Sewing is an engaging activity for some kids and teens. It’s a form of art where they get to create something beautiful. While a few people consider it fun, others are serious about learning the craft. We know teens who want to become professional fashion designers and seamstresses.
But how we start with the process? Joining classes is obviously a good way to learn. Teens who have professional tailors or quilters at home can start training under them. However, can they use the professional sewing machines to learn? Will the complex features and operations confuse them?
What is the best sewing machine to start training a teen? Even though we cannot equate a teen to a newbie (some of them might be fast becoming professionals already), we can still include them in the beginner category.
Also, teens (just like kids) tend to get bored with things that do not keep them occupied for long. Anything complicated can frustrate them, more so if they can’t figure it out on their own. This, further makes it important to help them with a sewing machine that’s easy, reliable, and safe. The last thing we want is for them to hurt themselves, right?
And we are ready with a detailed list of the top 5 best sewing machines for teenagers and a buying guide with a list of factors to consider before investing in a sewing machine. Shall we check out the models?
Table of Contents
- 1 Table of Contents
- 2 Quick Comparison Table!
- 3 The Best Sewing Machines For Teenagers For The Money
- 4 #1 Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine - EDITOR'S CHOICE
- 5 #2 SINGER 7258 Computerized Sewing Machine - Best for Built-in Stitches
- 6 #3 Janome Magnolia 7318 Sewing Machine with Exclusive Bundle - Best for Newbies
- 7 #4 SINGER Simple 3232 Sewing Machine - Best for the Budget
- 8 #5 Brother CS5055PRW Sewing Machine - Best for Functionality
- 9 Best Sewing Machine For Teenagers Buying Guide
- 10 Wrap Up: Our Choice
Table of Contents
Quick Comparison Table!
The Best Sewing Machines For Teenagers For The Money
#1 Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine - EDITOR'S CHOICE
- Quality
- Price
- Our Rating
Anybody who is into stitching would know that Brother is famous for designing user-friendly sewing machines. The price range is also affordable and cost-effective. It has an automatic needle threader, a free motion arm for quilting, and many built-in stitches. The company offers a 25-year limited warranty on the machine, with a 2-year warranty for circuit boards and electronic components.
Features & Benefits
Design
The unit weighs 12.6 pounds and is considered a lightweight model. It is compact and can be carried from one place to another without any difficulty. The machine is durable, even if it is made of plastic. The body frame has a cute design that increases the attractive quotient of the machine.
There is a dialer to select the built-in stitches. The designs are listed right above the dialer for convenience. The machine also has an LED light. But it isn’t bright enough to serve the purpose. Since the machine can be moved, it is better to carry it to a brighter room than rely on the LED.
Performance
The model has 27 built-in stitches, including buttonholes. It automatically changes the sizes of the buttonholes, making it easier. It also comes with six presser feet so that you can work on different types of fabrics. It can handle multiple layers with ease. That said, the machine isn’t good for heavy fabrics like denim.
The bobbin has to be dropped in from the top. This is the simplest way to load a bobbin into a sewing machine. It is also jam-resistant and comes with a transparent cover. The bobbin is automatically winded, which is yet another advantage for teens and beginners. There is a lever for reverse stitching. It is located right in the front.
Ease of Use
It takes around 30 minutes or less to set up the machine once you receive it. There is an instruction DVD manual that is detailed and explains all operations. Teens will definitely find it easy to watch a video when compared to reading a manual. From hemming the pants to getting buttonholes, the manual covers everything.
However, there have been issues with the bobbin. Some parts are fragile and tend to break when the machine is roughly handled. The stitching speed is around 800 SPM. While this is not too high, it can be controlled only through the foot pedal. There is no speed control slider. That said, as an entry-level model, XM2701 is quiet, easy to use, and affordable. Teens, beginners, and hobbyists can use it.
