These 7 Beginner Sewing Machines Actually Make Learning to Sew Easier
Learning to sew can be hard. These top-tested machines make it easier.
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When I first learned how to sew, the right beginner sewing machine set me up for success. A good one has to be easy to operate, but not too basic that you can’t grow with it (I used my first machine for 10 years!). After I tested 13 different sewing machines in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, I found these to be the easiest-to-use machines, with our best overall pick being the Brother CS7000X for its versatility of options that allow you to use it well beyond the novice stage.
The best beginner sewing machines:
- Best overall: Brother CS7000X Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine
- Best value: Janome Easy-To-Use Sewing Machine with Interior Metal Frame
- Best for kids: KPCB Tech Sewing Machine for Beginners
- Easiest to thread: SINGER M3500 Sewing Machine
- Best for making clothes: Brother XR9550 Sewing and Quilting Machine
Best Deal
Pros
- Adjustable sewing speed allows you to go at your own pace
- Convenient start/stop button is helpful when sewing delicate fabrics
- Easy to thread and change the presser feet in Lab tests
Cons
- Showed some inaccuracies when sewing with polyester satin fabrics
WHO IT'S BEST FOR: Beginners looking for a quality machine that’s simple to operate and includes more advanced features that make sewing enjoyable
WHY WE LOVE IT: Including 10 different presser feet with multiple bobbins to start your sewing journey, this high-quality pick is offered at a reasonable price for a beginner who wants a machine that'll last as they advance their skills.
In the Textiles Lab, our experts found it easy to change the presser feet and easy to thread, thanks to its drop-in bobbin in lieu of a traditional front-loading bobbin setup, which can be trickier to master. Beginners will also appreciate that the speed is adjustable, so you can avoid going too fast while learning. The start/stop button is also handy when sewing with delicate fabrics.
With 70 built-in stitches, including the basics every sewer needs, this Brother machine sewed through a variety of fabrics with minimal inaccuracies; that said, it was a bit more difficult to sew polyester satin materials. Another thing: Our product testers noted that while the thread holder may look short at first, its height is actually adjustable.
| Machine type | Computerized |
| Weight | 14 lbs |
| Built-in stitches | 70 stitches with 7 buttonholes |
| Bobbin type | Drop-in |
Pros
- Great value for top-notch sewing machine brand
- Analysts found it sewed smoothly on different materials
- Simple controls and easy to thread drop-in bobbin
Cons
- Only sold in bright shades and patterns
WHO IT’S BEST FOR: New-to-sewing shoppers who want a reliable, simple machine without committing to a pricier model
WHY WE LOVE IT: Janome is one of the best sewing machine brands I’ve tested, so I was impressed to see this model being sold for just $140. I found this machine easy to use with two simple controls and a simple drop-in bobbin design, but it lacks fancier features that can make sewing easier.
In Textiles Lab testing, analysts liked sewing on this machine, finding it sewing smoothly on different materials, even thicker fabrics. This machine lacks adjustable speed control, so make sure to press on the foot pedal gently when you start sewing.
This simple machine offers 15 stitches and one buttonhole option. It comes with a few presser feet to get started. Note that this machine is only sold in bright, solid colors and patterns, which I loved the look of, but might not suit everyone’s preferences.
| Machine type | Mechanical |
| Weight | 12 lbs |
| Built-in Stitches | 15 stitches with 1 buttonhole option |
| Bobbin-type | Drop-in |
Pros
- A mechanical machine is easier to learn with
- Lightweight for easy toting
- Finger guard to protect hands
Cons
- No back stitch
WHO IT'S BEST FOR: Children wanting to learn how to sew because this machine is the lowest price and features a finger guard to protect sewers’ hands
WHY WE LOVE IT: Smaller than a copy of Good Housekeeping magazine, this fully functioning sewing machine weighs under 3 pounds for easy carrying. A mechanical machine like this one is a good starter sewing machine because it can be easier to learn on than computerized options, though it's not necessarily designed to be long lasting.
