SewingSPOT Best Sewing Machines 2020, Reviews, DIY, Buyers Guide Last updated on October 17th, 2021 at 02:01 pm
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Which sewing machine is best for beginners?
No doubt, there are quite some favorable brands like; Janome, brother, singer, and Juki. No matter the brand, a beginner sewing machine should be easy to use, durable, cheap, adaptable to improvement, and easy to ferry around.
This buying guide will ensure you get it right from the first time.
You will find below a summary of the best entry-level sewing machine for 2020, my detailed review, buying guide and recommendations.
Summarized – Top 8 Beginners Sewing Machine
Product/ Features Built-in-Stitches Automatic Threader No. of Stitches/Min My Recommedation Details Brother CS6000i Sewing Machine 60 Yes 850 Perfect Start For Beginners Check Price Singer 7258 Sewing Machine 100 Yes 750 Beginner to Intermediate Quilters (Editors Choice) Check Price Brother LS2125i Sewing Machine 10 No 900 Easy to Use, Cheap Everyday Sewing Machine Check Price Singer 4411 sewing machine 11 No 1100 Heavy duty option for Beginners Check Price Janome Magnolia 7318 18 Yes 840 Excellent Start for Entry Level Check Price Brother XL2600I Sewing Machine 25 Yes 800 Best for Sewing Class Check Price Brother CS5055PRW 50 No 850 Most Computerized for Beginners Check Price Janome 2212 Sewing Machine 12 No 860 Semi Mechanical option Check Price
Before my review, here is what you should consider if you really want to get the best beginner sewing machine.
Skip this – Take me to the Review Below
A beginner cannot just use any sewing machine, certain criteria must be considered in picking the right one. Here are the most important factors to consider: Ease of use The process of learning is stiff. You don’t want to be discouraged. A sewing machine that is easy to use or set up and understands is the best way to go. It will make it easier for you to learn. While others are struggling with their complex sewing machine you are already one step or projects ahead. Also in classes, it will be easy to follow up on your lessons. Cost For an entry-level sewing machine, the cost is a very important factor. You are going to start slowly so you don’t want to spend so much on a sewing machine you may not like. A reasonably priced sewing machine is what you need. Most often you don’t need all the features of an expensive sewing machine as it can bore you out. Weight and Size As a beginner, you would like to carry your machine to classes sometimes, so the size and weight matter. If you get a machine too heavy and large, then in most cases you will not be motivated to attend classes or move with your sewing machine. Remember, if it is also too light there are disadvantages. If there’s a hard carry case, that’s extra, it will make mobility easy. Type of Sewing Machine There are different varieties of sewing machines in the market, some are better suited for entry-level users than others. For mechanical machines, they can be time-consuming but are the traditional way to learn and helps in the learning process. Electronic sewing machines (semi computerize) on the other hand saves time, while a highly computerized machine is good for beginners it may not offer you the opportunity to learn the basic skills and may distort the learning process. Like I always do, I will suggest a semi-computerized sewing machine or mechanical sewing machine; this way you learn some basics and be able in no time to step up your game. Noise Level Some sewing machine can be a bit loud but not totally deafening. Mechanical sewing machine tends to produce much noise. However, all sewing machine does produce noise, even the computerized one. The idea here is to avoid any sewing machine that produces irritating and continuous noise. Number of Stitches In reality, the most important stitch in a sewing machine is the straight stitch and zig-zag stitch. With these two stitches, you can do any form of sewing. As a beginner, you wouldn’t need many stitches to begin with. So don’t be caught up in the craze of buying a sewing machine with too many sewing stitches – you will hardly use it.Choosing a Sewing Machine for Beginners – 6 Important Factors to Consider
The 8 Sewing Machine for Beginners to Buy
1. Brother CS6000i – (Editors Top Choice for Entry Level Beginners Option)
This is a sewing machine that delivers much more than just excellent stitches, but an all-around perfection. When you choose Brother CS6000i, you are about to become the best in the craft. A beginner needs a sewing machine that is fun, easy to use and learn with like Brother CS6000i.
Let’s dig deeper
With 60 built-in stitches, you are in for the best time of your sewing experience. Brother CS6000i is more than just sewing, the 7 preset quilting stitches will bring an expert out of you in little time. You’ll need not do the threading of the machine as it is automatically programmed.
The large LCD screen of the sewing machine allows you to visibly choose from any of the stitches. Guess what? You can work in the dark relying on the bright LED-lit workspace. As a beginner, the speed control button will allow you to adjust up to 850 stitches per minute or slower. There’s no embroidery feature on this sewing machine. You won’t be able to use it for monogramming also. Nevertheless, don’t be bothered with this, you don’t need it yet.
In essence, this is a rare low cost but value-packed sewing machine that delivers more than the price.
An ideal sewing and quilting machine for entry-level users, packing extra features for a reasonable price.
