Top 20 Best Sewing Machines For Making Clothes Reviews

Making custom clothes has become a very popular trend over the years. It is the perfect way to express your creativity and make some extra bucks. However, in order to make that unique purse, you imagined or add a personal touch to your bedroom with custom curtains, you will need a decent sewing machine.

With the right sewing machine, you will be able to create just anything. However, with so many models on the market today, you might be wondering: how to pick the best sewing machine for making clothes?

Buckle up! We have sorted out our top choices for you. But firstly, let’s learn something more about the important features you should look for when buying a machine, review the main types and see the cost.

The Benefits

No matter if you are a new sewer eager to learn how to sew, the intermediate user looking to improve skills or a professional searching for an upgrade, investing in a good sewing machine comes with dozens of benefits. However, this all depends on your skill level, budget, and most importantly, love for sewing.

If you love to sew, a good sewing machine can make your every sewing dream come true and boost your creativity. However, if you love to quilt, a quality embroidery machine will provide fast work while giving you hand-stitched embroidery results. A regular machine will allow you to make hems, collars, and cuffs.

Another benefit of owning a sewing machine is the ability to make custom fashions – something that has become a hot trend in the clothing industry. You can open a home-based sewing business and express your creativity while making some extra money on the side. Or turn your fun hobby into a full-time job.

A sewing machine allows you to make blankets, baby and children’s clothing, Christmas craft, bags, and curtains in the comfort of your home. Owning a sewing machine has no disadvantages, only benefits but in order to pick the right one, you should pay attention to the features we have mentioned right before.

Also, pay attention to the price. A quality cloth sewing machine should not break your bank account but still provide the necessary features to help you complete the basic projects you have in mind. However, if you are searching for the best sewing machine for advanced users, get prepared to pay a higher price.

What Are The Best Sewing Machine for Making Clothes?

If you have the right sewing unit by your side, the sky is your limit when it comes to custom garments. It will help you express your creativity and earn some money on the side. Let’s throw a glimpse at some of the best models on the market and select the one that will help you add a personal touch to your creations.

• Best Overall: Brother SE400 Sewing & Embroidery Machine
  “Intuitive LCD display, 4×4 embroidery field, 67 stitches, 70 designs, and 5 lettering fonts, affordable.”
• Best For Beginner: Brother CS6000i Sewing Machine
  “Perfect for beginners, quilting, portable, adjustable speed control, a popular model, 60 stitches, LCD screen.”
• Best for Seamstress: SINGER 7258 Sewing Machine
  “Computerized, embroidery, impressive, quiet operation, a lot of free accessories, modern features, stitch selector, user-friendly.”
• Best for Fashion Design Student: SINGER 9960 Sewing Machine
  “Computerized, quilting, embroidery, impressive stitch quality, 600 built-in stitches, free accessories, 850 SPM, professional-looking results.”
• Best for Making Shirts: SINGER Heavy Duty 4432 Sewing Machine
  “Great customer support, affordable, for leather, reliable, a heavy-duty sewing unit for serious sewers, 32 stitches.”
• Best Sewing & Embroidery: Brother SE600 Sewing & Embroidery Machine
  “Convenient, super versatile, simple to use, enhanced features, a built-in USB port, 103 built-in stitches.”
• Best Budget: SINGER Tradition 2259 Sewing Machine
  “Stable, versatile, high presser foot lifter for sewing thick fabrics, adjustable settings, easy threading.”
• Best for Tailoring Clothes: Juki HZL-F600 Sewing Machine
  “Box feed technology, computerized lightweight, leather, quilting, advanced unit for intermediate users and pros, free-motion sewing.”
• Best for Making Children’s Clothes: Brother CE7070PRW Sewing Machine
  “Professional-looking results, high-quality stitching, reliable, stable, portable, consistent stitch quality.”
• Best for Quilting: Juki TL-2010Q Sewing Machine
  “Longarm quilting machine, perfect for free-motion sewing, robust aluminum frame, modern features.”
• Best Brother: Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine
  “Perfect for basic projects, compact, a great deal for the price, 800 SPM, jam-resistant, great lighting.”
• Best Singer: SINGER 4423 Sewing Machine
  “User-friendly works well with light and heavy fabrics, professional-looking results, well-made, cheap.”
• Best Janome: Janome DC5100 Sewing Machine
  “Automatic presser tension, quiet DC motor, impressive stitching, hardcover, programmable memory.”
• Best Computerized: Janome DC2014 Sewing Machine
  “Adjustable settings, super versatile, advanced, a top-loading bobbin, 50 stitches, high presser foot lift.”
• Best Mechanical: Janome Magnolia 7318 Sewing Machine
  “Works well with different feet, visible bobbin, compact, stable, portable, user-friendly, free accessories.”
• Best Mini: Brother Jx2517 Sewing Machine
  “Automatic bobbin winding system, portable, a lot of accessories, a bright LED workspace, a free arm.”