Ideal for simple sewing projects with one stitch, this machine has added ease-of-use features like a side thread cutter, removable extension table, and built-in lamp. Just note that this machine has no back stitch: To enforce your stitches, we recommend sewing over the ends again. We love that this machine comes with everything you need to get started, including different threads, cotton fabrics, and a measuring tape.
| Machine type | Mechanical |
| Weight | 3 lbs |
| Built-in stitches | 1 stitch |
| Bobbin type | Drop-in |
Pros
- Simple controls are great for beginners
- Easily portable small size and lightweight design
- Automatic needle threader simplifies threading process
Cons
- Buttonhole function wasn't seamless in testing
WHO IT'S BEST FOR: Anyone who has never touched a sewing machine before and wants the simplest option
WHY WE LOVE IT: One of the hardest parts of learning to sew is threading the machine, but I found this one incredibly easy to thread. Along with an affordable price point, this machine was a favorite among testers for its easy setup. It's lightweight (less than 12 pounds) and compact in size, so beginners can easily carry it to a sewing lesson or from one room to the next.
Our sewing pros were impressed with this machine's ease of threading, thanks to the clearly labeled threading instructions and the easy-to-operate automatic needle threader. In our tests, we liked how well this machine worked with different fabrics, including wool and cotton jersey; it only struggled with delicate fabrics like silk chiffon. During testing, we noticed the one-step buttonhole function wasn't quite seamless and got stuck a few times, but it ran smoothly after rethreading.
| Machine type | Mechanical |
| Weight | 11.79 lbs |
| Built-in stitches | 11 stitches with 1 buttonhole option |
| Bobbin type | Front-loading |
Pros
- Handled a variety of fabrics with ease
- Speed control allows you work slower as you're learning
- Clear, easy-to-use controls
Cons
- It's recommended to always use the spool cap to prevent thread sliding off
WHO IT'S BEST FOR: Fashionistas who want to learn how to sew clothes and accessories
WHY WE LOVE IT: Analysts found this machine easy to sew on, especially when making clothes which requires a machine that can handle different types of fabrics. This machine is very similar to our best overall CS7000X machine, but is more advanced with extra built-in stitches.
"Learning how to sew on this machine was easier than I thought it would be," said Editorial Commerce Editor Isabella Cavallo. "It was easy to transport to my friend's house (whose grandma was teaching me how to sew), and I appreciated the programmable stitch speed control, since I'm still getting used to the foot pedal."
This Brother machine combines the simplicity of a beginner machine with excellent features like a clear LCD screen and needle up/down. It also includes a wider table to support bigger quilting and sewing projects and an intuitive automatic needle threader. We recommend using the spool cap to prevent the thread from falling off. This machine sewed through a variety of different fabrics with ease, including denim and upholstery fabric.
| Machine type | Computerized |
| Weight | 10.14 lbs |
| Built-in stitches | 110 utility stitches, 55 alphanumeric stitches and 8 buttonholes |
| Bobbin type | Drop-in |
Pros
- Great for quilting and other sewing projects
- Thread tension is automatically adjusted
- Pre-programmed style options
Cons
- Not the best at sewing through denim
WHO IT'S BEST FOR: Beginner quilters who need more space to work on bigger projects
WHY WE LOVE IT: This Singer sewing and quilting machine features manual speed control for those who have difficulty keeping consistent and even pressure when using a traditional pedal; for those who don't like pedals at all, the start-stop function also allows you to sew without using the foot control. Plus, it has over 100 built-in stitch applications, including basic and decorative; with each stitch, the tension is automatically adjusted.
In our Lab evaluations, we found that using the automatic buttonhole function was a breeze—just select which of the six styles you prefer on the LCD screen with the tap of a button. Our experts were impressed with how easy it was to change the presser foot with the quick-snap design. The automatic needle threader is simple and easy to use, too. While this machine could quilt easily, it wasn't the best at sewing thicker fabrics (like denim).
| Machine type | Computerized |
| Weight | 16.31 lbs |
| Built-in stitches | 100 stitches, 15 quilting and 7 buttonholes |
| Bobbin type | 1,000 stitches per minute |
Pros
- LED-lit work area
- Easy-to-follow guides online
- Wireless design-uploading capabilities
Cons
- Smaller embroidery area compared to pricier models
WHO IT'S BEST FOR: Anyone who wants to sew and also embroider with the same beginner machine
WHY WE LOVE IT: Sewing and embroidery machines can get very advanced and expensive, but the Brother SE700 is one of the most affordable. With a 4” x 4” embroidery field (loop, embroidery arm, and foot are included), you can see all designs in full color on the LCD display, making easy work of adjustments like changing thread color. Although it does have a smaller embroidery area compared to pricier models.
