When it comes to buying a sewing machine, you want to take a look at the many different kinds of sewing machines before you buy.
You also want to make sure you read the right information. Many people on the internet will claim to be sewers yet have never set foot in a sewing room, or used a sewing machine.
You need practical experience to understand the ins and outs of a sewing machine to be able to give good advice in the purchase of one.
Here at Katfit Stitch you will find quality info.
I have over 30 years experience in the sewing industry both working in a sewing factory with industrial sewing machines, and on domestic sewing machines at home.
I’ve worked with 10 threader industrial sewing machines, as well as just about every brand of sewing machine on the market.
You can trust that the information I give you is correct.
Now, let’s dive in.
Single Needle Machines
When considering buying a sewing machine, you need to know the different kinds on the market. I will try to keep this article as basic as I can because I don’t want to talk over your head.
I think of myself when I was first learning how to sew. I didn’t want to hear about all the complicated parts of a sewing machine, or difficult terms.
I just wanted to know the facts before buying a machine.
I didn’t want to be overwhelmed.
Sewing is overwhelming for the beginner, and it’s easy to become intimidated by sewers who have been doing their craft for a long time.
I think of quilters. When I first started to quilt, I was faced with terms and processes, and people who gave off this vibe that THEY were far more superior in their sewing skills because they did this or that.
Who cares!
Sewing is sewing, no matter if your lines are crooked, or if you skipped the topstitching or did something your own way.
Don’t be intimidated!
And ask questions. Heck, there is no stupid question when it comes to sewing. What’s stupid is not asking questions and then making mistakes because of it.
So, remember this you new sewers, we all started at the bottom. And just because someone has been sewing for a long time doesn’t mean they are better than you. We all make sewing mistakes, because nobody is perfect.
So, that being said, I will answer the simplest question. What is a single needle machine?
Simply put, a single needle sewing machine is a basic machine. It’s what every sewer needs in their sewing room. These machines are necessary for top-stitching and sewing basic seams.
Single needle sewing machines are what all beginner sewers should start out on. Not fancy computerized machines with a gazillion stitches and complicated parts.
I’ve taught many people to sew and from my experience, simple is best when you’re starting out. Ever hear the saying keep it simple stupid? The KISS method. Apply it to sewing if you are just starting out.
Sure, it’s tempting to buy a fancy computerized machine, but don’t. You will thank me later. Instead of wasting hours and hours learning how to use your machine, you can actually spend the time learning HOW to sew.
And if you are not a beginner and are reading this, you will understand what I mean. Buy the most basic single needle sewing machine you can find, so you can focus on the craft instead of the instruction book of a complex computerized sewing machine that may end up never being used because you’ve given up from sheer frustration.
Take a look at a basic sewing machine on Amazon below.
By the way, Crunchy Menopause is a review site that receives compensation from ShareASale, Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, eBay, and other affiliate networks whose products I review. That means if you purchase something through one of my affiliate links, I get a little bit of money.
SINGER | Heavy Duty 4411 Sewing Machine
This particular singer sewing machine is a heavy-duty model, yet very basic for beginner sewers. It has a very powerful motor for a domestic sewing machine, and an adjustable presser foot.
The singer 4411 doesn’t just sew heavy-duty fabric, you can also sew lightweight material. So it’s very versatile and multipurpose, perfect for someone who is just learning to sew.
It has 11 different stitch options with a buttonhole option. It has a drop-in bobbin so you can see when it runs out of thread.
The singer 4411 boasts a stainless steel bed plate as well as adjustable stitch length, built-in reverse and includes accessories.
As an added feature this particular singer sewing machine has a sewing assistant app so beginners can learn how to use the machine. It also has an online class video to show you how to thread it and work the machine.
Perfect for a beginner sewer. If I was just starting out, this is the machine I would choose. Basic, easy, heavy-duty, and reasonably priced.
Sergers
New sewers can use sergers, but I don’t recommend them as your first machine. Your first machine should be a single needle sewing machine.
After that, once you’ve mastered the basic principles of sewing, you can graduate to a serger.