Best Sewing Machine For Making Clothes 2020: Comparison Chart

Choosing the best product that will meet your sewing needs and skill level can be hard considering the many brands on the market. But we have sorted out and compared their best products for you below.

Make sure to consider the basic features of the machine you like before you make your final purchase.

20 Best Sewing Machine For Making Clothes 2020

First and foremost, you should pay attention to the bobbin when choosing the best sewing machine for making clothes. Everything from threading the needle to thread tension hides in this single small spool.

Search for options that provide a fast application of bobbin and pulling thread through the needle so you can begin asap. For machines that require a custom bobbin, search for automatic winding features – independent of the sewing mechanism. A quality sewing machine has front-facing eyes for the needles.

They allow easy threading and save time on threading the needle from the side, while desperately trying to fit your fingers into a tiny area. Quality sewing machines are not too light. However, they are not too heavy as well. A good cloth designing sewing machine is supposed to weight enough to provide stability.

Now: let’s learn everything you need to know about the 20 best cloth sewing machines worth your time and money in 2020. Review their pros and cons before you make up your mind and make a purchase.

 Brother CS6000i Sewing Machine

A popular sewing machine for making clothes that will blow your mind is the Brother Cs6000i sewing machine for people who want to learn the craft. If you are a beginner, it will help you boost your skills. It comes with 60 built-in stitches and lots of other extra features that will come in handy for every newbie.

Some of those features and accessories include an extra table, quick-set, and jam-proof bobbin, stop and start button and reverse stitch, LCD screen, stitch selection buttons, automatic needle threader and so much more! However, just like any other machine, it has flaws. Now: let’s review the pros and cons.

Brother CS7000i Sewing Machine

Brother CS7000i has all you need for sewing clothing at a good price. It is ideal for the home seamstress, for someone who sews occasionally and makes clothes from time to time. The latest upgrade of Brother CS6000i is going to make the perfect buttonholes and sew with great ease through four layers of denim.

It comes with 70 built-in stitches, 10 sewing and quilting feet, automatic needle threader and adjustable sewing speed, a printed quick-start guide, and bilingual instructions manual, and a jam-resistant quick-set drop-in top bobbin. You will get this unit with a hard case with a wide table that is perfect for making clothes. However, make sure to check out the main pros and cons before you make your final purchase.

SINGER 7258 Sewing Machine

Do you enjoy quilting or making clothes occasionally? If yes, we have the best sewing machine that will assist you in the process and help you create masterpieces! It is the Singer 7258 100 stitch machine. It is cheap and brings lots of accessories along. No wonder it is so famous and wanted in the sewing world.

Among those modern features and accessories, you will find an automatic needle threader, automatic locking straight stitch option, automatic tension dial, automatic bobbin winder, up/down needle button, start/stop button, drop-in bobbin with clear cover, 7 automatic buttonholes, stitch selector and more.

No matter if you are looking for the best sewing machines for newbies or the best sewing machine for menswear, the Singer 7258 100-stitch machine is the perfect choice for you that you will never regret.

SINGER 9960 Sewing Machine

Next on our list of machines for making clothes reviews is the popular Singer 9960 Quantum Stylist. It is easy to use, however, it is not the best sewing machine for seamstress on the market.

Beginners will find this baby overwhelming but mid-range sewers and advanced users will definitely adore this workhorse.

It comes with 600 built-in stitches and various features and accessories that you will find very useful. It is an incredible sewing machine and one of the best sewing machines for home that provides professional-looking results! It sews up to 850 stitches per minute and comes with different feet and free accessories.

