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Brother XR3340 Review: An Affordable Computerized Sewing Machine
Is XR3340 the best Brother sewing machine out there? While the answer may differ from one person to person as everyone has different sewing needs and preferences, there are certain…
Best Folding Sewing Machine Tables
Our experience with sewing can vary greatly depending on which table we use for our hobby. The best folding sewing machine tables are known to not only dramatically improve your…
Best Quilting Machines for Home Use
Not many of us have the space or money to buy one of those long arm quilting machines for home use. Not only do these machines take up an enormous…
Best Husqvarna Viking Sergers
The company Husqvarna, now also known as Viking, came into existence in 1689 and was famous for producing high-quality muskets. It would seem strange then to think that over the…
Best Husqvarna Viking Sewing Machines
Husqvarna was a company founded in 1689 with the sole intention of producing muskets. It was a couple of centuries later that they decided to set their attention and focus…
Best Acrylic Sewing Machine Extension Tables
An extension table is more than just a luxury when you are working on large sewing projects. Most sewers require extra space to keep buttons, equipment and clothes when they…
Best Pedaling Sewing Machines
You need a creative mindset and dexterous fingers to bring out the best in your sewing creations. Control is what defines the success of a sewing artist. Be it their…
Singer Sewing Machine Cabinet Styles
Do you remember the time when your grandma would spend the warm sunny days while using her sewing machine by the window? While the small birds chirp, your grandma artistically…
Is Your Sewing Machine Handwheel Hard to Turn? We Have Solutions!
Is your sewing machine handwheel hard to turn? Let’s take a look at why this might be the case. Unfortunately, there will be occasions when your sewing machines jams. Often,…
Treadle Sewing Machine Parts and Functions: Understand Them Now
What comes to mind when you think of a treadle sewing machine? Probably the sewing machine that your grandmother used for stitching clothes for the entire family; now that sewing…
Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 Problems: Are They a Deal Breaker?
Several users reported experiencing a number of issues with the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960, which eventually resulted in its discontinuation. The sewing machine branded itself as offering users with a…
Best Sewing Machine Carrying Case on Wheels
As a seamstress, you might be aware of the importance of putting considerable effort into research before buying a sewing machine. Without the right machine, you will struggle to complete…
The 12 Best Sewing Machine Reviews - 2021
Find the Sewing Machine of Your Dreams. We've reviewed just about every sewing machine in existence. These are the best. To learn more about each sewing machine, check out our full reviews.
1.
- Included Components: Carrying Case/Cover
- Voltage: 110
#1 on our best sewing machine reviews list.
2.
- 138 BUILT-IN DESIGNS: Featuring 138 built-in embroidery designs including scrollwork, florals and quilt patterns, the PE800 has numerous options to allow your creativity to flourish
- 11 BUILT-IN FONTS: 7 English, 3 Japanese, and 1 Cyrillic font styles are perfect for monogramming and lettering
- USB PORT: The PE800s USB port allows you to import your embroidery designs into your machines built-in memory
- LARGE COLOR TOUCHSCREEN: The large 3.2 inch LCD color touchscreen allows you to preview your designs before embroidering
- 5 X 7 EMBROIDERY FIELD: This embroidery-only machine comes with an embroidery foot and a 5 x 7 inch embroidery hoop perfect for stitching larger designs
#2 on our best sewing machine reviews list.
3.
