Sewing is fun, creative, and easy to learn. If you want to teach your kids an essential life skill, teaching them to sew might be a good idea. Sewing can help them become incredibly self-reliant, expressive, and creative. But to ensure that everything goes smoothly, you’ll first have to choose a sewing machine that’s suitable for kids.
The easiest choice would be to simply pick an affordable and cute model with a bright color. But the truth is, you’ll either end up with a toy-like machine that’s good for nothing, a machine that breaks easily, or a model that’s way too complicated and overwhelming for a child. So, what’s the sweet spot?
The best sewing machines for kids should be safe, easy to use, automated, and packed with useful, yet kid-approved features. We understand that finding the perfect sewing machine for your specific needs and preferences is tricky, considering how many models are offered on the market today.
To make you feel more confident in your buying decision, we did a lot of research and picked the best of the best.
Without further ado, let’s get into the reviews.
Best Sewing Machines for Kids: 2020 Reviews
When you choose a sewing machine for your kids, you’ll want a machine that’s high on safety features and reliability. But, most importantly, you’ll want a machine that will actually help to develop your child’s sewing skills. Here are our top choices of the best sewing machines for kids available on the market:
Best Overall: Brother XM2701
Brother XM2701 is our top recommendation for kids. Not only is the brand one of the most reputable names in the industry, but the model is very well built – most suited for experienced kids, teenagers, as well as adults who need to do some light sewing work. The machine comes packed with some amazing features, as well as an adorable design capable of catching kids’ eyes.
Reasons to Buy:
Pre-set Functionality. Brother XM2701 has a lot of pre-set stitch functions which will help your child sew with ease without getting frustrated. It has 59 stitch applications and 27 built-in, pre-set stitches. Built-in or pre-set stitches means the width and length of the stitch are already adjusted, so you won’t have to overburden your kid with too much information early on.
Versatile. While typical models have around 10 to 15 built-in stitches, the 27 pre-set stitches offered by Brother XM2701 make this model very versatile and suitable for the creative minds. You can choose from decorative, blind hem, zigzag, and stretch stitches, as well as an auto-size buttonhole.
Automatic Needle Threader. Another reason why Brother XM2701 is a great option for kids is that it has an automatic needle threader and drop-in top bobbin system. The mechanism perfectly pushes thread through the needle and a convenient, jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin.
Instructional. We love the manual and instructional DVD that comes with Brother XM2701 as we believe they’ll be especially helpful for beginners and visual learners.
Warranty. Finally, Brother XM2701 has an excellent warranty. The brand guarantees you’ll be using their product for a very long time by backing it up with a 25-year limited warranty.
Reasons not to Buy:
Not for Very Young Kids. Unfortunately, we believe that Brother XM2701 is not suitable for very young kids, less than 5 years old, who’ve never sewed before. The model is powerful and very efficient, but it can be a little too complicated for some kids.
Best on a Budget: DONYER POWER
DONYER Power is our favorite budget-friendly sewing machine designed specifically for kids. Lightweight, easy to use, and with adjustable speed control, this model is the perfect machine for children as young as five. It’s a great, inexpensive product that’ll help you to introduce your kids to sewing.
Reasons to Buy:
Easy-to-use. DONYER Power is intuitive and incredibly easy to use. With just a turn of a dial, your kid will be able to choose from 12 different stitch applications. The pre-set applications are designed to help beginners and kids learn faster by allowing them to complete more complex projects with just one click.
Speed Control. We also love DONYER Power for kids thanks to its 2-speed control option. This means that the speed is not controlled manually with a foot paddle (although it can be if you prefer that option), but with a button control on the sewing machine. By choosing the slower option, children as young as five years will have no problem operating the sewing machine.
Easy Needle Threading. With DONYER Power, threading the needle is a piece of cake. The machine comes with a needle threader guide which clearly explains step-by-step how to thread the needle without getting frustrated and losing time.
