Quilting Sewing Machines Under $600

I’ve had a few people ask me if you need a special machine to quilt and the answer is no.

Technically you can quilt with any good quality sewing machine but some machines just make it a little easier because of the features they have. So you may see these sewing machines referred to as quilting sewing machines.

Here are a few things to consider when you shop for a sewing machine for better quilting:

1. Needle up/Needle down – Most sewing machines stop with the needle up and out of the fabric. When you quilt it is actually easier if the needle stops down. Some machines have a specific feature where you can program it to stop down and this is helpful so you won’t have to adjust the needle every time. This will be listed as “programmable needle up / down”

2. Feed Dogs – If you don’t know what feed dogs are then here is a mini lesson because these things are important in all sewing. The feed dogs can be seen on the needle plate and look like metal teeth. They move back and forth in slots in a sewing machine’s needle plate, gently gripping and feeding the fabric to help it pass through the sewing machine.

When you free motion quilt (sewing the top, batting and backing together in a pattern – also known as a quilt sandwich) you need to be able to move the fabric freely under the needle. The feed dogs move the fabric in a single direction, so dropping them or covering them reduces the drag on the quilt.

Keep in mind that not all quilters drop the feed dogs. There are some very experience quilters who say you don’t even need to do it. They just set their stitch length to zero. Experiment for yourself to see what works best for you.

On modern machines there is a switch that lowers the feed dogs, while some older machines have a plate that is used to cover the feed dogs. If you don’t have this feature on your machine or if you find a machine you love but it is not specifically made for quilters then you can also use an index card or playing card to cover the feed dogs.

3. A Variety of Free Motion Feet. Just like you need different tools in your kitchen depending on what you are cooking, you will need a variety of presser feet depending on the quilting design, batting thickness, and the amount of piecing or applique. When shopping for a quilting sewing machine make sure it has options for various quilting feet. Examples are a 1/4 inch foot, which is what typical quilting calls for, a darning or free motion foot for free motion quilting, and a walking foot, which moves the fabric from above in about the same speed as the feed dogs.

6. Easily Changeable Presser Feet. – Speaking of various presser feet that you can use for quilting, you want to be able to change those feet quickly and easily. No one wants to have to pull out a screwdriver every time they want to change presser feet. Many modern machines have snap-on presser feet, which makes changing them a breeze.

7. Larger Work Space. – Many quilting sewing machines will have a larger working area or an extension table to accommodate big projects like quilts.

So these are features that you will typically see on a great quilting sewing machine. Although you can still make quilts without these features, many quilters will advance to a quilting specific machine to make their life easier and to make higher quality quilts.

Great Quilting Sewing Machines Under $600

With that said, let’s take a look at some great quilting sewing machines if you are on a budget.

I want to point out that I have done several articles on my blog about quilting machines and that is for a couple reasons. There are quilting machines that cost over $10,000! But you can easily find a great quilting sewing machine in the $300 to $1,000 range.

Your experience level will dictate what machine you look for. A beginning quilter is probably not going to spend $3,000 on a Janome Horizon Memory Craft 8900QCP but an advanced quilter might shop for a dream machine like that.

So I have my quilting reviews organized by budget and brand because I couldn’t review them all in one post. This article will focus on the best quilting sewing machines for beginners or mid-experienced sewers – a seamstress who is looking to upgrade from a home sewing machine and buy something with quilting features and all of these machines are $600 or less.

Here are three awesome sewing machines for quilting, with a more in-depth overview of each as you read on.

	Brother Designio Series DZ2400	Janome Magnolia 7360	Singer 9960
Built-In Stitches	185	60	600
Needle up / down	Yes	Yes	Yes
Easy Buttonholes	8, 1-step	8, 1-step	13, 1-step
Needle Threader	Yes	Yes	Yes
Slider Speed Control	Yes	Yes	Yes
Drop Feed	Yes	Yes	Yes
Thread Tension	Automatic + Manual	Automatic + Manual	Automatic + Manual
Thread Cutter	Yes	Yes	Yes
Max Speed	850	820	850
Snap-on Presser Feet	Yes	Yes	Yes
Presser Feet Included	10	7	19
Quilting Feet Included	Yes	Yes	Yes
Extension Table	Yes, included	No	Yes, Included
Work Space	W 5.7" x H 3.8"	W 6.5" x H 4.2"
Weight	9.9 lbs	18.3 lbs	21.3 lbs
Current Price

Brother Designio Series DZ2400

The Brother Designio Series DZ2400 is a value packed computerized quilting sewing machine with 185 built in stitches including 55 alphanumeric stitches.

It has all of the convenient quilting features mentioned above- needle up and down, drop feed, snap-on presser feet, and an extension table for a larger work space. 

This machine has 12 sewing and quilting feet included so you can get started on sewing and quilting projects right away.

You’ll get:

• Zigzag foot (on machine)
• Buttonhole foot
• Zipper foot
• Button sewing foot
• Overcasting foot
• Blind stitch foot
• Monogramming foot
• Quilting foot
• Walking foot with quilt guide
• 1/4 ( piecing ) foot

One thing that stood out to me about the Designio DZ2400, besides all of the automatic features, is that it weighs under 10 lbs. It is very lightweight, which means it is easy to take to sewing classes and if you don’t have a dedicated sewing area, it is easy to put away and take out. It also has a built-in handle so if you need a quilting sewing machine that is easily portable, then this is the one for you.