- SINGER HEAVY DUTY SEWING MACHINE: The 23 built-in stitches including basic, stretch, decorative, and buttonhole stitches allow you to sew a variety of projects, such as fashions, home décor, quilts, crafts, and more
- AUTOMATIC NEEDLE THREADER SEWING MACHINE: After following the threading path printed right on the machine, this built-in feature helps you to effortlessly thread the eye of the needle without eye strain or frustration
- HIGH-SPEED SEWING MACHINE:The Singer 4423 Sewing Machine has a maximum sewing speed of 1, 100 stitches-per-minute, so projects can be sewn quickly. The 60% Stronger Motor provides greater piercing power for thick seams
- HEAVY DUTY METAL FRAME: The Singer 4423 heavy duty sewing machine is a true workhorse. With a heavy-duty metal interior frame, stainless steel bedframe, extra-high sewing speed and powerful motor, this sewing machine can sew through a variety of heavy weight fabrics and provides long lasting stability
- SEWING MACHINE ACCESSORIES: A variety of accessories are included with All-purpose foot, zipper foot, buttonhole foot, button sewing foot, seam ripper/lint brush, quilting guide, needles, bobbins, screwdriver, auxiliary spool pin, spool pin felt are all conveniently located and stored in the accessory tray. A soft-sided dust cover is also included in the packaging
- WARRANTY: SINGER 4423 Heavy Duty Portable Sewing Machine has 25 Year Limited Warranty. Note : Refer to the Videos and also the PDF attached below in Technical Specification for Manuals.
#3 on our best sewing machine reviews list.
4.
- SINGER COMPUTERIZED SEWING MACHINE: The SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960 portable sewing machine has loads of ease-of-use features to allow you to fulfill your creative dreams Has a large selection of stitches including basic, stretch and decorative stitches for fashion sewing, quilting, home decor and crafting There’s even a selection of fonts to personalize projects
- AUTOMATIC NEEDLE THREADER: Threading the machine is so easy that you can have the entire machine threaded, from the spool to the needle’s eye, in seconds The built-in needle threader threads the eye of the needle for you, eliminating eye strain and frustration
- BEST SEWING MACHINE: The SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960 sewing machine has 600 Built-In Stitches including 5 Alphanumeric Fonts and 13 built-in 1-Step Buttonholes with Exclusive Buttonhole Underplate It also has Mirror Imaging and Stitch Elongation providing even more creative possibilities
- HIGH-SPEED SEWING MACHINE: The SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960 sewing machine has a maximum sewing speed of 850 stitches-per-minute, projects can be sewn quickly
- SEWING MACHINE ACCESSORIES: A variety of presser feet are included with the sewing machine: All-Purpose Foot, Zipper Foot, Buttonhole Foot with Underplate, Button Sewing Foot, Blind Hem Foot, Satin Stitch Foot, Open Toe Foot, Overcasting Foot, Darning and Embroidery Foot, Rolled Hem Foot, Cording Foot, Straight Stitch/Quilting Foot, Even Feed / Walking Foot 110 volt machine designed for United States and Canadian use only
#4 on our best sewing machine reviews list.
5.
- 27 UNIQUE BUILT-IN STITCHES: The XM2701 includes 27 built-in stitches including decorative, blind hem, zigzag, and stretch stitches and an auto-size buttonhole
- AUTOMATIC NEEDLE THREADER AND DROP-IN TOP BOBBIN: This sewing machine includes an automatic needle threader that perfectly pushes thread through the needle and a convenient, jam resistant drop-in top bobbin
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: The XM2701 comes with 6 sewing feet, 3-piece needle set, twin needle, 4 bobbins, instructional DVD, manual and more
- VERSATILE FREE ARM: This free arm sewing machine is perfect for a wide range of everyday sewing projects, and users from beginners to advanced
- AT YOUR SIDE SUPPORT The XM2701 comes with Brother At Your Side support offering free technical support via online live chat or phone for the life of your machine
#5 on our best sewing machine reviews list.
6.
- Bonus Bundle Includes: Pack of 10 Janome Bobbins, Size 14 Needles
- The Janome 2212 sewing machine is a quality entry-level model offered at a fantastic price!
- The Janome 2212 sewing machine features 12 built-in stitches, an easy to use four-step buttonhole, dial pattern selection, and zig-zag stitch width adjustment and stitch length adjustment that ensures ease of use.
- The Janome 2212 also has great features like a free arm and drop feed that makes the machine versatile for all types of sewing.
- The Janome 2212 is lightweight and easy to use. This is the perfect machine for a beginner, and the price is just right!
#6 on our best sewing machine reviews list.
7.
- Updated with LED lights and one pedal operation
- 1500 SPM for quilting apparel and home décor
- Automatic needle threader
- Aluminum die cast arm and bed for low vibration operation
- Extension table included for wide work area
#7 on our best sewing machine reviews list.