Pros
- It comes with a DVD instruction manual
- The machine is super easy to use
- It has an automatic needle threader
- It can stitch through layers of fabrics
Cons
- The LED light is not bright
- The bobbin tends to cause trouble at times
#2 SINGER 7258 Computerized Sewing Machine - Best for Built-in Stitches
- Quality
- Price
- Our Rating
The Singer is yet another brand we relate with affordability and user-friendliness. The company has a wide range of sewing machines, some of which are more popular and successful than other models. 7258 is a computerized sewing machine for teenagers. While it has been known that computerized models are tricky, this one is easy to understand and use. It can be used for sewing, crafting, and quilting, just like the previous one on our list. The company offers a 25-year limited warranty on the unit.
Features & Benefits
Design
The machine weighs 14.6 pounds (though it’s not the smallest model on our list). It is portable and easy to carry using the built-in handle. But the brand doesn’t provide a hard case with the unit. It only comes with a soft case. With the machine being made of plastic, using a hard case would assure you a lot more.
There is an LED light that is bright and useful. The machine has an LCD screen that shows you the stitch designs, the presser feet, and more. The stitching speed is 750 SPM, which can be reduced to a more convenient pace. The overall body frame is sturdy enough for the unit to run smoothly without any vibrations, even at the highest speed.
Performance
Singer 7258 has an automatic needle threader that claims to thread the needle in six seconds flat. Isn’t that great? There is another feature we love about this model. It automatically changes the needle position from down to up when you take off your foot from the pedal. This will prevent the needle from breaking if you were to forget its position and pull the fabric.
The machine has 100 built-in stitches, 10 presser feet, a reverse stitch lever, an optimum power control function, a 6 point feed dog system, speed control slider, twin needles, two built-in thread cutters, free arm motion for quilting, and 13 needle positions among other features. However, the presser foot is not adjustable even though it is automated.
Ease of Use
The machine comes with a DVD manual that is great in detail about how to operate it. Apart from basic sewing, the machine can be used for quilting, freehand embroidery, stitching home furnishings, and dressmaking. The drop-in bobbin has a transparent cover and is easy to load.
Your teen doesn’t have to be a beginner to use this machine. Home professionals use this model with limited budgets who take up small projects. Switching between the stitch designs is easy. Also, there is a built-in storage place where you can store all the related accessories. No need to hunt for them at the last minute.
Pros
- The up and down needle movement can be controlled
- The machine doesn’t vibrate when in use
- It has 100 built-in stitches
- It has a speed controller
Cons
- The foot pedal is made of plastic
- The presser foot is not adjustable
#3 Janome Magnolia 7318 Sewing Machine with Exclusive Bundle - Best for Newbies
- Quality
- Price
- Our Rating
After Brother and Singer, it’s time to take a look at the model offered by yet another famous company, Janome. Magnolia 7318 is a sewing machine that has been designed for newbies. It doesn’t have too many features and comes at a slightly higher price. But considering the make and the durability, we’d say this model is worth the hype. It can sustain daily wear and tear without any trouble. Also, the machine can be used to sew thicker fabrics like denim. If your teen wants to sew a pair of jeans, by all means, let them go ahead. The company offers a 15-year limited warranty on the unit.
Features & Benefits
Design
At 17 pounds, this is the heaviest model on our list. That said, it is still considered lightweight and is easily portable. The automated features are limited, but that doesn’t make this model difficult to use.
You can adjust the thread tension automatically and manually. The manual setting works for certain threads that need to be adjusted with extra care not to snap and break often. The four-piece feed dog provides a good grip on the fabric. There is no need to worry about slipping fabric and uneven stitches.
Performance
The machine has a thread cutter, which is located under the faceplate. It has 18 built-in stitches and a 4-step buttonhole. The variety of stitch designs may not be large, but they are enough to create some cool pieces.
The drop-in bobbin with a transparent cover is jam-proof. There is no automatic bobbin winder, though. You’ll have to do it yourself. It might help with practice, doesn’t it? The unit doesn’t come with any presser feet. But, hey, the good news is that you can use any presser feet with this one. If you already have some at home, they’ll mostly fit. You don’t have to buy new ones.
Ease of Use
The machine has two dialers- one to select the stitch designs and another to adjust the stitch length. There is a lever for reverse stitch right beneath the second dial. The set up is quite easy, though some users found it hard. Guess it depends on the individual.