SINGER 4423 Sewing Machine

If you are new to the sewing world, you have probably never heard of Singer Heavy Duty 4423. But those who have experience will tell you that this is one of the best heavy-duty sewing machines on the market right now. It is a mechanical model that comes with lots of features and accessories you will find useful.

It has 23 built-in stitches that will help you finish different types of projects. The maximum sewing speed of 1,100 stitches per minute is what makes this model scary for beginners. And yes, the powerful motor of this workhorse might be a bit too much for some, especially for newbies, but advanced users adore it.

It is the best sewing machine for advanced sewers that will boost their creativity and bring out the best of them. However, just like any other machine, this too has pros and cons. Now: let’s check them out.

Janome Magnolia 7318 Sewing Machine

One model that we always mentioning in sewing machines reviews is the Janome Magnolia 7318 – a mechanical sewing machine with a decent number of built-in stitches (18) and four-step buttonhole.

It is very easy to use, meaning it is perfect for beginners! However, it is not the best choice for advanced and intermediate users. But if you are new to the sewing world, it has everything to help you get started and keep your creative juices flowing! You will get 7318 with free accessories and an instruction manual.

SINGER 4432 Sewing Machine

Another model by Singer that is worth mentioning and worth your money is the popular Singer Sewing 4432 Heavy Duty made for serious users. It sews through multi-layered materials with ease.

And you will absolutely adore this sewing machine because of the affordability. It is a great deal for the price you pay.

We are talking about a mechanical sewing machine with a great selection of extra accessories, speed of 1,100 stitches per minute, and 32 built-in stitches that will help you realize any creative project in mind.

Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine

If you are searching for the perfect versatile free arm sewing machine, Brother XM2701 should be first on your list. It has 27 unique built-in stitches including zigzag, blind hem, decorative and stretch stitches among others. It is just perfect for basic sewing projects and suitable for beginners and professionals.

The maximum sewing speed of this model is 800 stitches per minute and you will get six quick changing sewing feet with your purchase. This sewing machine is jam-resistant and has great lighting. You also get 27 stitches, 63 stitch functions, bilingual user manual, instructional DVD, and a 25-year limited warranty.

No matter if you want a mini sewing machine for making clothes or want to find the best cheap sewing machine for making clothes, the Brother XM2791 sewing machine is the machine you should buy today.

SINGER Tradition 2259 Sewing Machine

Singer makes no bad machines and Tradition 2259 is one of their best products. It is a portable machine with 19 built-in stitches including 4-step buttonhole, a heavy-duty metal frame that will make sewing a lot more fun and easy. And a high presser foot lifter that allows you to complete heavy-duty projects.

It is capable of sewing multiple layers of stubborn materials at one without any issue. Tradition 2259 has quick and easy threading and adjustable stitch length and width which gives you complete control over your sewing. A free arm sewing machine that will allow you to make the best collars, cuffs, and sleeves.

Brother SE400 Sewing Embroidery Machine

Whatever sewing dream you have, Brother SE400 Computerized Sewing and 4×4 Embroidery machine can help you achieve it. It’s great for embroidery, sewing and quilting thanks to the comprehensive functions and 4×4 embroidery capabilities.

It has an LCD display that’s super easy to use with 67 amazing sewing stitches, 70 built-in designed and 5 lettering fonts. Just connect it to the internet and import thousands of designs. Also, you can download updates online if necessary. It has a one-touch automatic thread cutter to cut your top or bobbin thread.

Brother CE7070PRW Sewing Machine

If you have not heard of the Project Runway sewing line by Brother, you are probably new in the sewing world. Today, we will review one of their best products from this line – the CE7070PRW sewing machine which has 70 built-in stitches that will allow you to complete any sewing project that you have in mind.

It provides consistent stitch quality and will impress you at first use! One of the best sewing machines in the market that will make you proud of your creations. If you order this workhorse, you will get a quality sewing machine to sew clothes super easy and lots of extra accessories that you will find of great use.

Juki HZL-F600 Sewing Machine

Another product that’s totally worth your time and money is the Juki HZL-F600 sewing machine. Made of lightweight material and thing weight material, this is one of the best quilting and sewing machines on the market today.

