Learning to sew is hard. These top-tested machines make it easier.
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Whether you want to hem your own clothes or create quilts, you need the best sewing machine for the job. As a beginner, extra features and fancy additions can be more of a hinder than help, though. The best beginner home sewing machines are easy to operate and durable, while still producing excellent stitch quality. The avid sewers in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab recently tested 13 different models of sewing machines, sergers and embroidery machines, including options from industry-favorite brands Singer and Brother, to find the best sewing machines for beginners to buy in 2024.
To make our recommendations, we evaluated ease of threading, stitch accuracy with different fabrics, innovative features and more. Our testers analyzed the construction of each machine to ensure that they're built to last while also being intuitive to operate for novice sewers. Great to learn how to sew on, our top picks will also grow with you as you advance to more challenging projects.
After reading our reviews of the top home sewing machine models for beginners, you can learn more about our testing methodology and find expert shopping advice from our Textiles Lab analysts at the bottom of this guide.
If you're a beginner sewer with ambitions to take on more advanced sewing projects in the future, this Brother sewing machine is your best bet. It includes 10 different presser feet with multiple bobbins to start your sewing journey.
In our tests, GH pros 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 set-up, 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 for making a sudden stop in case of a mistake.
With 70 built-in stitches, including the basics every sewer needs, we found that it sewed through a variety of fabrics with minimal inaccuracies; that said, it was a bit more difficult to sew satin materials. Our product testers note that while the thread holder may look short at first, its height is actually adjustable.
If you're looking for the simplest, most streamlined sewing machine on the market, look no further than this fully functioning sewing machine that costs just $40. Smaller than a copy of Good Housekeeping magazine, this mechanical sewing machine weighs under three pounds for easy carrying. Mechanical machines like this one are a great choice for beginners because they can be easier to learn on than computerized options. Plus, this pick has a finger guard, ideal for kids learning to sew.
Ideal for small, 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.
This SINGER machine is a new launch and is their most compact style yet at only 9.5" x 11.5". Impressing our experts with its easy-to-follow controls, this simple machine features an accessible back stitch and simple threading. At five and a half pounds, this machine is easily portable and perfect for small spaces. We love that it includes multiple bobbins, presser feet and needles too. Plus, it has over 4,900 reviews on Amazon with reviewers saying it's "perfect for beginners" and an "excellent investment." Some online reviewers wish the manual was more detailed and instead found the brand's online content more helpful.
If the idea of lots of controls and features seems too overwhelming, this super simple mechanical machine from Singer has your number. At an affordable price point, this machine has over 3,500 rave Amazon reviews for being easy to set up and get started. In our tests, we were impressed at 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 did notice the one-step buttonhole function wasn't quite seamless and got stuck a few times but it ran smoothly after rethreading. Our sewing pros were impressed with this machine's ease of threading and easy automatic needle threader. Many reviewers also note that this is a great gift for tweens and teens who want to learn to sew, too.
Designed specifically for beginner quilters, 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.
It has over 100 built-in stitch applications including basic and decorative; with each stitch, the tension is automatically adjusted. During testing, we found that using the automatic buttonhole function was a breeze. There are six different style options programmed into the machine — just select which style 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.
Sewing your own clothes at home is a great way to embrace your personal style. To get started, you'll need a machine that can handle different types of fabrics. This Brother machine combines the simplicity of a beginner machine with excellent features like a clear LCD screen, needle up/down and speed control. It also includes a wider table to support bigger quilting and sewing projects.
We found that this machine sewed through a variety of different fabrics with ease, including denim and upholstery fabric. It boasts an intuitive automatic needle threader, too. We recommend always using the spool cap when sewing to prevent the thread from sliding off, though.
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.
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 ease of use features like an automatic needle threader, LED-lit work area, free arm and a drop-in bobbin.
When small children are learning how to sew, sewing safety is of the highest priority. This sewing machine from Magicfly has a finger guard to prevent any injuries. It's also lightweight and easily portable — plus, it's under $50! It features slow-speed options and tons of included accessories for easy learning. It doesn't have a back stitch though, so we recommend stitching over the ends twice to ensure they don't unravel.
A classic model, the Singer Heavy Duty 4423 sewing machine has been popular for sewing heavy fabrics like denim and leather for quite a while. With a powerful motor, this machine can stitch 1,100 stitches per minute, meaning you can speed your way through sewing projects. Its strong motor can handle thick seams with ease. This machine offers 32 different stitches and multiple buttonhole options, providing variety, but nothing too overwhelming. Reviewers recommend only using plastic bobbins by Singer for this machine.
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. When 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 is evaluating ease of threading to ensure beginners are able to easily set up their machine for proper sewing.
✔️ Performance: For this test, we use multiple fabrics to determine just how well each machine stitches. During this test, we use both natural and synthetic fabrics of different weights including lightweight cotton, polyester satin, wool, jersey cotton, denim and upholstery grade fabric. On 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 using woven cotton, denim, jersey and cotton batting. Lastly, we create multiple buttonholes with all machines to access the difficulty and accuracy of each.
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 include a bobbin and a presser foot, but some include much more. While you may not need a ton of accessories as a beginner, look for machines with clear manuals, extra presser feet and included 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.
When you start your sewing journey, all the different types of machines can feel overwhelming. Here, our sewing experts help break down the different types of at-home sewing and crafting machines, so you know which machine type is best for you.
✔️Mechanical sewing machine: 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 machine: With greater stitch variety, fancier features and an LCD 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.
Sewing machines can include a ton of different features, but more features and accessories doesn't necessarily mean better. Here is a guide to sewing machine features you may come across when sewing machine shopping:
✔️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, you'll have to sew over your stitches twice to keep them in place.
✔️Thread cutter: Most sewing machines feature 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, where the machine will snip the thread close to the fabric.
✔️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: An automatic needle threader is a small tool built into a sewing machine that helps 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.
✔️Speed control: When sewing, you control the sewing speed by the pressure you apply to the foot pedal. Some machines offer speed control where you can 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 feature 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.
✔️Needle up/down: 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 which lifts the needle with the push of a button without having to use a hand wheel.
Emma Seymour is a senior textiles product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she's worked for more than five 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!
Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance.
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