8.
- Box Feed Technology
- Light Weight Material
- Thick Weight Material
- Wide Sewing Space - Extended Sewing Table
- Free Motion Sewing
#8 on our best sewing machine reviews list.
9.
- 185 UNIQUE BUILT-IN STITCHES: The HC1850 includes 130 sewing stitches including 8 styles of auto-size buttonholes, plus 55 alphanumeric sewing stitches
- ADVANCED NEEDLE THREADER AND DROP-IN TOP BOBBIN: This sewing and quilting machine includes an advanced needle threading function that easily pushes thread through the needle with the press of a lever and a jam resistant drop-in top bobbin
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: The HC1850 quilting and sewing machine includes a wide table, 8 feet, instructional DVD, manual and more
- LCD SCREEN: Easily select your stitches with the touch of a button and view your selections on the LCD display
- AT YOUR SIDE SUPPORT: The HC1850 comes with Brother At Your Side support offering free technical support via online, live chat or phone for the life of your machine
#9 on our best sewing machine reviews list.
10.
- Bonus Bundle Includes: Janome Muffling Mat, 10 Plastic Janome Bobbins, 1 Pack Size 14 Needles
- The Janome Magnolia 7318 sewing machine comes with features you need for great sewing.
- On the Janome Magnolia 7318 you can choose from 18 stitches.
- The Janome 7318 Magnolia also includes the 4 step buttonhole with balance adjuster for precise results on specialty fabrics.
- You get the best quality with a Janome Magnolia 7318 sewing machine that has a top loading jam proof bobbin system and the newly designed 7-piece feed dog which ensures precision fabric control.
#10 on our best sewing machine reviews list.
11.
- Brother Project Runway model delivers couture-level, consistent stitch quality
- 50 stitches – customize in style with built-in clothing, decorative, heirloom and quilting stitches. Free Arm for Sewing Cuffs and Sleeves. Maximum Sewing Speed (Stitches Per Minute)850
- Includes complete designer sewing and finishing solutions, with 6 specialty feet, accompanying stitches, and specialty needles. Enjoy designer features for blind hems, zippers, overcasting edges, sewing on buttons, knits and stretch fabrics, twin needle top stitching, and more
- Professional, elegant buttonholes – 5 one-step buttonholes automatically sized to fit your specific buttons, for truly custom results
- Reliable, easy threading of both top thread and bobbin – for consistent, high quality stitching. Please note: this machine is recommended for use in countries that do not support 120V AC, even if a voltage adapter is in use
#11 on our best sewing machine reviews list.
12.
- Heavy duty metal frame ensures that the machine remains Still for skip-free sewing
- Stainless steel bedplate provides smooth fabric feed for even sewing
- Made in China
- Amps:0.6. Volts - 110
#12 on our best sewing machine reviews list.
Testimonials From our Friends
They found their dream sewing machines. You can find yours too! There are a lot of options to choose from. We've narrowed your search down to the very best.
I bought the Singer Stylist 7258 for my sister-in-law to learn on but ended up liking it so much that I kept it for myself and gave her my old one. This sewing machine has all the features that I used most often on my old machine plus it has a few more.
LINDSAY JONES
Advanced
I'm totally impressed with everything about my new sewing machine. It worked like a charm. My first project was pencil cases with zippers made from material I found at garage sales! I can't wait for the next project with my Brother CS6000i.
JAMIE REUTER
Intermediate
This Singer 4423 is a nice, simple machine that works very well on heavy fabric. My first project on it was sewing new cushion covers for my patio furniture. I felt like I was sewing through 5 layers, but it did a great job with the heavy outdoor fabric.
JASON GREENE
Beginner
This is hands-down the best value around for a sewing machine. It comes with several stitch options and a lot of computerized features. Threading the needle and bobbin is a breeze. All-in-all, if you're doing basic sewing, I highly recommend the CS6000i.
NICK THOMAS
Intermediate
I can't say enough about my new Juki HZL-F600. I knew what Juki would deliver as I ran their machines while working at Levi Strauss years ago. This machine does not disappoint. It was absolutely the right sewing machine for me.