It arrives with an extended sewing table that’s perfect for quilting and larger projects. Plus, it offers free motion sewing. Don’t hesitate to buy this one because it is worth the price. If you’re a beginner, do not worry because, with this baby, you will learn how to sew like a pro in no time.

Brother SE600 Sewing Embroidery Machine

Next on our list of best Brother sewing machines that is definitely worth your money and attention – the Brother SE600. It is the perfect sewing and embroidery machine for those looking for an upgrade of their current machine. It features a large color touchscreen and 4 x 4 embroidery field and other accessories.

If you are looking for the perfect embroidery machine with enhanced features, this is the one. You will get change/preview thread colors, place lettering on arcs, move designs on your screen and much more.

You can even insert your own embroidery designs thanks to the built-in USB port and complete all your sewing projects with the 103 built-in stitches. Now: let’s review the main pros and cons of this machine.

Janome DC5100 Sewing Machine

In case you want to upgrade your basic machine, we have the perfect substitute for you – the Janome DC5100. It comes with some pretty impressive features that will blow you away. Janome DC5100 is the sweetest computerized machine that you will absolutely adore. It is well-designed and user-friendly.

The built-in needle threader, one-step buttonhole, a horizontally loaded bobbin with transparent cover and snap-on presser feet are just a few of the impressive features of this sewing workhorse. It also has a quiet DC motor, adjustable speed controls, 167 built-in stitches, 215 stitch functions, and 820 SPM rate.

You will get five one-step buttonholes, programmable memory, jam-proof magnetic drop-in horizontal loading bobbin, thread cutter, auto-lock button for security, a large selection of feet, and easy drop feed switch for free motion sewing and more. Let’s review the pros/ cons and see if this is the model for you.

Brother 1034D Serger

If you are looking for a high tech sewing machine that will give charm to your beautiful crafts, Brother 1034D 3/3 thread serger may be the perfect model for you! If you have been sewing for some time now, you know that how the edges of your crafts look matters! It determines if your crafts look good or not!

With Brother 1034D you will not have to worry about edges anymore! This serger with differential feet is specialized in cutting edges the right way and delivers professional-looking results at home. It features 22 built-in stitches, 4-thread overlock, and 3-thread overlock. It can sew up to 1,300 stitches per minute.

You will get this baby with lots of accessories including a multi-purpose guide foot, foot controller, four spool nets, gathering foot, accessory bag, needle set, tweezers, cleaning brush cover, and much more!

Janome 8077 Sewing Machine

If you want to sew with confidence, the Janome 8077 computerized machine is the perfect choice for you. It arrives with a purple tote, but the color may vary. Are you creative with a lot of sewing ideas?

Do you want to sew different types of fabrics with ease? If yes, this is the right sewing machine for you. One of the best-computerized sewing and embroidery machines for both newbies and advanced users.

No matter if you are looking for a sewing machine for making baby clothes, or a sewing machine to sew clothes, in general, the Janome 8077 computerized sewing machine is the model you should buy today.

Brother HC1850 Sewing Machine

If you’re looking for the perfect machine for both quilting and sewing, look no more because you found it. It’s an original multipurpose quilting and sewing machine that you does not require particular skills to use it. It’s simple and very easy to use for beginners too. It has 130 built-in stitches.

Brother HC1850 includes eight styles of one-step auto-size buttonholes and various decorative stitches. It comes with a big work area for heavy-duty projects, spring action quilting foot and the ability for free-motion quilting.

You get different accessories with it like a zigzag foot, monogramming foot, and quilting foot. Plus, you will get a 25-year warranty and tech support for life in case something goes wrong with your machine.

Janome DC2014 Sewing Machine

If you are looking for something cheap, this is NOT the sewing machine for you because Janome DC2014 is quite expensive. However, it is definitely worth the price. We are talking about a computerized costly sewing workhorse that will help you realize your every sewing dream. In fact, it sews like a dream itself.

If you are an intermediate or advanced user, this is the machine for you but we do not recommend this model to beginners unless they are truly committed to the craft and have enough patience to learn how to use this advanced machine. It has 50 built-in stitches, a top-loading bobbin, and high presser foot lift.

