Sewing Machines That Are Perfect for a First Upgrade
1st Jun 2023
9 Sewing Machines That Are a Perfect Upgrade
At some point, every sewer, embroiderer and quilter bumps up against the ceiling of their first machine's limits. You may want to create more complex patterns and stitches, or maybe you need a machine that can churn out projects faster than your current sewing machine. Whatever the case, the solution is the same: upgrading to a new sewing machine!
If you've reached the limit of your sewing machine's capabilities, there's no need to worry. There are dozens of amazing machines from respected manufacturers like Juki, Janome, and Husqvarna Viking that are sure to take your craft to a new level. But with so many machines available, finding the right machine can feel daunting.
That's why we've created this helpful guide to nine sewing machines that are perfect for your first upgrade! Whether you're a generalist, a quilter, or an embroiderer, we have a machine that you're sure to love.
Before we dive into the machines, let's go over what you need to look for when purchasing your next sewing machine. If you already know what you’re looking for, select one of the bullet points below to head straight to the section that best applies to you.
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●3 Sewing Machines for a Generalist's First Upgrade
●3 Quilting Machines for a Quilter's First Upgrade
●3 Embroidery Machines for an Embroiderer's First Upgrade
What to Look for When Upgrading to a New Sewing Machine
When upgrading your machine, keep an eye out for features that weren't on your previous machine. Most entry-level sewing machines are designed to be easy to pick up and use, but as a consequence of their ease of use they are often light in the features department. Now that you've already mastered a sewing machine, you can pick up something that might be harder to use for a beginner, but has a wide range of included features.
Since sewing machines have so many features, and all of them help with different projects, we've identified six of the key features you should look for when choosing your new machine. Select one of the bullet points below to jump to the description of each feature.
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●Automatic thread cutter
●Computerization
●Automatic buttonhole
●Dual-feed
●Free arm
Needle Threader
A needle threader is a feature found on many sewing machines that inserts a microscopic hook through the eye of your needle. That hook then catches the thread and pulls it through the needle in a single step. This handy feature can save you hours over a long span of time, and saves your vision by decreasing eye strain.
Automatic Thread Cutter
An automatic thread cutter is a must have for those looking to upgrade their machine. This handy feature uses an internal blade or scissor mechanism to trim threads at the end of a seam with the push of a button. This feature is highly recommended for quilters as they will likely be sewing many smaller pieces and short seams.
Computerization
Computerized machines come with a button- or touch-controlled digital screen that sewers can use to adjust settings on the machine. These are often used to control stitch selection, pattern selection, and stitch length and width. Some computerized machines can even do automated work, and many let you download designs and patterns from USB memory sticks.
Automatic Buttonhole
An automatic buttonhole uses sensors in the sewing machine to sew consistent buttonholes automatically. This feature can save sewers, particularly those who frequently make clothes, hours of work.
Dual-Feed
A dual-feed system is especially useful to quilters as it leads to smoother and faster stitches. This is accomplished by a built-in walking foot that moves the fabric at a steady rate.
Free Arm
If making clothes is your passion, then having a free arm on your next machine is a must. This feature enables a section of the sewing machine bed to be removed so that you can sew smaller pieces with greater ease. While this feature is useful for clothes of all kinds, it is almost a necessity if you plan to sew doll clothes or other smaller than normal clothing items.
3 Sewing Machines for a Generalist's First Upgrade
A sewing generalist is someone who creates multiple different projects without specializing in any specific type of project. When we began our search for machines that were best suited for general use, we looked for a few different things. Primarily, we wanted each of these machines to have a wide array of features that enable them to excel at any task. After thoroughly scouring our inventory, we landed on the following three sewing machines.
Juki is well known for providing top-of-the-line machines to sewers all over the world. The TL2010Q is listed as a quilting machine but is more than capable of handling any standard sewing task. It comes complete with a wide range of features, including an automatic thread trimmer and automatic needle trimmer. With this powerful machine by your side, you'll be well equipped to take on any project.
