A portable sewing machine lets you have a more flexible and convenient workplace. In this list, we will feature the top machines based on your needs. Not only are they compact, but they also have awesome features!
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Best Portable Sewing Machine For You | Analyzing Pros and Cons
1. SINGER Start 1234 Portable Sewing Machine
The Singer Start 1234 portable sewing machine is a sewing machine. It only weighs 7 lbs., which makes it an ideal starter machine for kids and teens. It that has everything a beginner will need.
Features:
- 6 built-in stitches
- Easy threading
- Free arm for collars, cuffs, and sleeves
- Adjustable tension settings
- Heavy-duty metal frame
- Storage compartment for storing accessories
- Automatic bobbin winding
- 4-step buttonhole
The only downside for this machine is it's not built for heavy-duty use because it's small. It has no automatic needle threader, and the bobbin may pop out once in awhile. But its affordability and handy features make up for all that.
2. Brother XM1010 Portable Sewing Machine
Here's a multi-functional machine you can also use for quilting. It also comes with accessories that lets you sew on most fabrics.
Don't forget to switch needles to ball points when changing fabrics. It can handle heavyweight fabrics like denim. But that will need a lot of patience from your end.
Features:
- 10 built-in stitches
- Adjustable thread tension
- 4-step buttonholes
- Automatic bobbin winding
- Free arm for collars & cuffs
- Easy stitch selector
- Zig-zag, straight, and other stitches
A few things to remember. This machine does not have a speed controller, a carry bag, nor an on/off button. So you will have to make sure it's unplugged when not in use.
3. Janome Lady Lilac Basic Portable Sewing Machine
The most portable machine in this list, the Janome Lady Lilac sewing machine only weighs 5 lbs. This kid-friendly machine is ideal for basic stitch works. It only costs less than $100. But it has the functions you need to finish projects.
Features:
- Zig-zag, straight stitch, and more
- Free arm for cuffs & sleeves
- Ideal for kids
- Reverse sewing
- 12 built-in stitches
4. Brother CS6000i Feature-Rich Sewing Machine
Crowned as the best sewing machine by experts, the Brother CS6000i is a cutting edge machine. It is famous for being long-lasting. Plus, it also has a detachable extension table so you can work on bigger projects.
Features:
- Automatic needle threader
- 60 built-in stitches
- Easy threading
- Easy bobbin winding
- Jam resistant, top drop-in bobbin
- Stitch speed controller
- Brightly illuminated work area
- Versatile sewing & quilting machine
As versatile as it is, reviews indicate that the learning curve for this machine is a bit steep. This shouldn't be a problem for intermediate users. But beginners who get to master this machine are on their way to being pros.
5. SINGER Simple 3232 Portable Sewing Machine
When it comes to features, the SINGER Simple 3232 portable sewing machine is right up there. It offers a lot of variety and has a decent stitching speed.
Features:
- Auto reverse stitching
- 32 built-in stitches
- Stitch length and width adjustment
- Heavy-duty metal frame
- 750 stitches per minute stitching speed
- 19 decorative stitches
Despite these features, its output is judged, particularly the quality of its stitches. It is also hard to set up and has subpar buttonholes.
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6. Brother XM2701 Lightweight Full Feature Sewing Machine
This Brother sewing machine is famous for its ease of use. Many people are fans of its stitch selection feature. The stitch dial is very easy to read. Experts also recommend it for sewing basic clothing, blankets, and other small projects.
Features:
- Needle threader
- 27 built-in stitches
- 1-step automatic buttonhole
- Backlit work area
- Quick set top drop-in bobbin
- 6 Sewing Feet
- Full featured
It's important to note that it lacks a switching to medium speed option. And the foot pedal can get sensitive.
At times, even a slight press forward will cause the sewing machine to move quicker than planned. The LED light is also quite dim.
7. Janome Arctic Crystal Machine
The first thing that catches the eye is the machine's bright color. It's a beautiful portable sewing machine that's also heavy-duty. Designed for beginners to show off their versatility in sewing projects. We also appreciate that it's perfect for hems and sleeves.
Features:
- Heavy duty metal frame
- 15 built-in stitches
- 4-step buttonhole
- 3-pc feeding system
- Front-loading bobbin
- Reverse lever
- Dual retractable spool pins
The downside is you can't lower the feed docks and it lacks an automatic needle threader.
8. EverSewn Charlotte Machine
If you're looking for something smaller and more handy, this is the machine for you. It's computerized, time-saving, and petite that's why it's perfect for beginners and travellers. You can also use it for embroidery and quilting projects.
Features:
- Internal metal frame
- 70 built-in stitches
- 650 stitches per minute
- 7 presser feet
- Automatic needle threader and cutter
- Illuminated LCD panels
- Start/Stop buttons – alternative to the foot pedal
Many users love this portable sewing machine. But there are quite a number who complain of struggling with tension adjustments.
9. SINGER 4432 Portable Machine
For heavy fabric like leather or denim, you need a heavy duty machine like this one. It has a powerful high speed motor, which makes it a durable investment. A lot of sewing experts vouch for this portable sewing machine.
Features:
- Heavy duty metal frame
- 3 adjustable needle positions
- 1,100 stitches per minute
- 4-pc feeding system
- Top-loading bobbin
- Automatic needle threader
- Twin needles
- Full features
The only known complain from any user is that it can be a pretty heavy machine.
10. Janome JW8100 Portable Sewing Machine
The winner of the 2020 Women's Choice Award as the most recommended sewing machine. The Janome JW8100 portable sewing machine has an 100 preset stitch patterns. Aside from that, it has almost all the features sewing beginners and experts look for in a machine.
Features:
- Automatic needle threader
- Sewing speed control slider
- Backlit LCD display
- Auto de-clutch bobbin winder
- Start/Stop buttons – alternative to the foot pedal
- Full features
While it's an impressive machine, many users found that it's not suitable for quilting. Many also claim it's not made for sewing through many layers.
Here's a list of the best beginner sewing machines courtesy of Crafts Selection:
These portable sewing machines are all amazing in their own right. It's up to you to select which one has the features you need. But don't forget to check on the cons too.
You can rest assured that these sewing machines are the best out there. You can never go wrong with any of these top of the line machines.
Which portable sewing machine do you like best? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!
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Editor’s Note: This article was originally published 0n January 24,2020, and has been updated for quality and relevancy.