This sewing machine is definitely the most expensive on this list. This machine also has a front-loading bobbin (see my commentary on this under the previous bullet-point). Manually adjust the length and width of each stitch. Get the needle into a left, center, and right position, 2. This machine is comparable to the Brother XM2701, but is slightly more expensive than the first 2 Brother machines listed here. I also think that front-load set-ups are able to be more of a work-horse type machine than a top-load is (because of the different way that the thread and needle interacts with the bobbin case and placement). This enables easier bobbin tension adjustments. The bobbin in this machine actually goes inside a case and then is loaded into the front of the machine. One point of difference is that this machine allows you to have the needle position in either center or to the right side of the presser foot which is much better than the Brother's option of center or left! The big point of difference here (if you are a more advanced sewist) is that the bobbin is not a top-load. However, this machine has a few less stitch options than the Brother equivalent every stitch that a beginner (or even an intermediate seamstress) could need ARE available on this machine. The least expensive of the Singer models, find it here, it is comparable to the Brother LX3817. You can check it out at Walmart ( here) it has all the positives of the XM2701 and has the same functionality, except with a digital screen selector. This is the lowest price-point level that Brother has for a digital machine. Get the needle into a left, center, AND right position, 2.
The important upgrades to this machine are that you now have the ability to: 1. More expensive than the LX3817, you get more stitch options with this machine this is a mainly unimportant extra feature. This machine is one step up from the LX3817, and is available at Walmart ( here). This is the machine that I personally use 90% of the time in my tailoring business, when videoing how-to sewing videos, and recommend to new students. The pressure of the presser foot is not adjustable this only matters if you are trying to sew very heavy-duty items and the needle has a hard time coming back up through the fabric. The top-load bobbin makes adjusting the bobbin tension difficult (as a beginner to sewing, I recommend not even thinking about tension). The drawbacks of this machine: There is no option to get the needle placement near the right side of the presser foot. Servicing of machines usually runs $80-120, which is more than the replacement cost of this machine. Pro-tip: If you get into a situation where this machine needs to be taken to a repair shop, just purchase a new one. I also have one that I have used for heavy-duty sewing (horse blanket repairs) and 85% of the time, it does an AMAZING job. I have not run into any issues with them and have not needed to take them in for a service. I currently own 6 of these machines and have been using them for light sewing for about 2 years. This machine, available at Walmart ( click here), is my personal go-to for large lesson classes. I have found that the Brother machines make very high-quality lesson machines, so many of this list are of that brand. I am simply creating a list of top beginner machines from my years of experience teaching sewing students. Now, for my list! I have not been paid by any of these companies. Even though we are looking at entry-level, low-cost machines, we still want quality! This will help beginners from becoming frustrated with a misbehaving machine. that makes it easier to learn and less likely for a beginner to get confused or overwhelmed. Some of these machines do not have all the bells and whistles that a more high-end machine would have, BUT. I tend to favor the simple machines for an entry-level set-up. Everything on this list is under $300, and the first on the list is only about $70! If you begin sewing a ton in the future, you can always upgrade. You don't want to spend an arm and a leg just to start learning. I would love to be able to help get you on your way WITHOUT the intimidation (or the large price tag)! So, I have compiled a list of the best beginner machines out there. Are you wanting to try out the art of sewing? Or, do you have a child that you would like to teach to sew? Either way, the need to shop for a sewing machine can be intimidating.