Brother Treadle Powered Sewing Machine, 27-Stitch

Whether you’ve been sewing for years or are just picking it up as a new skill, having your own sewing machine at home is the way to go. With so many different brands and models available on the market, it’s difficult to know which sewing machine is right for you. You’ll want to keep in mind the kind of projects you’re interested in working on, and your skill level and familiarity with sewing fundamentals.

“There’s an entire spectrum of options which can quickly become overwhelming so before you begin shopping, ask yourself a few questions about your sewing goals,” says Vicki Liston, our home improvement expert and host of “On the Fly…DIY,” an award-winning home improvement show. “What’s your current skill level? Are you looking for something with minimal bells and whistles, only meant to do simple tasks or do you want the equivalent of a sewing robot? Do you want to expand your skills and learn more about the craft? Are you a pro and need to make quick work of your projects? Do you have a special interest, like embroidery or quilting? Approaching your sewing machine purchase with a well-rounded picture of where you are, what you want to do, and how much you want to learn will help you pick the best one for you.”

There are two main types of sewing machines you can try: mechanical and computerized. For new sewers and those who are brushing up on their skills, a mechanical sewing machine is a good starting point. For sewing experts and professionals, a computerized sewing machine may be a better choice. A computerized sewing machine comes with many bells and whistles that a mechanical machine does not. However, to truly take advantage of those features, you have to understand the fundamentals of sewing – which you can better learn on the mechanical model.

One of the most important features to ensure your sewing machine has is the built-in needle threader. This is a task you need to do every time you sew. Even for those with steady hands and 20/20 vision, threading a needle can take time. A built-in needle threader makes this task easy and quick.

Another feature to consider when looking for a sewing machine is the top-loading drop-in bobbin. With this feature, you don’t need to disassemble a bobbin casing to get it in. Plus, this system usually has a transparent cover plate, so you can see when you run out of thread.

“I can’t tell you how excited I was when I learned that ‘drop-in bobbins’ and ‘self-threading needles’ were a thing,” says Liston. “These miraculous features would have saved me so much frustration and wasted time as I was learning to sew. If your budget allows it, I highly recommend a unit with these options as they are life-changing!”

If you want the ability to sew cylindrical pieces such as pant hems, sleeves and headbands, then you’ll want a sewing machine that has free-arm capability. Many beginner sewing machines do not have this capability, so watch out for that as it can limit the kind of projects you work on.

• “Whatever your sewing aspirations, I only recommend purchasing a machine with a metal frame,” says Liston. “It’s much cheaper and easier to find plastic-framed models but they won’t last as long and they are harder to fix. The same goes for the inner workings, like gears. Opt for metal and not plastic. You’ll get a much longer life out of your unit.”
• When you’re on the hunt for a sewing machine, take into account the kind of stitches it can do and whether that is what you need for your projects. Some of the basic stitches that most people will require are the straight stitch, zig-zag stitch, buttonhole stitch, knit stitch, blind hem stitch and utility stitches. The Brother Computerized Sewing Machine with 60 Stitches has an easy stitch-selector switch so you can see and pick the kind of stitch you want. The electric version has five auto-size buttonholes in addition to its many stitches. The Brother Computerized Sewing Machine, 130 Stitches comes with eight styles of auto-size buttonholes and 55 alphanumeric sewing stitches. Other models are designed to be used for small on-the-spot repairs and alterations.
• In addition to the built-in needle threader, top-loading drop-in bobbin and free-arm capability, you may need some additional features on your sewing machine, such as adjustable speed control, needle position adjustment, lighting and knee lifter capability. The Brother Computerized Sewing Machine with 60 Stitches has an automatic needle threader, adjustable speed control and a built-in free arm. Others use an automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin and an LCD screen.
• The attachments and feet you will need for your sewing machine will depend on the kind of projects you plan to sew. If you’re a quilter, you will need a walking foot, spring action foot and a ¼-inch foot. On the other hand, if you’re sewing garments, you will need a zipper foot, buttonhole foot, overcast stitching foot and button attaching foot. The Brother Computerized Sewing Machine, 130 Stitches comes with six sewing feet attachments.
• For some sewers, a full sewing machine isn’t necessary. If you’re only looking to do small alterations, then a portable sewing machine may be what you need. Consider a cordless hand-held machine that runs on batteries, so it can be taken on the go. This type is often designed to be used on many different materials, including denim, wool, silk and leather, and is also suitable for crafts. It may also be useful for sewing hanging curtains or tapestries.