Best Sewing Machine For Kids: My TOP Picks!

Last Updated on March 22, 2021

I had an “Aha moment” last week when a friend asked me about the best sewing machine for kids. She was looking to buy one for her daughter. I gave her some models that I know would be perfect for kids. It wasn’t the first time getting this inquiry, so I decided to write the most complete buying guide for parents out there.

Have you noticed your daughter trying to fashion all of her dolls’ clothing into one large princess dress she can wear? Whether she is using a glue stick to place buttons on the kitchen table cloth or selecting the best fabrics that look good on the family pet, these might be the first signs that you are nurturing a creative seamstress.

But how can you get the best sewing machine for kids if you don’t know what to look out for? There are quite a lot of brands and models in the market, so it may be difficult to make a choice.

To make this decision easier, we have compiled the best brands you can buy for your kids, to encourage them in their sewing career.

All of the listed brands here are very easy to use, so your kids won’t find it difficult to understand how to use it.

Why Should I Buy A Sewing Machine for My Child?

Your kids can learn how to sew from as early as six years, yes, that’s possible, and before the age of 6-9, you would be shocked at how professional they have become.

There are quite a lot of reasons why sewing as an activity is encouraged for kids.

1. It can improve your kid’s motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
2. It can be a medium for your kids to channel their creativity.
3. Your kids would learn the importance of patience and build their self-confidence.

Kid-Friendly Sewing Machines: What To Look For?

Like I mentioned earlier, there are many brands on the market, and buying the right one would depend on their level – novice, intermediate, or even advanced.

If they are starting and don’t have any basic skills, it won’t be wise to go for an advanced machine with many features. That’s because they would not be able to operate it, and it defeats the purpose of making it an easy and fun activity. For starters, buying a machine with just a handful of stitches would be ideal, but if your kid is a bit advanced, then you should try out an embroidery-only machine.

But if your child has vast knowledge and experience on thread tension, we recommend the entry-level Serger, because it has a lot of different threads, and it’s also user-friendly.

The top 6 aspects to look for are:

Pedal/Push-Button: Deciding on whether to get a pedal or push button will be based on whether they feel comfortable pushing on a pedal with their feet while using their hands to feed the fabric through the sewing machine. If they have a difficult time, then you can go with a push-button model.

Feet: Feet are an essential aspect to look for. Some models have ones that fall off at the slightest touch or will have your child’s fingers together. Look for a machine that has snap-on feet that securely stay in place. If you are worried about the feet falling off, get the models to attach on with screws.

Thread-Feeding: Threading the needle may be the most frustrating aspect for kids learning to sew. You want to select one that has easy-to-follow diagrams so they can practice. If you know that they will drop the hobby in a heartbeat because she doesn’t have the patience to thread the needle herself, several beginner models have an auto-threader.

Speed Control: Look for a machine that offers an even and consistent speed for more control. Normally, they will have more control over the speed with the push-button models versus the pedal that they may not be able to use effectively.

Stitch Variety: Don’t go overboard with buying one that has hundreds of stitch options. Less is better if a novice can have fun with a machine with 6 stitches while an advanced kid can handle up to 25 stitches. Look for the basic stitches such as reverse, zigzag, and straight.

Bobbin Winding: The machine should have a bobbin slot that is easy to find and open for small fingers. The bobbin should also be easy to install into the slot and wind up, so the child doesn’t get frustrated.

Besides the 6 aspects that I have listed above, other options you may want to look for are warranties, the machine’s weight, and a finger guard to prevent accidents.

How Much Should I Spend?

You don’t need a high-end machine with all the bells and whistles. The key is to buy an affordable and high-quality one.

If you are on a tight budget, you can get one for as low as $50, and it would last you for about a few years. You can get a Singer or Brother for this price range, mainly if they are on sales. Sewing machines for this price may not exactly be able to sew heavy fabrics, but that isn’t a major concern because it’s for kids, right?

But if you feel you can go higher, you may want to check “popular” brands, and it may come with features like the automatic threader, and trust me, no child would find this boring.

I don’t see the need to spend a lot of money if they are still a novice, and doesn’t even fully understand the basics, because it would be too complicated for them to use. But if they are at an advanced level, then, by all means, you can upgrade.