Compact. DONYER Power is the perfect machine to buy once you enroll your child in a sewing class. The unit is lightweight and compact, meaning your kid can easily take it with them to a friend’s house or a class.
Reasons not to Buy:
Less Power. One drawback of DONYER Power is that it’s not as powerful as most typical sewing machines.
Light Duty. Also, while the machine is great for small projects, we don’t recommend using it on tougher fabrics like denim or leather.
Best Quality: SINGER Start 1304
SINGER is another reliable name in the industry and their Start 1304 model, as the name suggests, is a wonderful choice for the youngest. This sewing machine is heavily built and offers some great automatic features. Plus, the machine has a white design with blue accents which might be appealing to boys interested in sewing.
Reasons to Buy:
Pre-set Functionality. SINGER Start 1304 offers a lot of pre-set applications that will make your kid’s sewing experience a wonderful journey. It has 57 stitch applications you can choose from, and 6 built-in, pre-set stitches. The pre-set stitches are more than enough for your child to learn on, as they’re already adjusted and there’s no need for setting the stitch width and length. With the 6 built-in stitches, your child can learn to make alterations, clothes sewing, home projects, creating buttonholes, and even quilt.
Easy Controls. On top of that, the machine offers a simple stitch selection dial, which makes things even easier. The whole mechanism is frustration-free, as your child will only need to turn the dial to change the stitch and focus its attention on the sewing.
Easy-to-use. We recommend the SINGER Start 1304 because it comes with a variety of features that simplify the learning process even more and kids will have no problem operating it.
For example, we love the easy threading system and the automatic bobbin winder system. Instead of using an instructional guide, SINGER Start 1304 has a diagram printed on the right side of the machine that points on the exact steps when threading a needle. On the other hand, the automatic bobbin winder system will make the bobbin stop turning automatically once it’s filled, so your child won’t have to keep an eye on the bobbin the whole time.
Versatile. We also love just how versatile the SINGER Start 1304 is. In addition to being packed with a lot of stitching applications, the machine also comes with a bunch of fun and useful features that will keep your child sewing for a long time. With the purchase, you’re getting various sewing feet (for different purposes – like zippers, buttonholes, and so on), packs of needles, lint brushes, and screwdrivers.
Warranty. Finally, we are happy with the excellent warranty, which makes us trust the brand even more. Just like the Brother XM2701 sewing machine, SINGER Start 1304 comes with a 25-year limited warranty.
Reasons not to Buy:
Light Duty. Although the sewing machine is heavily built, the needles that come with it are quite lightweight, so your kid might not be able to work with tougher fabrics.
Best for Beginners: SINGER Simple 3232
Our pick for new beginners is the SINGER Simple 3232. This little machine comes with lots of built-in features that will allow your kid to start with the basics, and move their way up, fuss-free. The heavy-duty metal frame ensures that this sewing machine is not only durable, but also easy to use, as it won’t move around while your kid is working on their creative projects. The SINGER Simple 3232 is also an excellent portable choice.
Reasons to Buy:
Functionality. The SINGER Simple 3232 is the ideal machine for a kid beginner. It comes with a lot of built-in functions that will encourage your kid to expand their creativity and fall in love with sewing. To begin with, the Simple 3232 comes with an automatic needle threader for easy threading of the whole system, which means your kid won’t get frustrated at the very first step. As the motor skills of young people are still developing, this simple addition can make all the difference. It also features a 1-step buttonholer, which takes care of most of the trouble for you.
32 Stitch Applications. Another useful, ready-to-go function are the 32 built-in stitches. This will give beginners a head-start as they’ll be able to produce great results with minimal technical knowledge. The stitch length and width are adjustable, so you can fine-tune them to various projects. Plus, the machine comes with additional 110 stitch applications, which your kid can slowly discover as they become more advanced. This is a great thing, as this machine can remain a helpful addition to your home well past the beginner phase!