Owners of this machine praise all of its features, pointing out how quiet it is and are happy with the stitch quality.

Overall this is a great option for a sewing machine with convenient quilting features, especially if you are on a budget. Brother is known for value and this is no exception.

Janome Magnolia 7360 Sewing Machine

The Janome Magnolia 7360 has a pretty flower on the front but don’t let that fool you – this is a powerful machine with dozens of convenient features for sewing and quilting. It is easy enough to use for a newbie seamstress, while it also has enough stitches and features to satisfy an experience quilter. This machines comes with a quilting bonus package that includes a walking foot and a 1/4″ foot.

Quick Buttons and Stitch Selection

The Janome Magnolia 7360 is a computerized sewing machine so most of its features can be controlled and changed with the touch of a button.

There is an easy to read LCD screen on the Magnolia 7360 and a convenient s

titch chart which shows the 60 built-in stitches this machine has. Simply choose by pressing the corresponding on the stitch chart.

Direct select buttons also allow you to change stitch width and length by pressing “plus” or “minus” to adjust.

There are Separate buttons to lock a stitch and sew in reverse, which allow you to create strong and professionally finished seams that won’t fray.

The Janome Magnolia 7360 also has variable speed control so you can speed up and slow down sewing using a  speed control slider. Whether you are new to sewing or have years of experience, this convenient feature lets you choose the best sewing pace depending on your skill or the project you are working on.

A couple more handy feature this machine offers is a memorized needle up/down button and a start/stop button. This eliminates the need for a foot pedal (but there is a foot pedal included if you prefer to use it).

Overall Convenient Features:

• Top loading full rotary hook bobbin
• 60 built-in stitches
• 7 one-step buttonholes
• Automatic thread tension control
• One-hand needle threader
• Snap-on presser feet
• Memorized needle up/down
• 7 piece feed dog
• Free arm
• Drop feed
• Start/stop button
• Speed control slider
• Locking stitch button
• Easy reverse button
• Auto-declutch bobbin winder
• Extra high presser foot lift
• Backlit LED screen with easy navigation keys
• Maximum stitch width: 7mm
• Maximum stitch length: 5mm

You’ll get the following presser feet:

• ¼ inch Seam Foot
• Blind Hem foot G
• Buttonhole Foot R (automatic)
• Even Feed Foot (Walking foot)
• Quilting Bar for walking foot
• Satin Stitch Foot F
• Zipper foot E

You will also get a cover / carrying case, which can easily save you $20+ and is a great way to protect your investment.

Owners of this machine praise its simplicity of use and appreciate how light it is, making it convenient to take to and from sewing classes.  Also the option to adjust the needle position from left to right makes it convenient to get the exact quarter inch seam allowance.

Overall the Magnolia 7360 is an affordable option if you want a quilting sewing machine but you are on a budget.

Singer 9960 Quantum Stylist

Up next is a quilting sewing machine from the trusted Singer brand – The Singer 9960 Quantum Stylist Sewing Machine has a mind-boggling 600 built-in stitches and a myriad of other electronic features like an automatic electronic thread trimmer, extra-large sewing space, and a wide array of presser feet.

 

 

 

This is a phenomenal machine for sewing as well as quilting and the price is very affordable for most budgets. This amount of features, built-in stitches, and the included accessories and presser feet make this an exceptional value. I’ll go over some of the features in this article but I also have a full in-depth review that you can read here.

Singer 9960 LCD Screen and Control Panel

This machine has huge and crystal clear LCD screen, which is referred to as the ‘Digital Information Advisor’.

There are over 2 dozen buttons but it really is simple to use as you get to know it. The owners guide are very helpful in the beginning.

At the touch of a button you can quickly and easily select your desired stitch, length and width, and you will also see a recommended presser foot.

SINGER 9960 Quantum Stylist Built-In Stitches

The Singer 9960 has 600 built-in stitches, which may be intimidating for a beginning sewer, but keep in mind that you won’t be using that many stitches on a day-to-day basis. Most people use just a few stitches regularly. This includes me – 90% of the time I use a regular straight stitch :).

But the fact that is has so many stitches and different buttonholes means you will have a stitch for anything you could possibly want to do.

The stitches are printed on a chart in the upper lid of the machine, which you then select using the LCD and touch button controls. Here is a breakdown of the stitches:

• 103 built-in utility sewing stitches
• 13 styles of buttonholes
• 34 decorative sewing stitches
• 90 upper case, lower case, numbers, and characters in 5 different fonts (450 stitches in total)

Presser Feet and Included Accessories

The Singer 9960 has convenient snap-on presser feet, which makes changing presser feet ultra easy. There are 18 presser feet included, which is a big plus because presser feet can cost up to $30 each.

