The 10 Best Sewing Machines For Beginners
Special Honors
Husqvarna Viking Emerald 118 If you're willing to splurge, this is one of the most versatile units you can work with as a beginner. Designed with practicality as a priority, this one is easy for newcomers to maneuver, especially thanks to its helpful sewing guide reference chart, which provides recommendations on stitch length, thread tension, technique, etc. Aside from 70 different stitch functions, it also features a one-step buttonhole, a built-in needle threader that actually works, and adjustable stitch length and width. husqvarnaviking.com
Editor's Notes
August 09, 2019:
On this list, we've decided to mostly exclude the most inexpensive machines on the market, ones that a beginner is likely to encounter and consider as viable options. These machines, often priced at or below $50, are usually poorly-manufactured, made with junk materials, and likely to become damaged or break within a few months of purchase — if not sooner. Normally, we would present at least one low budget-tier option to those who truly just want a cheapo-machine to test-drive this craft and decide whether its worth further investment. But with the cost of sewing machine repairs being what they are, we decided it would be irresponsible to recommend units that may end up costing a consumer just as much to fix as they paid for the unit itself. Instead, we've included multiple options that are just a tad bit costlier, each made by reputable companies, that'll save you money and hassle in the long run. Such options include the Spiegel SP3201 (#8) the Singer Start 1304 (#10), and the Brother XM2701 (#5).
Those with the money to invest in a higher-quality machine will fall into two camps: those willing to spend somewhere around $100-$175 on a decent machine that won't cause too much fuss, and those looking to make an immediate investment in a machine that will stay with them as they hone their craft. For those in the first camp, we'd point to the Singer Heavy Duty 4423 (#6) or the Brother CS6000i (#2). Those willing to dish out more cash are certainly in good hands with the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960, our top pick.