Updated on September 4, 2024
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Sewing is more than just a pastime for most. It’s an ardour. Before taking the initial stitching steps, beginners frequently have questions about it. In addition to being a practical technique, sewing is highly creative. Making something from the start can consistently provide a sense of fulfilment. We’ve compiled a list of the top 8 best sewing machine for intermediate sewer, whether you want to start sewing as a new pastime or upgrade your current machine.
Best Sewing Machine For Intermediate Sewers: Comparison Table
As their skills and knowledge grow, sewers usually want to tackle increasingly complex projects, including machine quilting or couture-quality apparel fabrication. To achieve this, they require a more advanced sewing machine with features that go beyond those of a more basic model.
Our comparison table will help you find the best sewing machines for intermediate sewers to use on intricate projects without exceeding your budget.
| Sewing Machine | Remarks | Review Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 1. SINGER 4423 | Best Heavy-Duty Mechanical Sewing Machine | 4.6/5 |
| 2. SINGER 9960 | Best Sewing Machine for Sewing & Quilting | 4.5/5 |
| 3. Brother XR9550 | Best Sewing Machine For Silent Operation | 4.7/5 |
| 4. Brother CS7000X | Best Sewing Machine For Multipurpose Stitching | 4.7/5 |
| 5. Brother XR3774 | Best Sewing Machine for Making Clothes | 4.7/5 |
| 6. Brother XM2701 | Best Sewing Machine For Lightweight Nature | 4.7/5 |
| 7. SINGER M3500 | Best Sewing Machine With Fastest Stitching Speed | 4.5/5 |
| 8. Janome HD1000 | Best Sewing Machine For Thicker Fabrics | 4.2/5 |
1. SINGER 4423 | Best Heavy-Duty Mechanical Sewing Machine
1. SINGER 4423
- 97 Stitch Applications
- 23 built-in stitches including basic
- Fully Automatic 1-Step Buttonhole
- Sew up to 1,100 stitches per minute
- Built-in needle threader
This pattern will suit your demands regardless of your experience level—it doesn’t matter whether you’ve never stitched more than a few stitches. It is an apparent heavy-duty alternative due to its potent engine and durable build. While talking about it the 4423’s engine has an 1100 stitch-per-minute capacity.
Other features include a needle threader in addition to 23 stitches (12 ornamental, six primary, four stretch, and one buttonhole and an automatic needle threader. Changing the stitch length to 4mm and width to 6mm is also possible. The 4423 has everything you’ll need in a single computer because it lacks nothing. It features three feet: one for sewing buttons, one for zippers, and one for buttonholes.
Not only does the needle thread automatically, but there are three positions to select from: left, centre, and right. The bobbin and its cover are the perfect instrument for managing threads on the bobbin because they are transparent. This machine’s strong metal structure ensures it won’t sway around the table while you work.
Highlighted Features
- A heavy-duty mechanical machine has a metal frame
- Adjustable stitch length and stitch width (6mm)
- Three needle positions
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Built-in needle threader
- Reverse stitch
- Top drop-in bobbin
- Easy stitch selection dial
- Transparent bobbin cover
- Free arm
Pros
- Ideal for both beginner and seasoned sewers
- Very user-friendly
- Exhibits versatility in project work
- Rugged construction
- Super-fast stitching
Cons
- Winding the bobbin for the first few times is challenging
Why you should buy it? Final Verdict
If you’re looking for a temperately priced sawing machine for your projects, the Singer 4423 is still an outstanding option, even though it’s not a digital sewing machine. The term “heavy-duty” shouldn’t scare you. Even though it’s not an industrial machine, it can easily handle leather as well as denim.
2. SINGER 9960 | Best Sewing Machine for Sewing & Quilting
2. SINGER 9960
- 1172 Stitch Applications
- Auto-pilot mode
- 5 Alphanumeric Fonts
- 13 built-in 1-Step Buttonholes
- Sewing speed of 850 stitches per minute
The striking 600 built-in stitches of the 9960 are very impressive. 5 fonts are used tare o depict the stitches: Gothic, Script, Italic, Outline, and Russian. The stitch elongation function and the mirror/reverse image utility are two unique capabilities that come with the machine and might be helpful to work with.