JILL PATTON
Advanced
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned seamstress, this machine offers a top quality performance to help you create beautiful projects with ease. I recommend the Janome 2212 Sewing Machine one hundred percent. I love it!
MONICA WHITE
Beginner
Types of Sewing Machines
If you are just starting out with sewing or only plan to sew occasionally, then a basic electric model would probably be best for you. If you are ambitious with sewing, you will need more accessories and stitches as well as features that can make sewing easier for you. When you plan to sew more often, then a computerized sewing machine would be the right option for you. Let’s take a look at different types of sewing machines available in the market. This will make it easier for you to choose the one that best suits your needs.
Manual Sewing Machines
You might have seen your grandma use one of these. Manual sewing machines were used by seamstresses in the past and they operate by turning a handwheel. Now, you will likely find these machines in a museum, an antique shop or a schoolroom. You may find one of these older models on internet auction websites. We don’t recommend anyone to get manual sewing machines as they are very hard to use and there is no point of buying them now when there are so many easy to use modern sewing machines available.
Electric Sewing Machines
Basic electric sewing machines have a motor in their body. This motor drives the needle and controls other important working parts like the feed dogs and bobbin. The motor must be manually driven by a small foot pedal. The machine’s speed can be controlled using the foot pedal – the harder the foot is placed down on the machine, the faster it will sew.
Electric sewing machines offer a reasonable size and range of stitches, which you can select by simply turning a dial. They are more accurate and faster than manual sewing machines but lack many of the features available in computerized sewing machines.
Computerized Sewing Machines
Computerized sewing machines can do everything that electric machines do and more. The correct length, width, and tension are pre-programmed for each built-in stitch included in the machine. They usually have a touchscreen and some models offer computer functionality allowing you to import more designs directly into the machine. Some computerized machines can memorize past work and store hundreds of edited stitches. These machines are best for advanced crafters who want to streamline their work and do more in less time.
How to Find the Best Sewing Machine Reviews (2021)
Trustworthy Brands
You should look out for leading brands that are known to offer the best sewing machines reviewed at the most economical prices. Brands such as Singer, Brother, Janome, and Juki offer some of the most reliable sewing machine models that have several attractive features.
Warranty and Repairs
You should inquire about the duration of the warranty. Also, understand what is included and what is not included in the warranty. You should know about the location of repair facilities and what are the terms and conditions for repairs. Ask about the turnaround time. Check if you will have to travel to a repair center in town or to the manufacturer.
You should keep in mind that repairs made by third parties will void your warranty. You should also keep the packaging and all material intact in case it is required for repairs.
Find Savings Online
If you decide to shop online, then you can go to Amazon and check out the prices of different sellers. By comparing the prices of different sellers, you will have a good understanding of the price range. If you are lucky, you can even find discounts.
You should also consider the different types of sewing machines to decide which one is best for you. Here they are:
Mechanical Sewing Machines
If you have to sew on a budget or if you will be sewing occasionally, then mechanical sewing machines will be sufficient for you. You will, however, have to perform a couple of tasks manually so you will need to have intermediate sewing skills. You should be able to perform sewing tasks like crafts projects, simple clothing, hems, etc.
Mechanical machines are easy to repair, unlike modern, electrical sewing machines. As a result, mechanical sewing machines tend to have a longer life as compared to computerized versions since they are more rugged and durable.
Since the parts of a mechanical sewing machine are generally quite cheap, you will be able to save repair costs.
Mechanical sewing machines are commonly used by those who want to go beyond vintage sewing machines. These people find computerized sewing machines to be rather complicated, so they settle for mechanical sewing machines.
Computerized Sewing Machines
These sewing machines have built-in computers and a small monitor display to make it easier for you to operate them. The computer is used to control the motor and precisely move components like the feed dog, tensioning discs, needle bar, and other parts.
Since the computer is being used to control parts, these machines offer hundreds of different stitching patterns. You will not find so many stitching patterns in mechanical sewing machines. You can also program the machine to store different stitching patterns or even download new ones.
