Buying a new sewing machine can feel overwhelming—there are so many brands, features, and price points to consider! To make things easier, here are my top 10 tips for choosing your very first machine.
1. Buy the Best Sewing Machine You Can Afford
Cheaper machines often have plastic parts that won’t hold up over time. Also, some of them are not built very well and will fall apart after a few uses. New and inexpensive machines (I'm looking at you - Amazon) may work for a while but can be frustrating and short-lived. That said, don’t overspend—no need to drop $3,000 on your very first machine. Start with a solid mid-range option and upgrade later if needed.
If you're looking to purchase a sewing machine and have been doing your research online, please remember that reviews mostly only cover machines that can be purchased online (as that's where the reviewers make they make their $$$!). Many of their recommended machines are not as good in quality as ones that you'll get from your local dealer!
2. Beware of Sales Pressure
When you walk into a sewing shop, you might get nudged toward high-end, fancy models. Those machines are great, but they’re often overkill for beginners. Stick to your budget and your actual needs—you can always upgrade down the road once you have a better idea of what you really want and need.
3. Keep It Simple
I'm telling you now - no one needs 250+ stitches. Even 50 stitches is overkill! You'll use straight stitch and zig-zag 98% of the time! Choose a machine with an interface that feels intuitive and easy for you to use—the “best” machine is the one you’ll actually enjoy sewing on.
4. Know the Brands
Two of my favorite contemporary brands are Bernina and Janome.
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Bernina = The "Cadillac” of sewing machines (wonderful quality, higher price, usually $1,200+).
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Janome = The “Toyota” of machines (dependable, more budget-friendly).
5. Test Drive Before You Buy
The best way to know what feels right is to actually sew on the machine. If you’re local to the San Francisco Bay Area, you can test-drive machines at The Sewing Machine Shop in Walnut Creek or visit The Cotton Patch in Lafayette (which carries only Bernina). The support you get from knowledgeable staff is invaluable and is something you won't get from ordering a machine online or buying from a big box store.
Make sure you feel comfortable with the dealer. Not all dealers are great. If you have a local quilt store, stop in and ask the staff where they would recommend. And don't forget to pick up some supplies while you're there!
6. Go Computerized (If You Can)
Computerized machines are often easier for beginners, thanks to features like automatic needle up/down. That’s one less thing to remember as you sew!
7. Look for a Thread Cutter
It’s not essential, but an automatic thread cutter is a wonderful luxury. It speeds up sewing and keeps your space tidier. Worth it if it fits in your budget.
8. Consider Used Machines (Carefully)
You can sometimes find good deals on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist, but proceed with caution—sellers don’t always know the condition of what they’re offering. In the SF Bay area, a safer bet is The White Elephant Sale in Oakland (seasonal) or Creative Upcycle in Pleasant Hill, where used machines are tested by a qualified repair technician.
9. They Don't Make Them Like They Used To
Vintage machines can be wonderful—they’re often built like tanks with strong metal parts that last decades. Many sew better and more powerfully than today's entry-level models. They also last forever! One of my favorite sewing machines to use is over 75 years old and purrs along beautifully. She's a pleasure to sew with! Plus, the overall design of vintage machines blows the newer "plastic-fantastic" machines out of the water.
But there are caveats with vintage machines: It's hard to know what to look for if you're a new sewer and buying a second-hand vintage machine. They also require regular oil and lubrication, while new machines often do not. This maintenance is easy, but it's just one more thing to remember or be intimidated about doing.
10. The Best Sewing Machine Is the One You’ll Use
Try not to get too overwhelmed with the decision process. Especially if you're searching online, there are so many options and price points. Keep it simple and get the best quality you can within your budget, buy from a reputable dealer, and start sewing.
At the end of the day, all sewing machines basically do the same thing - sew. Choose the one that feels comfortable, makes sense to you, and encourages you to play and practice. Make sure it's something that won't be so intimidating that it sits in a box on the shelf and never sees the light of day. The best beginner sewing machine is the one that keeps you excited about sewing!
Bonus: Read Your Manual and Take a Class!
Your sewing machine will come with a manual—and maybe even video tutorials. They might not seem exciting, but those instructions are essential when you’re learning to thread and operate your machine. Follow them closely until the process feels like second nature. If you’re working with a used machine that didn’t include a manual, don’t worry—most brands offer free, downloadable versions online.
And finally—take a class! One great benefit of buying from a dealer is that your new machine may include a class, which can be invaluable. If your machine didn’t come with one, check with your local quilt or sewing store to see if they offer “bring your own machine” workshops. I teach one of these myself—so if you’re in the Bay Area, keep an eye out for my Love Your Sewing Machine classes!
