What Is a Good Cheap Sewing Machine to Buy?

Shopping for a sewing machine that has the features you need for your sewing projects but is also affordable? The good thing is you don’t have to break the bank to get a quality sewing machine that is reliable and durable!

For most applications, all you need is a basic, sturdy machine. Before you start shopping for a cheap sewing machine, start with a list of quality brand names to look for. Reputable brands such as Brother, Pfaff, Janome, Juki and Bernette manufacture lower-end models that are just as dependable as their high-end machines.

Many of these brands also offer smaller or mini machines, which are often cheaper than their standard-sized machines but have similar quality construction and engineering. We’ve compiled a list of our top three picks of sewing machines that are cheap in price yet well made to get you started in your search for the perfect machine within your budget!

Best All-Around Affordable Machine: Brother ST371HD

The Brother ST371HDis a solid, inexpensive mechanical sewing machine that is perfect for beginners. What stands out most about this machine is its versatility. Beginner sewers will find it easy to learn, but it still has enough features to let you expand on your sewing skills.

It’s also a great all-around machine that can handle most types of fabric and offers 12 stitches and an automatic needle threader! The Brother ST371HD also has a free arm capability to make sewing cuffs, armholes and other small areas a breeze.

Pros

• Several stitch options
• Includes lots of features that aren’t usually available in more affordable machines
• Easy to find information specific to the machine to help with troubleshooting
• Comes with a good range of accessories: specialty feet, an extension table and more

Cons

• The needle threader can be hard to get started without prior sewing experience

Best Mechanical Machine: Singer HD6380

Mechanical sewing machines don’t have all the fancy technology of a computerized machine, but they are less expensive and are often more powerful and durable. Instead of changing your stitch settings with buttons and touchscreens, you adjust a mechanical sewing machine with dials. You also won’t have the option to sew only by pressing buttons using a mechanical machine since the foot pedal is the only option.

If you’re planning on sewing lots of thick fabrics or putting a lot of sewing time on your machine, a mechanical machine may be the way to go. They tend to handle thick fabrics better and hold up to heavy use. Heavy duty mechanical machines also often have higher stitch speeds and more powerful motors than their computerized counterparts, making them a great option if you have a sewing business that requires you to sew quickly for many hours.

The Singer HD 6380 heavy duty machine is a great cheap mechanical sewing machine with the quality of the Singer brand backing it. It has quite a few stitch options, a free arm and comes with a small selection of different presser feet.

Pros

• Very durable machine that can power through thick fabrics like denim and leather easily
• Fast stitch speed of 1100 stitches per minute
• Good range of stitch options and all the features needed for most sewing projects

Cons

• No light attached to the machine, so an external light source will be needed
• The machine is small, so large projects might be a challenge

Most Affordable Sewing Machine: Bernette Sew and Go 1

If you’re looking for a sturdy but lightweight machine that you can take on the road or to sewing class, then the Bernette Sew and Go 1 might be just what you’re looking for! It’s also an excellent option if your price point is under $200.

The Bernette Sew and Go 1 is ideal for the beginner sewer with enough basic features to get started on your new hobby and sewing project. This machine features 10 stitches, a four-step buttonhole and a needle threader. If you’re looking for a quality machine that’s affordable and easy to use, then the Bernette Sew and Go 1 may be the right machine for you!

Pros

• Straightforward and easy to use
• Affordable

Cons

• Limited stitch options
• Slower speed
• No built-in light

Ready to start shopping for your new sewing machine? You can find all these machines and hundreds more at the best prices on Premier Stitching! They also come with generous manufacturer’s warranties on parts and labor to protect the life of your machine. Happy sewing!