What is the Best Sewing Machine for Kids?
A buying guide on the best sewing machine for kids. You will learn everything from what features you should look for on a sewing machine for kids and a computerized sewing machine vs a mechanical sewing machine for kids.
Your child has taken a new interest in sewing, that’s a great thing since sewing isn’t as common as it once was. Consider it an important life lesson and even if you’re inexperienced in sewing yourself don’t fret, there are numerous videos and instructions all over the internet that will help to teach them and maybe you might even begin to enjoy the art of sewing right beside them.
Consider setting up a sewing corner for your child with their own table, a sewing machine, scrap materials, and all the other creative supplies they will need to practice and learn the skill of sewing.
You will want to choose one of the best sewing machines for kids that you can find without spending too much money. Now, when we say the best sewing machine for kids, we’re not talking about a toy, but we do mean the real thing.
With the real thing, they will have an opportunity to learn and sew just like the grown-ups and they might even become entrepreneurs at a young age making and selling their clothing and accessories. With a toy, they can’t learn anything because they can’t really sew, and some kids as early as two-years-old begin to find an interest in the art.
We created this guide, so you can help your young clothiers to get started. We’ve included everything from what you should know before buying a sewing machine to the important features you should consider. Don’t stop reading because we took the time to choose five of the best sewing machines for kids that we could find. We even took the time to point out all the pros and cons for you, so that when you’re finished you should have no problem choosing the one that’s right for your child.
What Should I Know Before Buying a Sewing Machine for My Child
If you’re planning to buy a sewing machine for a young beginner, you will want to be sure and purchase a real sewing machine over a toy. A real machine will allow them to make creations just like a grown-up but at a beginner’s level.
You don’t need to buy the most expensive model on the market, in fact, you can find all you need in a fairly priced machine that even the most advanced dressmaker might choose.
One of the first things you will want to consider is your child’s age. Look for simplicity; things like threading a needle might be hard for a smaller child and using a foot pedal to control speed might not be easy for them to grasp.
You will also want to think about how high the presser foot will go so that little fingers don’t get caught up in the needle. Think about the weight and stability of the machine because you don’t want the machine to take a tumble and hurt your little one, but at the same time, if they will be traveling with the machine you will want to be sure it’s light enough and easy for them to carry.
What Features are Important on a Kids Sewing Machine
Is it easy to use?
First and foremost, if your child is a beginner the simplest machine will be the best. There is no need for an overabundance of stitch settings because unless you’re going to sew an extravagant gown there probably won’t be a need for most of them. Keep it simple; as few as eleven built-in stitches can suffice for the beginner. Now, if you want a machine that your child can grow with then you might consider one with a larger amount of stitch options.
Does it have snap-on feet?
To make things easier and less frustrating for little hands, look for a machine that features snap-on feet rather than the ones that screw on. You will want one with a few different presser foot options to experiment with other types of stitching. Most machines come with a few and you should have the option to add more to your machine.
How easy is it to thread the needle?
Threading a machine can be next to impossible for most adults so you don’t want to put your child through the hassle. Find a machine that features an automatic needle threader. This might be harder to find on a mechanical machine as that is a feature that is more commonly found on a computerized machine.
Does the sewing machine need to be portable?
Portability is an important feature when it comes to your child’s sewing experience. He/she might want to sign up for classes where it’s required to furnish their own machine, for that reason you will want a machine that comes with a handle and a cover. If you plan to keep the machine in a sewing table then it will become stationary and your child won’t have the option of carrying the machine out with them.
Does it come with a warranty?
A warranty is always important, especially when it’s on something your children will be using. There is always a possibility of your child dropping the machine or breaking a mechanism while learning the skill. Before making your final choice, check the warranty because many times a sewing machine will not be covered if you don’t purchase it from an authorized dealer.
Mechanical vs. Computerized Sewing Machines for Kids
You will see these terms throughout this guide, so we thought we should explain the difference to clear up any confusion you may have.
For the purpose of learning to sew, a mechanical sewing machine will be all that’s needed. A mechanical machine will offer fewer bells and whistles than a computerized machine and if you think about it, you can get overwhelmed easily when you try and learn too much at one time, so for a child, this machine is perfect.
A computerized machine can be complicated to learn with all the added features and difficult readings. A child learning to sew might not be able to read well, so something with a diagram like those on a mechanical machine will do much better.