Sergers are meant to help you with your sewing hobby or career. It pairs along with a single needle sewing machine because it makes your garments look professional.
Sergers cut and sew at the same time, and finish hems like a pro. If you are looking to do dressmaking, you will find that a serger is a huge asset.
I’ve always been taught that your garment should look as beautiful inside as it does on the outside, especially if you are intending on selling what you sew.
You don’t want to make little girl special occasion dresses that look ugly inside with unfinished fraying seams. Even zig zag seams look ugly and I don’t recommend selling garments with zigzag edges.
Sure, you can do that if you are sewing something for yourself, but when it comes to selling, you want to market quality, and quality mean a serged edge.
Spend the money and buy a good one.
There are many on the market that will do. I personally own a Baby Lock Serger, but they run into the thousands depending on the size and type.
I would recommend a cheaper brand if you’re first starting out.
These two sergers have 2-3-4 thread capabilities. What that means is you can either use 2 serger cones, or 3 serger cones, or 4 serger cones depending on what type of stitch you are sewing.
They both have full adjustable differential feeds. That means no thread breaking or puckering.
These sergers have movable upper knives so you can trim your fabric as you sew the seams together.
They have adjustable stitch length and width.
Also, the color-coded thread system makes it easy to thread.
The cost of both of these is pretty reasonable. You can spend thousands on sergers, but in the end they all do the same thing.
These two sergers come highly recommended and will serve you well through the many sewing projects you will make in your lifetime.
Industrial Machines
A lot of people don’t know what industrial sewing machines are and how they differ from domestic sewing machines.
Basically, industrial sewing machines are bigger and stronger than domestic sewing machines. They are built to last long, go fast, and sew through anything.
Usually industrial sewing machines are single needle machines, or manufactured for only ONE purpose. I’ve used industrial sergers when I sewed suit linings, and also industrial single needles machines when constructing suit jackets with top stitched pockets.
Think of industrial sewing machines as machines that are used in factories. They can run all day and not get hot or burn out like a domestic machine. After about 5 hours of steady use, a domestic sewing machine`s motor will labor or possibly even burn out.
Often times, an industrial sewing machine will come mounted into a table. This is because when sewing in a factory, you will need the space to sew.
I went through pile after pile of assembly line garments when I worked in a sewing factory, and trust me, you need the space. You need a lot more space than a domestic model will give you. If you’re lucky your domestic model will come mounted in a table, but usually not.
Usually you need to buy the table, and it won’t be as spacious as an industrial machine will be.
If you want to start out with an industrial machine, then go ahead. They are basic and simplistic, and that’s what a beginner needs.
There is no reason why you can’t start with an industrial sewing machine. If you have the space, and your intentions are to assemble your own line of garments, then this is the way to go. Even if it’s not, and you just want to quilt, the industrial sewing machine mounted into a table will help get the job done.
Juki Industrial Straight Stitch Sewing Machine
DreamJoy Industrial Sewing Machine with Motor Table
These two industrial sewing machines are typical with their heavy-duty motor. It enables you to sew through multiple layers no matter if it’s light, medium, or heavy duty fabric.
Both have a wide working space which makes it perfect for sewing upholstery and other projects that require you to sew bulky things like quilts.
The top model comes without a table, and the bottom one comes mounted on a table. It has a thread stand which allows you to use serger cones, and it comes with a light stand as well.
Pricewise, they are both very reasonable considering people spend thousands of dollars on industrial sewing machines.
Coverstitch Machines
If you want to sew sportswear you will benefit from a coverstitch. These machines do a top stitching pattern on top of the seam.
Coverstitch sewing machines do a decorative top stitch.
If you want to sell sportswear, there is no getting around it. You will need a cover stitch sewing machine if you want to compete in the market. It has to look good like the other sportswear garments out there.
Take a look at sportswear clothing these day. If you look at sports jackets, shorts, or leggings for example, you will see the decorative stitching that I mean.
You can purchase a cover stitch machine that only does that, or you can buy a serger that converts to a cover stitch as well.