• Adjustable bias binder foot
• Single-welt cording foot
• Braiding foot and guide
• Stitch-in-the-ditch foot
• Fancy-trim foot
• Clear piping foot
• Clearance plate
• All-purpose foot
• Zipper foot
• Button sewing foot
• Satin stitch foot
• Buttonhole foot with underplate
• Open toe foot
• Blind hem foot
• Overcasting foot
• Narrow hem foot
• Cording foot
• 1/4-inch foot
• Darning & embroidery foot
• Even feed foot

You will also get the following accessories: Needles, Bobbins (Class 15), Seam Ripper, Lint Brush, Spool Pin with Felt Washer, Screwdrivers, Spool Caps, Seam Guide, Quilting Bar, Power Cord, Foot Controller, Extra Wide Extension Table instructional DVD, and an operation manual. A hardcover carrying case is included, which is a nice addition that will easily save you $20+.

Overall, the Singer 9960 Quantum Stylist is quiet, sturdy, and has many features for all levels of sewing. It is also a very lightweight and compact machine, which makes it easily portable to and from sewing classes or great for someone who keeps their machine in a closet instead of having a dedicated workspace for it.

The Bottom Line

Keep in mind that there are dozens and dozens of quilting sewing machines on the market, in various price ranges. I think the saying that you get what you pay for rings true here as well – You can buy a $300 quilting machine or easily spend over $1,000 so your level of expertise, the type and size of quilts you need to do, and the mandatory features you require are variables to consider.

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/best-quilting-sewing-machines/

Variable Speed Control Sewing Machines – What It Is and Why You Need It

Readers often ask me what is the one feature on a sewing machine
that I couldn’t live without. It’s a tough question because modern
sewing machines have so many bells and whistles. You can find
a machine with hundreds of different stitches, embroidery,
automatic buttons, drop-in bobbins, automatic needle threader (this is a close 2nd) and the list goes on and on…

But if I had to choose one I would definitely say variable speed control (also called adjustable speed control).

When I started sewing this was the one feature on my first sewing machine that I thought was brilliant and so useful for a newbie. Several years later and I am
still in love with this feature and use it every time I sew.

A Foot Pedal vs. Speed Control Slider

Well, let’s talk about various ways you can control the sewing speed when
you sew. This is important because you need to be in control when
you are sewing or else you are going to have crooked lines, ugly stitches,
and just an overall poor finished result.

Before the variable speed control slider you had a pedal. You put pressure on the
foot pedal, which makes the sewing machine “go” or the sewing needle
go up and down. And just like a car the harder you press, or the more pressure you put on the pedal, the faster your machine will sew.

My problem with foot pedals is they can be sensitive and it is almost impossible for me to provide a consistent steady pressure on the pedal while maintaining hand / eye coordination and focusing on the garment I’m sewing.

What typically happens when I use a foot pedal is I put too much pressure and my machine is sewing at light speed and then I ease off the pedal and I’m going too slow. It is back and forth.

I am not exaggerating and although some foot pedals are better than others, I could never find that middle ground of consistent sewing at a minimal speed or even at a s

low speed. This is where variable speed control comes in.

What is Adjustable Speed Control and How is it Helpful?

A machine with adjustable speed control will typically have a slider where you choose the speed that you want to sew – this can be as low as 50 stitches per minute on up to 1,000 stitches p

 

 

 

er minute if your machine has the capacity for it.

You set your speed and press stars and your machine sews at that speed. If its too slow, adjust the slider higher. If its too fast, adjust it down.

This sounds so simple but I cannot stress how convenient and helpful this is.

Three Top Sewing Machines with Variable Speed Control

If variable speed control is a must have feature for you then you will be shopping for a computerized sewing machine (as opposed to a mechanical sewing machine) and this is because adjustable speed control is a feature where your machine will essentially sew for you at a determine speed set by you – this is an electronic feature – vs. a mechanical sewing machine that has no electronic components. I have an in depth article on the differences between a mechanical and computerized sewing machine  if you aren’t clear on it.

Here are three top selling computerized sewing machines with adjustable speed:

	Janome 8077	Brother XR9500PRW	Singer 7258
Built-In Stitches	30	100	100
Presser Feet Included	4	7	10
Easy Buttonholes	6	8	6
Needle Threader	Automatic	Automatic	Automatic
Slider Speed Control	Yes	Yes	Yes
Thread Tension	Manual	Manual	Automatic
Thread Cutter	No	Yes	Yes
Max Speed	820 spm	850 spm	750 spm
Weight	18.2 lbs	9.9 lbs	14.75 lbs
Average Rating (out of 5)	4.6	4.6	4.4
Current Price

Janome 8077 Computerized Sewing Machine

A great sewing machine from the dependable Janome brand (pronounced juh-no-mee). This brand makes great mechanical sewing machines and their computerized machines are just as good.

What I really like about this computerized machine is its simplicity. With 30 built-in stitches it is not overwhelmingly complicated. It has a great variety of utility stitches, three styles of overcast stitches, and 2 blind hems for woven fabrics and knits and a handful of decorative stitches for heirloom sewing and a blanket stitch for applique. (30 stitches altogether).

And yes it has a variable speed control slider. Learn more about the Janome 8077 or purchase here.

