Best Small Sewing Machines for 2023: Portable & Lightweight Sewing Machines

Recently updated on April 6th, 2023

If you want to sew something without having to lug around a heavy machine everywhere, there are several good choices. These machines are compact, lightweight, easy to use, and offer plenty of features. Plus, many of them come with built-in storage compartments for storing thread, fabric, and accessories. Here are five great models we recommend for beginners and experts alike.

Today, we’ll look at some of the best portable and lightweight sewing machines you can buy. These aren’t necessarily the most popular choices, but they do offer great value for money. We’ve narrowed our list to five models based on price, size, features, and quality.

Small Full-Size Vs. Miniature Sewing Machines

If you’re in the market for the best rated small sewing machines, you’ll want to consider a mini or portable sewing machine. Miniature and portable machines are both compact machines that can be easily stored or taken on the go.

The best rated mini sewing machines are perfect for those who want something affordable and easy to use. These machines are great for simple projects such as t-shirts, pillowcases, and baby clothes. They are also very lightweight and portable, making them ideal for those who want something easy to carry around.

The best rated small sewing machines also include portable machines that are perfect for those who want to take their sewing on the go. These machines are small enough to fit in a bag and can be used anywhere. They usually have a built-in needle threader and are perfect for beginners.

While mini and portable machines are great for simple projects, full-size sewing machines are designed to handle heavier workloads. Some even have extra attachments such as sergers, buttonholes, and zippers. You’ll find these machines in bigger stores, selling them alongside household appliances.

You can create beautiful projects if you choose a mini sewing machine, portable machine, or full-size model. The best rated mini sewing machines and portable machines are perfect for those who want something affordable and easy to use. In contrast, full-size machines are ideal for those who want to stitch multiple layers together and work on various projects.

Today’s world offers many options for a beginner looking to start sewing. There are different types of machines, some better suited for specific tasks while others are designed to do it all. If you want to sew clothes, accessories, home decor items, etc., you must choose the best one. Below we provide you with our recommendations based on what type of projects you plan to work on.

• Beginner Sewing Machine – If you are starting, you might want to use a basic model like Brother’s QM100WX. This is an excellent choice because it does everything well – it offers good quality fabric cutting features, easy thread management, and even a built-in needle threader. You can use it to make clothing, bags, pillows, curtains, tablecloths, and much more. It is a simple design that works well for beginners.
• Home Decoration Sewing Machine – You will need a giant machine for those who love to sew home décor items such as pillows, rugs, quilts, curtains, duvet covers, bedding, and towels. A giant machine allows you to cut thicker fabrics and produce high-quality stitches. If you are planning to make large pieces, it is recommended that you invest in a heavy-duty machine such as Singer’s CS61A. With this model, you can easily handle thick materials and achieve beautiful stitching.
• Multi-Task Sewing Machine – Multi-taskers are those people who enjoy doing multiple projects at once. They don’t mind spending hours upon hours working on several projects simultaneously. For these people, it makes sense to invest in a multi-purpose machine. These models allow you to stitch various fabrics, including leather, vinyl, canvas, denim, corduroy, and many others. Some models even feature embroidery capabilities.

Weight and Size

If you are planning on buying a sewing machine, it is essential to check the weight and size of your intended purchase. You don’t want to buy something too heavy that might be difficult to move around or carry. Also, ensure that the space where you plan to store your sewing machine is large enough to accommodate it.

A good rule of thumb is to choose a sewing machine that weighs less than 20 pounds. This way, you won’t have trouble carrying it around and moving it into place. A portable sewing machine will give you the freedom to take it wherever you go, while a stationary machine will require you to set up shop somewhere specific.

Your sewing machine shouldn’t weigh over 50 pounds, either. While some models out there weigh much heavier than that, most people find it hard to lug such a hefty piece of equipment around.

You should also know how big the area is where you plan to put your sewing machine. Make sure that you have plenty of room to maneuver around. In addition, you should also ensure that the space is free of clutter.

Carrying Handle

If you’re looking for a good quality sewing machine, I’d recommend checking out the Brother CS6000i Sewing Machine. This model has a molded plastic handle on the back and a folding handle on the front. You’ll find it at Amazon for $200-$250.

The sewing machine itself is very sturdy. When I got mine, I noticed it had been used for several years without problems. However, if you buy a brand new one, you might want to consider whether it has a carrying handle. Some models do come with one, while others don’t. If yours doesn’t, you can buy a separate one for about $10.

Stitch Options

All sewing machines will come in the type of a straight t-stitch, according to the American Sewing Machine Association (A). However, there are many types of stitching options available for those looking to take their craft beyond simple buttonholes and hems. Some of the most common include the following:

• Straight Stitch – A standard straight stitch is used to make seams and finish edges. This is the most commonly found seam/edge finishing method.
• Reverse Straight Stitch – Also known as a “reverse,” this is a variation of the straight stitch that creates a decorative edge.
• Zig Zag Stitch – Zigzags are often used to add texture to the fabric. They’re great for adding interest to quilting projects.
• Blind Hem Stitch – Blind hemming is a way to hide raw edges without having to use thread. Fold the fabric into a triangle shape and press it flat. Then sew along the folded edge.
• Overcast Stitch – Overcasting is a technique where you start a seam with a running stitch and then continue with a second stitch that overlaps the first. This helps prevent fraying and provides a clean finished edge.
• Satin Stitch – Satins are similar to overcasts in that both methods involve starting a seam with a running or locking stitch and continuing with another stitch that overlaps the previous one. But while an overcast finishes the edge with a single stitch, a satin uses multiple overlapping stitches.