Features Recap:
2. Singer 7258 – Beginner Sewing Machine for Simple Quilting
This is a sewing machine that has all the necessary features for quilting, dressmaking, home furnishings, and freehand embroidery. Singer 7258 stylist is a light, quiet, small but sturdy machine.
A statement of precision, performance, and innovation that the Singer brand is synonymous with.
So, what’s it about?
Offering 100 variety of stitches for all types of sewing, including heirloom, fashion sewing, crafts, quilting, decorative and home sewing.
Singer 7258 stylist automatically withdraws the needle when your foot is off the pedal, so you don’t break the needle forgetting to lift it before removing your fabric
There’s more
This sewing machine makes threading so easy that you can thread an entire machine within few seconds. It does stitches really well and you don’t have to worry about adjusting the tension control. I don’t know the rationale behind an automatic pressure foot that isn’t adjustable – it’s not a good idea. The limited 5mm stitch width is another demerit. One little disadvantage that highly concerns a beginner is the lack of a hard carry case – you can choose the more expensive version with a carrying case.
If you are a beginner looking for an entry-level sewing machine that can do more, then Singer 7258 Stylist fits the description.
It’s reasonably priced and makes sewing seem easier because the machine just does what it should.
Features Recap:
3. Brother LS2125i Review– Easy to Use
Brother LS2125i has three main qualities; simplicity, affordability, and lightweight. Don’t be scared, the affordable price does not compromise quality. All you’ll need to complete a sewing project in terms of features, this sewing machine possesses it all.
What’s different?
Even though it’s a semi-computerized sewing machine, there’s a very good stitch speed of 900 stitches per minute.
You can easily use any of the 10 built-in stitches to craft any of your beautiful designs. This is a compact and easy to use sewing machine aided by an easy bobbin winding mechanism.
At just 13 lbs., you can move the sewing machine to any part of your home where you feel like working. As a beginner, you can easily carry this back and forth from sewing class to your house. Coupled with it being lightweight is a sewing machine carrying case, with handle aiding mobility. You may have problems occasionally with the bobbin. The machine cannot handle heavy materials – though most beginner sewing machine does not.
In summary, this is an excellent entry-level sewing machine for everyday use. You will be growing as a beginner while having fun.
Even professionals will find several features of this sewing machine valuable.
Features Recap:
4. Singer 4411 – Heavy Duty Entry Level sewing Machine
Singer does not want their heavy-duty lovers to miss out, they built a basic heavy-duty machine that works for entry-level users.
You won’t be breaking the bank in acquiring a mid-range sewing machine that’ll perfectly deliver beautiful stitches.
But here’s the kicker:
With 11 stitches powering over numerous types of fabrics and around 1,100 stitches per minute, you have all you need for completing your project fast.
Though that’s too much speed a beginner can control. Looking at the sturdy metal frame of the 4411, you won’t have to be told of the durability.
There’s more
Built into the sewing machine is a storage compartment where you can keep your sewing accessories. Creating straight and stable stitches are very easy for this heavy-duty sewing machine. No matter the fabrics you intend to sew as a beginner, you have a sewing machine that can handle it. Limited stitching options and sewing through corners and curves may be very tricky. The stitching speed might be too much for a beginner to handle.
One thing is certain about this sewing machine, you’ll never experience any problem with it. I don’t see this as a good buy but an excellent buy.
With the right needles, it delivers excellently fast and smooth stitching without issues.
Features Recap:
5. Janome Magnolia 7318 Review – Janome Option for Serious Beginners
In every sense, Janome is an unrivaled excellent sewing machine brand for beginners. Like every of their entry-level sewing machine, Magnolia 7318, offers you the best of what a beginner sewing machine should offer.
Though very basic and still does everything well. With Magnolia 7318, you can shape up your skills with great stitch quality, plus easy-to-use controls.
For Starters…
The basic features should do everything you need. There are 18 built-in stitches. But you know what? You have more, Janome count as one what other brands count as two. The stitch width and length are both adjustable to 5mm and 4mm respectively.
Want to Know the Best Part?
Magnolia 7318 will seamlessly tackle home decorating, clothing, and quilting projects. Balances quality, price, and versatility with a lot of useful functions. It sews very smoothly and at just the right pace, with a generous sewing surface. Every accessory will have a home in the convenient storage. Magnolia 7318 sewing machine has lesser stitch varieties than other machines in its price range. The lack of a hard carry case does not make it much better for those who will like to take it to classes.
In conclusion, the Magnolia 7318 sewing machine is a good start for a beginner who does not care about the price.
If you are ready to take the long but profitable journey of learning with a semi-computerized sewing machine; this is one good option.
Features Recap:
6. Brother XL2600I – Best Beginners Sewing Machine (Editors Choice)
Arguably, this will be one of the cheapest Brother sewing machines ever made. Due to the ease of use and affordability, the Brother XL2600l sewing machine is popular among those who are ready to learn.
You don’t have to be bothered with loads of features and options in a sewing machine, simple is better at your level.
What’s Relevant?