 

Brother XR9500PRW Project Runway Sewing Machine

With 100 unique built-in utility, decorative and heirloom stitches, the XR9500PRW Project Runway™ sewing machine is a feature-packed machine that can be used for embellishing clothing and home décor items to creating beautiful quilt designs. This is a computerized sewing machine and it has a large back-lit LCD screen for easy stitch selection.

This really is a great machine for all sewing levels. It is usable right out of the box so it is perfect for beginners. On the other end, more experienced seamstresses will appreciate all of the automatic features, including a speed control slider.

There is also a quilting table to accommodate your quilting or other large projects. See my complete in-depth review on this machine if you want to learn more or visit Amazon to purchase and check out reviews and additional specs.

 

Singer 7258 Styling Sewing Machine

The Singer 7258 is one of Singer’s best selling sewing machines. It is a two time Consumer Digest award winner based on their combination of eight criteria: performance, ease of use, features, quality of construction, warranty, efficiency, styling, and maintenance and service requirements.

 

This is a computerized sewing so it has an LCD screen with easy navigation keys to choose your stitch. You get 100 built-in stitches, which is plenty for any type of project a beginner can think of.

Since this is computerized it has more automatic and touch button features like a start / stop button and of course speed control. Learn more and compare pricing.

Final Word on Adjustable Speed Sewing

If you can’t tell by this article so far, I am a big fan of variable speed control when sewing. This is a must have feature for me. If you are brand new to sewing you can take my word for it or go to a local sewing machine dealer or craft store and try out a machine with variable speed control and one without. After trying out both types of machines I’m sure you will appreciate the control and flexibility that the speed control gives you.

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/variable-speed-control-sewing-machines/

Brother XM2701 Lightweight Sewing Machine Review

This is an in depth review of the Brother XM2701 Lightweight, Full Featured Sewing Machine, which is an easy-to-use, feature packed machine perfect for beginning sewers on a budget.

I will overview the following features and aspects of this sewing machine:

• The overall features
• Built-in stitches and buttonholes
• Presser feet and included accessories
• A video demo
• What users have to say (reviews)
• The pros and cons
• And the best current price

So let’s get started!

Introduction to the Brother XM2701

The XM2701 is a perfect sewing machine for beginners and sewists on a budget because of its simplicity and reasonable price.

This mechanical sewing machine is easy-to-use right out of the box. It is value-packed and versatile and a great machine overall for a wide range of everyday sewing projects.

Below is a general overview of the features and accessories included. Continue reading for a more in depth overview.

Built-In-Stitches	27
Stitch Selection	Dial
Buttonhole Styles	1 One step style
Needle Threading System	Automatic
Easy Bobbin Winding	Yes
Automatic Thread Cutter	Yes
Presser Feet Included	6 (No Quilting Feet Included)
Feed Dog	6
Quick Set Bobbin	Yes (Drop In)
Max Sewing Speed (stitches per minute)	800 spm
Stitch Width	5mm
Stitch Length	4mm
Speed Controller	No
Automatic Needle Up / Down	No
Drop Feed / Free Motion	Yes
Built-In Quilting Stitches	Yes
Accessory Storage	Yes
Carrying Case	Optional
Machine Weight	12.6 lbs
Machine Dimensions	12.1" x 5.9." x 15.3"
Warranty	Brother 25 Year Limited Warranty
Rating	4.5 / 5.0
Current Price

Brother XM2701 Built-In Stitches

This machine is considered a mechanical sewing machine because it does not have a built-in computer with pre-programmed settings.

It has a dial that you turn by hand to select the stitch, the stitch length, and the stitch width. Selecting a stitch couldn’t be easier. All of the stitches are laid out clearly on the front.

The Brother XM2701 has 27 unique built-in stitches, including blind hem, decorative and quilting stitches, with an automatic one-step buttonholer for perfect buttonholes.

This is plenty to handle the majority of basic projects that you’ll have.

There are machines on the market with hundreds of built-in stitches, but don’t let that fool you. Most people use just a few stitches regularly (this includes me – 90% of the time I use a regular straight stitch.)

Because the XM2701 has a drop feed you can do free motion quilting with it. There are no included quilting feet but you can purchase a free motion quilting foot and other quilting feet separately.

The Brother XM2701 has a single one-step auto-size buttonholer so there is not a lot of versatility but should be fine for most beginner sewists.

Convenience and Easy-to-Use Features

The Brother XM2701 is affordably priced but you still get a nice amount of convenience features like a jam-resistant drop-in bobbin system and easy bobbin rewinding.

Another great feature that you won’t ever be able to live without is an automatic needle threader. Follow the easy-to-read thread instructions then simply touch the lever on the side of the machine, and the XM2701 automatically pushes the thread right through the needle.

A built-in thread cutter, built in LED light, and a free arm for sewing sleeves, skirts, etc. are additional features that make this a value packed machine.

You also get an instruction DVD makes getting started easy. The DVD shows demonstrations on everything from threading the needle to sewing buttonholes.

