Since the original lockdown at the end of March 2020, people from across the UK (and probably the world too let's face it) have been looking to hobbies and interests to keep themselves busy. According to data on hobbies and interests fromStatista Global Consumer survey conducted in the UK in 2020, 23% of respondents in the UK had an arts and crafts hobby, just like sewing.
Related: The best knitting kits for beginners
Whether or not you currently fall into this 23% doesn't matter, if you're looking to try something different or continue a craft you love, then the best sewing machines might just be that light bulb moment you've been searching for 💡.
How to choose the best sewing machine for you:
Firstly, you're in safe hands as all of these sewing machines have been hand-selected by What's The Best shopping experts. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching them, so you can choose the best one. Plus, we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in. Find out why you should trust us here.
Secondly, you need to choose a sewing machine based on what you want to achieve as well as your skill set. There's no point in buying a sewing machine for beginners if you've been creating garments for years.
Portable sewing machines: Are you looking for a sewing machine that can be used on the sofa, in the kitchen or the bedroom? Well, you're in luck as portable sewing machines exist. However, as they usually only have a few stitch options, we wouldn't recommend using these for thick fabrics or big projects.
Quilting sewing machines: Calling all passionate quilters, if you love creating blankets or just enjoy joining fabric together, it'll be worth opting for a quilting sewing machine. Not only will this equipment give you more room to work with, but it also has additional features like extra speed settings.
Computerised sewing machine: Practise your embroidery with ease thanks to a computerised sewing machine that can select an easy-to-use stitch from the touch of the button. Plus, you'll be able to control a whole host of things like speed settings and automatic needle threading from this device.
Here are all the best sewing machines to buy today.
Best sewing machines
1 of 8Desirez2Door Handheld Sewing Machine
Handheld and convenient
If sewing isn't your forte and you're looking for an everyday tool that'll help with patchwork, then this is exactly what you're looking for. Recommended for parents on the go. Pros: Quick and easy way to repair clothes. Cons: Stitches on this machine are very limited, and it cannot cope with thick material.
Size: 23 x 15.5 x 5cm Stitch: Chain stitch Box includes: Sewing machine, needle, threader, bobbins and extension spindle.
2 of 8Singer M2405 Sewing Machine
For your household sewing needs
What a lovely sewing machine! The Singer M2405 Sewing Machine is perfect for beginners looking to branch out into a new hobby. Pros: An easy machine to use with great functions. Cons: It's noisy - so it's not ideal for anyone whose set-up is in the living or dining room.
Size: H27.7 x W18.66 x D38.5cm Stitch: 8 different options Box includes: Electronic sewing machine, easy snap-on presser feet, zipper foot, buttonhole foot, button sewing foot, screwdriver, pack of needles, bobbins, edge/quilting guide, darning plate and spool holder.
3 of 8KPCB Tech Mini Sewing Machine with Extension Table
Cheap and reliable
Your sewing is going places thanks to this mini machine. Its special design has been created with portability in mind as well as stability. We love the built-in lamp that helps you see the dainty thread easily. Pros: It comes pre-threaded and can be used for projects like alterations, dressmaking and more. Cons: Works better with thinner material as it's not the most powerful machine on this list.
Size: 17.5 x 8.9 x 21.8cm Stitch: 10 different options Box includes: Sewing machine, extension table, power adapter, foot pedal, four bobbins, needle, needle threader and manual.
4 of 8Brother LS14s Manual Stitch Sewing Machine - White
Great for home furnishing projects
Easy to use? Check. Easy to carry? Check. Easy to fall in love with? Check. Brother sewing machines have a fantastic reputation for a reason: they're excellent products at affordable prices. Pros: No bells and whistles needed for this sewing machine, just everything you need to stitch. Cons: This is a starter machine; it wouldn't be as beneficial for advanced sewers.
Size: 35.5 x 44.5 x 19cm Stitch: 14 different options Box includes: Sewing machine, zig-zag foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, set needles, bobbin, screwdriver disc and foot controller.
