machine will remain out at all times? Or is a small footprint better so that it takes up less space and is easy to store away?

Weight: If you plan to attend sewing classes or have crafting parties where you will take your machine with you, you'll want a basic sewing machine that is lightweight and portable. More heavy duty models weigh more, which will affect their portability. This also applies to a machine that will be moved in and out of storage in your home. To make things a little easier you can also purchase a carrying case.

Types of Sewing Machines

There are two different types of sewing machines to choose from.

Mechanical: One of the best sewing machines for beginners is a mechanical model. They are the no-frills workhorses that have been around for years. These straightforward machines usually have manual controls for functions such as thread tension and stitch length, and are well suited for basic tasks.

Electronic: There are many starter sewing machines of the electronic kind – though they do offer more advanced features than their mechanical counterparts. These models often have LCD displays that allow you to choose from a range of basic to complex functions including embroidery. Often more advanced sewers opt for these machines, but there are many options that are suitable for beginners.

Tip!

If you are considering investing in a serger, it is worthwhile to note that these are not the same as sewing machines. Their main function is to overlock fabric to keep it from fraying, making them a useful machine to have in addition to your sewing machine.

Sewing Machine Features

Although all sewing machines do the same basic function, there are many models that can do far more complicated tasks thanks to their additional features. As a beginner, you likely want a starter sewing machine, especially if you don't know how often you will sew, what you plan to sew, and if you will still be sewing in years to come. It is always possible to upgrade to a more complex model when the time is right.

Beginner: For basic sewing tasks choose a beginners sewing machine with essential features such as straight and zigzag stitches, reverse stitching, and adjustment options for tension, stitch length and width.

Intermediate: A good sewing machine for beginners is also an intermediate level model. Their slightly more advanced features – additional sewing feet, automatic needle threading and one-step button holes – won't be necessary for all projects, but they are nice to have once you start to improve your sewing skills and take on more complex projects.

Experienced: If you are serious about sewing and plan to continue the hobby and become more professional, you can certainly consider an experienced level machine. These models often offer advanced features such as free-motion, embroidery, and touch screen control panels with an impressive array of stitch options and sewing feet.

For more on sewing machines, read Your Guide to the Types of Sewing Machines.

Now you are ready to start your sewing journey with the best sewing machines for beginners.