Sewing Machine Buying Guide
A few hundred dollars buys a good, basic sewing machine that can handle most clothing and crafts projects. More money buys
you more automated functions, and a top-of-the-line machine can run into thousands of dollars. It will produce professional-quality
designs and you don’t even need to know how to sew.
- Getting started
- Types
- Features
- Brands
- Watch video
Brands
We're testing 18 models, including some from brands that your grandmother knew and one that's familiar to project-oriented fashionistas who keep an eye on the runway. Singer, Brother, and Kenmore sell about 70 percent of all units. Brands such as Bernina and Husqvarna Viking are gaining as the market shifts to more expensive, feature-laden machines. Use these profiles to compare sewing machines by brand.
Brother
Brother International is one of the leading manufacturers, with a market share of 29 percent of home sewing machines. The company offers basic to top-of-the line combination sewing and embroidery machines. Models are high tech with multiple functions and advanced technology, yet easy to use. Models are available through www.brother.com and a network of independent dealers and mass merchants.
Euro Pro
Euro Pro/Shark offers a wide range of mechanical sewing machines and a smaller selection of electronic models. These models are used primarily for basic tasks, mending, or making clothing or small craft projects. Models are available nationally at Target, Kmart, and Amazon.com.Husqvarna Viking
Husqvarna Viking is one of the leading manufacturers of high-tech electronic and computerized sewing machines. The sewing machines are developed and manufactured in Sweden. The company recently launched Designer Diamond, which is the newest addition to their high-end full service computerized line of sewing and embroidery machines. The Designer Diamond and others are available at Husqvarna Viking full-service dealers.Janome
Janome America is one of the top manufacturers of more-advanced and innovative sewing machines. Janome offers electronic and computerized models from entry level to the high end. Its most advanced computerized sewing and embroidery machine to date is the Memory Craft 11000, which has patented stepping-motor technology and computer software.Kenmore
Kenmore (Sears) is a leading supplier of sewing machines. Kenmore offers a variety of mid- to low-end multifunction models that are available exclusively at Sears and Kmart.Singer
Singer is the leading brand of sewing machines, with more than 43 percent of sales. Singer offers a variety of models with style and features for beginners to proficient sewers. Models are available at specialty stores, mass merchants including Target, Walmart, Kmart, and other national retailers.
