9 Best Sewing Machines for Beginners, According to Testing

We have tested dozens of sewing machines over the past few years, including machines for beginners and expert-level sewers. To determine which sewing machine is best for you, our experts start by researching the newest and most popular sewing machines from top brands. When then test each model in our Lab to see which ones are worth buying. In our latest round of testing, we evaluated 13 different machines, leading to over 100 data points to analyze. We evaluate each machine based on the following criteria:

In addition to sewing machine type, you'll want to look out for the following features:

✔️ Number of built-in stitches: When first learning to sew, you really only need two stitches: straight and zig zag. But as you advance, you will want more stitch options and decorative stitches.

✔️ Size and weight: If you plan on bringing your sewing machine to classes or sewing groups, make sure you pick a portable option. Look for a lightweight sewing machine with a handle for easy toting.

✔️ Ease of use: For your first sewing machine, simple is better. Beginner sewing machines should still have a durable, metal frame and helpful tools, but avoid machines with features you won’t use. These can just get in the way and make it a more challenging machine to master.

✔️ Included accessories: Most machines include a bobbin and a presser foot, but some include much more. While you may not need a ton of accessories as a beginner, look for machines with clear manuals, extra presser feet and included repair tools.

As with all sewing machines, make sure to read the included or online manual carefully before starting, as every machine has slightly different use and care instructions.

When you start your sewing journey, all the different types of machines can feel overwhelming. Here, our sewing experts help break down the different types of at-home sewing and crafting machines, so you know which machine type is best for you.

✔️Mechanical sewing machine: Mechanical styles are more streamlined, with simple controls and buttons. If you are totally new to sewing, a mechanical machine is a great place to start because they are easier to understand and are more affordable.

✔️Computerized sewing machine: With greater stitch variety, fancier features and an LCD or touchscreen, computerized machines are great for beginners who hope to eventually advance to larger projects.

✔️Embroidery machines: While there are embroidery machines with no sewing capabilities, many embroidery machines also act as computerized sewing machines, too.

✔️ Sergers: Sergers are actually not sewing machines at all. A serger machine (also known as an overlocker) uses an overlock stitch with three or more thread sources to create a professional-grade binding for the fabric. This stitch isn't available on sewing machines, so sergers are generally used in addition to a sewing machine. They have a knife that trims the seam allowance as the edge is stitched, preventing fraying and creating a finished look.

✔️ Coverstitch machines: These are also not sewing machines and are for the purpose of finishing raw edges and adding decorative stitches, like a serger. These machines use multiple needles to make a double row of stitches and they don't feature a blade like a serger.

Sewing machines can include a ton of different features, but more features and accessories doesn't necessarily mean better. Here is a guide to sewing machine features you may come across when sewing machine shopping:

✔️Back stitch: When you are sewing, you need to back stitch at the end to prevent the seam from coming undone. Very basic, simple sewing machines that are under $50 don't generally offer back stitch. Therefore, you'll have to sew over your stitches twice to keep them in place.

✔️Thread cutter: Most sewing machines feature a small blade on the side of the machine, so you can easily cut the fabric after sewing. Higher-end machines may feature automatic thread cutting, where the machine will snip the thread close to the fabric.

✔️Automatic buttonhole function: As a stitch option, you may see automatic buttonhole options. When you use an automatic buttonhole stitch, make sure you use the buttonhole presser foot.

✔️Extension table: An extension table clicks into place on your machine to offer more support and stability for larger sewing projects like quilts. You can also purchase these separately if not included.

✔️Automatic needle threader: An automatic needle threader is a small tool built into a sewing machine that helps push the thread through the needle. Some sewers find this tool very helpful and convenient while others never use it — it comes down to personal preference.

✔️Speed control: When sewing, you control the sewing speed by the pressure you apply to the foot pedal. Some machines offer speed control where you can limit how fast the machine will sew. This is great for newbies to prevent going too fast and losing control.

✔️Drop-in bobbin: Sewing machines either feature a drop-in bobbin or a front-loading bobbin. Drop-in bobbins go into the machine right under the needle without a bobbin holder. Front-loading bobbins are more traditional and have a bobbin holder that goes in the front of the machine. Beginners tend to find drop-in bobbins a bit easier to master and faster to thread.

✔️Needle up/down: On the side of a sewing machine, there's a hand wheel that controls the needle, so you can turn the wheel to lift the needle. On higher-end machines, there may be a needle up/down button which lifts the needle with the push of a button without having to use a hand wheel.

• Can I teach myself how to sew? Absolutely! First, you should focus on safety concerns before you start sewing to avoid any pricked fingers or injuries. There are lots of excellent resources online for beginner sewers. When you purchase a machine, check out the brand's offerings, as many major sewing brands have great educational resources online. Youtube is also a great resource for sewing tutorials.
• What should I sew as a beginner? A simple project that you can complete from start to finish is the perfect place to start. Before you start a bigger project, like pants or a dress, opt for a smaller accessory like scrunchies or a face mask. When you visit a fabric store, you can purchase patterns, which are guides to making different sewing projects, designed specifically for beginners. Don't be afraid to ask the experts who work at fabric stores to help you find the right beginner pattern for you.
• How much should I spend on a beginner sewing machine? Sewing machines can retail for thousands of dollars with high-end features that can overwhelm a novice sewer. Generally, a sewing machine under $300 is a great place to start for a beginner, unless you want specific added features, like embroidery options.

Emma Seymour is a senior textiles product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she's worked for more than five years, overseeing in-Lab and consumer tests for sewing machines, embroidery machines and sergers. She tested each of these machines in our Lab alongside other sewing pros. With a degree in fiber science and apparel design from Cornell University, she has extensive sewing expertise. She loves to sew her own clothes and accessories in her free time!