Even at an affordable price, there are so many basic features the XL2600l machine offers. As a beginner, you need an automatic needle threader and this machine has it. There’s no way your machine will ever stress you as it is jam-resistant. With any of the 25 built-in stitches, you have more than you need.
In short, with a one-step buttonholer, this is one of the most user-friendly machines available.
One reason to love this machine is the speed controller, use the foot pedal to control the machine easily. How about the bobbin? – There’s no need fiddling around it, this machine is fully automated. You can’t adjust the pressure foot manually. Worse, finding the right settings through the tension dial is a bit of hard work.
In reality, Brother XL2600l is a good entry-level machine perfect for learning and adapting easily to the vocation.
More of a semi-mechanical sewing machine but very light and easy to move around. Based on the price, this is my best in terms of features and quality.
Features Recap:
7. Brother Project Runway CS5055PRW – Beginners Computerized Option
More for less, that’s a way to describe this elegant and compact sewing machine. A machine that offers tremendous qualities deserves every attention you give it.
As a computerized sewing machine with plenty of options for even advanced users, it’s not a bad place to start for a beginner.
How is it unique?
CS5055PRW comes with multiple stitch functions from any of the 50 built-in stitches. Using any of this, you can sew any fabric texture from the stretch, fleece, and even elastic materials.
Aside from sewing, there are quilting stitches where you can attach quilt blocks together. Also, there’s a stitch chart from where you know which to choose.
From the LCD screen, you’ll know what you are doing. The screen will aid your stitch, foot, width and length choice. More so, you can work in a dark or low light environment relying solely on the LED light. A large part of the machine was made of plastic. Don’t expect to keep loads of items in the storage compartment. So also, the LED light is dim, not very bright. Lastly, threading the needle comes with some difficulty.
Learning can also be fun and without pain, that’s what Brother CS5055PRW does to the user especially a beginner. Aside from the bad side, this sewing machine has some top range features and accessories.
If you add this to your list for consideration, you are making the right choice.
Features Recap:
8. Janome 2212 Review – Mechanical Option for Starters
Janome has been one of the leading sewing machine companies that have been providing high-quality home sewing machines at affordable prices.
Janome 2212 is the best starter sewing machine for beginners seeking to equip themselves with cutting-edge skills in sewing.
What’s Stands Out?
This quality entry-level machine will take beginners to the next level in the profession. For a machine weighing around 16 lbs and more mechanical, it’s a grab-it-and-go-anywhere sewing machine that will keep you sewing all day.
The width adjustment, dial pattern selection, and its simple stitch length make sewing easier. This is a dependable sewing machine ideal for aspiring beginners. I think it would have been awesome if this machine is computerized. More importantly, the 12 built-in stitches will limit the variety available to the user.
If you really want to kick-start your sewing ambitions without being bored by complex features or accessory you really don’t need, then choose Janome 2212.
Thinking of buying a sewing machine as a gift to help someone kickstart their sewing experience, this would be one to consider.
Features Recap:
My Verdict
No one is a beginner forever, but it’s a route we must all pass through. That’s why you need to get the best entry-level sewing machine you can grow with.
All these 8 sewing machines offer a good option for a beginner. You should consider any from the list above.
But still confused? Let me round it up by narrowing it down to just 3.
Brother CS6000i leads the pack among the best beginner sewing machine available. With a good amount of built-in stitches, modest weight, and features that make sewing easy for a beginner; the CS6000i sewing machine is a good start for any beginner.
Following in terms of excellent performance, precision and power are the Singer 4411 sewing machine. Boasting of sewing speed and strong build, I recommend this option as a Heavy Duty Entry Level sewing Machine for Beginners.
Brother Project Runway CS5055PRW Sewing Machine comes around as a highly sophisticated sewing machine. A fully automated sewing machine that makes sewing easy, simple and fast. This is my Best Beginners Computerized Sewing Machine.
Final Tip
All sewing machines reviewed here can be useful for beginners. The category you choose depends on the level of improvement. Computerize sewing machine allows room for improvement.
As soon as you advance to the intermediate user you need more sewing options. It is important that you find the best sewing machine that suits your needs and preferences. Only this way, you can maximize your potential and optimize its functionality.
Although a higher-level machine can work quite well for some beginners, it does not for others. Some of the sewing machine for beginners is not computerized; they use simple knobs, cost less and work extremely well.
That’s it for an entry-level sewing machine.
I hope I have been helpful?
Do you need a free arm? What’s the meaning of a free arm sewing machine?
Most times all sewing machine has a free arm which is used in sewing hems, cuffs, and trousers. Built into a free arm are the bobbin, stitch plate and feed dogs. In essence, a free arm is used in sewing any tubular item with ease.
You cannot complete any sewing that needs a tubular part without the free arm. For example, when you finish sewing a trouser, you’ll need to remove the accessory box or area to use the free arm.
Simply put, what I meant to say is that free arm sewing machines allow for easy manipulation of the fabric for access under and around the needle and is very useful.