Computerized sewing machines can offer a lot of convenience to sewists. If you have to sew often, then it will be worthwhile to invest in a computerized sewing machine. Many tedious jobs that have to be performed manually with mechanical sewing machines can be performed by the computer. A typical computerized sewing machine has the settings for hundreds of stitching patterns, LED screen and touchpad panel.
The trouble with computerized sewing machines is their heavy repair costs, due to their expensive parts. Unlike mechanical sewing machines, you will have to replace expensive parts like electronic components if they break down or get damaged.
Embroidery Sewing Machines
You will find several sophisticated features in an embroidery sewing machine. You will find that embroidery sewing machines are the best choice if you have to do embroidery work on pillowcases, bedspreads, and garments.
Embroidery sewing machines maintain a hoop below the needles and move the hoop around in different directions while the needle is operational. You will have to begin by stretching your fabric around the hoop. The hoop must then be secured below the needle.
There will be built-in designs within the memory of the machine. For extra designs, you will have to load designs using flash memory, CDs, memory cards or link the machine to your computer. By using the computer link or the onboard touch screen, you will be able to specify colors and choose your design pattern.
With an embroidery machine, you can mirror, reposition and resize designs as required. The machine will sound an alert when you need to change colors.
Sewing machines must have a number of features to facilitate sewing. Here they are:
Automatic Buttonholer
This feature will let you create professional looking buttonholes in just one step. You will not have to stop, turn over your fabric or adjust the dial. Some sewing machines even have a slot where you can position the button so that the machine sews a buttonhole that will fit perfectly.
Feed-Dog Adjustment
You can do darning or free-style embroidery by moving the toothy mechanism beneath the sewing surface in certain sewing machines.
Good Controls and Ergonomics
The sewing machine must respond in proportion to the pressure applied to the foot pedal and should be easy to control. It should not stall and make strange noises when you are sewing multiple layers and thick fabrics.
Controls must be located so that they are easy to reach and manipulate. Symbols printed on the machine should be bold, and the LED screen should be sharp enough for you to read without eye strain. Machines that have a longer arm will make it easier for you to use a larger cloth size.
Weight
If you require your machine to be portable, then you must check the weight and make sure that it has a handle on top and a dust cover. You should think about portable sewing machines if you have to go to sewing lessons or to your friend’s house to try out new sewing ideas.
Needle Position
With this feature, you can position the needle as well as the stitching line towards the left or right. You can also place the needle in the up or down position when you have stopped sewing. With the needle down, it is easier for you to raise the presser foot and turn the corner around with no need for a jump stitch.
Automatic Needle Threader
Threading the needle is one of the biggest nuisances that sewists have to put up with. This often involves a lot of eye strain and frustration, and it can take the fun out of sewing besides wasting time. With an automatic needle threader, you will be able to avoid these problems.
Presser Feet
You should know about the different types of presser feet that come with the sewing machine. You’ll need a multi-purpose foot for basic sewing in order to generate zigzag and straight stitches. You will also need a buttonhole foot and a zipper foot as well.
With the help of an adjustable presser foot, you can control the pressure that the presser foot exerts on the fabric while you are sewing. This will prevent the fabric from stretching when you are sewing knitwear. The right pressure will also prevent fine fabrics from puckering.
Speed
You should think about your sewing needs in order to decide which sewing speed is sufficient for you. If you will be doing a large amount of sewing work every day, then you should consider a heavy duty sewing machine. These can have a maximum speed of around 1200 stitches per minute. Your sewing projects will be finished much more quickly with higher speeds.
The foot pedal should also be responsive enough so that you won’t have to disrupt the flow of sewing by starting and stopping. Instead, you can vary tempo by adjusting the pressure on the foot pedal to control speed.
Basics of the Best Sewing Machine Reviews
There are several quality brands out there providing the best sewing machines. Juki, Janome, Brother and Singer top the list and other brands find it very hard to compete with these beasts. When you are looking for the best sewing machine reviews, the first thing to consider is the machine’s material. You need a solid machine with good built quality. If it is too light, it may vibrate during operation and miss stitches which can ruin your work. On the other hand, if the sewing machine you buy is too heavy, you will lose the portability option and find it difficult to maintain it. So, you need to find a sewing machine that comes somewhere in the middle – neither too light nor too heavy.