You will also get a lot of accessories including specialized bobbin, blind hem foot, automatic buttonhole foot, convertible even feed foot, overedge foot, satin stitch foot, zipper foot, automatic declutch bobbin winder and more. However, just like any other machine, this too has its downfalls. Let’s check them out.

Juki TL-2010Q Sewing Machine

Another product that definitely deserves your attention if you are looking for a great heavy duty sewing machine is Juki TL-2010Q – one of the most popular sewing machines on the market! It provides modern features + professional-looking results. It also has a robust aluminum frame. Meaning, it is built to last!

It features an extra high presser foot lift, adjustable pressure foot control, an expansive workspace for larger projects such as quilts, knee lift lever, adjustable stitch length, and manual thread control. What more could you ask for in a heavy duty sewing machine? Oh, and I sews up to 1,500 stitches per minute.

However, just like any other sewing machine on the market, Juki TL-2010 has flaws and imperfections. Let’s check the pros and cons and decide if this is the heavy duty sewing machine that you should buy.

Brother Jx2517 Sewing Machine

If you want a simple but effective sewing machine the Brother Jx2517 is the best sewing machine for tailoring clothes. It is both lightweight and portable. However, it still brings out the perfect weight to provide stability and sturdiness. It features 17 built-in stitches including automatic 4-step buttonholer.

It also has a bright LED workspace, free arm for sewing sleeves and cuffs. And an easy automatic bobbin winding system. You will get to enjoy a maximum sewing speed of 900 stitches per minute and included accessories such as darning plate, accessory feet, oval screwdriver, needle set, bobbin and much more.

Types of Machine for Making Clothes

Several types of sewing machines exist. In order to pick the best model for you, ask yourself: what do I need a cloth sewing machine for? Are you new to the craft and look for the best home sewing machine for garments? Or you want a sewing machine for making doll clothes for teaching your kids how to sew?

Once you have your priorities sorted out, check out the main types of sewing machines. Choosing a good machine for making clothes is not that hard if you have specific needs and personal preferences.

Manual Sewing Machines

This is the basic type of sewing machines that can operate with the use of a foot pedal or automatically. Most manual sewing machines come with dozen built-in stitches, so you can easily customize garments.

Automatic Sewing Machines

This type of machines works in the same way as manual does, however, they are fully automated. You will not have to worry about the thread tension. And you can stitch on autopilot if that is what you want with a modern automatic sewing machine. This type is great for both beginners and intermediate users.

Computerized Sewing Machines

Usually, computerized sewing machines come with more built-in stitches than other, sometimes up to 600 various options. If you buy a computerized sewing machine, you will be able to connect your sewing machine to your computer. This allows you to download new stitching patterns and firmware updates.

If you decide to buy a computerized machine, keep in mind that the best sewing machines have a USB port and one-touch stitch selection feature. Interested in this type? Check our comparison chart below.

Embroidery Sewing Machines

If you want to make intricate patterns, you will need a good embroidery machine. This type of machine has monogramming functions. Embroidery sewing machines are mostly used for joining quilting squares and other customized sewing items together. Check out our best embroidery sewing machines reviews.

Overlocker

Often referred to as a “Serger”, an overlocker is a function used to make hems by trimming the material and sewing the hem at the same time. However, if you are just a beginner searching for the best sewing machine for beginners making clothes or cloth sewing machine, you do not need this particular feature.

Is mostly used for commercially designed garments. Yes, it is useful, however, not necessary if you want to complete simple sewing projects. The overlocker feature is extremely useful for working with knitted, stretchy and other stubborn or tricky clothing fabrics. It gives the garment a professional-looking finish.

What Features To Look For In A Sewing Machine For Making Clothes?

If you want to buy the right sewing machine for making clothes, consider the most important features of best sewing machines for tailoring clothes. Keep the features in mind when you start shopping for one.

Abilities

When buying a cloth making machine, you should also consider your abilities. In simpler words, pick a sewing machine that matches your level of expertise and skill level. For example, if you are an expert who has been dealing with sewing for a very long time, you should probably buy an advanced model.

If you are a beginner, on the other hand, review entry-level sewing machines. If you want to turn sewing into your full-time job and open a home-based business, pick a simple model with the ability to upgrade.