Presser Feet Included

• Buttonhole foot
• Button sewing foot
• Narrow Hemmer foot
• Zipper foot
• Blind Stitch foot
• Zigzag foot

Accessories Included

• Darning plate
• Accessory bag with needle pack
• Twin needle
• Screwdriver
• Extra spool pin
• Bobbins (3)
• Power cord
• Instructional DVD
• Operation manual

There is no carrying case included with this but you can purchase the Brother Universal Carrying Case to protect your machine. I own one of these for my Brother machine and it is a worthwhile investment.

Video Demo

Here is a video showing the versatility of this machine in action.

User Reviews of the Brother XM2701

Currently Rated 4.5 / 5.0

Users of this machine rave about how easy-to-use this machine and some said it was perfect for beginners.

Many users appreciate the dvd, which guides you through the setup and what you can do with it.

Users were impressed with how quiet it is when sewing.

Owners also commented on how substantial and responsive the foot pedal is, allowing the speed to be easily controlled at max speed or slowed down.

Pros and Cons of theBrother XM2701

PROS

• Lightweight and portable at 12.6 lbs
• Very affordable
• Comes with a dvd for easy setup and instructions for beginners
• Quiet yet powerful sewing at 800 stitches per minute

CONS

• Presser foot pressure is not adjustable
• Some reviewers mentioned that the LED light is not bright enough

Overall Summary of the Brother XM2701

Overall you should know that the Brother XM2701 sewing machine is definitely a budget beginner machine. It has a good amount of convenience features to make sewing and setup easy and plenty of stitches for most projects.

Best of all it is very lightweight and easily portable to sewing classes or travel.

If you are an advanced seamstress this is also suitable as a travel machine or something simple to use instead of taking out a larger and heavier machine.

Current and Best Price 

Brother XM2701 Lightweight, Full-Featured Sewing Machine with 27 Stitches, 1-Step Auto-Size Buttonholer, 6 Sewing Feet, and Instructional DVD

Price Disclaimer

You can’t beat the price of the Brother XM2701. It is very affordable for any budget, which is one reason it is a top selling machine. This is a great sewing machine that will last you for years as your sewing skills grow.

Check out my other reviews of beginner sewing machines or lightweight sewing machines for similar machines to the Brother XM2701.

Let me know if you have any questions. I’ll do my best to answer. Happy sewing  

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/brother-xm2701-lightweight-sewing-machine-review/

Price:

$116.99

Best Singer Sewing Machines for Beginners

Singer is possibly the most famous brand of sewing machines and the most well known. It was established in 1851 so we are coming up on 200 years of sewing machine history. The Singer name is synonymous with sewing.

With over 60 types of sewing machines currently on the market, they make a machine for every level of sewing, including beginning sewers who need an easy-to-use, affordable machine. Singer has a great lineup of beginner sewing machines. In this article I’ll go over three great choices to compare.

What to Look for In a Beginner Sewing Machine

Your overall sewing experience will determine the features and price you look for when shopping for a new machine. An experienced seamstress or an advanced quilter have different needs and wants in a sewing machine than someone who is just starting out.

Here are four things to consider when you shop for the best Singer sewing machine as a beginner.

1. Simplicity and Ease of Use

Of all the features that a sewing machine that can offer you I think the most important thing to look out for is ease of use and simplicity. There are machines on the market that have every bell and whistle you could possibly think of and dozens and dozens of built-in-stitches, embroidery, monogramming, etc. Do you need all of this if you are starting out? No. These features might only frustrate and confuse you. Focus on the features that you will actually use.

One thing to remember is many sewing machines have a lot of built-in stitches and beginners can get caught up in this number thinking it is important – you may think that a sewing machine with 100 built-in stitches is superior to a machine with 8 built-in stitches. Well, that’s not always the case because there are many other factors to consider and most sewers use just a few stitches – 90% of the time you are going to use a simple straight stitch.

As a beginner you should keep an eye out for sewing machines with a clean and easy to understand interface. If you can take the machine out of the box and start sewing right away, then that is true simplicity and a great beginner machine.

At a basic level, there are 2 types of sewing machines – mechanical or electronic / computerized. A computerized machine has an LCD screen and you choose your stitch and other features with the touch of a button. With a mechanical machine there will be a turn dial, with the stitches labeled on the dial and you stop at the one you want to use.

Neither one of these is better or worse – it kind of depends on your preference. Some people prefer a mechanical machine because over time they can tend to have less problems because they don’t have a computer and all of the electronic components.

Read more about mechanical vs. computerized machines here if you are interested.

2. Automatic and Convenience Features

Automatic features are not 100% necessary to sew but in my opinion they make sewing easier and fun, especially for beginners. When I bought my first sewing machine I didn’t know what to look for and fortunately the machine I chose (a Brother) had many automatic features that I really appreciated.

Here are some automatic and convenience features that you may find helpful:

• Automatic needle threader
• Variable speed control / speed slider (This one was huge for me when I started sewing and it is still a must have feature for me. This allows you to slow your sewing speed down and you can go very slow if needed.)
• Snap-on presser feet – This makes changing your presser foot quick and easy
• Easy bobbin winder and drop-in bobbin
• Built-in thread cutter

3. Affordably Priced

Just like sewing machines come with many different features and specifications, they also have varying price ranges. You can buy a mini sewing machine that costs under $30 (yup!) and you can spend over $15,000 on a sewing machine (check out this Bernina 880-SE – amazing!).