Versatile. In fact, the SINGER Simple 3232 is quite versatile, despite its beginner status. It comes with an automatic reverse function, which enables easy sewing in reverse. This will come in handy when your kid wants to reinforce the stitching for a stronger bond. All they have to do is push the automatic reverse button.
Power & Speed. The Simple 3232 can handle larger projects and multiple layers of fabric with ease. It has a maximum speed of 750 stitches-per-minute which can help you finish large projects more quickly. Plus, thanks to the adjustable presser foot, you can stitch through several layers of fabric simultaneously.
Excellent Design. Overall, this sewing machine is quite ergonomic and easy-to-use. The heavy-duty metal frame will ensure that the machine doesn’t move around and cause trouble during use. At the same time, the machine is quite lightweight and portable, so your kid can take it with them on holidays or to sewing classes. The product also comes with various video tutorials that can help your kid learn the basics of installing a bobbin, using the presser feet, and threading. You can also check out their YouTube videos with step-by-step guides.
Warranty. Last but certainly not least, this SINGER machine is backed by a 25-year limited warranty. If the high status of SINGER machines in the world of sewing isn’t enough to keep your mind at ease, this warranty certainly will.
Reasons not to Buy:
Threader Issue. While this sewing machine will deliver on most of its promises, some users have found the automatic needle threader to be a bit problematic.
Price. Another drawback is that this sewing machine is pricier than our other recommendations.
Conclusion:
The Brother XM2701 is our choice as the best sewing machine for kids (above the age of 5). The unit is well-rounded and very easy to use. It offers a lot of versatility which can stimulate children’s creativity and imagination, as it will allow them to create some unique pieces. Brother XM2701 also has automated features, which make the whole sewing process a lot easier. And if that’s not enough, it comes with clear instruction videos and Brother At technical support.
However, if you’re on a budget or you prefer a compact and inexpensive entry-machine for your child to learn on, we recommend the DONYER POWER. This sewing machine is incredibly easy to use, with a variety of stitching applications and two-speed options. It’s a wonderful choice for children as young as five, as well as teenagers who are new to sewing.
The SINGER Start 1304 is another great entry-level machine that delivers amazing quality, aside from being durable, user-friendly, and a great choice for children, teenagers, and even adults. The sewing machine is very versatile and comes packed with automatic features, suitable for children. Using this machine means allowing your child to focus more on learning, instead of adjusting and setting the features.
The very best choice for beginners among our young sewers is the SINGER Simple 3232. It comes with lots of built-in functions that can get your kid started with various sewing projects. At the same time, this machine won’t become obsolete once your kid has mastered the basics – it has over a hundred applications which they can move their way up as they develop their sewing skills. This sewing machine is sturdy and durable, and also a great portable choice, your kid can take it along with them to grandma’s house or sewing classes.
What Makes a Good Sewing Machine for Kids?
What Makes a Good Sewing Machine for Kids?The trick in finding the a good sewing machine for kids is to look for real features (unlike sewing toys that don’t actually use thread) that develop their sewing skills without compromising their safety. One of the first places to look is at the feet of the sewing machine. Do they use the snap off method when changing them? Or do they screw on or attach in a solid way? For kids, look for feet that attach so they don’t catch their fingers under the foot of the sewing machine.
You’ll also want to look for safety features on the included pedal of some models because their little fingers can get pinched in pretty easily. Modern sewing machines also offer options that allow for push-button starting and stopping to eliminate the pedal altogether! Try to get a fully automated or manual control machine that runs by buttons instead of pedals, like in all of our recommendations. Check out our extensive reviews again to see which models might be the best choice for your little child to learn on.
Models should also do a good job of making sewing fun. Look for custom options on each sewing machine that allow your children to embroider their favorite characters as patterns or include them within the design of the sewing machine itself. When kids have a good time sewing, they’ll naturally want to do it more frequently. And that’s what ultimately leads to better skill development!
What Are the Different Types of Sewing Machines for Kids?
