Sewing attractive window treatments is both challenging and rewarding. It requires a sewing machine with the necessary features and capabilities to sew materials of very different types, weights and degrees of thickness.
I always get a lot of questions about how to choose the best sewing machine for this project so I decided to write this review. I have reviewed 10 models here and this is a very long post so you can just right jump in to the comparison table to see the summary of features of each model.
Topics Discussed
Window Treatments: Tips and Tricks
Producing quality curtains to enhance windows and accessorize a room’s overall deçor requires;
- the skill of producing smooth, even stitching on fabrics of many varied textures and weaves
- the skill to sew smoothly with different thread types and weights.
1. If you are creating sheer, flowing curtains of lace-bordered ivory silk for floor-to-ceiling windows in your living room, you will be sewing with regular weight silk thread.
2. However, if you are designing drapery of natural linen, heavy-weave cotton or silk brocade, you will need to stitch them using thicker cotton or silk thread.
3. When stitching patterned damask, rough-woven cotton or hemp window-border curtains and window valances for your entertainment center and game room, thicker cotton or synthetic threads are best.
4. If you are feeling especially creative, you can use your artistic talents to make colorful canvas roll-up shades with popular theme appliqués and fringed borders for the children’s playroom.
5. To soften the direct afternoon rays in the sunroom, you may decide to sew decorative hanger strips for your balsa wood window blinds to complement the garden theme lounge chair upholstery. For this project, you need thick, sturdy cotton or synthetic thread.
Fortunately, there are advanced, state-of-the-art sewing machines on the consumer market to handle all of these and more sewing projects, enabling you to produce attractive window treatments of excellent quality.
When sewing on the right machine for window treatments, you can achieve your creative goals without wanting to pull your hair out in the process. You can make beautiful curtains, drapes, valances, shades or blinds that brighten and enhance your home’s interiors and ambiance.
Best Sewing Machine: How To Choose?
For your curtains and drapes DIY projects, involving materials and treads of many varied weights and textures, you need a sewing machine with diverse features and capabilities.
Major features and functions that are important to sewing window treatments include:
1. Adjustable Speed- Facilitates smooth, regular stitching on long sections of fabric.
2. Adjustable Stitch Length and Width. – Enables smooth stitching when sewing fabrics of varied thickness together.
3. Variety of Presser Feet. – Essential for sewing on fabrics of different weights or a fabric with uneven textures.
4. Different Stitches. – Necessary for sewing on diverse fabric types and weights or for different decorative and reinforcement stitching.
5. Automatic Needle Threading. – Very helpful for threading very fine or heavy duty threads for sewing.
6. Automatic Thread Cutter. – Convenient time-saver when sewing large pieces of fabric and cutting heavy weight threads.
7. Automatic Tension Control. – Truly a sewer’s lifesaving feature when stitching fabrics of different weights and textures together or sewing on a fabric with uneven textures.
8. Free Arm and Extension Table. – Both offer a real advantage for maneuvering large-size fabric pieces and when sewing seams or borders on large stretches of material.
9. High Stitch Counts Per Minute. – Helpful when sewing on long pieces of fabric, although high speed sewing is not necessary for sewing window treatments.
Best Sewing Machine for Curtains and Pillows: My Top Ten Picks!
The top-rated sewing machines for window treatments available today are the following brands and models.
My personal favorite is the Brother Project Runway PC 420 PRW.
Brother Project Runway PC 420 PRW
The Brother PC 420 PRW Limited Edition Project Runway is an advanced model machine currently popular with sewing enthusiasts with beginning to accomplished skill levels.
This advanced, computerized machine includes a quality selection of 11 separate presser feet for sewing with varied fabrics and threads of different types, weights and thickness.
It also offers seven diverse one-step buttonhole styles, auto thread tension and a free arm design. As another great feature for sewing on fabrics of many varied weights and thicknesses is its capability to produce 294 different stitches.
This machine rates highest for sewing curtains and drapes, including all the necessary features and functions for this type of sewing project, as mentioned above. Its extensive number of stitch types (294) support sewing on myriad kinds and weights of material.
Also, although its touch-button, computerized system is not a necessity for sewing curtains, drapes, decorative shades or window blind hangers, it can be of great help, enabling the sewer to concentrate mainly on the art and craft of sewing.
Features and Functions
- 850 Stitches Per Minute
- Foot Controller
- 294 Different Stitches
- Auto Needle Threading
- Auto Thread Tension
- Extension Table
- Free Arm
- Seven 1-Step Buttonhole Styles
- 11 Included Presser Feet
- Knee Lifter
- Adjustable Length and Width
- LCD Display
- Automatic Thread Cutter
- Embroidery Feature
- Adjustable Speed
- Ability Level: Novice – Advanced
- Weight: 26 lbs
- Computerized
Janome HD1000 Heavy-Duty
The Janome HD1000 sewing machine offers many useful features and functions often only available on more expensive models.