Coming with 135 built-in embroidery designs, this machine also has wireless capabilities (and a USB port) to upload your own embroidery designs and thousands of options from Brother online. This is also a fully functioning sewing machine when the embroidery arm is removed. Plus, there are multiple easy features like an automatic needle threader, LED-lit work area, free arm, and a drop-in bobbin.
| Machine type | Computerized |
| Weight | 15.06 lbs |
| Number of stitches | 103 built-in stitches |
| Bobbin type | Drop-in |
How we test sewing machines
We have tested dozens of sewing machines over the past few years, including machines for beginners and expert-level sewers. To determine which sewing machine is best for you, our experts start by researching the newest and most popular sewing machines from top brands. We then test each model in our Lab to see which ones are worth buying.
In our latest round of testing, we evaluated 13 different machines, leading to over 100 data points to analyze. We evaluate each machine based on the following criteria:
✔️ Features: Sewing machines are becoming more and more advanced, so we start by assessing just how many features come with each one and if those features are actually helpful to a beginner. When testing, we look for features such as screen or dial stitch selection, speed control, and automatic needle threading, documenting and comparing each one.
✔️ Ease of use: Setting up your machine can be a difficult task, especially for new sewers. During our tests we evaluate the readability of each instruction manual and all the accessories that come with every machine. We also evaluate the difficulty of changing the presser foot, the comfort of the foot pedal, buttons, and hand wheel, as well as changing tension, speed, and stitching for each machine.
In this photo, GH Analyst Raena Loper evaluates ease of threading to ensure beginners are able to smoothly set up their machine for proper sewing.
✔️ Performance: For this test, we use multiple fabrics to determine just how well each machine stitches. We use both natural and synthetic fabrics of different weights, including lightweight cotton, polyester satin, wool, jersey cotton, denim, and upholstery-grade fabric. For each fabric, we assess how well each machine performs when making a basic and zigzag stitch, by grading imperfections during the stitching process. We also note just how well each machine performs when using multiple layers of fabrics, such as woven cotton, denim, jersey, and cotton batting. Lastly, we create multiple buttonholes with all machines to assess the difficulty and accuracy of each.
What are the different types of at-home sewing and crafting machines?
When you start your sewing journey, sorting through the many different types of machines can feel overwhelming. Here, our sewing experts help break down the range of at-home sewing and crafting machines, so you know which machine is best for you.
✔️ Mechanical sewing machines: Mechanical styles are more streamlined, with simple controls and buttons. If you are totally new to sewing, a mechanical machine is a great place to start because they are easier to understand and are more affordable.
✔️ Computerized sewing machines: With greater stitch variety, fancier features, and an LCD screen or touchscreen, computerized machines are great for beginners who hope to eventually advance to larger projects.
✔️ Embroidery machines: While there are embroidery machines with no sewing capabilities, many embroidery machines also act as computerized sewing machines, too.
✔️ Sergers: Sergers are actually not sewing machines at all. A serger machine (also known as an overlocker) uses an overlock stitch with three or more thread sources to create a professional-grade binding for the fabric. This stitch isn't available on sewing machines, so sergers are generally used in addition to a sewing machine. They have a knife that trims the seam allowance as the edge is stitched, preventing fraying and creating a finished look.
✔️ Coverstitch machines: These are also not sewing machines and are for the purpose of finishing raw edges and adding decorative stitches, like a serger. These machines use multiple needles to make a double row of stitches, and they don't feature a blade like a serger.