Embroidery machines would be more expensive, so make sure that this is what they want.

Mechanical or Computerized?

When teaching kids to sew, it’s always best to either use a mechanical or entry-level computerized model. There is no point in introducing too much complexity, as this would only make this hobby a boring process. There isn’t any need to bombard them with super high tech functionality, and that’s why the advanced computerized ones are a big no.

Some basic computerized machines have LED screens that display the presser foot for each stitch, which is a handy feature once your kid has mastered the basics.

What Are The Best Sewing Machines For Kids?

Brother CS5055PRW Project Runway (Best Overall)

It features 70 built-in stitches to make decorative heirloom and quilting. With a maximum speed of 850 stitches per minute, your child should be able to complete projects in a short time once they understand fully how it works.

*** This product is currently out of stock

Features

1. 70 in-built stitches
2. LCD display screen
3. LED lit work area
4. Automatic threader
5. Elegant buttonholes
6. Bobbin set-up

Pros

1. Easy to use
2. Offers high-quality stitching
3. Affordable
4. 25-year warranty

Cons

1. The thread holder isn’t so strong, and can break off if you don’t handle it gently
2. No automatic tension control

Brother XM2701 (Best Lightweight Kids Sewing Machine)

Brother XM2701 is a lightweight machine for kids who have mastered the basics and wish to improve their skills. Your little ones who are new to sewing and want a great beginner’s machine with enough features would appreciate the XM2701.

It is the dream of every young sewer. Due to its weight (7.2 pounds), it can easily be carried around the house or even to sewing classes. The XM2701 are easy on your kid’s little fingers, so you can bet they would have a fun time exploring everything about this machine. 

This machine is ideal for an adult seamstress who wants to try out advanced projects because it comes with multiple stitch options. It’s easy to use advanced features to make it great for engaging in complicated stitch patterns.

If you are looking for an entry-level model for kids, then the XM2701 is up to the task.

The XM2701 features 27 built-in stitches, giving your kid a taste of almost everything. There are the basic stitches for normal projects, and there are the decorative and quilting stitches if your kids want to improve on their sewing skills. 

It comes with a stitch selector dial, making it easy to select any stitch your kids want, with just a simple turning of a dial, super easy. The XM2701 comes with an automatic 1-step buttonhole, and that means your kid can create perfect buttonholes every time.

The XM2701 also comes with six different fast-changing sewing feet (buttonhole, zig-zag, blind stitch, button, narrow hemmer, and zipper) to ensure that you always have the right sewing foot for every project. The XM2701 also features a free-arm that allows your kid to handle complicated tasks like sewing hem sleeves and cuffs easily.

It comes with an easy needle threader, so your kids don’t get frustrated while threading the needle. Threading with the XM2701 is a simple task. It only requires touching the lever on the machine, and the machine automatically takes over from there and does all the work involved.

It comes with an LED light, which can brighten up the work area at night. Although, you might want to make sure your kid doesn’t stay up late because they can easily get carried away.

Features

1. 27 built-in stitches
2. 63 stitch function
3. 1-step buttonhole
4. 6 different sewing feet
5. Built-in free arm
6. Instructional DVD
7. LED light
8. Top drop-in bobbin
9. Foot pedal
10. Darning plate

Pros

1. Easy to use
2. Great choice for kids 
3. Affordable and durable
4. Free arm for quilting
5. 25-year warranty with free technical online support for the lifetime of the machine

Cons

1. The take-up lever could use some improvement
2. Cannot tackle heavy-duty fabrics
3. The number of stitches may not be enough

Brother CS6000i (Best Quilting Machine for Kids)

This machine is definitely well-rounded as it is easy to use. It has an extension table to offer more room to move your quilt project.

It handles a wide range of projects due to the included 9 presser feet, making it perfect for kids to explore their creative sides. Weighing only 13 pounds, it also makes a great portable machine that kids can take to their friend’s house, aunt’s home, or their grandparents’ house. It lacks an embroidery function, yet that won’t matter to most kids at the novice stage or are advancing to the intermediate level.

Since it is computerized, kids will learn to make fewer mistakes as the LCD screen will flash an error message when they place it on the wrong items. It also teaches kids the different types of presser feet to use when they are changing stitches.