With its sturdy aluminum body construction, 14 practical-use stitches and built-in needle threading capability, this Janome machine is a wise choice for sewers working on projects that require a wide variety of fabrics and threads.
Its versatile functions and features equip this machine to provide consistent and reliable stitching performance on materials of all types, adapting easily to variations in fabric thickness and weight.
This machine is sturdy and reliable, with smooth quality stitching, making it a good model for sewing with heavy fabrics and threads. However, it lacks the variety of stitch types and auto tension control that are helpful for window treatment sewing.
Although it has a free arm, this model does not come with an extension table. It also does not feature accelerated stitching and is not computerized.
Features and Functions
- 14 stitches and one 4-step buttonhole
- Three-piece feed dog
- Built-in Auto Needle Threader
- Extra-High Presser Foot Lift
- Drop Feed
- Free Arm
- Full Rotary Hook Bobbin System with Horizontal Design
- Manual Thread Tension Control of Lay-In Style
- Maximum Stitch Length of 4 mm
- Push-Pull Bobbin Winding
- Snap-On Presser Feet
- Reverse Stitch Lever
- Stitch Selection Dial
- Dust Cover Included
- Weight: 15 lbs
Brother CS6000i Feature-Rich Sewing Machine
Exhibiting the latest technical advancements, the Brother CS6000i sewing machine is feature-rich and compact, weighing 13 lbs. It offers a sewing speed of 850 stitches per minute and seven 1-step buttonhole features.
This machine also provides adjustable speed, embroidery features and completely computerized functionality. As an excellent choice for sewist from novice level to the highly proficient, this machine is a favorite among sewing teachers and fashion designers who travel since it is lightweight and easy to carry.
This Brother model is also a very cost-efficient machine for all the features it offers.
This model does not, however, offer adjustable length and width of stitches.
Even though it’s computerized, it’s automatic thread cutters are manual. It does support the high speed sewing of 850 stitches per minute, which is helpful when sewing large pieces of fabric. As far as I am concerned, this is the best sewing machine for beginners.
Features and Functions
- 850 Stitches Per Minute
- Foot Controller
- 60 Stitches
- Auto Needle Threading
- Auto Thread Tension Dial
- Extension Table
- Free Arm
- Seven 1-Step Buttonhole Styles
- Seven Included Presser Feet
- Knee Lifter
- LCD Display
- Two Manual Automatic Thread Cutters
- Embroidery
- Adjustable Speed
- Ability Level: Novice – Advanced
- Weight: 13 lbs
- Computerized
Singer 4423 Heavy Duty Model
When you purchase the Singer 4423 Heavy Duty sewing machine, you will have a high-functioning, dependable workhorse to power all your sewing projects.
This machine has a heavy-duty, metal interior frame design. It also offers a high-power motor to support highest sewing speeds and has a stainless steel bedplate.
Speed capacity for this Singer model is 1,100 stitches per minute, and with this machine you can sew with almost any weight fabric. The automatic needle threader is also very helpful, especially when using heavier threads of varying thickness.
This machine is not computerized and lacks an automatic thread cutter. It also does not include a variety of presser feet or an extension table.
However, for sewist who plan to work on large-size fabrics, the accelerated stitching speed of 1,100 stitches per minute can be an advantage.
Features and Functions
- 1,100 Stitches Per MInute
- Automatic Needle Threader
- 23 Built-In Stitches
- Stitch Width of 5 mm
- Top Position Bobbin Drop-In with Clear View Cover
- Drop Feed
- Automatic 1-Step Buttonhole
- Stainless Steel Bedplate
- Adjustable Tension Settings
- Three Needle Positions
- Free Arm with Storage
- Heavy-Duty Metal Frame
- Extra-High Lifter for Presser Foot
- Pressure Control for Automatic Presser Foot
- Auto-Bobbin-Winding Clutch
- Compact, Portable and Suitable for Cabinet Mount
- Weight: 14.5 lbs
Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter Computerized
An ideal sewing machine for both novice and advanced quilters, the Singer 7469Q Confidence Quilter includes updated technology to simplify and enhance your sewing and quilting experience.
One great advantage offered by this model is the programmable needle position feature. This option enables users to select the up or down needle stop position, which is extremely helpful when appliquéing, quilting or sewing on heavy curtain or drapery materials.
Its four bonus quilting feet are also of great help when stitching heavy-duty, thick fabrics with weighty threads. This machine’s spacious sewing surface enables you to sew large pieces of fabric easily.
The push-button stitch selector is a handy time-saver, and the electronic twin needle control allows sewing two parallel rows of stitching for reinforcement of seams on thick fabrics or when creating decorative borders.