The ability to mirror or reverse stitches allows you to flip stitches vertically or horizontally. With the stitch elongation tool, you can stretch stitches up to five times longer than initially. Threading is a simple operation thanks to the automated threader provisioning. This feature allows you to thread the machine from the spool to the needle eye in six seconds. The cutter button activates the computerised threader function. The machine automatically cuts your bobbin and needle threads with a single click.
The bobbin has a transparent cover that makes it simple to see how many threads are left. The needler’s “Up/Down” button is conveniently located on the machine’s front for easy needle control. Thanks to the auto-pilot feature, you can sew without using your foot pedal. The LCD screen of the 9960 is available in black and white. In addition to displaying the available stitches, it recommends the ideal presser foot for a given task.
Highlighted features
- 600 pre-programmed stitch patterns
- Auto-pilot mode
- Stitch speed: 850 stitches per minute
- Completely adjustable stitching
- An automated needle threader
- Thread cutter with automatic function
- Touch-screen button for stitch selection
Pros
- Simple to employ
- Convenient autopilot setting
- Flexible
- Robust style
- Robust carrying handle
Cons
- It may be challenging for newcomers to learn
Why choose this product? Final verdict
I adore this machine so much. It has a nice, robust feel to it and a fantastic look. Not only is it noiseless than my previous one, but it also has a more agreeable sound.
3. Brother XR9550 | Best Sewing Machine For Silent Operation
3. Brother XR9550
- 165 unique built-in stitches
- Computerized machine includes 110 built-in utility
- 8 styles of auto-size buttonholes
- Plus 55 alphanumeric sewing stitches
- Eight presser feet
This incredible machine comes with eight different buttonhole styles for an easy stitching experience. It has 8 one-step auto-size buttonhole options for letting you quickly create buttonholes at just a single button press. Moreover it also comes with automatic needle threading system which even a beginner will find it easier to use. You just need to let the machine easily thread the needle and you don’t need to worry about in which direction it is moving.
LED lights make it easy to view every detail in the stitching area. Moreover, the Brother XR9550prw sewing machine features an LCD backlight, which makes it simple to see what you are stitching or embroidering. This computerized sewing machine has 110 built-in stitches and 55 alphanumeric sewing stitches. The basic stitches you learn can be used to begin sewing and quilting in seconds. Next, decide which stitch is best for the type of fabric by selecting any stitch.
Additionally, a jam-resistant Quick-Set drop-in top bobbin that you can easily insert from above the machine is included with this intermediate sewing machine. They are incredibly convenient because replacing the drop-in bobbins doesn’t require disassembling the machine. The fabric is fed through the machine using the feed dog mechanism. It’s a necessary part of the sewing machine. With the Brother XR9550, you can sew on nearly any fabric thanks to its innovative feed dog technology.
Highlighted Features
- 110 built-in stitches
- 8 one-step auto-size buttonholes
- 55 alphanumeric fonts and a backlit LCD
- Automatic threading needles
- Eight presser feet
- Wide extension table and hard case
Pros
- A great option for inexperienced sewers
- Reasonably priced
- It comes with a ton of accessories
- Excellent instruction instructions with a helpful DVD
- Low weight
- Silent operation
Cons
- Using an automatic needle threader is challenging
Why choose this product? Final verdict
The ease of use of the XR9550PRW is one of the most common compliments. It is easy to use and intuitive for the owners. There’s a comprehensive handbook with excellent writing and a helpful DVD. The directions are clear and straightforward to follow. Because of this, the machine is well-liked by many novices and is frequently suggested for aspiring sewists.
4. Brother CS7000X | Best Sewing Machine For Multipurpose Stitching
4. Brother CS7000X
- 70 Built-in Stitches
- 10 Included Feet
- LCD Display, Wide Table
- Seven 1-step auto-size buttonholes
Award-winning and feature-rich, the Brother CS700X is a multipurpose sewing machine that works well for the whole thing from clothes to quilts. With the assistance of the 70 diverse built-in stitches, including quilting, heirloom, and utility, you can sew nearly whichever design on any cloth. Threading can be completed quickly and easily with the help of an upgraded automatic needle threader.
The bobbin is held in position by a jam-resistant, drop-in top bobbin that is simple to load. There’s enough room for larger stitching projects with a widening needle-to-arm workspace. The stitching pace is controlled by an adjustable speed controller, with a maximum speed of 800 threads per minute. Sewing sleeves, collars, and cuffs are a breeze because of the free-arm function. Using a fixed needle bar, you can make more equal and neater lines and stitches.