If you have the room, buying a coverstitch (only) sewing machine, is far better. But if you are crushed for sewing space, buying a serger that converts into a coverstitch will do.
Really it is up to you what model you buy, but just understand that a coverstitch will transform your sewing and make your garments look very professional.
Janome Cover Coverstitch Machine
SINGER | Professional Serger with Cover Stitch
Whether you buy a designated cover stitch sewing machine or convert one in a serger, they all do the same thing.
They do not cut the material like a serger does, but rather they sew a decorative hem that covers over a seam.
Both of these machines are very reasonably priced, and you will find they are well worth the money you spend on them especially if you sew sportswear.
Blind Stitch Hemmers
Blind stitch hemmers are pant hemmers. They are used for suit alterations and construction. You don’t want to have to hand sew a pair of pant hems or use a regular single needle machine.
You CAN, but it will be harder, and won’t look as professional.
If you want to get into sewing alterations for clients, a pant hemmer is necessary.
They are usually smaller units, half the size of a sewing machine, that come mounted on a table. You can get them as industrial, or domestic sewing machines.
Professional Grade Desktop Blindstitch
These blind stitch hemmers are not only affordable but professional. They can do a blind stitch, hem dresses, sew sleeves, undergarments, coat bottoms, cuffs, and much much more.
Vintage Sewing Machines
Vintage sewing machines are not to be overlooked. They are strong, durable, and can go through anything.
My Elna Supermatic sewing machine is like an industrial sewing machine, and it’s over 60 years old. It just keeps on going.
Most vintage sewing machines do.
If you come across one, buy it. Get it serviced, and save yourself tones of money. You can often find used ones cheap on ebay, or at an auctions sale or garage sale.
You can have a quality machine for a quarter of the price of a new one.
While we’re on the topic of vintage sewing machines, I’ll just put it out there that you can buy used sewing machines. It’s an economical option and a good way to go when you’re a beginner.
Save money and get quality too. Focus on learning the craft, instead of fussing with a new machine. A used machine will allow you to make mistakes without worrying about breaking your new machine.
Embroidery Machines
Embroidery sewing is big!
There are so many quality embroidery machines on the market that you have your pick of them. There are no better ones than others. They’re all good.
When it comes to buying an embroidery sewing machine, price is probably the deciding factor. If you have a pile of money, then get the most expensive.
Just owning one of these babies is going to push your sewing skill to a new level. Not only will you learn how to use a complex computerized system, but you will produce quality sewing with beautiful designs.
If you intend to sell what you sew, embroidery machines make your garments look professional. It will take a huge learning curve to get started, but once you do, you will never stop.
Brother Embroidery Machine with Built-in Memory and USB Port
These embroidery sewing machines are a dream. They’ve got many built-in embroidery designs as well as memory.
You’ve got flexible design editing features that can do size edits, rotate, and mirror images. They come complete with a USB memory stick and port.
They`re both economical and easy to use. You won’t go wrong buying these beautiful embroidery machines. They are top-of-the-line.
Quilting Machines
I want one of these!
If I had ten grand and the space, I’d buy a quilting machine in a heartbeat. Specifically, I’d buy a long arm quilting machine.
What they are is a unique machines that quilts all three layers of your quilt at the same time. The bottom fabric of your quilt, the quilt batting, and the quilt topper.
Quilting machines will sew a pre-programmed quilt design into your quilt, but there are also free motion quilting machines where you guide the machine into your own unique pattern like a stipple design.
I currently use a free motion foot on my single needle sewing machine and push my quilt around into a stipple design or some other design.
It works, but my dream is to buy a long arm quilting machine one day, and set up a large quilting room just for my quilting projects.
Qnique Long Arm Quilting Machine with Frame
JUKI TL-2000Qi Sewing and Quilting Machine
Long arm quilting machines are amazing units whether they come with a quilting frame or not. If you buy the sewing machine with the quilting frame included, there are so many things you can do with it.
A complete layout of your quilts is a huge benefit to any quilter. No more puckering or misalignment when you use these quilting frames with a long-arm quilting machine.