Although this machine lacks an auto thread cutting feature and a free arm, its selection of 98 built-in stitches can be of great benefit when creating fashionable window treatments. Its collection of diverse presser feet is useful for sewing with varied fabric and thread weights.
In addition, the stitch-lock and auto back-tack functions ensure smooth, regular stitching and reinforced end stitches.
Features and Functions
- 98 Built-in Stitches
- Seven Automatic 1-Step Buttonholes
- Special Purpose Satin Decorative Sewing Pressure Foot
- One-Step Buttonhole Foot
- Embroidery Foot
- Multi-Size Quilter’s Extension Table
- Electronic Twin Needle Control
- Push-Button Stitch Selector
- Stitch-Lock and Automatic Back-Tack Functions
- Automatic Tension
- Six-Segment Feed Dogs with Box Feed
- Ultra-High Presser Foot Lifter
- Center Zigzag Taper
- 7 mm Stitch Width
- Automatic Presser Foot Pressure
- Auto-Bobbin-Winder Clutch
- Electronic Stitch Formation
- 13 Separate Needle Positions
- Weight: 14.5 lbs
Janome Computerized Sewing Machine DC2013
The Janome DC2013 is a versatile sewing machine designed for sewers of the intermediate to advanced ability levels.
It is a fully computerized machine offering such fine quality capabilities as auto needle threading and thread tension. These are both great benefits as time savers for moderate to heavy sewers.
Additional useful features offered by this modern machine are its updated variable speed function and the finely-tuned adjustable length and width feature. For sewing varied fabric types, this Janome model has 50 separate stitches to meet many varied sewing project specifications.
The DC2013 provides 860 stitches per minute, and is fully computerized and weighs 22.2 lbs. This machine is computerized and includes all the basic recommended features and functions for successful window treatment sewing of many different materials.
However, it does not have the power, variety of features and great versatility of sewing performance offered by my number one choice- Brother PC420 PRW.
Features and Functions
- 860 Stitches Per Minute
- Foot Controller
- 50 Stitches
- Auto Needle Threading
- Auto Thread Tension
- Extension Table
- Free Arm
- Three 1-Step Buttonhole Styles
- Seven Included Presser Feet
- Knee Lifter
- Adjustable Length and Width
- LCD Display
- Automatic Thread Cutter
- Embroidery Feature
- Adjustable Speed
- Ability Level: Intermediate – Advanced
- Weight: 22.2 lbs
- Computerized
Janome Magnolia 7318
The Janome Magnolia 7318 sewing machine is a popular contemporary model for all beginners and seasoned seamstress.
Weighing 17.2 lbs., this simply designed yet full-featured machine meets the needs of both novice sewers and more advanced sewing enthusiasts. Its 18 distinctive stitch types along with an advantageous sewing speed of 830 stitches per minute have made it a frequently purchased product in today’s consumer market.
This model includes automatic thread tension, fully adjustable length/width settings and convenient LCD display. It offers sewers the additional benefit of a free arm and spacious extension table for large size sewing projects like draperies and full-length curtains.
This model does not include auto needle threading or auto thread cutting features and it is not computerized.
Features and Functions
- 830 Stitches Per Minute
- Foot Controller
- 18 Stitches
- Auto Thread Tension
- Extension Table
- Free Arm
- One 4-Step Buttonhole Style
- Four Presser Feet
- Knee Lifter
- Adjustable Length and Width
- LCD Display
- Embroidery
- Adjustable Speed
- Ability Level: Novice and Above
- Weight: 17.2 lbs
Singer 7258 Stylist
The Singer 7258 Stylist is a convenient, portable sewing machine currently in popular use. With a weight of just 14.6 lbs., it is easily stowed and transported.
This compact machine with diverse features is also very affordable. It offers many helpful, time-saving features for the benefit of busy modern sewing enthusiasts. For example, this machine supports a sewing speed of 750 stitches per minute along with 100 different stitch types.
As the perfect main or secondary machine for both intermediate and more advanced sewers with sewing needs of varied complexities, this model is also easy to carry to sewing classes or when traveling. It can be stored in limited closet space or storage areas.
This Singer model is frequently used as a portable sewing demonstration device.
This machine offers all the essentials for sewing window treatments, and its 100 separate stitches can be of great benefit when fashioning creative designs of varied materials. Although not as powerful as the Brother PC 420 PRW, it is still a good choice.
