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Whether you’re a professional or a beginner, we’ve rounded up the best sewing machines for you.
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When I first bought a sewing machine, I considered what I would be using the machine for.
We evaluated each sewing machine on its set up, features, design, and performance.
For more information on how we tested sewing machines in our lab, check outour testing processbelow.
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It is useful for sewing and quilting projects, but it cannot embroider.
Our pick for the best overall sewing machine is theBrother CS7000X Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine.
The stitches include utility, heirloom, decorate, and quilting stitches, as well as seven buttonhole stitches.
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In addition to sewing, this machine will also help you with all of yourquilting patterns.
We also love the LCD screen, which allows you to easily select which stitch you want to use.
you could also use the screen to adjust the length and width of your stitches.
We also liked that the manual had pictures, making it easy to understand the directions.
This sewing machine is also portable, thanks to the included protective hard case.
It weighs 14 pounds, which is about the standard weight for this throw in of sewing machine.
While it can be used for sewing and quilting projects, it doesnt have any embroidering capabilities.
Setting up the machine was easy and intuitive, thanks to a simple design and the included instruction manuals.
There is also a light on the machine that illuminated our work space.
We also appreciated that the machine had an automatic needle threader and a jam-resistant drop-in bobbin.
We did, however, experience issues with the buttonhole stitch.
Even after consulting the instructions and a sewing expert, we were unable to troubleshoot the issue.
Despite this problem, we still found that the machine performed well.
We had some trouble figuring out the automatic needle threader.
Although it has a higher price tag, its capabilities and features make it well worth the price.
Unlike other sewing machines on our list, this one has a USB port so designs can be transferred.
One of our favorite features we tested was the automatic buttonhole stitch.
The manual didnt explain what the included accessories were, which may be a little confusing for a beginner.
After our testing, we determined that theBaby Lock Zest Sewing Machineworks best for beginners.
Like other options suitable for beginners, setting up the machine was a breeze.
In fact, it only took about a minute and threading it took about two minutes.
Part of what makes this machine ideal for beginners is the detailed, 55-page instruction manual.
Within the manual, we found helpful directions as well as informative illustrations.
However, the manual was only helpful regarding the machineit did not explain what the included accessories were.
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We also appreciated the buttonhole capabilities, light, free arm, and removable extension table.
There are 15 built-in stitches, and we could adjust the stitch length from 0 to 4 millimeters.
Though the first one wasnt as symmetrical, both of the buttonholes were functional and held together well.
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It didnt include a manual, and it jammed when we tried to use the buttonhole stitch.
When sewing on fabric, the stitches were flat and consistenteven when we used the zigzag stitch on denim.
It takes up a bit more space than other sewing machines, especially with the quilting table.
Quilters will appreciate the features and the ease of use of theBrother XR9550 Sewing and Quilting Machine.
The machine also comes with an instructional DVD for even more information.
We tested two different buttonhole stitches, and both of them yielded a clean and consistent result.
Its also available at a relatively reasonable price, given its performance and features.
We wish it came with accessories like a seam ripper or needle threader.
After our testing, we found theBrother 1034D Sergerto be the best overlock sewing machine.
Despite having no experience with threading sergers, we were able to thread it in about 15 minutes.
When testing the machine on fabric, we found that it was effective at serging edges.
The stitches were evenly spaced and consistent in size, and the tension held up well.
Sergers can have higher price tags, but this one is much more affordable than others on the market.
We were impressed with its quality and ease of use, even though it has a lower price point.
We do wish it came with helpful accessories like a seam ripper, needle thread, and scissors.
We did notice some gaps in the buttonhole stitch, and thread got stuck under the needle plate.
It seemed secure, but there were some bigger gaps in between a few stitches.
We love that this machine has 70 stitches, a jam-resistant drop-in bobbin, and a durable metal frame.
During our testing process, we followed the same methodology for every sewing machine to fairly evaluate their capabilities.
We noted how difficult or easy it was to perform the task, and whether the instructions were helpful.
We also indicated whether instructions were included, and if they were easy to understand.
To test the quality of stitches, we sewed straight and zigzag stitches on both cotton and denim.
If embroidery designs were available, we also tested those to determine ease of use and quality.
While testing the machines, we had a sewing expert in our lab to help provide feedback and guidance.
Serges can also be mechanical or computerized, but theBrother 1034D Sergeris mechanical.
Unlike computerized sewing machines, mechanical sewing machines dont have screens and are instead operated with switches and dials.
These are basic models great for beginners, says Jennifer OLeary, senior product marketing manager at Brother USA.
They offer a small number of basic stitches for the user.
This machine is great for simplified sewing projects.
Computerized machines come with a variety of more precise built-in stitches, O’Leary says.
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These machines can create highly elaborate stitching designs.
Combo sewing and embroidery machines are for advanced users, O’Leary says.
On more advanced sewing machines, there may be decorative, utility, and quilting stitches.
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However, you dont necessarily need hundreds of stitch optionsit depends on what you want to create.
Many sewing machines have automatic bobbin winding systems so you dont have to wind it by hand.
Taylor warns that winding a bobbin can be tricky initially.
TheBrother XM2701 Sewing Machinehas a drop-in bobbin system, while theBaby Lock Zest Sewing Machineis a front-loading bobbin system.
Aluminum bobbins spin faster, they [are] also easily scratched.
If you have topurchase additional bobbins, check that they are the correct size.
Speed
The speed of a sewing machine is measured in stitches per minute.
This helps the user become more familiar and comfortable with controlling the speed of the machine.
Features/Accessories
Each sewing machine comes with different features and accessories.
Typically, the more expensive a sewing machine is, the more features it will come with.
It also doesnt have a screen or a USB port.
Some machines will also have a brush for cleaning or a small screwdriver for taking apart more intricate pieces.
The machine did yield even and consistent stitches though, so overall it performed well.
We deemed this an ineffective plastic toy rather than an actual sewing machine after its frustrating and poor performance.
Your Questions, Answered
What is the best sewing machine?
TheBrother CS7000X Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machineis our top choice for the best sewing machine.
This computerized sewing machine has 70 stitches to choose from, and has a jam-resistant, drop-in bobbin.
How much do sewing machines cost?
TheBrother XM2701 Sewing Machineis the most affordable sewing machine on our list at less than $150.
The more features a sewing machine has, the more expensive it will be.
What accessories do you need for a sewing machine?
There are purists who say you don’t need anything but the machine, says Taylor.
But I’m a fan of tools, especially if they make my life easier.
Pressing along the way will always elevate your projects and is mandatory for most quilting projects.
Credit: Baby Lock
For this list, she analyzed insights from our testing lab and selected the top performing sewing machines.
What Is BHG Recommends?
Next to all of the products on this list, you may have noticed ourBHG Recommends seal of approval.
Credit: Better Homes & Gardens / Henry Wortock
In these cases, we use the same testing criteria we use to test the purchased products.
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Credit: Better Homes & Gardens / Henry Wortock
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Credit: Better Homes & Gardens / Henry Wortock
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Credit: Better Homes & Gardens / Henry Wortock
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Better Homes & Gardens / Henry Wortock
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