Important details, like the stitches’ kind, length, and width, are easy to read because of a backlit LCD screen. Stitch length and stitch selection are customizable using a push button. Ten simple-to-adjust sewing and quilting feet work with a variety of fabrics, from substantial cotton to chiffon. An extension table is included, and it can be added or removed as needed. It offers lots of extra areas for quilting projects.
This best user friendly sewing machine has a sturdy, lightweight metal chassis that can withstand almost anything, yet it’s also lightweight, making storage and transportation simple. A durable case is offered to keep your sewing machine safe after you use it.
Highlighted Features
- 70 pre-installed stitches
- A semi-automatic needle threader
- 10 distinct presser feet
- Extra big table attachment for bulkier stitching tasks
- Speed control with a drop-in bobbin mechanism
- Bobbin winder
- Sturdy protective case
- Seven 1-step auto-size buttonholes
Pros
- Cost-effective
- Light-weight
- Variety of stitches
- Adjustable speed control
Cons
- Lacks knee lifter
Why choose this product? Final verdict
One of the most fantastic sewing machines for novices is the Brother CS7000X, which is generally an advance over its predecessors. Even though the maximum stitching speed has been reduced, the machine looks better and has a better needle threader.
5. Brother XR3774 | Best Sewing Machine for Making Clothes
5. Brother XR3774
- 37 Built-in Stitches
- 8 Included Sewing Feet
- Best-LED light
- Wide Table
- 8 sewing feet
Any sewer who wants to progress their sewing skills is happy to have additional stitches in their arsenal. This sewing machine is an outstanding buy for those who want a countless selection of built-in stitches. This best sewing machine for making clothes has 37 pre-programmed stitches with flawless stitch excellence. Heirloom stitches, decorative stitches, garment construction, and a one-step buttonhole stitch are all included in the automated stitch list. Stitches abound that can assist sewers in producing unique crafts.
The sewer only sometimes receives the proper illumination to do the task. This machine has a backlight that lights the working area because of this. We don’t need to light up the space and do crafts to annoy folks at night. This machine has a fantastic array of extras that may be useful to sewers. Eight auxiliary sewing feet are included in the accessory pouch: walking, button fitting, buttonhole, quilting, zipper, blind zig-zag, and narrow hemmer.
Additional tools include a darning plate, quilting guide, spare spool pin, twin needle, screwdriver, and darning plate. English and Spanish versions of the instruction DVD, machine cover, foot controller, and power cord are available. Customers can benefit from multi-style stitching thanks to sewing feet. Still, every machine that Brother manufactures now has more than one sewing foot.
This machine has eight sewing feet available, including feet for buttonholes, walking, quilting, thin hemmers, blind stitches, button sewing, etc. For sewers, these stitches simplify and save time when stitching.
Highlighted Features
- 37 built-in stitches
- Best-LED light
- Zipper foot
- Blind stitchZig-zagZig-zag foot
- Narrow hemmer foot
- Walking foot
- Button fitting foot
- 8 sewing feet
Pros
- Simple to assemble and use
- Excellent lighting in the stitching area
- Reasonably priced
- Useful instructional DVD
- High-quality stitching
Cons
- No foot pressure adjustment
Why choose this product? Final verdict
Because of its small weight, this device is quite portable. Many owners so point out that they frequently bring it to sewing classes. Additionally, it is simple to use and comprehend for newcomers. It also has enough functions so new users can progress with the device.
6. Brother XM2701 | Best Sewing Machine For Lightweight Nature
6. Brother XM2701
- Lightweight Machine with 27 Stitches
- 6 Included Sewing Feet
- jam resistant drop-in top bobbin
- 3-piece needle set, twin needle
This Brother best sewing machine for intermediate quilter is excellent for finishing several daily projects. It is ideal for sewers of all skill levels. It also offers several user-friendly features that can add a lot of enjoyment to your learning process.
It includes 27 built-in stitches, such as buttonholer, quilting, ornamental, and blind hem stitching. The fact that this machine isn’t the quietest may be something you don’t enjoy about it. The LED light should have been improved as well. It’s not particularly luminous. It does assist, but not too much. To help you see better, you can get a cheap lamp and place it behind the device. And let’s be honest, the light problem affects a lot of sewing machine models.
