What Sewing Machine is Best for Home Use?

If sewing is on your bucket list of skills to learn, you’ll need a reliable, easy-to-use sewing machine to help you along the way.

There are many different types of sewing machine options on the market with different functionalities and features. These many sewing machine features might be too expensive, too complicated, or lack the features needed for home use. The best sewing machine for home use depends on your specific needs.

We will be discussing sewing machine options and what to keep in mind as you shop so that you can find the best sewing machine for your home.

What are the different types of home sewing machines?

When it comes to home sewing machines, there are a few different kinds. Understanding the differences between the types of machines can help you narrow down your search to find your perfect sewing machine.

These are the four main types of home sewing machines: manual, mechanical, electronic and computerized.

Manual Sewing Machines

A manual sewing machine, also called a treadle sewing machine, is the most low-tech option. These machines have no power at all. They utilize a hand crank wheel to move the needle and form the stitches.

This type of machine requires the use of a treadle sewing table that allows you to run the hand crank wheel with a foot pedal. One of the major benefits of manual sewing machines is that they are made from metal and don’t have many parts that can break or stop working—so they can last for generations. You also don’t have to rely on electricity to power your machine.

There are new treadle machines on the market today, such as the Janome 712T, but you can also watch thrift shops for older vintage machines if you prefer.

Mechanical Sewing Machines

A mechanical sewing machine is the simplest type of powered machine you can buy. To stitch with this type of machine, a foot pedal run by electricity is used. However, everything else on the machine is manual — you must physically turn dials or push levers to adjust your stitch settings, tension and more.

The biggest benefits to mechanical machines are that they are durable and easy to use. You won’t be wasting time figuring out fancy stitches or advanced settings with a mechanical home sewing machine.

Electronic Sewing Machines

Electronic sewing machines are the middle ground between mechanical machines and the more complicated computerized machines. Stitching is powered by a foot pedal, and many adjustments to settings are made through electronic buttons. However, these machines lack the complex software, touchscreens, and other advanced features you get with a computerized machine.

An electronic sewing machine is a great option if you want more automated features without the price of a fully computerized machine.

Computerized Sewing Machines

If you’re looking for a sewing machine packed with every feature and functionality you could ever want, you’ll likely be looking for a computerized machine. This type of machine has a built-in computer, and software runs everything about the machine. These machines usually have a touchscreen that can be used to change settings. Often, computerized machines can save different settings, stitches and embroidery designs that you use a lot.

While many computerized machines will be on the high end pricewise, you can find computerized options at more affordable prices, such as the compact Janome New Home Sewing Machine (Janome 720).

How do I know which sewing machine to buy?

Figuring out which sewing machine to buy can be overwhelming and difficult. But it doesn’t have to be! If you keep in mind the following five things, you will be able to find the best sewing machine for your home more quickly and easily.

1. What is your budget?

Be realistic about your budget and only consider machines that fall in that range. You don’t want your new home sewing machine to become a source of stress because you overspent.

2. What features do you need?

Do you need a huge selection of stitches, an automatic needle threader or embroidery capabilities? Or perhaps you just need a simple machine with a few basic stitches? Figure out what features you need versus what features you want.

3. What kind of home sewing machine do you want?

Is a mechanical, electronic or computerized machine the best fit for your needs?

4. Which sewing machine brands are you interested in?

When it comes to sewing machines, the brand really does matter. Do a little research and list the sewing machine brands you’re interested in. You’ll want to make sure you choose a reputable, well-known brand that produces quality machines.

5. How can I try out machines?

Even if you plan to buy your machine online, go to your local sewing machine dealer’s shop and try some machines. This will help you decide which model is the most comfortable and intuitive model for you! Everyone is different, so trying machines out before buying will help you ensure that you get a sewing machine you will love.

Is Janome a good brand?

When you’re looking to buy a new home sewing machine, one brand that is definitely worth considering is Janome.

Janome is a Japanese company founded in 1921. Janome has established itself as an innovative manufacturer of high-quality, long-lasting sewing machines. One of the biggest benefits of Janome machines is that they incorporate as many metal components as possible — meaning their machines are very durable and hold up to decades of heavy use.

Janome offers a wide selection of home sewing machines, so almost every sewer can find something that fits their needs and budget within Janome’s lineup. Whether you need a basic and inexpensive mechanical machine or a high-end, feature-packed, computerized embroidery machine, there’s a Janome machine that can fit the bill.

Ready to shop for your home sewing machine? Premier Stitching has the largest selection of Janome computerized sewing machines as well as hundreds of high-quality machines for your next sewing project.