Learning how to sew and make your own clothing and accessories, home decor or even quilts is so gratifying, but when it comes to picking out your very first sewing machine, the number of choices can make it seem like an overwhelming decision. Here I’ve narrowed down the top five sewing machines that I recommend for all beginners.

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This list includes machines that are budget friendly, as well as tried and true machines that will last you for years to come. Keep scrolling to see my guide to the best sewing machines for new sewists.

Janome 2212 Sewing Machine

Specs:

  • Maximum speed: 860 spm 
  • Number of Built-in Stitches: 12
  • Buttonhole Feature: Yes
  • LCD Display: No
  • Weight: 15 pounds

The Janome 2212 sewing machine is a strong, quality machine that features 12 built in stitch types. This machine allows you to customize your stitch length and width up to 5 mm wide and 4 mm in length. This is a reliable machine with a reputation of being reliable and low maintenance. Janome is a tried and true brand, and the 2212 remains one of the most popular introductory sewing machines.

Brother CS5055 Computerized Sewing Machine

Specs:

  • Maximum speed: 750 spm
  • Number of Built-in Stitches: 60
  • Buttonhole Feature: Yes
  • LCD Display: Yes
  • Weight: 10 pounds

This Brother sewing machine is a great computerized option for beginners. Weighing in at only 10 pounds this machine is lightweight and easy to travel with, so if you need a machine that you can carry back-and-forth to class, definitely consider this one. Featuring a range 60 built-in stitches, this machine will appeal to apparel sewers and quilters alike. You can also program this machine to leave the needle in the up or down positions. This is one of the most affordable beginner sewing machines I have found.

Juki HZL-70HW Sewing Machine

Specs:

  • Maximum speed: 800 spm
  • Number of Built-in Stitches: 80
  • Buttonhole Feature: Yes
  • LCD Display: No
  • Weight: 13 pounds

This Juki sewing machine is a true workhorse featuring Juki industrial sewing machine technology packed in a home sewing machine. This machine is capable of sewing both lightweight and heavy weight materials. The box feed system moves the feed dogs in a box motion, eliminating material shrinkage and shifting. This machine also features an automatic needle threader and quick bobbin preparation to help you get to your sewing project faster with less set up time. Raise or lower the needle at the touch of a button. A transparent window above the drop-in bobbin allows you to see exactly how much bobbin thread remains. 

Janome MOD-50 Computerized Sewing Machine

Specs:

  • Maximum speed: 820 spm
  • Number of Built-in Stitches: 50
  • Buttonhole Feature: Yes
  • LCD Display: Yes
  • Weight: 13 pounds

The Janome MOD-50 is a wonderful computerized sewing machine option for beginners. Sew stitches up to 7 mm in width with precision and power. This machine also features a built-in needle threader and speed control slider so you can start sewing faster as you gain more experience. There are other Janome machines in the MOD series that offer a few more features, so if you want to spend a little bit more, it’s definitely worth considering any of the machines in this series.

Husqvarna Viking Emerald 116 Sewing Machine

Specs:

  • Number of Built-in Stitches: 16 (60 stitch functions)
  • Buttonhole Feature: Yes
  • LCD Display: No
  • Weight: 17 pounds

Husqvarna is the brand name known for lasting durability. The Viking Emerald 116 sewing machine was so variety of lightweight and heavy weight materials. It features both a built-in needle threader and a built-in thread cutter. The feet snap on and off for easy changing. The useful Sewing Guide Reference Chart will recommend the right presser foot, stitch length, width, and thread tension for different fabrics and techniques. This is a great machine to choose if you plan to sew every day.