The Brother XM2701’s ease of use is its most significant feature. It comes equipped with an automated needle threader to prevent your youngster from coming into contact with sharp needles. The automatic needle threader is quick and safe, keeping your child from growing bored.
Installing the bobbin is quick and straightforward. The work table has the bobbin input point. It is a fast-loading bobbin that is top-loaded. To avoid any accidents, the area is always well-lit by the LED lights.
Besides that, it is a reliable workhorse, and you will like utilizing all its tools and humming away with it.
Highlighted Features
- Sixty-three stitch applications and 27 pre-set stitches.
- One-step buttonhole auto-sizing
- An automated needle threader
- Jam-proof, top-loading bobbin
- LED workspace with bright lighting
- Three Presser Feet
- One Free Arm
Pros
- Perfect for both novice and expert users
- Reasonably priced
- Portable and light-weight
- Has distinctive built-in stitching
Cons
- The machine shakes while sewing
Why choose this product? Final verdict
The Brother XM2701 is a great machine for equally novices as well as experts. It’s an admirable tool for kids for the reason that it has user-friendly features. This is the finest option if you’re examining for a feature-rich, portable sewing machine.
7. SINGER M3500 | Best Sewing Machine With Fastest Stitching Speed
7. SINGER M3500
- 110 Stitch Applications
- Simple & Great for Beginners
- 4 Presser Feet Included
- Automatic 1-Step Buttonhole
- Easy Stitch Selection
One outstanding feature of this best sewing machine for advanced sewers is its automated needle threader. With only a quick lever flick, this clever feature makes threading the needle a breeze! The machine expertly guides your thread through the needle’s small eyelet. This is a huge time-saver—no more squinting or trembling hands breaking your flow.
It also provides you with a ton of other excellent features. To begin with, it has 32 built-in stitches: stretch stitches for challenging fabrics, ornamental stitches for special occasions, basic utility stitches for daily tasks, you name it! Countless solutions are available, providing great versatility to tackle any project!
Its maximum stitch width of 5.5mm and full stitch length of 5mm provide consistently accurate, expert-like sewing! And like me, you’ll enjoy that this baby produces a fantastic 900 stitches per minute—talk about efficiency—if you value doing tasks quickly.
If you’re not into sewing at a fast rate, don’t worry; this model has a foot pedal and a speed slider. It lets you easily manage the speed at which you sew, ensuring that nothing gets in the way of finishing your project at a pace that suits you.
Highlighted Features
- 110 stitch applications
- Automatic needle threader
- One-step buttonhole
- Free arm
- Adjustable stitch length and width
Pros
- Light-weight and compact
- Interface that is easy to use
- Reliable outcomes with a one-step buttonhole
- LED light for lighting work areas
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy fabrics
Why choose this product? Final verdict
A reasonably priced, little mechanical sewing machine is the Singer M3500. It has 32 stitches and is light-weight. According to several owners, it is a decent option for novice sewers and is relatively simple.
8. Janome HD1000 | Best Sewing Machine For Thicker Fabrics
8. Janome HD1000
- 14 Built-In Stitches
- 1 four-step buttonhole
- Built-in needle threader
- Free Arm
The heavy-duty best Janome sewing machine for intermediate sewers has 14 built-in stitches. Compared to computerized machines, this is a manageable number of stitches, but it is plenty to cover the majority of household sewing demands. The stitches include the following: a 4-step buttonhole, blanket and overcast zig-zag, stretch blind hem, regular blind hem, rick rack, feathers and briars (used in quilting). Length and width are adjusted via hand-turned dials.
If you have a free arm and are sewing around narrow items, you will like it. Just take off the accessory tray to gain access to the free arm. This method can be used to hem pants’ bottoms or sleeves. When you use this strategy, the needle won’t catch the cloth, and you won’t unintentionally stitch over other portions of the garment.
Generally, automatic sewing machines have a clear edge. The Janome HD1000 demonstrates that a manual dial may function just as well as pre-programmed buttons on machines. With these manual controls, you have more control over your projects, and using the machine is a breeze.