The Brother CS 6000i offers 60 stitch options, 7 one-step buttonholes, an automatic needle threader, and an adjustable speed control. It also has a built-in LED light so kids can easily see the stitches on dark fabric to have an even and clean appearance. It can handle tons of sewing projects without slowing down in the slightest.

Features

1. 60 built-in stitches
2. LCD display panel
3. Start/stop button
4. Automatic needle threader
5. Drop feed capable
6. Quick change presser feet
7. Adjustable tension control
8. Variable needle position
9. LED lit work place.

Pros

1. Very easy to use
2. Affordable
3. Good for quilting
4. Adjustable speed
5. Can sew both thick and thin fabrics

Cons

1. Overly sensitive foot pedal
2. Threading the bobbin can be a bit challenging

Janome 2212 (Best Janome Sewing Machine for Kids)

For getting the basics and learning just as much, you could never go wrong with a Janome 2212.

It will help your kids learn how to sew stress-free. Its drop feed offers greater motion for utilizing table space or for family quilting work of any kind.

But don’t be fooled by such basic components and what can be expressed as a minimalist’s approach to threading. This model still comes with 12 built-in stitches, 110 volts, and an easy turn dial pattern selection for variety. The limited options only help to focus on basic practices and skillsets.

*** This product is currently out of stock

Alternatively, you can check out the Singer 3232.

Features

1. 12 built-in stitches
2. 1 four step-buttonhole
3.  Snap on presser feet
4. 2 needle position
5. Front loading bobbin
6. Sews up to 860 stitches per minute
7. Free arm
8. 3-piece feed dog
9. Built-in thread cutter

Pros

1. Easy to use
2. Has an inbuilt lamp
3. Great for various thickness of fabrics
4. Lightweight and compact
5. Affordable
6. Good basic stitches

Cons

1. Front loading bobbin
2. No automatic needle threader
3. No presser foot pressure adjustment

Singer 2259 Tradition

Singer 2259 is a great machine for kids, and it is designed to help them achieve excellent results in the easiest of ways. It is lightweight, allowing your kids to carry it around the house comfortably, and its sturdy heavy-duty metal frame adds to its stability. This means that your kid won’t have to worry about the machine moving while they sew.

Its user interface is straightforward, and intermediate sewers would also love it. It features an easy-stitch selection, so your kids can make use of any stitch when exploring their creativity. The Singer 2259 has 19 built-in stitches, which is more than enough if your kid is just new to sewing.

The machine is also easy to the thread because it comes with a built-in threader that does all the threading. It would eliminate any difficulty your child may encounter when threading. A simple pulling down of the lever would switch the Singer 2259 to the threading system and thread it.

When it comes to several layers of bulky fabrics, this machine handles it with ease, because of its high presser foot lifter. So, your kids won’t be restricted to the kind of fabric to use; they can always try out any fabric of their choosing.

Singer 2259 features a free-arm that makes the sewing of cuffs, pant-hems and other hard to reach areas so easy.

Once your kid gets the hang of how this machine works, operating it independently would be an easy task.

It also comes with several accessories –all-purpose foot, button sewing foot, zipper foot, seam ripper, foot pedal, power cord, dust cover, screwdriver, bobbins, seam guide, spool cap holders, oil bottles, on-storage, and needles.

*** This product is currently out of stock

Also, you can check out the Singer 1304.

Features

1. 19 built-in stitches
2. 750 stitches per minute
3. 4 step buttonhole
4. High presser foot lifter
5. Adjustable stitch length and width
6. Free arm

Pros

1. Simple to use
2. Automatic thread tension
3. Rotary knob stitch selection
4. Front bobbin loading
5. Inexpensive and durable
6. Compact and Lightweight

Cons

1. The foot pedal is highly sensitive
2. No transparent bobbin cover
3. Poor needle quality

Janome Fast Lane Fuchsia (Best Sewing Machine for Toddlers)

Need I say more? The purple-reddish colors of the actual fuchsia plant are replicated with it. You can do so with color options of Purple Thunder or Pink Lightning. It’s best to let the kids pick and choose, however. Personal preference goes a long way to enabling creativity.