You would also want a machine that adjusts the thread tension automatically, especially if you are just learning how to sew. You can adjust the tension manually, but it takes some time and you can break needle and threads if you aren’t careful. The best sewing machines we've reviewed also come with an easy bobbin installation system. Look for a machine that features a top drop-in bobbin as it is easier to work with.
How to Use a Sewing Machine
Learn to Sew Along a Straight Line
It may appear that sewing a straight line with the help of your sewing machine is one of the easiest things to do. But that’s not quite the case. Once you give it a shot for yourself, you are bound to realize that you will need to practice to become proficient in sewing in a straight line.
It is advisable to practice first before using expensive sewing fabrics.
Important Safety Warnings
Warning! Please switch off the power and make sure that your foot is far away from the foot pedal whenever you adjust the material under the presser foot and needle. You don’t want to accidentally start the sewing machine while you are making these adjustments. If that happens, you can injure yourself quite badly. So please take care whenever you are adjusting the fabric. No matter how much you need to hurry, you should never skip this step under any circumstances.
Warning! Always check for bent needles before using them. Never use bent needles. Even a slightly bent needle poses a high risk of breakage and injury.
You should first check the needle correctly. Place the needle on a flat surface on its flat side. Check the needle carefully from the top and sides for any signs of bending. Bent needles should be disposed of immediately.
The Easy Way
The method explained here is very easy and inexpensive, and you will really like it.
You will not even have to use fabric or thread in order to learn sewing along a straight line.
Use Tissue Paper
You can start practicing with the help of tissue paper that has been marked with straight lines. You don’t even need to thread your sewing machine. Just use the needle without thread.
You should first mark straight lines on the paper with the help of a pen. After that, carefully place the paper under the presser foot. You should then ‘sew’ along these lines. Of course, there will be no stitches since you have not loaded any thread. But the needle will nevertheless pierce the paper to create a trail of holes as you run the paper through your sewing machine. The trail of holes should ideally lie along the marked lines.
You will be able to gauge your sewing expertise by noticing how much the trail deviates from the lines.
While practicing, you will notice that the paper stretches and wriggles as it gets pierced repeatedly by the needle. Initially, your trail may not be perfectly aligned, but you will see noticeable improvement after just a few runs.
Why Tissue Paper Is Good
You can practice with tissue paper and ordinary paper. Tissue paper is great because it is flexible and therefore tricky to sew correctly. This will make you more skilled at sewing stretch fabrics, which are one of the most difficult materials to sew. This is important because you will almost certainly work on stretch fabrics and knits since they are so comfortable and ubiquitous.
Foot Pedal Control
During this practice exercise, you will also gain control over the foot pedal. You can increase the pressure on the pedal to increase the sewing speed. You must first practice at low speeds.
You might notice that the sewing speed increases dramatically even with small foot movement. The sewing speed may appear to increase in a nonlinear manner with respect to your foot displacement.
But don’t worry. With a little practice, you will soon become adept at varying sewing speed by skillfully making small increments in foot displacement.
It is just like controlling the accelerator pedal of your car. The first time around it may have felt clumsy and uncomfortable to work the pedal with your foot. But with just a little bit of practice, you must have made significant improvements.
Your foot control will also improve rapidly with just a little sewing practice. You will soon master the foot pedal and work at any speed you like.
More Practice
You can vary thickness by folding the tissue paper. Practice with different stitch lengths. For this, you will need to use the stitch length adjustment button.
You must also learn to change the stitch direction. To do this, first, stop the machine by lifting your foot away from the foot pedal. Then raise the presser foot and turn the paper around under the needle. Once you have properly set the paper, you can lower the presser foot and start sewing again.
Remember that the needle will become blunt at the end of your paper sewing practice. Replace the needle when you start sewing fabric because blunt needles will not sew properly.