5 of 8Singer 9985 Quantum Stylist Sewing Machine
Perfect for advanced sewers
Wow, this is an extraordinary bit of kit. Not only is it a sturdy machine that is built to last, but it also offers incredible functions like the ability to personalise a name or phrase in block or script. Pros: Yes, there really are 960 stitches to choose from including 10 basic, 21 stretch, 13 fully automatic and 919 decorative stitches. Cons: It has to be the price: yes, it's expensive but it literally does everything you could possibly need and more.
Size: 21.5 x 29.5 x 42.5cm Stitch: 960 different options Box includes: Sewing machine, multi, zipper, blind hem, 1/4inch, button sew, satin stitch, darning, open toe, walking, cording, overcasting, narrow hem and one-step BH feet.
6 of 8Bossjoy Portable Sewing Machine with Foot Pedal
Best cheap sewing machineFancy yourself as a seamstress? If you practise your stitches on this little machine, you'll be there in no time. Recommended for beginners. Pros: One of the best sewing machines for beginners; this number will have you creating outfits in no time at all. Cons: Because this machine is super light, you might find it hard to sew straight if you're working with a lot of material. Size: 27 x 26.5 x 12cm Stitch: 12 patterns Box includes: Overlock sewing machine, power adapter, foot pedal, spare needle, needle threader, four thread spools and a user manual.
7 of 8Brother JK2500NT Sewing Machine
Easy to set upEven if you've never picked up a sewing needle before, the instructions on this sewing machine will make you feel like a pro almost instantaneously. Pros: Good for alterations and decorative stitches. Cons: The storage compartment for tools are small, so we'd recommend investing in a storage box.
Size: 40 x 34 x 15.8cm Stitch: 25 options Box includes: Sewing machine, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, zigzag foot, hem guide foot, three bobbins, needle set, twin needle, screwdriver, ripper/brush and extra spool pin.
8 of 8Uten Computerised Digital Sewing Machine
Versatile sewing machine
Last but not least, we have the computerised sewing machine from Uten. Whatever your experience, you'll find this a fuss-free option as you select stitches and settings at the touch of a button. Now that's what you call convenience at your finger tips. Pros: We love that this machine has an automatic bobbin winding system, different sewing speeds and free motion for embroidery. Cons: This sewing machine requires a lot of housekeeping and maintenance to ensure that it runs smoothly and properly.
Size: 40 x 34 x 15.8cm Stitch: 60 built-in stitches and features Box includes: Sewing machine, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, zigzag foot, hem guide foot, three bobbins, needle set, twin needle, screwdriver, ripper/brush and extra spool pin.
£139.99Â
Best sewing machine verdict:
Still undecided on what sewing machine to buy? That's completely normal. You want to make sure that your new purchase ticks all of the right boxes. Talking of check lists, taking the top spot for the best sewing machine is the Brother LS14s Manual Stitch Sewing Machine - not only is it exceptional value for money, but it boasts a whole host of beginner features like stitch pattern indicator. Plus, it comes with a manufacturer's three year guarantee.
Best sewing machine brands:
Want to do some more research before committing to a sewing machine brand? We understand how important it is to find the right kit for you. Here are some of the leading sewing machine brands that you need to know about.
John Lewis & Partners- yes, they have their own sewing machines
Just don't forget to bookmark this page so that you can come back later.
If you aren't already following your favourite sewing machine brands on Instagram, then here are some of the best places to start. Join a community who are passionate about sewing, embroidery and quilting - and posting about it!
How to thread a sewing machine?
New to sewing? Or recently invested in a new sewing machine? It's essential that you get to know your apparatus. One way you'll understand if a sewing machine is right for you is by understanding how to thread it.
Each machine is different. We'd recommend checking out YouTube for incredible videos like this one. Here, fashion design graduate and YouTuber, Vania shares her knowledge of sewing and fashion, including how to thread the amazing Singer Tradition 2250 Portable Sewing Machine:
Lily Anderson is a writer at Bauer Media, where she tests products for titles such as Heat, Closer, What’s the Best and Mother&Baby.
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