Additionally, more color potentials include Turbo Teal, Buzzing Blue, and Orange Blaze. This model is what many would easily call “cute.” Its relatively small size renders it optimal for children starting, and they are bound to fall in love with so many vibrant palette choices. Janome’s Fast Lane comes with a range covering the most popular stitch patterns through a 10 built-in switch option.

Its total weight won’t exceed five measly pounds. Kids can take it anywhere—classes, neighbors’, family and friends. What we think to be a cool little feature is a built in guard to keep your kid’s delicate finger away from harm.

*** This product is currently out of stock

Features

• 10 stitch options
• Top loading drop-in bobbin
• 2 needle position
• Free arm
• Finger guards

Pros

• Lightweight
• Finger guards for maximum safety
• Affordable
• Various stitching options
• Easy to store

Cons

• Uses only one particular needle size

Janome Pink Sorbet (Best Sewing Machine for Girls)

The Janome Pink Sorbet would be the absolute dream machine for your kid if she desires to be a great fashion designer one day, and you can’t blame her. Looking at the design, it would be almost impossible for any kid not to fall in love. It comes with all the features your kid would need to harness her passion.

What it promises is way more than its pink look; it has an exciting number of features that would be piquing the interest of your little girl.

It also comes in three different colors, so if your kid isn’t keen on the color pink, there is the arctic crystal version and the blue couture version available on the market.

The Sorbet machine comes with 15 stitches, and this would make your kid not overwhelmed with selecting a stitch to use. It has 7 basic stitches and 7 stretch stitches style plus a buttonhole style. The stitch pattern is boldly imprinted on the machine, making it impossible to miss a stitch. All your kid needs to do, is decide on what stitch to use and use the Stitch Selector Dial to choose, by just turning it to the setting mark.

Since it’s just basic sewing, the 3 piece feed dog system would be more than enough to feed the fabric to ensure smooth sewing. You don’t have to worry about a higher number of feed dog system, because it’s likely that they won’t notice the difference.

Loading or changing of the bobbin is easy when using this model; you just have to open the hook cover and put in the bobbin.

One advanced feature I love about the Sorbet machine is its reverse lever, for backward sewing stitches. This would result in tight stitches all round your projects. The manual thread cutter also makes it easier to use, and it is located on the backside of the presser foot, unlike other models.

Its speed of 800 stitches per minute makes it an extremely fast and powerful machine. Plus, it comes with an LED for lighting up the work area but ensures that your kid doesn’t work for long hours using the light, because it may cause damage to their eyes.

*** This product is currently out of stock

Features

1. 15 built-in stitches
2. Reverse lever
3. 800 stitches per minute
4. Dual retractable vertical spool pins
5. Free arm
6. Extension table
7. Snap-on presser feet
8. LED light
9. Adjustable thread tension

Pros

1. It has a very catchy appearance
2. Lightweight
3. Easy to use
4. Sturdy and high quality

Cons

• No carrying case
• No automatic needle threader
• No start/stop button
• Absence of thread trimmer

Singer 1507 WC (Best Sewing Machine for 8-10 Years Old)

The Singer 1507 WC Easy-to-Use is first on the list for novices looking to learn basic stitches.

This is a very simple model that allows kids to select the stitches they want using the dial. Although it doesn’t have an automatic threader, it does provide arrows right on the machine to show how to thread the needle without having to consult the manual.

With the lack of the more advanced functions, beginners can instead focus entirely on learning everything there is to know and how to use their hands to move the pattern and feet to press on the pedal in unison to make stitches.

It offers 8 stitch options, a free arm to do sleeves, a 4-step buttonhole, and an automatic bobbin winder. While the Singer is a little heavier than other sewing machines I mentioned in this list (it weighs 16.5 lbs), it is still a practical machine for kids to begin learning this craft. Just hand them a Singer and watch what they sew up for you.