The thread flow is terrific. Not once did it cause us any trouble. Also, we found no vibrations when the machine ran at the highest stitching speed of 830 SPM. The unit comes with foot control to adjust the stitching speed.
Pros
- The machine is sturdy and free of vibrations
- It is easy to use
- It is a durable model and can handle wear and tear
- It can be used to stitch denim and other thicker fabrics
Cons
- It is a slightly expensive model (for the purpose)
- The drop feed is located at the back of the machine
#4 SINGER Simple 3232 Sewing Machine - Best for the Budget
- Quality
- Price
- Our Rating
Are you surprised that we have another Singer model on our list? We think not. The name of this model says it all. It is indeed simple and easy to use this machine. You can start using this one as a beginner and continue with it even as you turn a professional. It can be our secondary sewing machine even after you invest in a better and expensive model. Considering the price and the features it offers, we say it’s a great bargain. It is a mechanical model but has an automatic needle threader. The company offers a 25-year limited warranty on the unit.
Features & Benefits
Design
The unit weighs just 12.2 pounds but is made of metal rather than plastic. This makes it durable and sturdy. It’s an excellent combination to have a sewing machine- lightweight and sturdiness don’t usually go hand in hand. The metal frame also absorbs the vibrations and prevents the machine from shaking when used at the highest speed.
There is an LED light that lights up the stitching area on the machine and makes it easy to work in dim-light conditions. The automatic needle threader is simple and effective. All you need to do is raise the needle to this highest position and press a button. The machine will do the rest.
Performance
The machine is user-friendly most of the time. Some users did have issues with the bobbin. It’s a front-loading model where you have to open the front compartment and access the bobbin door. Then you have to pull the thread onto the needle plate. You just need a little bit of practice to get used to it.
The model has a reverse stitch lever. It also comes with 32 built-in stitches and a one-step buttonhole. There is a dial on the side with the stitch designs drawn on it. Some users have complained about this being a bit annoying as they have to double-check that they chose the right design.
Ease of Use
The unit comes with 4 presser feet and various other accessories. That one too doesn’t have a hard case. The company provides only a soft case. Taking care of the machine is your responsibility.
The machine runs at 750 SPM, which can be controlled using the foot pedal. There is an instruction manual with a stitching guide and a DVD, but users feel that these are not detailed enough, especially since the model is aimed at novices. Also, there is an issue with noise (it’s not a silent sewing machine), but all in all, Singer Simple 3232 is a cost-effective sewing machine for teenagers.
Pros
- It is a versatile sewing machine
- It is easy to use and carry around
- The price is affordable
- The body frame is made of metal
Cons
- The machine is said to be noisy
- The instruction manual is not detailed enough
#5 Brother CS5055PRW Sewing Machine - Best for Functionality
- Quality
- Price
- Our Rating
We start and end our list with Brother. This one is a computerized model that is said to deliver professional-level results for amateur users. That sounds like a good sewing machine for teens, doesn’t it? The machine comes with 50 built-in stitches and 5 one-step buttonholes. There are an automatic needle threader and a perfect feed system to feed the fabric. The company offers a 25-year limited warranty on the unit.
Features & Benefits
Design
Do you know that this model weighs just 10 pounds? It sure is made of plastic parts, but they seem to be durable enough to last for a decent time. This model doesn’t really gain much when it comes to good looks. However, it is known for its functionality, which is more important.
There is a small LCD display screen to select the stitch designs. The designs are all listed below in a neat chart. The buttons beneath and beside the screen are used for different operations such as adjusting the stitch length and width, selecting a stitch design or a buttonhole, and more.
Performance
The sewing machine runs at 850 stitches per minute. The speed can be controlled through the foot pedal. There is an automatic bobbin winder that will help save a little more time. It also has a 7-part feed dog and a storage chamber. Just remove the extension table to access the chamber and also for the free arm motion.
Though there is an LED light, it is not as bright as the company claims. You’ll be better off not relying on it. It has 6 presser feet, twin needles, and various other accessories. We only wish it came with a hard case to keep it safe.
