The Best Sewing Machines for Beginners

Selecting the right sewing machine to suit your skill set will be extremely beneficial for learning the art of sewing. As a beginner operating a sewing machine with additional features may be trickier to get to grips with and could become frustrating to use. A good sewing machine to start off with will be simple and straightforward to operate, yet professional in stitching quality. 

Here, we round up the best sewing machines for beginners available on our online store, with a variety of brands to choose from.

Singer M2105 Sewing Machine – Amazingly Simple & Easy to Use

The first of our sewing machines for beginners is the Singer M2105. Singer is an extremely reputable and trustworthy brand, with a great range of beginner machines, and the M2105 is the top model in their M series range. Their machines are robust and made to last, no matter the budget, so are perfect for beginners looking to expand on their skills..

The Singer M2105 in particular is one of the smaller sewing machines in the range, as well as being portable and light. This makes it ideal for transporting to sewing classes, storing away and sewing where space is limited.

With this machine's user-friendly, eight preset key stitches, you can start sewing straight away without having to guess the settings, and the LED lights make threading your machine easier. A convertible arm makes this an easy-to-follow sewing machine perfect for beginners, whilst the electronic foot control means you can start slow and set your own pace for full control.

Pfaff Smarter 140s – Simple Easy to Use Machine

The second of our beginner sewing machines is the Pfaff Smarter 140s, a truly great machine for those just starting out.

The Pfaff Smarter 140s offers an advanced range of stitching settings, 21 in total, including utility stitches, decorative stitches, stretch stitches and a buttonhole. This diverse range of settings makes this sewing machine a great option for those looking to expand their knowledge of sewing and take on a variety of sewing techniques.

Thread needles with ease with the Pfaff integrated needle threader. Simply hold the thread, pull a lever and that’s it. LED lights make working into the night a breeze, whilst the smart grip dials show stitches and numbers to make your selection quick and simple.

A top-loaded bobbin provides easy access and means you can easily check the amount of thread you have left before needing to wind your bobbin up. 

Singer Model 3321 Talent – Keeping Sewing Simple

Another great Singer sewing machine is the 3321 Talent model. Similarly to the Pfaff sewing machine mentioned above, the Singer model 3321 Talent includes a 21 stitch pattern feature, so you can expand your sewing skill set.

This is the perfect machine for beginners with a passion to learn more advanced techniques. Singer have still kept it simple so you can progress through sewing with ease. Of the 21 stitches on offer, you have six essential stitches, ten decorative stitches, four stretch stitches and one automatic 4-step buttonhole.

An automatic needle threader takes the frustration out of setting up your machine, and the top drop-in bobbin system makes threading your machine even easier. Four snap-on presser feet provide a range of options for your sewing needs, from basic stitches to fashion-forward projects.

This Singer machine makes sewing fun and easy with a large number of beneficial features for your sewing projects, from complete novice to hobby dressmakers.

Bernina 325 - delightfully simple to use

Bernina sewing machines offer exclusive functions and features that simplify sewing, making the Bernina 325 a perfect choice for beginners. 

One of only a few of the machines we offer with an LCD display, allowing you to bring your creativity to the forefront by choosing your favourite stitch combinations and making them available at the touch of a button. With 40 stitch types, and a 30 stitch memory it couldn’t be easier to find what you need for different projects.

Like the Pfaff and the Singer Talent 3321, the Bernina 325 offers a built-in needle threader to save you time getting started on your projects and makes changing your thread easy and free of hassle.

The Bernina sewing machine takes you back to basics, with modern ease of use. No matter the project, the variety of stitches, needle positions and presser feet means there’s something for every task.

Sewing Tips for Beginners

When learning to sew it’s easy to get muddled. We’ve compiled some tips for beginners to help make your sewing journey as easy as possible.

Use matching threads - When setting up your sewing machine you will have two different sections for thread at the top and the bottom. Making sure to use the same thread on both sides will help you to avoid uneven tension or breakages within the machine and on your garment.

Hold onto the tails of thread - before you begin to sew the tail ends of thread will be loose, keeping hold of it will ensure smooth stitches.

Keep it clean - caring for your machine will ensure they stand the test of time. Sewing machines are an investment, so keeping them clean and caring for them properly will benefit you in the long run.

Take it slow - you’ve heard the phrase “slow and steady wins the race”? Going slow with the speed control of your machine will provide a more precise and steady stitch.

Beginner Sewing Machines at Sewing Direct

At Sewing Direct, we have an extensive range of sewing machines, many of which are ideal for beginners looking to get started with sewing, or hobbyists looking for a simple machine for occasional use. If you are interested in purchasing your first sewing machine but are unsure which one is best for you, our friendly team of sewing specialists would be happy to help. If you visit us in-store, we have a number of machines available for you to test and get familiar with. Alternatively, you can contact us online or over the phone and we can answer any queries you may have.