A computerized sewing machine usually features an overabundance of stitching choices and other options that even professionals don’t always need, and you will also notice a huge price difference between a mechanical and a computerized machine.
You will find some great features with mechanical machines that will make learning easy, but just like comparing one car to another, a sewing machine is also dependent on personal preference, so the choice is yours.
5 Great Kids Sewing Machine Options
In the following list, you will find five of the best sewing machines for kids. Some are for the absolute beginner and some are for the more advanced; we even threw in the best-computerized sewing machine for kids we liked.
1. Janome 2212 Sewing Machine
- Easy turn dial pattern selection
- 12 built-in stitches including a four-step buttonhole
Last update on 2023-03-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
We chose this as our top pick of mechanical machines on the list. It’s small, lightweight, and easy to use. From novice to advanced, anyone at any stage of sewing will be sure to enjoy this quiet little machine.
Sewing Machine Features
Although this machine will require manual skill for threading a needle, the feet will snap on with ease and the reverse switch will help you to guide your stitch back through for added security. It features twelve built-in stitches that can be set with the ease of a dial and the buttonhole feature is equally easy to use. It features an old-school style bobbin that sits securely under the machines sewing arm. The operation and speed are both controlled with the use of the foot pedal and it will easily glide through several layers of material like a champ. The free arm feature is one of the most important when it comes to sewing sleeves, the last thing you want is for your beginner to get discouraged when the sleeves are sewn closed.
Ease of Use
With its basic features of only twelve stitches, this machine isn’t complicated for a beginner. It might be a bit frustrating for a younger child who c an’t quite figure out how to thread the needle but once you show them a simple way to do it, they will have it down to a science before you know it. The stitch chart is printed on the front of the machine to make it easy to figure out just which one is needed, and the stitch selector and length adjuster knobs are simple for small hands to control. It’s lightweight so that it will be easy to carry, yet it’s heavy enough to stay in place while using it.
Overall
This mechanical machine is small, portable, and simple to use without a lot of difficult knobs and buttons to cause confusion. It comes with everything you need to get started right from the box plus additional accessories to make the learning experience even better. The price point is right where it should be for this type of machine and the twenty-five-year warranty just adds to the value. If you’re looking for a durable sewing machine that will serve the purpose of all your child’s needs, this should be at the top of your list.
- It provides snap on feet to make it simple for little hands to change
- Loaded with 12 built-in stitches
- Comes with additional accessories including numerous feet for different projects, extra needles, and additional bobbins.
- It provides a free arm for sewing sleeves
- It features an easy-to-use reverse lever
- It does not provide an automatic needle threader
- It’s at the top of the price scale
2. Brother Sewing and Quilting Machine, CS6000i
- 60 Unique built-in stitches: The Brother CS6000i includes 60 built-in sewing stitches, including decorative stitches and 7 styles of auto-size buttonholes
- Automatic needle threader and drop-in top bobbin: This sewing and quilting machine includes an automatic needle threader that perfectly pushes the thread through the needle and a convenient, jam resistant drop-in top bobbin
Last update on 2023-03-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you prefer a computerized machine over a mechanical one, this is the one we chose for the best in that category. It only weighs thirteen-pounds and it’s easy for both, children and adults to use no matter their skill level.
Sewing Machine Features
This computerized sewing machine features an easy-to-read LCD screen that clearly shows what stitch you have selected, and the automatic needle threader helps to ease the pain of getting the thread through the eye. It offers a variety of sixty different stitches, seven buttonhole choices, and the feet snap on and off for convenience. The wider table, along with the free arm will make it easy to learn the skill of sewing sleeves and pant legs. Not only is this machine designed for sewing, but you can also learn the knack of quilting. This machine provides a smooth and quiet operation and it comes with a variety of accessories, so you can begin to sew right from the box!
Ease of Use
Although sometimes a computerized sewing machine can seem a bit overwhelming, this one is simple for anyone to use. The start and stop button make it simple to control the speed and the automatic threader is a blessing. Snap-on feet are perfect for a young dressmaker and the reverse button will help when they still haven’t perfected their coordination skills. It’s lightweight and easy for a child to maneuver.