If you are a beginner I think that a budget under $200 is plenty to get the features you need to get started with enough room to grow into. Sewing is a skill that will grow over time – you don’t start out as an advanced quilter but maybe over time you will move into that and you will need a machine with advanced quilting options.

4. Size and Portability

Size and weight are an important feature to consider because many beginning sewers don’t have a dedicated sewing area / table. A lightweight machine is good if you need to store your machine in a cabinet and pull it out when you want to use it.

There are machines out there that weigh over 25 lbs. easily and then you have lots of machines in the 10 – 15 lb range and that’s quite a difference if you have to frequently move your machine around or pull it out and put it away.

Also, if you are going to sewing classes you want a machine that is light and portable.

A carrying case is also important because it protects your Singer sewing machine and makes it simple to carry with a handle. Singer makes a universal hard carrying case that fits most free arm models and some machines come with this when you purchase it.

Comparison of 3 Singer Sewing Machines Perfect for A Beginner

Here is an overview of three Singer machines that a beginning sewer will appreciate. These machines are intuitive and easy to use, affordably priced, and lightweight and portable.

	Singer 4411	Singer 3232	Singer 7258
Weight	14.5 lbs	12.2 lbs	14.75 lbs
Built-In Stitches	11	32	100
Easy Buttonholes	1, 4-step	1, 1-step	6, 1-step
Needle Threader	Automatic	Automatic	Automatic
Slider Speed Control	No	No	Yes
Thread Cutter	Yes	Yes	Yes
Max Speed (spm)	1,100	750	750
Presser Feet Included	4	4	10
Current Price

Below is a more in-depth review of the features and specs of each machine

Singer 4411 Heavy Duty Extra High Speed Sewing Machine

The Singer 4411 is a mechanical sewing machine with 11 stitches to choose from using an easy to read turn dial and one 4-step buttonhole.  This machine has a powerful motor nad has a sewing speed of 1,100 stitches per minute, which is incredibly fast.

The 4411 is considered a heavy duty sewing machine because it can handle thicker fabrics like denim, vinyl, and even leather (just be sure to use the right sewing needle). The internal skeleton of the sewing machine consists of a heavy duty metal frame, which allows for skip-free sewing and durability.

It has a built-in handle and weighs around 14.5 lbs. so it is still very much portable and not a burden to take to sewing classes, traveling, or to pull in and out when working on projects.

Features of this Machine:

• Automatic needle threader
• Free arm
• Stainless steel bed plate
• Adjustable presser foot control
• Extra high presser foot lift
• Snap-on presser feet
• 4 included presser feet (All-purpose foot, Buttonhole foot, Zipper foot, Button Sewing Foot)

Reviewers of this machine all commented on how simple yet powerful it is. The simplicity of the Singer 4411 makes it perfect for a beginner, and its power and heavy duty metal frame mean it will last for years to come.

Singer 3232 Simple Sewing Machine

The Singer 3232 is called the Simple Sewing Machine and that is exactly what it is – an affordably priced mechanical sewing machine with 32 built-in stitches and an automatic 1 step buttonhole.

 

Overall Features:

• Automatic needle threader
• Adjustable stitch length & width
• Free arm
• Automatic reverse
• Extra high presser foot lift

• Heavy duty metal frame
• 4 presser feet (All-Purpose Foot, Buttonhole Foot, Button Sewing Foot, Zipper Foot)

Overall the Singer 3232 is an easy-to-use machine that you can start sewing on right out of the box, It is affordably priced, lightweight (it weighs just 12.2 lbs.), and it has a heavy duty metal frame for skip free sewing.

Singer 7258 100-Stitch Computerized Sewing Machine

The Singer 7258 is one of Singer’s best selling sewing machines. It is a two time Consumer Digest award winner based on their combination of eight criteria: performance, ease of use, features, quality of construction, warranty, efficiency, styling, and maintenance and service requirements.

This is a computerized sewing so it has an LCD screen with easy navigation keys to choose your stitch. You get 100 built-in stitches, which is plenty for any type of project a beginner can think of.

Since this is computerized it has more automatic and touch button features like a start / stop button and speed control.

Overall Features:

• 100 built-in stitches and 7 automatic buttonholes
• Automatic stitch length and width
• Start/Stop button
• Speed control slider
• Automatic reverse
• Locking stitch button
• Programmable needle up/ down
• Automatic needle threading system
• Quick set top drop-in bobbin
• Free arm
• 4 presser feet – (zigzag/all purpose, buttonhole, zipper, rolled hem, blind hem, darning and embroidery, overcast, straight stitch, gathering, satin stitch/straight stitch)

If you are a beginner and you really want a computerized Singer sewing machine then this is the perfect option. My first sewing machine was a computerized machine and I absolutely loved and appreciated all of the automatic features that an electronic machine can offer.

Just know that computerized machines are a little more technical and need to be cared for. Overall the Singer 7258 is very affordable and you get so many features. With good care it will last you a long time even as your experience grows.

