How to choose the best sewing machine
When starting your search for a suitable sewing machine, it’s a good idea to get to grips with the three main types:
Electronic sewing machines: Definitely the most popular type for most sewing enthusiasts. They have a motor operated by a foot pedal, and decent models will have a good range of speeds to allow you to work as fast or slow as you’d like. Electronic sewing machines also offer a varied choice of stitch sizes and lengths. A great option if you’re a beginner and want to get to grips with the basics of sewing.
Computerised sewing machines: These will feel like a step up from a traditional electronic sewing machine. They’ll happily manage all the tasks you’d expect, but they're able to complete more advanced techniques as well. Using a touchpad and a screen to operate it, you’ll be able to expand your options for stitch sizes and lengths dramatically, and in some cases create your own! You’ll also be able to take advantage of a memory function, keeping a record of past work and saving you time when it comes to new projects.
Overlocker sewing machine: If you’re considering an overlocker you’ll most likely be a more experienced machinist. Many people choose to buy this style of machine as a second piece of equipment, because although they do what they’re designed to do to a high standard, they are also very limited in what they can do. Basically, if your main aim is to give your clothes a professional finish then this is a good option to look into. Overlockers are designed to help you to create the neatest of hems at a fast speed to rival a professional finish.
Remember, it’s really important to have a think about the kind of projects you will be taking on before you make a decision about which sewing machine to buy. Bigger is not always better, and in the case of sewing machines, bigger often means pricier and more cumbersome! Before you splash lots of cash, consider whether a more compact model can do the jobs you’re looking for.
“I have a fancy pants computerised machine, a middle of the range machine and a vintage 1970s machine that does only the basics – the latter is the one I love most for its simplicity. It's a workhorse that never lets me down.” (Mumsnetter)
What are the main features to look out for to suit beginners, intermediate and advanced sewers?
The next step to consider is which features you’d like included in your sewing machine. Here are a few of the options you should think about:
The selection of stitches and foot attachments: This will depend on your sewing level and ability. Think about whether you’ll be dressmaking, embroidering cushions or making curtains and figure out which settings you’ll need. Make sure that your machine offers enough variety for what you want to create Is there a buttonhole function? All sewers, regardless of ability, should take advantage of this option if available. Does it have an auto-thread function? This is particularly important for beginners.
There are many more features to look out for, so take the time to explore your options carefully before making a decision.
What can I use a handheld sewing machine for?
The best thing about a handheld sewing machine is that you can take it anywhere. If you’re going on a trip and fancy continuing a project you’ve been working on, then you can easily pop it into your luggage and you’ll barely notice the space it takes up.
Compared to hand stitching, it is definitely the better option for accuracy of stitches and it’s a great option if you’re mainly interested in repairing clothes or other textiles, or if you have a crafting hobby (providing the fabrics you sew with aren’t too thick for the machine to handle). The price is also very appealing compared to a standard sewing machine.
However, handheld options are definitely not as durable. They can also be quite tricky to master, and many people end up searching online for video demonstrations to help them get to grips with how to use it effectively. If you’re a keen sewer then it’s probably more sensible to invest in a larger sewing machine.
What is the best sewing machine to buy?
We opted for the Janome J3-24 Sewing Machine for its range of features including 24 built-in stitch options and an automatic one-step buttonhole. It ticks lots of boxes and is reasonably priced for beginners looking to tackle a variety of tasks from dressmaking to craft projects. And it offers a range of accessories to keep most enthusiastic sewers inspired!
How we chose our recommendations
Our sewing machine suggestions have come from recommendations on the Mumsnet forums and from consumer reviews on the web. We consulted advice from other review websites to ensure that the products we reviewed were accurate and unbiased. We also consulted independent review sites for opinions about products to ensure we were bringing you an honest summary of the best sewing machines to buy.
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