Overall
If you prefer a computerized sewing machine over a mechanical one, then this is the best sewing machine to choose for kids. It is packed with more than a beginner needs but it offers a lot of room for growth, so you will never need to buy another machine when your youngster has perfected the craft. It comes with everything you need to get started, it has great reviews, and the price is right for a machine of this quality. With this machine it’s possible to create a simple pair of pajamas or a more advanced quilt, either way, there is always something new to learn with this machine. If you’re considering a computerized sewing machine, this one should be your choice.
- Computerized and offers a clear LCD screen
- It features an automatic needle threader
- Loaded with 60 built-in-stitches
- It features sewing quilting options
- It provides a free arm for sewing sleeves
- It features a start and stop button and a reverse lever
- A computerized sewing machine might be overwhelming for a beginner
3. Brother Sewing Machine, XM2701
- 27 Unique built-in stitches: The XM2701 includes 27 built-in stitches including decorative, blind hem, zigzag, and stretch stitches and an auto-size buttonhole
- Automatic needle threader and drop-in top bobbin: This sewing machine includes an automatic needle threader that perfectly pushes the thread through the needle and a convenient, jam resistant drop-in top bobbin
Last update on 2023-03-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Another sewing machine to consider for the kids is this one from Brother. It provides everything a beginner will need while also offering the most for the advanced sewer. It’s lightweight and versatile; sew a patch on the seat of your favorite jeans, hem a pair of pants, make a blanket, and sew together a pillow to match, this machine will do it all!
Sewing Machine Features
Featuring twenty-seven stitches that are built into the machine, you shouldn’t have a problem finding the one you need. It comes with six snap-on feet for little hands to maneuver, it provides an easy needle threader to keep away the frustration, and the bobbin is designed to easily drop in the top that’s guaranteed not to jam. Another great feature that makes this sewing machine great is the clear cover over the bobbin so that you will know when it’s getting time to add more thread. It does operate with a foot pedal which could be more difficult for young learners, but it will help them with their eye-hand coordination along the way. Everything you need to get started comes with this machine, it even includes an instructional DVD that will have them on the way to success in no time!
Ease of Use
Before getting started, it is recommended that you take advantage of the instructional DVD so that you get the best experience from your sewing machine there is. With all the great features like the easy needle threader and the snap-on, feet you can imagine how simple and stress-free the learning experience will be. This machine is lightweight, yet sturdy enough to accommodate all the work without it flipping or falling off a surface. Brother has even included a free arm to make it simple to hem pants and create sleeves. For a beginner, it really doesn’t get any easier than this.
Overall
When it comes to the degree of stitching, this one falls right in between the others with its performance and output. This one would be perfect for the child who has already had some experience in sewing but has yet to achieve a professional status. It offers everything your child will need for the basics and beyond and can be used into adulthood. It comes with enough extras to get started, the price is unbelievable, and it comes with a twenty-five-year limited warranty. This one is sure to satisfy everyone’s needs and can be used by everyone in the family.
- It’s pre-loaded with 27- different stitches
- It features an easy needle threader
- The bobbin is easy to see under the clear door and it won’t jam
- It provides a free arm for hemming and sewing sleeves
- It comes with 6 snap-on feet
- It comes with an instructional DVD
- It operates with a foot pedal, so it might be more complicated for younger kids
4. Janome 11706 ¾ Size Hello Kitty Sewing Machine
- Eleven stitches and a four-step buttonhole
- Features a free arm
Last update on 2023-03-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
You don’t have to be a little girl to love Hello Kitty; girls, boys, and adults alike all love the furry little pal and the color of this machine will blend in anywhere you put it. If your child is a beginner, this basic twelve-pound machine is the simplest one on the list. It’s small and versatile so it can be used anyplace the need arises, and your youngster can carry it to Grandma’s too!
Sewing Machine Features
Although this machine only features eleven stitch settings, that’s all anyone really needs to get started, and possibly all they will ever need as they advance. It features all the conveniences to get started including snap-on feet, a buttonhole maker, and a push-pull bobbin winder. The only feature this little machine lacks is the automatic needle threader, but you can teach your little one how to do it by hand and you might find it easy for them to do. It features a reverse lever that is the perfect size for little hands and a foot pedal for operating the speed. It comes with a cover and a handle, so your child can conveniently carry it everywhere without concern.
