Top 5 Affordable Beginner Sewing Machines

People ask me quite a bit for my recommendation of the best affordable beginner sewing machines. When you're just starting out, it can be overwhelming to understand which beginner sewing machines are semi-decent and which machines belong in the trash. That is why I decided to write this post!

First of all, let me say that the sewing machine industry is a little strange. It's actually not that straightforward to purchase beginner sewing machines, especially when you just want to buy it from the comfort of your own home & have it shipped to you.

Fortunately, I've put together a list of five affordable beginner sewing machines, all of which you can buy online!  These are all good machines that cost less than $150 at the time I'm writing this.

Janome 3128 Features:

• Auto declutch bobbin winder
• Maximum zigzag width: 5mm, Maximum stitch length: 4mm
• Also, it runs at a comfortable 650 stitches per minute
• Next, it has a 4-step built-in buttonhole feature
• Plus, the Bonus Package Includes: 10 bobbins, Schmetz 80/12 Universal Needles (5pk)

Pros:

• Importantly, the Janome brand overall has a very good reputation
• Also, it is able to sew through multiple layers of fabric
• It really sews a very nice stitch
• It's good for travel because it is very lightweight and compact
• Lastly, it is fairly quiet

Cons:

• First, it does not have a thread cutter
• Despite having few features and accessories, it is still great for basic straight sewing
• Unlike several of these machines, it does not have an automatic needle threader

Singer Talent Features:

• Auto declutch bobbin winder
• Maximum zigzag width: 5mm, Maximum stitch length: 4mm
• Like the Janome 3128, it sews at 650 stitches per minute
• 4-step built-in buttonhole
• Also, the bonus package includes: 10 bobbins, Schmetz 80/12 Universal Needles (5pk). 

Pros:

• First of all, it just feels sturdy to handle
• Next, the owner's manual is very detailed and useful
• Lightweight & compact, yet can sew through a lot of layers of fabric
• Also, the automatic needle threader works well
• Another nice feature is that the presser feet can be raised very high
• Finally, it has an easy top loading bobbin

Cons:

• Feed dogs do no’t drop down
• Due to its basic nature (and low price tag), it doesn'’t have a large number of stitches

Singer Heavy Duty Features:

• Most noteworthy, this machine has 23 different stitches (6 basic, 4 stretch, 12 decorative, 1 buttonhole)
• Also, the stitch length and width is fully adjustable
• Heavy-duty metal frame
• Automatic 1-step buttonhole
• Presser foot pressure is adjustable
• Top drop-in bobbin
• Stainless steel bed plate
• Snap-on presser feet
• Adjustable tension
• 3 different needle positions
• Also worth mentioning, the feed dogs can be lowered for free motion sewing

Pros:

• First, it has a simple interface and is easy to operate
• Above all, this is a sturdy machine
• In contrast to the slower Talent, it can sew up to 1100 stitches per minute
• Also quiet, despite a more heavy duty motor
• Finally, it has a good automatic needle threader

Cons:

• Although this machine may not be truly "heavy duty", the motor is definitely stronger than any of the other beginner sewing machines reviewed here.

Janome Mod 19 Features:

• Janome Easy-to-Use Basic Sewing Machine with 19 Stitches
• Similar to many of the machines on this list, it has a Four-Step Buttonhole
• 5-Piece Feed Dog System
• Also, Adjustable Stitch Length and Width
• 4 Presser Feet
• Free Arm
• Drop Feed
• Finally, it has a 25-Year Limited Warranty

Pros:

• First, the easy-to-use features make operation of the machine simple for even the most inexperienced
• Next, I like the easy threading with the built-in needle threader
• Finally, the top loading bobbin has you sewing something new in seconds

Cons:

• Probably most noteworthy is that has many plastic parts inside and out, which feels a little less durable than metal option
• Because it has many plastic parts, this machine is not ideal for heavy-weight materials like denim

In conclusion, any of these beginner sewing machines will get the job done for you.  If you've decided on the right ones for you and are ready to move forward, then let me help you teach your first sewing class!