*** This product is currently out of stock

Features

• 8 built-in stitches
• Adjustable stitch width and length
• 4 step buttonhole
• Carrying handle
• 3 different needle positions
• Snap on presser feet
• Adjustable presser foot pressure

Pros

• Easy to use
• The presser feet are easy to change
• It is easy to thread
• Comes with a cover for storage

Cons

• The stitch selector can sometimes be stiff
• Bobbin is vertical
• Not really made for heavy fabrics

Singer Start 1304 (Best Sewing Machine for Schools)

The singer is a well-known brand and has been in the business of producing sewing machines for a very long time. And of course, it is a popular brand due to their high-quality appliances, and the Singer Start 1304 isn’t any different.

It is perfect for kids who are just trying out their hands at sewing for the first time, but that doesn’t mean it lacks in functionality and power. This machine is small but extremely powerful.

Judging from the look of it, it’s pretty obvious it’s easy and simple to use, and well it has a nice smooth and slightly curved look. With its blue and red accents, any kid would be thrilled with the prospect of having one. The stitch selection knob on the machine is probably the first thing you would notice, and so you know your kid is in for an easy ride. The Singer Start 1304 comes with all the basic features your kids would need as a novice, without overwhelming them with many options.

The Singer 1304 comes with an LED lamp that would allow you kids to sew in low-light areas, but as usual, don’t let them sew for long hours using the LED light. Although, the light can stay on for as long as needed, and doesn’t get unnecessary hot, so apparently it won’t cause any injury to your kids, but we are also concerned about their eyesight.

It features 6 built-in stitches, that may not sound appealing to a professional, but it is a perfect number for someone who is new to the basics of sewing. The stitches available include zig-zag, satin, scallop, straight stitch, blind hem, and a 4-step buttonhole. For a beginner machine, its speed is really fast; it sews as fast as 750 stitches per minute.

We know it comes with just 6 built-in stitches, but the presser door varieties allow your kids to get creative by mixing projects up and getting into more creative stitches.

Your daughter or son should have no difficulty in choosing their desired stitch because it can easily be selected using the control knob. Concerning the presser foot, it can be easily replaced by snapping it on and off.

Features

• 6 built-in stitches
• Dual spool pins
• Automatic threader
• 750 stitches per minute
• Extra-high presser foot lifter
• Three presser feet – buttonhole, zipper and all-purpose
• Extra needles and bobbins
• LED lamp
• Seam ripper and lint brush
• Foot control
• Screwdriver
• Darning plate
• Instructional manual

Pros

• It has a sturdy metal frame making it more durable
• Lightweight
• Affordable
• Opens your kid up to new projects through the extra presser feet and dual spools
• Easy to use
• 750 stitches per minute
• Automatic threading

Cons

• Limited functionality
• Not ideal for kids who want a lot of versatility

Singer 3232(Best Sewing Machine for Family)

Children who are at the beginner and intermediate sewing levels will really put the Singer 3232 through its paces while honing their skills.

It is a simple machine for novices so they won’t be frustrated, yet will allow them to do a few more advanced projects such as fashion and creative clothing. They will feel like they have a grown-up machine without all the hassles and complicated features.

A little bit on the pricier side than other models, the Singer 3232 is well-built as it has a metal frame covered in plastic, making it feel heavy. Unlike the Singer mentioned about, this one has an automatic threader making it perfect for kids. One of the top advantages of the machine is the presser foot lifter that raises extra high. This will allow your child to experiment with a wide range of thick fabrics or trying to sew several layers of fabrics together.

The Singer 3232 also has 32 stitch options, free arm, one-step button hole and an adjustable stitch length. It is lacking a drop-in bobbin (and a few extra features), that other inexpensive models give for beginners. So take everything into consideration when purchasing it.

Alternatively, you can check out the Brother XM2701.

Features

1. 32 built-in stitches
2. Automatic needle threader
3. Front loading bobbin
4. Automatic reverse lever
5. Snap-on presser feet
6. Built-in accessory storage
7. Extra high presser foot lift
8. Adjustable stitch length and width
9. 750 stitches per minute

Pros

1. Affordable
2. Lightweight and portable
3. Easy to operate

Cons

1. Constructed with a lot of plastics
2. Not a lot of features
3. A bit noisy

Singer Confidence 7465 – Inexpensive Choice

The Singer Confidence 7465 is an affordable choice if your kid is on an intermediate or advanced level. It has a wide decorative stitch selection.