The Bottom Line on Singer Beginner Sewing Machines

Singer is a trusted brand in the sewing industry and these 3 machines are all perfect options for a beginner. So which one of these machines do I think is the best? Think about the features that you really want – Computerized vs. mechanical? Variable speed control? And consider your budget too. Then you can narrow down which machine is the better option for you.

Also, these machines are all under $200. If you have room for a bigger budget then you may want to consider additional machines, but keep in mind that higher price means more features and a more complicated machine. As a beginner you may not need it. If you want to do more research you can check out some great beginner Brother sewing machines or beginner Janome sewing machines.

If you have any questions then leave a question in the comments below and I’ll do my best to help.

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/best-singer-sewing-machines-for-beginners/

Best Janome Sewing Machines for Beginners

The question that comes up the most for me on this site is “which sewing machine should I buy?” And that’s hard to answer because there are many great machines by different brands with various features and prices. There isn’t one perfect machine for everyone.

My first sewing machine was a Brother, which I loved, and my second machine was a higher priced Janome. Sewing on that machine made me fall in love with the brand.

Janome sewing machines are designed for performance, but also for comfort, quality, and ease of operation. I love the simplicity of their machines. They are so easy to use, yet powerful, and sew like a dream, which is why Janome sewing machines are perfect if you are a beginning sewer and you want a quality machine that will last for years.

What to Look for In a Beginner Sewing Machine

Your overall sewing experience will determine the features and price you look for when shopping for a new machine. Someone who has been sewing for years or an advanced quilter will need a completely different type of machine than a someone starting out.

Here are four things to consider when you shop for the best Janome beginner sewing machine.

1. Simplicity and Ease of Use

Of all the features that a sewing machine that can offer you I think the most important thing to look out for is ease of use and simplicity. There are machines on the market that have every bell and whistle you could possibly think of and dozens and dozens of built-in-stitches, embroidery, monogramming, etc. Do you need all of this if you are starting out? No. These features will only frustrate you and confuse you. Just focus on the features that you will actually use.

The funny thing is many machines have tons of built-in stitches and sometimes beginners get caught up in this number when shopping thinking that a machine with 100 built-in stitches is superior to a machine with 8 built-in stitches. Well, that’s not always the case because there are many other factors to consider and most sewers use just a few stitches – 90% of the time you are going to use a simple straight stitch.

As a beginner you should keep an eye out for sewing machines with a clean and easy to understand interface. If you can take the machine out of the box and start sewing right away, then that is true simplicity and a great beginner machine.

At a basic level, there are 2 types of sewing machines – mechanical or electronic / computerized. A computerized machine has an LCD screen and you choose your stitch and other features with the touch of a button. With a mechanical machine there will be a turn dial, with the stitches labeled on the dial and you stop at the one you want to use.

Neither one of these is better or worse – it kind of depends on your preference. Some people prefer a mechanical machine because over time they can tend to have less problems because they don’t have a computer and all of the electronic components. Read more about mechanical vs. computerized machines here if you are interested.

2. Automatic and Convenience Features

Automatic features are not 100% necessary to sew but in my opinion they make sewing easier and fun, especially for beginners. When I bought my first sewing machine I didn’t know what to look for and fortunately the machine I chose (a Brother) had many automatic features that I really appreciated.

Here are some automatic and convenience features that you may find helpful:

• Automatic needle threader
• Variable speed control / speed slider (This one was huge for me when I started sewing and it is still a must have feature for me. This allows you to slow your sewing speed down and you can go very slow if needed.)
• Snap-on presser feet – This makes changing your presser foot quick and easy
• Easy bobbin winder and drop-in bobbin
• Built-in thread cutter

3. Affordably Priced

Just like sewing machines come with many different features and specifications, they also have varying price ranges. You can buy a mini sewing machine that costs under $30 (yup!) and you can spend over $15,000 on a sewing machine (check out this Bernina 880-SE – amazing!).

If you are a beginner I think that a budget under $200 is plenty to get the features you need to get started with enough room to grow into. Sewing is a skill that will grow over time – you don’t start out as an advanced quilter but maybe over time you will move into that and you will need a machine with advanced quilting options.

4. Size and Portability

Size and weight are an important feature to consider because many beginning sewers don’t have a dedicated sewing area / table. A lightweight machine is good if you need to store your machine in a cabinet and pull it out when you want to use it.

There are machines out there that weigh over 25 lbs. easily and then you have lots of machines in the 10 – 15 lb range and that’s quite a difference if you have to frequently move your machine around or pull it out and put it away.

Also, if you are going to sewing classes you want a machine that is light and portable.

A carrying case is also important because it protects your Janome sewing machine and makes it simple to carry with a handle. Janome makes a hard cover carrying case and several styles of totes and a trolley All of these are great options to protect your investment.

Comparison of 4 Janome Sewing Machines Great for Beginners

Here is an overview of four Brother machines that are easy to use, affordably priced, and lightweight and portable.