Presser Feet

Presser’s feet are an essential part of every sewing machine. They keep your fabric flat while you stitch it together. For beginners, this is especially important because you don’t want to stretch out your stitches or pull up the fabric. You’ll find a presser foot included with every sewing machine, but there are many types of feet to choose from. Some are designed specifically for tasks like embroidery, quilting, and appliqué. Others are just plain versatile.

A good rule of thumb is to pick the one-foot type and stick with it. If you’re starting, try a straight-stitch foot. This foot works great for basic stitching. Once you’ve mastered that, move on to a zigzag foot. Zigzags are perfect for creating clean lines on your project. Next, consider a free-motion foot. These are great for making creative designs. Finally, try a buttonhole foot if you’d like to add some decorative elements to your work. Buttonholes are used to make buttons. Overcast feet help finish edges.

Buttonholes

If you’re a seamstress, you know how important it is to ensure that the seams match up perfectly along the edge of your garment. But what about those pesky little buttons? How do you ensure that they look good without ruining the entire outfit? Well, there’s no easy answer because different machines offer varying levels of quality control over the process. But we’ve got some tips to help you out.

Buttonholes are one of those things that we often take for granted—however, there are many different types of buttonholes, each with advantages and disadvantages. There are four main types of buttonholes, each requiring a specific sewing machine. Here are some tips on choosing the best buttonhole sewing machine.

Automatic Needle Threader

Many people think that sewing machines require manual skills to operate. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Most people don’t realize how much work goes into ensuring a piece of clothing looks good. When we sew, we’re creating something that doesn’t just look nice; it’s functional too. So, what happens if you want to make a buttonhole or hem without having to do it manually? You use an automatic needle threader! These handy little tools help us save time and effort while still looking professional.

Learn How to Use Small Sewing Machines

Best Small Sewing Machines Reviewed

The best small sewing machine reviews you’ll find here include our top picks for the best mini sewing machine, best budget sewing machine, best sewing machine under $100, best sewing machine for beginners, best portable sewing machine, best cordless sewing machine, best sewing table, and best sewing machine accessories.

1. Brother XM2701 Lightweight Portable Sewing Machine

The Brother® XM2701 lightweight, portable sewing machine features a built-in auto needle threader, automatic buttonhole function, and easy access buttons for quick adjustments. This model includes a USB cable for charging and data transfer. You’ll enjoy precise stitching every time with a maximum speed of 200 stitches per minute. The included free-motion foot allows you to sew curves without compromising the quality of your seams. A large LCD screen displays the status of the machine and the selected settings.

2. Singer Start 1304 Sewing Machine

The Singer sewing machine is one of the most popular machines ever produced. This model is a good choice for beginners because it is easy to use and includes many features. The 2. The singer starts 1304 sewing machine is designed for those looking for a reliable machine that doesn’t require much maintenance.

This sewing machine uses a single needle threader that automatically feeds the bobbin thread into the needle eye. There are four built-in presser feet, including straight stitches, satin stitches, zigzag stitches, and blind hemming. You can also sew buttons, decorative stitches, and embroidery designs.

An ample workspace allows you to store supplies and keep things organized easily. The machine is easy to set up, making it perfect for home hobbyists and professionals.

Check how old is your singer sewing machines in our post.

3. New Home Janome Basic Sewing Machine

The new Janome Basic sewing machine is designed specifically for beginners and features easy-to-use controls and a clear LCD. This versatile machine offers four stitch types: straight, zigzag, crescent, and multi-stitch zag. Plus, it includes a built-in auto needle threader, buttonhole, presser foot, and automatic needle threader. Also included are ten free embroidery designs, a 2-year limited warranty, and a carrying case.

4. NEX Portable Sewing Machine

This sewing machine is perfect for beginners because it uses just one needle threader and four buttonholes. It is small enough to fit into your backpack, and you don’t need batteries. You can sew on buttons, zippers, elastic bands, and much more. This portable sewing machine features 12 stitches, a presser foot, an auto needle threader, and a 4-step manual buttonholer.

5. Mini Sewing Machine with Extender Table

This sewing machine is small enough to fit into a purse or backpack, making it perfect for travel. This is the best mini sewing machine because you don’t need to buy extra accessories like thread, bobbin, etc. Also, it doesn’t take up much space since it folds flat.

The table extender makes it easy to use while standing, sitting, or lying down. You can even use it as a lap desk.

Features:

• Easy to carry around
• Small size
• Foldable design
• Portable sewing machine

Best Small Sewing Machines – Conclusion

We’ve reviewed many different brands and models throughout our sewing machine review roundup, so we know what works well and what doesn’t. We’re here to help you make intelligent decisions about your next purchase.

In our final installment, we’ll look at some of the best small sewing machines under $500. There are several factors to consider when shopping for a portable device, including portability, size, features, price, ease of use, durability, and quality.