This way, you will get something simple and easy to use while you learn how to sew like a professional. And give your sewing machine a chance to grow together with your skills. Are you an intermediate user?

If yes, and you are eager to become even better and reach a professional level, challenge yourself with an advanced model but not too advanced. Begin with something that is still simple to use while offering a lot of sewing options. If you buy a model with greater abilities than yours, you will end up frustrated.

Type

Are you interested in a computerized sewing machine? Or mechanical? Most modern sewing machines are electronic these days. However, the cheaper, simple sewing machines are mechanical.

Although we said that computerized machines are great for beginners, they might be overwhelming for some users.

It is true that computerized sewing machines offer a wide variety of functions and features including a large digital display. But we sincerely recommend that you start off with a simple mechanical machine and look for an upgrade later. The mechanical machines are affordable and offer basic sewing features.

They have everything you need to get started. However, it depends on your personal preferences what type of sewing machine will you buy. Just make sure that the machine you are interested in has zig zags, straight stitches, and buttonholes since they are the stitches you will be using the most at the beginning.

Portability

Do you have a dedicated spot for a sewing machine? If not, you should buy a lighter sewing machine. So, portability should be first on your priority list. You should be able to easily put away your machine when you are done sewing if you do not have a dedicated spot, so search for a compact, lightweight machine.

If you already know where to accommodate your machine, do not focus on the portability. The ability to move your sewing machine while changing home or redesigning your sewing space with ease – matters. But it is not a determining feature if you want an advanced model (weighs more than regular machines).

Stitches

Different sewing machines come with different numbers of built-in or pre-set stitches. However, most of the basic models offer 6 – 20 sewing stitches, while advanced machines come with hundreds of stitches.

If you want to complete sewing projects that require all types of nifty decorative stitches, you should buy a sewing machine with advanced stitching options. Advanced sewing machines can handle heavier fabrics better than entry-level sewing machines. However, if you are a beginner, the simpler, the better.

Construction

Always look for a cloth sewing machine with overall metal construction. Metal parts and metal body with a plastic covering case is the perfect combination. These types of machines last longer.

Also, metal machines are more durable than plastic ones and operate better during frequent use with heavy fabrics.

Not that there’s not a single good plastic sewing machine on the market, it is just that plastic body does not provide the same stability and sturdiness as metal ones. If you do not have advanced skills, purchase a plastic machine with some metal parts. However, if you are an expert, invest in a high-end machine.

Adjustable Speed Settings

The ability to control the speed matters in a sewing machine for cloth making. If you are a novice sewer, adjustable speed controls will make your life easier and keep you excited about sewing. You will be able to speed up and slow down the stitch speed as you wish. So, look for a machine with adjustable speeds.

Buttonhole Capability

Next important feature you should consider when buying a sewing machine for suit making, clothes, and other garments is the buttonhole capability. If you are repairing or sewing clothing, purchasing a sewing machine with 1-step buttonhole will come in handy. The 1-step buttonhole feature is suitable for novice sewers and advanced users as well. Advanced sewers should pay special attention to this useful feature.

Needle Position

Positioning your needle while sewing is important, especially if you are sewing on zippers, topstitching or hemming. Buy a machine with multiple needle positions which can make complicated projects easy.

Warranty

Most sewing machines come with a warranty, especially those from popular brands such as Juki, Singer, Brother, Husqvarna Viking, Janome, Bernina and others. They usually have 20 to 25-year limited warranty. Other less known brands offer 1-year for the labor and 2-year on parts. Before you invest in a high-end sewing machine, pay special attention to the warranty. If it is not specified, ask the seller before you purchase.

FAQ

Final Verdict

Choosing the best sewing machine for making clothes matters, so you get a machine that matches your needs and skills. Buying a complicated model will discourage you and make you lose interest in the craft.

Check our comparison chart for recommendations and pick the one that matches your needs and skills.

If you want an entry-level sewing machine, buy our best choice for beginners. If you are on a budget but still wish for a machine with advanced features, consider our budger’s pick or the best value for money.

No matter which one you choose, make sure that you are buying something worth your investment and something that will keep you excited about sewing. Feeling comfortable with your pick matter the most.