I can understand you may be skeptical about getting a computerized machine because of the price range, shapes and sizes, but the Singer 7465 is a fair choice and very affordable. Although it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles you would see in high-end rivals, but it has a good selection of stitches.

The 7465 has everything your child would need including a needle threader, drop-in bobbin, 50 built-stitches and different needle positions.

Do not be deceived by the 6 stitch buttons positioned on the front of the machines; they are just quick access buttons to select the most common stitches. The 50 stitches include decorative stitches, stretch stitches, and a large number of satin stitches and these are more than enough for young minds to explore their creativity, and also improve on their sewing skills.

The stitches can be selected using the easy access buttons, or you can use the up/down arrow to scroll through the available stitches. It might be a little tedious scrolling through all of the stitch numbers before getting the one you want, but well considering the affordability and features, that’s a small price to pay. The maximum speed is 750 stitches per minute, which is quite fast in my opinion.

Talking about its build, the machine is sturdy and stable, and you can expect it to last for a long time. It comes with an LCD screen that can show just the stitch numbers, and this isn’t bad either.

Singer 7465 features 5 snap-on presser feet – zipper foot, satin stitch foot, buttonhole foot, all-purpose foot and blind stitch foot.

Features

• 50 built-in stitches
• Twin needle functionality
• Automatic needle threader
• Adjustable fabric feed
• Free arm
• Reverse button
• Automatic upper thread tension
• Automatic bobbin winding system

Pros

• Easy to use
• LCD screen is very easy to understand
• It comes with a cover for storage
• It comes with two built-in LED lights that can illuminate your work area

Cons

• It is not lightweight
• It cannot sew delicate fabrics with ease
• It may wobble if you push it to the maximum speed

Tips to Improve Children’s Sewing Skills

1. Safety First

Kids would always be kids, and most times they don’t recognize danger even if it’s looking them in the face. You should warn them on the possible dangers that can happen, while sewing with needles or machines, that way they would be extra careful while learning how to sew.

Show them a clear view on how to operate the foot pedal, and threading of a needle, plus explain how playing with the foot pedal can result in serious injuries.

2. Don’t Go Overboard on Projects.

Children can learn how to sew from a very early age with just very few supplies. It’s very important to find out projects that would match their abilities, so you don’t end up stressing them out and possibly frustrating yourself. 

3. Making Mistakes are Allowed

Normalize the act of them making mistakes because they would gain more experience from that. They naturally become tired when they are failing at a particular thing, so preparing them ahead of time by practicing how to correct certain sewing mistakes, would give them the confidence they need. 

4. Turn Their Curiosity into Inspiration

Holding a child’s attention for a long time can prove challenging, so engaging them in sewing projects that reflect their interest, would keep them captivated. Depending on the supplies you have access to; you can go as far as letting them choose their speciality items.

5. Simplify Project Steps

Kids can find it a bit overwhelming when they have to learn everything at once. It would help if you could organize the projects into small steps, so they don’t get discouraged. Younger kids should handle projects that would take them about 1hr to 1hr 30mins max, and for older kids, you can prolong the hours a bit, but still, it’s a good idea to break it down.

6. Encourage Them to be In Charge

Kids enjoy the feel of being allowed to show how much they know, and by giving them the opportunity to do that, you are building their confidence. Give them a chance to show you what they know, and also take notes as they talk on the projects they enjoy the most.

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age should I buy a sewing machine for my kid?

Whenever your kid starts making continuous requests to buy one, any model you buy would be dependent on your child’s skill and their wish to upgrade. You can get a machine for your kid from the age of 6 upwards.

What happens if my kid can sew with a needle and thread but is unable to operate a sewing machine?

You don’t learn the basics in just a day. Watch tutorial and guide videos with them, and do not put them under any pressure.

What is the best sewing machine for kids?

Choosing the right model would be based on your child’s level and of course, your budget. So, think about it, and consider the inexpensive machines I discussed above.

Wrap-Up

All our listed sewing machines in this review are perfect for kids, and the only major concern would be your budget. I’m confident that you can buy an inexpensive brand with all the good features without breaking the bank. The most important thing is for the kids to enjoy sewing. I can only hope the journey gets better for you and your child. Please remember, sewing should be fun and exciting for all kids.