Ease of Use
The manual is detailed, and the setup is easy. Your teen can start using this within no time at all. It is one of those simple computerized models that can be sued by anybody.
Despite the lightweight, this model surprisingly works well with thicker fabrics. In fact, you can stitch more than one layer of denim on this machine. The body frame will not vibrate or shudder. Also, this is a noise-free model.
Pros
- It is a noise-free and vibration-free model
- It works well for making clothes
- It can be used to sew thick fabrics
- The setup and usage is user-friendly
Cons
- The LED light is dim
- Works only with 120V power supply
Best Sewing Machine For Teenagers Buying Guide
With so many models in the market that cater to teenagers, it can get tough to pick the right one. You have to decide based on the expertise level of the teen and the extent to which they want to use the sewing machine. Is it only for fun, or are they truly interested in exploring the craft and honing their skills?
The following factors will give you a better idea as to what to keep in mind while investing in a sewing machine for teenagers.
Easy to Use
Even though the teens need to know how to manually operate the sewing machine, starting with a fully manual model might be overwhelming. There is a lot to learn, and it is better to teach little at a time. A sewing machine with easy threading (or an automatic needle threader), simple bobbin winding and loading, and stress-free operations will keep them interested and engaged.
Cost
If your teen is a beginner, you will most likely want to limit your investment in their first sewing machine. There is no point in spending around a thousand dollars or more for a sewing machine at this stage. You can find reliable and efficient models for $200-$300. These will also last for a few years, long enough for the teen to master the craft and choose a better model as their next sewing machine.
Stitching Speed
When it comes to the younger generation, a sewing machine with a lower speed is a safe choice. We would consider models with stitching speed ranging between 700-1000 SPM (max). A machine with 800 SPM would be highly suitable. Also, if the sewing machine comes with a speed controller, it would be an added advantage. If it has a foot pedal, the speed can be controlled by altering the pressure on it. Understanding foot pedal sensitivity might take time, but it will be useful as they learn sewing.
Built-in Stitches
Creativity is one of the reasons why sewing attracts people. Teens are no exception. They love to try new stuff. A sewing machine that offers them a good choice of built-in stitches will always be preferred over a machine that has a single straight stitch. Let them give wings to their imagination. Of course, there is no need to buy a sewing machine with hundreds of built-in stitches either. It is more likely to confuse them.
Weight and Portability
An ideal sewing machine for teens would be lightweight and easily portable. It’s a good thing that we have quite a few models that fit into this category. Teens can easily carry these machines to sewing classes. They can sew outdoors and indoors. They can take it to their friends’ places to work on group projects and do much more.
Dimensions and Size
Just as with the weight, the size of the sewing machine is also important. The unit has to be compact and should easily fit into small spaces or cupboards. Teens have cramped rooms as it is. There’s no reason to get them a sewing machine that occupies the remaining space.
Safety Features
This is a crucial factor to consider. When talking about safety, we are dealing with the teen’s safety and also the machine’s. For example, a jam-proof bobbin will ensure that the machine doesn’t get damaged by a jammed bobbin and also prevents the teen from trying to pull the extra thread and hurt themselves in the process. A speed control slider will assure that they can use the machine at a convenient and low speed.
Versatility
While the sewing machine doesn’t have to be an all-in-one model, choosing something that allows stitching buttonholes, cuffs, and sleeves (free arm motion) and working on different types of fabrics will provide teens with an opportunity to learn more. They can see how the machine responds to lighter and thicker fabrics. They can learn which needles to use and when. They’ll understand the different types of presser feet and their purposes.
Warranty
Warranty is essential for any sewing machine (and every other gadget/ device). Buying a sewing machine with at least a 5-year limited warranty would be a good idea. This will give the teens enough time to expand their skills. Of course, some brands offer a 25-year limited warranty. We’ve known teens who continued to keep their first sewing machine as a token of their learning stage and use it once in a while.
Wrap Up: Our Choice
If you are still undecided about which sewing machine to buy for your teenager, we would recommend Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine. It has a lot of advantages and is affordable.
Since we already discussed the features and benefits in detail, you know that Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine is worth its price and more.