Highlighted Features
- 14 utility stitches
- One four-step buttonhole
- Lay-in, manual thread tension control
- Built-in needle threader
- 3-piece feed dog
- Drop feed
- Free arm
- Reverse stitch lever
- Built-in thread cutter
Pros
- Heavy-duty metal structure
- Simple design with easy-to-follow illustrations
- Designed to handle thick textiles
- Portable
Cons
- Machine parts are made up of plastic
Why choose this product? Final verdict
The HD-1000 is packed with practical features and is reasonably priced. It is a fantastic option for individuals seeking a more reliable machine to advance their talents. The Janome HD-1000 is a tremendous upgrade from machines with less robust plastic bodies because of its heavy-duty, solid-feeling aluminium body.
Best Sewing Machine For Intermediate Sewers – Buyers Guide
Now that you have specific ideas for sewing, let’s examine the essential characteristics you should consider while comparing sewing machines to shop for.
1. Sufficient stitches
At the very least, you will need a machine to sew buttons and do basic straight zig-zag stitches. Additional stitches like stretch, overlock, blind hem, and more are frequently included in dressmaking models. These are useful when sewing ready-to-wear clothing.
Superior electronic devices provide more than 100 stitches for embellishment. Decorative stitches are not required, but they offer some lovely alternatives for detailing.
2. Multiple presser feet
As you sew, presser feet that connect beneath the needle control how the fabric passes through. For increased functionality, make sure there are several presser feet provided. Standard feet that offer greater versatility include zipper, buttonhole, overcast, walking, embroidery, and quilting feet.
3. A free arm
A free arm allows tubular fabric, cuffs, collars, or pant hems to slip around the arm for more straightforward access during stitching. This facilitates sewing set-in sleeves, waistbands, and other challenging areas. This feature is available on most machines.
4. Automatic needle threader
It can be not very pleasant to thread a tiny needle manually. An automatic needle threader saves time by making the task straightforward in seconds!
5. Presser foot pressure adjustment
Adjusting the presser foot’s pressure is handy when dealing with varying fabric weights. Less pressure facilitates the pucker-free glide of light-weight textiles. Apply more pressure to denser fabrics, such as canvas, to enhance feeding performance. Sewing headaches are avoided with this correction!
6. Stitch length/width adjustment
The option to adjust stitch size enables fine-tuning according to project requirements. For fitting clothing in progress, for instance, longer, less dense basting stitches are ideal. Finished seams with shorter, closer-spaced stitches have a higher grade of construction. Important!
7. Drop feed/ integrated walking foot
A drop feed is helpful for sewing and quilting problematic materials that slip around easily. It allows the fabric to move freely rather than being forcibly fed forward by the machine.
To prevent shifting, an integrated walking foot is essential. It provides even feeding force on the top and bottom layers when matching plaids, sewing velvet, or quilting through heavier areas.
8. Variable speed control
Accurately navigate intricate areas or curved seams by slowing down after you’re comfortable with the speed adjustments. Once comfortable operating the machine, accelerate for longer, straight lengths.
9. Bobbin with top-loading
Heaven and Earth shouldn’t have to move to change a bobbin! While top loading allows quick and straightforward thread changes, side loading bobbins can be difficult. What a relief!
10. Thread Cutter on Autopilot
It presses a button to cut both the top and bobbin threads. No bothersome loose threads are left hanging, either. The wide table for fabric control, the robust protective case, the massive workspace with LED light for visibility, and the built-in threader are all pluses.
FAQs: Questions People Often Ask
Are sewing machines challenging to operate?
In general, no! When the feed dogs pull, place pressure on the foot control pedal and guide the cloth; the machine will take care of the rest. Even while sewing can be reduced to those few easy steps, many more factors should be considered when sewing carefully.
What’s the most effective method for learning to sew?
You can enrol in an in-person sewing class or pick up sewing skills from friends or relatives. Self-paced tutorials, YouTube videos, and sewing classes are some online learning alternatives.
Can I maintain my sewing machine on my own?
Compared to computerized counterparts, mechanical machines are more accessible to do yourself. Dusting, lint removal, cleaning, oiling, and lubricating should all be done with attention! These are things that you ought to do regularly.
What kind of sewing project should a beginner take on?
Start with an easy project requiring straight seams and no buttons or zippers. An excellent starter project is a pillow cover that is square or rectangular.
Conclusion
Your sewing machine should be your dependable travel buddy as an intermediate sewer. With the correct equipment, you can increase your possibilities and enjoy your work more. To choose the model that best fits your demands and budget, research and try out several models. Remember that the best sewing machine for intermediate sewer gives you the confidence and creative freedom to sew.
Enjoy your stitching!
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