Ease of Use
This one is simple, but that’s what makes it easy to operate. There isn’t an overabundance of needless stitch options or controls to complicate things. The hardest thing to control on this machine might be the speed. The foot pedal isn’t as easy as some to operate, leaving it harder to slow down or speed up when needed. Everything on this machine is designed for smaller hands, durability, and convenience. Children and adults will enjoy the simplicity of this sewing machine.
Overall
No matter the skill level, this one can be appreciated by anyone. Don’t let the theme of this sewing machine turn you away because Hello Kitty will fit in anyplace you go. Think about how easy it would be to carry this one to a slumber party or even to a class. How about the young adult who had this as a child? Now it can be conveniently used in a college dorm. With everything this handy little sewing machine offers, you can’t go wrong when you make this the one for your child!
- It’s loaded with 11 stitch choices keeping it simple
- It features snap-on feet
- It includes a cover and a handle to make storage and travel convenient
- It’s lightweight and versatile
- Some may not like the theme
- It doesn’t come with an automatic needle threader
- The foot pedal makes it hard to control the speed
5. Singer Simple 3232 Portable Sewing Machine
- SINGER PORTABLE SEWING MACHINE: The SINGER 3232 portable sewing machine features 32 built-in stitches, a built-in 1-step buttonhole, built-in needle threader and a heavy-duty metal frame making sewing creative projects fun and easy
- AUTOMATIC NEEDLE THREADER: Threading the machine is so easy that you can have the entire machine threaded, from the spool to the needle’s eye in seconds. The built-in needle threader helps you thread the eye of the needle effortlessly
Last update on 2023-03-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you’re looking for an intermediate machine, this would be a great choice for you. Just like all the Singer products, this sewing machine will go above and beyond to satisfy all your needs. It offers the most built-in stitches of any of the other mechanical machines on the list, yet it’s simple and easy to use. Not only will your little clothier enjoy creating pajamas and tops, but he/she can also add some embroidery or make a quilt for Grandma’s birthday.
Sewing Machine Features
This sewing machine is lightweight but built tough with a metal frame that’s covered with a hard plastic. Singer thought of everything when they designed this machine including an automatic needle threader, and auto-reverse lever, snap-on feet, a storage compartment, and thirty-two stitch choices. They even went above and beyond when they added the embroidery foot and the edge quilting guide. It comes with an array of accessories including an instructional DVD, a convenient carrying handle, a twenty-five-year limited warranty, and a price you can’t refuse. With all these great features you can see why we had to add this one to our list of best sewing machines for kids.
Ease of Use
This is probably the next easiest machine to use on our list. There won’t be any tears when your young one tries to thread the needle since it comes with an automatic threader and the auto-reverse switch has been strategically placed with small hands in mind. This machine comes with a DVD, so to make the entire process go smoothly, it would be helpful to pop it in and watch it with your young creator before getting started. The presser feet snap on and off with ease and the speed seems to be easy to control. This machine is user-friendly and will be a breeze for everyone to use no matter the skill level they bring with them.
Overall
Although this machine is a mechanical one, Singer didn’t hold back with the features they have added to it. Not many mechanical sewing machines offer an automatic needle threader and the variety of stitches on this one is great for it not being computerized. It’s well-built, but it’s lightweight enough that your child can carry it by the handle with ease. It’s built to last, it offers a warranty, and the price will surprise you, so why wouldn’t you consider this sewing machine when making your choice?
- It is packed with 32 stitches
- It features snap-on feet
- It comes with an array of accessories including an instructional DVD
- It features an automatic needle threader
- It can be used for sewing, embroidery, and quilting
- The bobbin might not be as easy to use as some
Wrapping Up
Here we shared what to look for when shopping for a kids sewing machine. One of the key elements we touched on was the simplicity of the machine. At the end of the day, a sewing beginner needs a machine that is easy to use.
Here are some reminders quick questions to consider when shopping for a kids sewing machine:
✓ Does it need to be portable? Will the child be taking classes or moving to different rooms?
✓ How easy is it to thread?
✓ Does it come with snap-on feet? Snap-on can be easier to use.
✓ What type of safety preventions does the machine come with?
A beginner sewing machine should last quite some time. It’s always easier to buy one that’s simple to start learning the sewing basics. Once you feel like your child is ready to advance, move up to a sewing machine that has more functionality.
Now that you’ve read through the sewing guide get out there and start sewing with your little one. You will be surprised by all that you can create!
Make sure you check out our other arts and craft ideas for kids as well.