Most of the sewing machines that you’ll find for kids today are the actual standard, entry-level sewing machines. To maximize your investment, think about how many stitches you’ll want them to have. If you only need a dozen or so stitches because your child is just getting started, then you’ll save some money on this initial investment. For example, our most budget-friendly option – the DONYER Power – offers only 12 stitches, but it’s affordable and good enough to get things started. At the same time, our top recommendation for beginners actually has 32 built-in stitches, that can lead your kid a bit further through the creative process as they learn to sew. Keep in mind, however, that this machine is quite a bit pricier than the DONYER. On the other hand, our top choice, the Brother XM2701, comes with 59 different stitch applications which make it a better option for teenagers or experienced children.
If your child has already been sewing for a while and is looking for a new challenge, then we highly recommend upgrading to an embroidery machine. While standard sewing machines can’t be replaced for learning and sewing daily household activities, an embroidery machine is a great addition to those who want to become more involved with sewing! The embroidery machine will help your child be more creative with patterns and designs in a unique way that explores their artistic side. If you want the best of the best, look for a sewing machine that you can plug directly into your home’s internet connection so that it stays up to date with firmware and available patterns.
For kids who really want to go to the next level, the entry-level serger sewing machine could be a good option as well. These machines use multiple threads and are a great way to create a hem. If your child is familiar with how to control thread tension and they’re good at getting their current sewing machine threaded, then you can really advance their skills with this type of sewing machine.
To determine which machine is a good fit for your child, you’ll need information about the features and specific characteristics of each model. That’s where our reviews can really help you out! You can read about the useful features that have been included, what skills can be developed, and if a sewing machine really provides the value it promises.
What Are the Benefits of Buying a Sewing Machine for Kids?
Good machines for kids has one clear benefit: it teaches them an essential life skill.
Sewing is something that kids can get started with at an early age, often around 5 years of age or even earlier than that sometimes, and they have fun sitting at a machine that their mom, dad, or another family member routinely uses as well. However, we do recommend buying a separate, more basic, and simpler sewing machine for children as young as 5, as they can easily hurt themselves on big and heavy sewing machines.
Sewing also provides a child with an added measure of confidence and self-esteem. So many schools and educational programs are cutting back on their artistic learning programs today, which means kids easily get bored, and their imagination is unstimulated. Sewing can bring that back in a fun, useful way that doesn’t take up much of their time if they’re busy with other school activities and hobbies. If you’re stuck for ideas on projects that your kids could create on their sewing machine, you’ll be happy to know there are a lot of resources on YouTube and Pinterest that can keep your child invested for a very long time.
Sewing is also a great way to make new friends. Not every child sews, so it becomes a natural point of common interest when two kids who can sew come together. Plus, sewing classes are a great place for meeting new friends. Sewing might not be as exciting as a video game, but it will work on hand-eye coordination while providing useful items for their room, home, or friends.
As for problems, the primary issue with a kid’s sewing machine will always be safety. Adult machines are geared toward adult fingers, which means the spacing is off for kids. Look for lightweight, compact machines with small footprints to solve this problem rather effectively.
What Are the Prices?
Most entry-level sewing machines that are kid-friendly can be found for less than $100 on websites like Amazon. Families are typically going to find a high-quality sewing machine that can build up sewing skills in their children for less than $250, although some models may cost up to about $300. If you’re thinking about upgrading to an embroidery machine, however, the entry-level models typically come with a starting price tag of about $350.
Before You Leave
Hopefully, you found our detailed reviews and practical buying guide useful in your search. However, if you’re still in doubt, don’t hesitate to check out the links provided in the article where you can learn current prices, more detailed product specifications, and customer reviews.
Also, if you’re interested in sewing, check out our blog, where we share a lot of interesting articles about sewing that can help you become more involved in the whole process. Plus, we regularly review new and attractive sewing products, so you’re always up to date on the latest trends in sewing.
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