	Janome 660	Janome 2212	Janome MOD-30	Janome 3128
Weight	11.6 lbs	13 lbs	12.7 lbs	18.2 lbs
Built-In Stitches	12	12	30	30
Easy Buttonholes	1, 4-step	1, 4-step	3, 1-step	1, 4-step
Needle Threader	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Slider Speed Control	No	No	Yes	No
Thread Cutter	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Max Speed	650	860	750	650
Free Arm?	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Drop Feed?	No	Yes	Yes	No
Presser Feet Included	5	4	4	4
Current Price

Below is a more in-depth review of the features and specs of each machine

Janome Jem Gold 660 Sewing & Quilting Machine

The Janome Jem Gold 660 is a mechanical sewing machine with 12 stitches to choose from using an easy to read turn dial and one 4-step buttonhole. It has just enough convenient features to make it perfect for a beginner.

It weighs just11.6 lbs. so it is very lightweight and portable – easy to take with you to sewing classes, traveling, or to pull in and out when working on projects.

Features of this Machine:

• Easy reverse button
• Built-in needle threader
• Free arm
• Extension Table
• Top loading full rotary hook bobbin
• One hand thread cutter
• Extra high presser foot lift
• Snap-on presser feet
• 5 included presser feet (standard, buttonhole foot, overedge foot, sliding buttonhole foot, zig-zag foot)
• Work space is W 5.1″ x D 4.3″

Reviewers of this machine all commented on how beautifully it sews and sometimes even better than more expensive machines they have from a different brand. One great thing about the Janome 660 is the extension table so you can use this machine if you ever decide to get into quilting. Janome has a separate quilting kit that you can purchase – it comes with  a 1/4″ Seam Foot, Craft Foot, Cloth guide, Darning Foot, and an Even Feed Foot With Guide.

This does not have a built-in handle and it does not come with a carrying case but Janome has several options for cases and rolling trolley if you will be toting your machine from place to place.

Janome 2212 Sewing Machine

The Janome 2212 is an amazing entry level sewing machine priced under $200.

This is a mechanical sewing machine with 12 built-in stitches and 1 automatic buttonhole. You choose your stitch and stitch width using the easy-to-read turn dial on the front.

It has a drop feed so it can be used for quilting as well.

Overall Features:

• Built-in thread cutter
• Easy reverse button
• Free arm
• Snap on presser feet
• Extra high presser foot lift

• Drop feed for free motion stitching
• 4 presser feet – general purpose foot, blind hem foot, zig zag foot, and sliding buttonhole foot
• Work space is W 6.5″ x H 4.7″

There are no quilting feet included but you can purchase those separately.

Overall the Janome 2212 sewing machine is an affordably priced, lightweight (it weighs just 13 lbs.), easy-to-use machine that has the durability and reliability of the Janome brand.

Janome MOD-30 Computerized Sewing Machine

 

The Janome MOD-30 is the first computerized sewing machine in this bunch. It has a backlit LCD screen with easy navigation keys to choose your stitch.

Since this is computerized it has more automatic and touch button features like a start / stop button and speed control

Overall Features:

• 30 built-in stitches and 3, 1-step buttonhole
• Automatic stitch length and width
• Start/Stop button
• Speed control slider
• Easy reverse button
• Locking stitch button
• Needle Up/ Down
• Automatic needle threading system
• Quick set top drop-in bobbin
• Free arm
• Drop feed for free motion sewing and quilting
• Large work space
• 4 presser feet – General Purpose Foot, Zipper Foot, Satin Stitch Foot, Automatic Buttonhole Foot
• W 6.7″ x H 4.3″

All of this and it weighs just 12.7 lbs! This machine is packed with features and yet very lightweight and portable.

If you are a beginner and you really want a computerized machine then this is a perfect option. Just know that computerized machines are a little more technical and need to be cared for and also cost more. Overall this machine is still very affordable and you get so many features. With good care it will last you a long time even as your experience grows.

Janome 3128 Sewing Machine

The Janome 3128 is the baby of this bunch – it is the simplest and priced under $150! But that doesn’t mean it isn’t a great machine. It just has the bare bones basics so it is perfect for a beginner.

Overall Features:

• 8 built-in stitches
• 1, 4-step buttonhole
• Easy lay-in threader
• Free arm
• Easy reverse button
• Extra high presser foot lift
• Snap on presser feet
• 4 presser feet included – general purpose foot, 1/4 Inch Seam Foot, Sliding Buttonhole Foot, Zig-Zag Foot
• Work space is W 5.4″ x H 4″

It weighs just 11 lbs so it is lightweight and compact. This does not have a drop feed mechanism so no quilting. There are not a lot of bells and whistles on this machine but sometimes that’s the best thing for a beginner.

The Bottom Line on Janome Beginner Sewing Machines

Janome is a trusted brand in the sewing industry and these 3 machines are all perfect options for a beginner. So which one of these machines do I think is the best? Think about the features that you really want – Computerized vs. mechanical? Variable speed control? Quilting options? And consider your budget too. Then you can narrow down which machine is the better option for you.

Also, these machines are in the $150 to $250 range. If you have room for a bigger budget then you may want to consider additional machines, but keep in mind that higher price also means a more complicated machine with more features. As a beginner you may not need it. I reviewed the Janome DC2015, which is an amazing machine but it is a lot more expensive than these machines here.

If you have any questions then leave a question in the comments below and I’ll do my best to help.

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/best-janome-sewing-machines-for-beginners/