These machines will transform your quilt, making it into a professional quality craft.
Brands Of Sewing Machines
There have been several brands of sewing machines over the years, and they’re all good. There isn’t one brand that is more superior than the other.
Many claim there are, but my experience tells me they are all beautiful. I’ve used just about every brand out there from industrial to domestic and I can honestly say that there is no top machine.
The deciding factor is how well you understand and use your machine. The deciding factor is how well you service your machine. The deciding factor is what you intend to use it for.
And since that’s different for everyone, only YOU can determine what is the best machine to buy. Only you can figure out what you need.
Yes, you can take my advice about what you need as a beginner sewer, but beyond that, it’s up to you. Experiment, learn, grow as a sewer.
Try a brand, and see if it’s right for you.
Learn where your machine comes from and where it’s been. I love history so I always find it fascinating to find out about it’s origin before I buy it.
I think that’s part of the sewing journey.
Singer
The singer sewing machine is a staple in the sewing industry.
Ever since the first patent in 1851 was issued by Isaac Merritt Singer, it became a household name.
Today, the Singer sewing machine boasts modern technology like LCD screens, multiple built-in stitches, speed control, one step buttonhole, and much much more.
We can use the Singer brand sewing machine for just about any kind of sewing.
You will find Singer to monopolize the market with its single needle machines, embroidery machines, quilting machines, and sergers.
Singer is by far, a dependable brand. You won’t go wrong if you decide to buy a Singer sewing machine of any kind.
Below is a list of different kinds of Singer sewing machines.
Brother
In 1908 the Yasui sewing machine company was established. It is a Japanese company and founder of Brother industries, LTD.
Known for its superior quality and diligent service it continues to produce quality sewing machines today.
Brother sewing machines also come in computerized versions as well as the basic easy automatic features.
Though I have had problems with tension in older model Brother sewing machines, I still recommend them.
To be fair, I was just learning how to sew when I had my first Brother sewing machine, and like all new sewers, tension can be challenging.
Nowadays, Brother sewing machines are beautiful and are a superior brand. If you decide to go with the Brother sewing machine, you won’t be disappointed.
Below is a list of fabulous Brother sewing machines.
Pfaff
George Michael Pfaff from Kaiserslautern, Germany made his first sewing machine in 1862 at the start of the Industrial Revolution.
Since then, Pfaff sewing machines have transformed from basic single needle treadle sewing machines, to superior computerized models today.
It’s fascinating to see how sewing brands like Pfaff have changed over time.
The Pfaff brand is known for its quality construction and basic feel to the machine.
You can find Pfaff single needle machines, and computerized embroidery machines, so there is no question that Pfaff is a versatile brand.
I am the proud owner of a Pfaff Select 3.0 and I love its simplicity. It’s push button style buttons make it easy to use when changing different stitches.
I love the feel and look of the basic model. For me, that’s all I need in a single needle sewing machine.
If you choose to buy a Pfaff sewing machine, you won’t be disappointed.
Kenmore
The Kenmore sewing machine brand is known best as a Sears model. It made its first appearance into the Sears fall catalog in 1913.
Kenmore sewing machines are a staple to the sewing industry because they are known for durability and longevity.
Nowadays, Kenmore sewing machines are rarely manufactured anymore and it’s hard to find them on the market. This is because Kenmore has contracted out manufacturing two different companies.
Vintage models are still useful today, and prove to be strong competitors in the market of modern sewing machines.
If you find a good Kenmore sewing machine, you can`t go wrong.
Husqvarna
Based out of Husqvarna, Sweden, the sewing company named VSM Group AB, has been manufacturing sewing machines since 1872.
These type of sewing machines are nicknamed “smart”sewing machines and produce single needle sewing machines as well as sergers.
Husqvarna brand sewing machines fall under the same roof as Viking and Pfaff.
A lot of times if you are searching for a specific brand of sewing machine and you can’t find it for sale anywhere, look under a brand that manufacturers the same thing.
