When you are planning to buy a Sewing machine, the most important question to ask is — How I will use the sewing machine. Will I predominantly use it for learning and own use or if I am planning to use for business.
If you are new to sewing and in the learning phase, choose a sewing machine that is simple and easy to use without any complicated add-ons. You don't have to invest for the features that you will not use. The machine needs to be sturdy, easy-to-use, and cost-effective.
If you are looking for a sewing machine for business or to start a boutique or, then it is wiser to go for a power machine that can run without overheating for more hours.
You can make your decision based on the features, warranty/service network, and of course price. The features that you can check are 1) the Number of stitches and styles 2) Features — Automatic needle threader, thread cutter, lights, free arm, blind stitching, buttonhole 3) Accessories include and 4) Overall built quality — plastic or metal frame 5) power of the motor or stitches per minute
Best Entry-level Sewing machine
Usha Dream stitch and Singer Promise are entry-level sewing machines and have similar features.
Threading the needle is manual and both the sewing machines have 7-8 stitches including Straight, Satin, ZigZag, Blind hem, Scallop, 4-step buttonhole, and a decorative stitch.
Dream stitch and Promise comes with a single dial selector for choosing length of stitch or style of stitch. The needle position is also fixed.
Both the sewing machines allow you to add optional sewing foot to them. It also has similar motor power with Usha having 550 stitch per minute.
Best Sewing machine for beginners
Singer 8280 and Usha Janome Allure have similar features and fall into the same price point. Singer 8280 comes with 7 basic stitches and 24 stitch functions. Usha Allure has 13 basic stitches and 21 functions—mostly comparable.
Both the sewing machines come with 2 dials—one dial for choosing the length of stitch and another dial to select the stitch style. You can create a variety of stitches using different combinations. For example, you can vary the size of the zigzag stitch to achieve different results.
The other benefit of this range of sewing machine is the ability to adjust the needle position. You can change the needle position for individual projects, such as inserting zippers or cording and topstitching.
Based on model, they come with standard accessories like all Purpose/General Presser Foot, Zipper Foot, Buttonhole Foot, Button Sewing Foot, Seam Ripper/Lint Brush, Edge/Quilting Guide, Needles, Bobbins, Spool Holder, Screwdriver, Darning Plate, Spool Pin, Spool Pin Felt, Power Cord/Foot Control, Instruction Manual, Soft-Sided Dust Cover.
Both the sewing machines allow you to add optional sewing foot to them.
The power of Singer 8280 comes with a motor power of 800 stitches per minute and Allure comes with 550 stitches per minute making Singer 8280 a preferred option in this category.
Best Sewing machine for serious Fashion Designers
What I really like about Usha Janome Wonder Stitch is the automatic needle threader—works like a breeze.
This sewing machine comes with two dials to select stitch length and stitch style. You can create a variety of stitches using different combinations. For example, you can vary the size of the zigzag stitch to achieve different results. It supports 13 built-in stitches and 21 stitch functions like stretch stitching, button fixing, rolled hemming, smocking, blind stitch hemming and zip fixing. It has other features like thread cutter, embroidery switch.
Usha Janome Wonder Stitch comes with a powerful motor and sports 860 stitch per minute. A good sewing machine with lots of features to unleash your creativity as a fashion designer at this competitive price point.
Heavy duty Sewing machine that is portable and good looks
The heavy-duty sewing machine is still portable (~6 kgs) and comes with all the necessary footer attachments like Zipper Foot, Buttonhole Foot, Button Sewing Foot.
Special feature includes an automatic needle threader and a top drop-in bobbin with clear-view cover. You will be able to see the bobbin through the clear view.
Ideal choice if you want a heavy duty sewing machine that is portable and can stitch decorative stitches.
Best Heavy duty Sewing machine for business
Juki is famous for heavy-duty stitching. If you are serious about starting a business and run a machine for longer hours continuously, opt for such heavy-duty machines.
The one drawback is many of these machines are capable of sewing only straight stitches. The Juki Household sewing machine can do straight, zigzag and other decorative stitches. It is better to visit a retail store and buy one.
You can also try Jack A2 which comes with a stand and full set up. Comes with thread trimmer and reverse feature. Perfect for sewing all types of heavy fabric like curtains, jeans, without issues.
Best Overlocking machine
If you are serious in starting your own boutique, then owning an overlocking machine is a must to ensure a professional finish to the edge of your creations and also to ensure long life.
Two overlocking machines are very popular in India. Guru and Brother. Typically these overlocking machines are attached to a motor and mounted on a table. All you have to do is finish the edges of your garment with the 3-needle overlocking system. It has a capacity to make close to 3000 stitches per minute. This set comes with an overlocking machine, a motor and a stand.
Thanks for reading and hope you found this useful. I will continue to update this article based on reviews and feedback. Happy sewing!