What to look for when buying the best beginner sewing machine
In addition to sewing machine type, you'll want to look out for the following features:
✔️ Number of built-in stitches: When first learning to sew, you really only need two stitches: straight and zig zag. But as you advance, you will want more stitch options and decorative stitches.
✔️ Size and weight: If you plan on bringing your sewing machine to classes or sewing groups, make sure you pick a portable option. Look for a lightweight sewing machine with a handle for easy toting.
✔️ Ease of use: For your first sewing machine, simple is better. Beginner sewing machines should still have a durable, metal frame and helpful tools, but avoid machines with features you won’t use. These can just get in the way and make it a more challenging machine to master.
✔️ Included accessories: Most machines come with a bobbin and a presser foot, but some offer much more. While you may not need a ton of accessories as a beginner, look for machines with clear manuals, extra presser feet, and repair tools.
As with all sewing machines, make sure to read the included or online manual carefully before starting, as every machine has slightly different use and care instructions.
A guide to sewing machine accessories and features
Sewing machines can include a ton of different features, but more features and accessories don't necessarily mean better. These are the most important features to look for when shopping for a beginner machine:
- Back stitch: When you are sewing, you need to back stitch at the end to prevent the seam from coming undone. Very basic, simple sewing machines that are under $50 don't generally offer back stitch. Therefore, if you purchase one of these, you'll have to sew over your stitches twice to keep them in place.
- Thread cutter: Most sewing machines include a small blade on the side of the machine, so you can easily cut the fabric after sewing. Higher-end machines may feature automatic thread cutting, in which the machine will snip the thread close to the fabric.
- Speed control: When sewing, you control the sewing speed by the pressure you apply to the foot pedal. Some machines offer speed control that allows you to limit how fast the machine will sew. This is great for newbies to prevent going too fast and losing control.
- Drop-in bobbin: Sewing machines either have a drop-in bobbin or a front-loading bobbin. Drop-in bobbins go into the machine right under the needle without a bobbin holder. Front-loading bobbins are more traditional and have a bobbin holder that goes in the front of the machine. Beginners tend to find drop-in bobbins a bit easier to master and faster to thread.
These are more advanced features that are still nice to have, especially if you hope to advance to bigger projects:
- Automatic buttonhole function: As a stitch option, you may see automatic buttonhole options. When you use an automatic buttonhole stitch, make sure you use the buttonhole presser foot.
- Extension table: An extension table clicks into place on your machine to offer more support and stability for larger sewing projects like quilts. You can also purchase these separately if not included.
- Automatic needle threader: This small tool is built into a sewing machine to help push the thread through the needle. Some sewers find this tool very helpful and convenient, while others never use it—it comes down to personal preference.
- Needle up/down button: On the side of a sewing machine, there's a hand wheel that controls the needle, so you can turn the wheel to lift the needle. On higher-end machines, there may be a needle up/down button that lifts the needle with the push of a button without having to use a hand wheel.
Can I teach myself how to sew?
Absolutely! First, you should focus on safety concerns before you start sewing to avoid any pricked fingers or injuries. There are a lot of excellent resources online for beginner sewers. When you purchase a machine, check out the brand's educational offerings online. YouTube is also a great place to find sewing tutorials.
What should I sew as a beginner?
A simple project that you can complete from start to finish is the perfect place to start. Before you begin a big project, like pants or a dress, opt for a smaller accessory like a scrunchie.
When you visit a fabric store, you can purchase patterns, which are guides to making different sewing projects, designed specifically for beginners. Don't be afraid to ask an expert who works at the fabric store to help you find the right beginner pattern for you.
How much should I spend on a beginner sewing machine?
Sewing machines can retail for thousands of dollars with high-end features that can overwhelm a novice sewer. Generally, a sewing machine under $300 is a great place to start for a beginner, unless you want specific added features, like embroidery options.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Emma Seymour is the associate director at the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, where she's worked for more than seven years, overseeing in-Lab and consumer tests for sewing machines, embroidery machines, and sergers. She tested each of these machines in our Lab alongside other sewing pros. With a degree in fiber science and apparel design from Cornell University, she has extensive sewing expertise. She loves to sew her own clothes and accessories in her free time!
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