Many companies merge with others and the general public have no idea.
Whether you’re looking for a Pfaff sewing machine, or a Viking sewing machine, or a Husqvarna, you can’t go wrong. They are quality machines, and often one in the same.
Elna
I was the proud owner of an Elna sewing machine, which I gifted to someone else. I have an article completely dedicated to the vintage Elna.
These are quality machines, built to last.
If you ever get your hands on a Elna sewing machine, buy it. They are easy to use and last forever.
Nowadays, the Elna sewing machine falls under different manufacturers, and produce high-quality computerized units.
My heart is in the vintage models which will last a lifetime and then some.
Bernina
The Bernina sewing machine came from the highest mountain in the Eastern Alps. Steckborn, Sweden. The Bernina was founded in 1893 by Karl Friedrich Gegauf.
These machines started out very basic as a pant hammer. Today Bernina sewing machines are manufactured as portable sewing machines, with high quality computerized programming.
Janome
Japanese Janome sewing machines have been around for a long time. The Janome trademark was first established in 1935 but the actual sewing machine made its appearance in 1921. It was produced in a factory called the pine sewing machine factory that later changed its name to the Janome sewing machine Company.
Janome started its early days as a basic single needle sewing machine but quickly grew into today’s modern computerized machines.
The Janome brand is found in embroidery machines, sergers, quilting machines, and basic single needle sewing machines.
Janome sewing machines are well worth the money but they do tend to be on the pricier side. You can often find Janome brands in industrial machines as well because they are heavy duty machines.
Juki
Also a Japanese model, the Juki brand sewing machine is one of the world’s most popular brands.
Juki has been around since 1947 and continues to be manufactured in Japan today. It’s a quality brand made for durability and strength.
You can find many types of sewing machines under the Juki brand, as well as industrial sewing machines.
Baby Lock
I own a Baby Lock, and I can tell you it is one of the best sewing machines I’ve ever used. They come in single needle machines as well as cover stitch machines and sergers.
I own a 4 threader Baby Lock serger, and what makes it unique is that it will cut and sew at the same time.
A Baby Lock will also adjust tension automatically so you don’t have to fuss with it every time you change the thickness of your material.
It’s amazing!
Conclusion
In conclusion, I just want to say that there are so many different kinds of sewing machines, yet they’re all good.
You can find so many different sewing machine reviews on the Internet that will tell you one machine is more superior than the other. But I’m here to tell you that they all pretty well do the same thing.
Of all my years sewing, I haven’t found one particular model to be better than the next. Usually it depends on who is using the machine and how experienced you are.
If you don’t know what you doing and you use a machine that is above your skill level, of course you can have problems. At first glance, you might think that you bought a defective sewing machine when in reality there’s nothing wrong with it at all, just the person using it.
That may be blunt, but it’s true. You wouldn’t drive a bus if you just got your license to drive a car. You wouldn’t have the skill set that you need to understand how to maneuver a bus.
Same thing with the sewing machine. If you’re a beginner sewer you`re going to want to use a basic machine for a while until you get comfortable enough and understand how the machine works. Then you move on to the more complex models like the computerized sewing machines and embroidery machines.
That just makes sense.
So consider that, before you buy a machine. Make sure it’s suited for you and your skill level. As I said before, when you`re just learning how to sew, you need a very basic single needle sewing machine.
But instead, I see so many new sewers go out and buy a fancy complex computerized sewing machine with a gazillion buttons and stitches. The only thing that will happen there is frustration. It will become overwhelming and that usually leads to a person giving up.
I don’t want you to give up. I want you to learn how to sew and enjoy it. So start with baby steps and get a machine that is suitable for your skill level.
Decide on a brand. Choose a color. Pick a style. They’re all good. The only two deciding factors when you’re in the market for buying a sewing machine is price, and skill level.
Hopefully this article has helped you understand the different kinds of sewing machines and how they pertain to your skill level and your experience as a sewer.
May you choose wisely and enjoy the experience of sewing for the rest of your life.
It’s awesome!
HAPPY SEWING!
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