If you’re learning to sew, choosing your first sewing machine can feel overwhelming. There are hundreds of machines with different features, price points, and reviews. It’s easy to assume you need something complicated to get started.
The good news? You really don’t need a fancy sewing machine to sew well.
I’ve been sewing for more than 14 years, and I’ve used the same sewing machine for most of that time. A good-quality machine that is properly cared for can last for many years, so I recommend focusing on a few practical features rather than buying the machine with the most bells and whistles.
Whether you're looking for your first sewing machine or trying to figure out what you actually need, here are the features I recommend looking for, along with a few of my favorite beginner sewing machines.
What Should a Beginner Sewing Machine Have?
When I’m looking at a sewing machine, there are a few features I make sure it has: A buttonhole stitch, zigzag stitch, and a top-loading bobbin
That’s really it!
A straight stitch will do the majority of your sewing, while a zigzag stitch is useful for finishing seams and working with certain fabrics. A buttonhole function is also incredibly helpful once you start making garments.
A top-loading bobbin is simply my personal preference because I find it easy to insert, remove, and see how much thread is left. It isn't necessarily a requirement for a good sewing machine, but it's a feature I personally look for.
You don't need dozens of decorative stitches or an elaborate computerized screen to start sewing.
My Beginner Sewing Machine Recommendations
There are plenty of good sewing machines for beginners, and you don't have to spend a fortune to get one.
Here are a few brands and models I would consider.
Baby Lock Sewing Machines
I personally use Baby Lock sewing machines, and I've had a great experience with the brand. My mom has also been using Baby Lock machines for more than 25 years, so it is a brand I've grown up sewing with and trust.
Baby Lock machines are worth considering if you know sewing is going to become a long-term hobby.
For a beginner, I'd look at the Baby Lock Zeal, Joy, or Jubilant. The Jubilant is the closest to my Baby Lock Grace (which is discontinued)
Janome Sewing Machines
Janome is another brand I would recommend for someone looking for a reliable beginner sewing machine.
The Janome MOD 15 is a straightforward mechanical sewing machine and a great option if you want something simple without a lot of unnecessary features.
If you have a little more room in your budget and want something with more features, the Janome JW8100 is a nice step up from a basic beginner machine.
Singer
I actually used my neighbor's Singer recently and was pleasantly surprised by how well it worked. You don't necessarily need to spend hundreds of dollars to get started.
The Singer Heavy Duty line has the basic stitches and features you'll need for many everyday sewing projects, without requiring you to invest in a more expensive machine.
Don't Forget About Used Sewing Machines
One of my favorite pieces of advice for a beginner is to check Facebook Marketplace or your local secondhand listings.
I regularly see sewing machines for sale, and buying used can be a great way to get a nicer machine that has a lot of life left in it.
If you go this route, I would recommend taking the machine to a local sewing machine shop and having it serviced before you start using it. They can make sure everything is working properly and take care of any maintenance the machine needs.
Mechanical vs. Computerized Sewing Machines
One thing to keep in mind when comparing machines is whether you want a mechanical or computerized sewing machine.
Computerized machines can be wonderful and offer some really convenient features, but there is one thing to consider: servicing a computerized machine can cost more.
If you're trying to keep long-term ownership costs down, a simple mechanical machine may be a better choice.
Neither option is necessarily better. It really comes down to your budget, preferences, and how you plan to use your machine.
Take Care of Your Sewing Machine
Regardless of which machine you buy, maintenance is one of the most important things you can do to make your sewing machine last.
I recommend having your machine professionally serviced approximately every 6–12 months, especially if you sew regularly.
In between services, make sure you're using quality thread and changing your sewing machine needle regularly. A dull or damaged needle can cause skipped stitches, tension problems, and even damage your fabric.
Regular servicing can help catch small problems before they become expensive ones and keeps your machine running smoothly.
I've been using my sewing machine for more than 14 years, and that's one of the biggest reasons I don't think you need to constantly upgrade your machine. A good sewing machine can last a very long time when you take care of it.
Should You Get a Serger, Too?
If you're planning to sew clothing, I also recommend considering a serger in addition to your regular sewing machine.
A serger isn't a replacement for a sewing machine—you'll still want a basic sewing machine for things like straight stitching, buttonholes, topstitching, zippers, and other construction details. But a serger is incredibly useful for finishing seams and sewing knit fabrics.
One beginner-friendly serger I recommend and personally use is the Brother 1034D.
A serger can trim the seam allowance, sew the seam, and finish the raw edge all at the same time, which gives your handmade garments a much more polished finish.
If you're mostly planning to sew woven fabrics like linen and cotton, you can absolutely start with just a sewing machine. But if you know you want to make clothing regularly—especially if you want to sew with knits—I think adding a serger is a worthwhile investment.
My ideal beginner sewing setup would be:
* A simple, reliable sewing machine for everyday sewing
* A Brother 1034D serger for seam finishing and sewing knits
You don't need to buy both machines at once. I'd recommend learning your sewing machine first and adding a serger once you feel comfortable with the basics.
If you're buying your first sewing machine, remember that you don't have to keep upgrading to get more out of your sewing. Invest in a good machine, take care of what you have, and it can last you for years to come!
Look for a machine with a straight stitch, zigzag stitch, and buttonhole function. A top-loading bobbin is a feature I personally prefer. Beyond that, prioritize a machine that feels easy to use, fits your budget, and is from a brand you feel confident will be supported locally.
And remember: the best sewing machine is the one that gets you sewing.
You can always upgrade later as your skills and interests grow. But you may be surprised by just how much you can make with a simple sewing machine.