The 10 Best Sewing Machines For Beginners
This wiki has been updated 19 times since it was first published in July of 2019. Whether you're approaching this craft as a potential hobby or with the intention of someday becoming a professional, your first sewing machine will be the foundation. By investing in a quality model at the get-go, you'll ensure that you can learn quickly and effectively, and that you won't have to splash out on an upgrade too soon. Here we've compiled our favorite options. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Singer Quantum Stylist 9960
2. Brother CS6000i
3. Singer Stylist 7258
Editor's Notes
August 09, 2019:
On this list, we've decided to mostly exclude the most inexpensive machines on the market, ones that a beginner is likely to encounter and consider as viable options. These machines, often priced at or below $50, are usually poorly-manufactured, made with junk materials, and likely to become damaged or break within a few months of purchase — if not sooner. Normally, we would present at least one low budget-tier option to those who truly just want a cheapo-machine to test-drive this craft and decide whether its worth further investment. But with the cost of sewing machine repairs being what they are, we decided it would be irresponsible to recommend units that may end up costing a consumer just as much to fix as they paid for the unit itself. Instead, we've included multiple options that are just a tad bit costlier, each made by reputable companies, that'll save you money and hassle in the long run. Such options include the Spiegel SP3201 (#8) the Singer Start 1304 (#10), and the Brother XM2701 (#5).
Those with the money to invest in a higher-quality machine will fall into two camps: those willing to spend somewhere around $100-$175 on a decent machine that won't cause too much fuss, and those looking to make an immediate investment in a machine that will stay with them as they hone their craft. For those in the first camp, we'd point to the Singer Heavy Duty 4423 (#6) or the Brother CS6000i (#2). Those willing to dish out more cash are certainly in good hands with the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960, our top pick.
Special Honors
Husqvarna Viking Emerald 118 If you're willing to splurge, this is one of the most versatile units you can work with as a beginner. Designed with practicality as a priority, this one is easy for newcomers to maneuver, especially thanks to its helpful sewing guide reference chart, which provides recommendations on stitch length, thread tension, technique, etc. Aside from 70 different stitch functions, it also features a one-step buttonhole, a built-in needle threader that actually works, and adjustable stitch length and width. husqvarnaviking.com
4. Brother XR9550 Project Runway
5. Brother XM2701
6. Singer Heavy Duty 4423
7. Singer 3232
8. Spiegel SP3201
9. Janome Arctic
10. Singer 1304
Daniel is a writer, musician, and frequent traveler with a bachelor’s in creative writing from the State University of New York. In recent years, his writing chops have developed alongside his musical skills, thanks to a rich double life. During the day, he apprenticed with “Rolling Stone” journalist and critic Will Hermes, and when the sun set, he and his NYC-based, four-piece band gigged at high-end venues across the northeastern United States. His affinity for sharing things he's passionate about has culminated in nine years of experience as a music teacher at elementary schools, where he honed his ability to simplify and elucidate concepts to the uninitiated. All considered, he feels most at home writing about instruments, audio electronics and backpacking gear.