Janome 4300QDC-B
This machine is perfect for someone who wants to branch out into the realm of computerized machines. Janome takes pride in the 4300QDC-B's easy-to-use settings, which make it simple to adjust features such as stitch length, pattern selection, and stitch type. Whether you need power, precision, or convenience, you'll find all three in the Janome 4300QDC-B.
Husqvarna Viking Designer Jade 35
At the pinnacle of design and functionality sits Husqvarna Viking. This brand is well regarded for their gorgeous machines and wealth of cutting edge features. The Designer Jade 35 exemplifies these two elements perfectly with a beautiful outer shell, high embroidery speeds, a large sewing space, and computerized features that make it easy to add new patterns to your machine.
3 Quilting Machines for a Quilter's First Upgrade
Quilters need a machine that can produce a wide range of stitch types smoothly and consistently. When we looked for sewing machines that fit this category, we focused on machines with a large working area and the ability to sew through multiple layers of fabric. The following machines are each a great first upgrade for any quilter.
Juki HZL-DX7
Juki has the perfect solution for anyone who wants to take their quilting abilities to the next level — the HZL-DX7. Complete with computerized features, a float function, automatic buttonholes, foot switches, and the ability to sew through thick fabrics, this machine is sure to take your quilting abilities to new heights.
Janome 4120QDC-B
Those who want amazing features for an unbeatable price should turn to Janome's wonderful 4120QDC-B. This machine comes with a workplace extension plate, numerous stitch feet, computerization features, a free arm design, and an extended five-year warranty. Like all Janome machines, the 4120QDC-B is built to last and has the power to tackle any quilting project.
Grace Q'nique 15R
Available for $2999.00
If you're considering turning your passion for quilts into a business, you should consider a midarm quilting machine. While they do tend to be slightly more expensive, the features make them worth it. On the Grace Q'Nique 15R, you can control your stitch speed, height, and length with the push of a button and can adjust patterns and stitches on the fly using the touchscreen. The midarm design allows you to maneuver the machine easily, giving you significantly more control than a shorter armed machine.
3 Embroidery Machines for an Embroiderer's First Upgrade
Embroidery machines need to have a slew of time-saving features and the ability to sew quickly. Additionally, we looked for machines that had the ability to carry out several different patterns, or that could use their computer function to download patterns from the internet or a USB. Each of these machines is fast, efficient, and highly capable when it comes to embroidery.
Janome’s wonderful lineup of Memory Craft machines represent the best in home quilting. The powerful Memory Craft 500E comes complete with computerization features, a thread-break auto return, 160 built-in designs, six monogramming fonts, and so much more. You can even import your own designs using a USB memory stick with the USB slot on the machine. And at only 24 pounds, you can easily take this machine along to an away-from-home embroidery session!
Brother Innov-is NQ3600D
Available for $3499.00
This high-end machine from Brother comes with so many features we hardly know where to start! Some of the most notable include computerization features, a 4.85" touch screen, a massive 6"x10" embroidery area, custom stitch design capabilities, 291 built-in stitches, 233 built-in embroidery designs, and an automatic feed thread cutting system. Adding all of those features into one luxurious package means that you've got your hands on an embroidery machine that can't be beat!
Bernette B70 Deco
While the B70 Deco is the most affordable of our embroidery machine selections, that doesn’t make it any less capable! This machine boasts a similarly large workspace to our other selections, and is also computerized. It even comes with 208 pre-installed embroidery motifs and is compatible with multiple design formats. You can quickly adjust the settings using the knobs on the side of the machine rather than having to navigate touch-screen settings mid-embroidery. Add to that Bernette's amazing 10-year mechanical warranty, and you've got an embroidery powerhouse that will keep you happy for years to come!
Upgrade to a Brand New Sewing Machine Today!
Did one of these machines catch your eye? Now that you know your options for upgrading from your first sewing machine, you have the knowledge to find the machine that's right for you! If one of the machines seemed like a fit, tap the price to head to the purchase page.
While we love all of these machines and know that they would be a worthy addition to the home of any sewer, quilter or embroiderer, they may just not be the perfect fit for you. If that's the case, there's no need to fret! Select one of the links below to see some of the other amazing machines for sale at Premier Stitching!