Features and Functions
- 750 Stitches Per Minute
- Foot Controller
- 100 Stitches
- Auto Needle Threading
- Auto Thread Tension
- Extension Table
- Free Arm
- Seven 1-Step Buttonhole Styles
- 10 Included Presser Feet
- Knee Lifter
- Adjustable Length and Width
- LCD Display
- Automatic Thread Cutter
- Embroidery
- Adjustable Speed
- Ability Level of Intermediate – Advanced
- Weight: 14.6 lbs
- Computerized
Brother Designio Series DZ2400
The Brother Designio Series DZ2400 is a recommended model for intermediate and advanced level sewist.
Providing a selection of 185 different stitch types as well as a sewing speed of 830 stitches per minute, this powerful machine’s diverse features can handle sewing projects involving numerous varied fabric types and weights. Weighing only 18 lbs., it is also easy to transport.
This Brother model is fully computerized, offering adjustable speed settings, 12 different presser feet and eight varieties of one-step buttonhole styles. The added convenience of this sewing machine’s stowable extension table and free arm make it a perfect choice for traveling and also for sewing with limited set-up or tabletop space.
Although this model has no auto thread tension or auto thread cutter feature, its 185 different stitches and other features offer sewers creative versatility when designing window treatments.
Features and Functions
- 830 Stitches Per Minute
- 185 Stitches
- Foot Controller
- Auto Needle Threading
- Extension Table
- Free Arm
- Eight 1-Step Buttonhole Styles
- 12 Included Presser Feet
- Knee Lifter
- Adjustable Length and Width
- LCD Display
- Embroidery Feature
- Adjustable Speed
- Ability Level of Intermediate – Advanced
- Weight: 18 lbs
- Computerized
Janome HD3000
The smooth-action Janome HD3000 has a sewing speed of 1000 stitches per minute.
This sturdy machine ensures durability and dependability of performance, weighing 22 lbs. This well-constructed Janome machine provides seamstress with 18 diverse stitch styles, a convenient foot controller and automatic thread tension and needle threading features.
This very popular sewing machine model has a high profile in many consumer marketplaces, known for it endurance and quality of operation. Including both a free arm and extension table, this Janome model is in demand among novice and advanced sewing enthusiasts alike.
This machine does not offer auto thread tension or an auto thread cutter and is not computerized. However, for sewers desiring fast-speed action, it does support sewing 1000 stitches per minute.
Features and Functions
- 1000 Stitches Per Minute
- Foot Controller
- 18 Stitches
- Auto Needle Threading
- Extension Table
- Free Arm
- One 1-Step Buttonhole Style
- One Presser Foot
- Knee Lifter
- Adjustable Length and Width
- LCD Display
- Embroidery Feature
- Adjustable Speed
- Ability Level: Novice and Above
- Weight: 22 lbs
Comparison Table
Please use this table to easily compare all the sewing machines I have reviewed in this post. If viewing on mobile, scrollsideways to see all data.
| MODEL NAME | Nº Of Stitches | Auto NeedleThreading | Auto ThreadTension | ButtonholeStyles | Presser Feet | Weight | Computerized |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Brother PC420PRW | 294 | Yes | Yes | 7 one-step | 11 | 26 lbs | Yes |
| 2. Janome HD1000 | 14 | Yes | No | 1 four-step | 2 | 15 lbs | No |
| 3. Brother CS6000i | 60 | Yes | Dial | 7 one-step | 7 | 13 lbs | Yes |
| 4. Singer 4423 | 23 | Yes | Dial | 1 one-step | 4 | 14.5 lbs | No |
| 5. Singer 7469Q | 98 | No | Yes | 7 one-step | 9 | 14.5 lbs | No |
| 6. Janome DC2013 | 50 | Yes | Yes | 3 one-step | 7 | 22.2 lbs | Yes |
| 7. Janome Magnolia 7318 | 18 | No | Yes | 1 four-step | 4 | 17.2 lbs | No |
| 8. Singer 7258 | 100 | Yes | Yes | 7 one-step | 10 | 14.6 lbs | Yes |
| 9. Brother Designio DZ2400 | 185 | Yes | No | 8 one-step | 12 | 18 lbs | Yes |
| 10. Janome HD3000 | 18 | Yes | No | 1 one-step | 1 | 22 lbs | No |
The Winner
Although all these sewing machines have many advanced features and functions that can be of great help for many varied sewing projects, some are more highly recommended for stitching window treatments than others. Personally, I recommend the Brother PC420PRW and I think it is the most outstanding choice for making window treatments due to its power and many diverse features for great sewing versatility.
However, the most important factors in deciding on your machine purchase should be your own preferences and individual project requirements. Take time to examine the capabilities and benefits of the models reviewed here using the comparison table above. You can also visit our sewing machine reviews page for more in-depth reviews of different models in the market. After doing your homework, then make your choice of according to your unique preferences, budget, sewing standards and needs.
How about you, what do you think is the best sewing machine for window treatments? Did I miss your favorite model in my list? Let me know in the comment box.;)
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