Not very. swing project requires the use of a full-scale commercial serger, so for quick fixes, a handheld sewing machine can be ideal. To say they can only be used in this way is doing them a disservice, especially those made by reputable brands. The main thing to look for is a product that is easy to use and maks reliable stitches.
This is easier said than done. Since these neat gadgets are so convenient, there are a lot of cheap imitators. To make sure you get your hands on one of the reputable products, we have created a list of the best handheld sewing. machines available. Each one is going to come in handy when you need it and will be designed to last.
The 6 Best Handheld Sewing Machines
#6 Sew Mighty Handheld Sewing Machine
For on the go repairs, this is as convenient as it gets. Beyond the striking pink and black design is a conveniently sized product that fits nicely in the palm and moves smoothly over a variety of materials. A single stitch sewing machine that can be powered by an AC adapter or 4 x AA batteries although neither is included.
It can tackle any seam thickness of up to 1.8 mm and is ideal for quick repairs. Also, we like that it can be stored easily in a kitchen drawer or out of the way. One of its biggest strengths is that it can be used to sew drapes without taking them down and will save time on setting up a traditional machine. Included are 3 threaded bobbins, a needle threader, a replacement needle, a pink measuring tape, and a spindle.
#5 Joypea Mini Portable Sewing Machine with Extension Table
For anyone looking for a product in between handheld and a standard full-sized machine, it is an excellent option. Because it is lightweight it is easy to handle and is more versatile than a lot of the basic products out there. The extension table is a great addition as it makes it easy to repair larger pieces of materials. Still, the smaller size makes it easier to control and there are two easy to use speed controls.
There is a foot pedal but the speed can also be controlled via a switch to add to the convenience, we see this as an ideal solution for someone learning to sew or anyone who likes to be able to make quick repairs. The stitching is reliable and made easier thanks to the LED light and because it is just 7.9 inches tall, it doesn’t take up a lot of space.
#4 Bowin Handheld Sewing Machine
Another portable sewing machine that can be used anywhere and is easy to us. When aligned with a flat edge, it moves automatically and features two power modes so it is easy to get to grips with. Although it doesn’t come with batteries or an adapter, it only requires 4 x AA’s, but can also be connected to the mains via a DC 6V power adapter.
Because it can be used on drapes, denim, silk, leather, rips, toys, crafts, and more, it is the sort of handheld sewing machine that is great to have to hand. The sewing thickness should not exceed 1.8mm for best results though. It comes with everything needed for quick repairs including bobbins, instruction manual, safety pins, threader, needle, measuring tape, scissor, and more. A lightweight, yet sturdy design.
#3 Stitch Sew Quick Portable Mending Machine (New Version) by SINGER
With the reputable Singer brand name behind it, this handheld sewing machine is one of the most sturdily built. Not only this, but it makes reliable stitches and runs on batteries, although they are not included. This product works best on lightweight fabrics such as bedding and curtains and makes for a convenient way of repairing on the go.
Included are bobbins, thread spindle, and needles to give the user everything they need to make quick stitches that can be depended on. The single thread feed makes it a typically convenient portable mending machine that is ideal for a young child to use for crafting or for an adult to make important repairs. The new version is more reliable than the others and has a smoother operation.
#2 Shop LC Delivering Joy Mini Sewing Machine Handheld Portable
Although it is not as small as some of the other handheld sewing machines available, it offers simple operation and an easy way to make quick fixes and more. It can be battery operated or used via an adapter and comes with 4 bobbins, a foot pedal, needles, a needle threader, and more. There is a built-in bobbin winding feature but also two speeds making it more versatile than a lot of the other options on the list.
It remains a portable option since it is so lightweight and conveniently sized. Designed for small crafts and repair work, it might not be capable of reverse stitching but it is faster than a lot of the other options and makes it easier to sew with accuracy since there is a light. With tension control and a presser foot to hand, it is an excellent option for a child to learn how to sew, or to make fast repairs.
#1 Handheld Sewing Machine, Portable Mini
With similar traits to the best handheld sewing machines, this stands out because of the vibrant and pleasant pink color, but also because of the stitches. Easy to control, it fits in the palm of the hand for consistent sewing and quick fixes and can be used on a variety of materials. These include the likes of silk, wool, denim, jeans, drape curtains, and more making it one of the most versatile products on our list.
Because of its size, it can be taken anywhere and requires 4 x AA batteries to get going. What makes it such a good deal is the amount of included accessories. With every purchase comes an extension spindle, threader, measuring tape, safety pins, bobbins, and more. Its alloy gear makes it stronger and is a sign of how well built it is, so it is the sort of portable sewing machine that can be given as a gift or put to good use around the house.
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Handheld Sewing Machine Guide
You never know when you are going to notice a rip in a drape or a tear in a bag, and setting up a traditional sewing machine for what can take a few seconds to repair, but minutes to set up is inconvenient. This is why handheld sewing machines are becoming so popular. Not only can they fit in the palm, or take a few seconds to set up, but they make reliable stitches.
However, there are plenty of sub-par products on the market, and finding quality isn’t easy when you don’t know what to look for. Because of this, we have created the following buyer’s guide.
Why Use A Handheld Sewing Machine?
Time-Saving
Because setting up a traditional machine takes a lot more effort. Even taking it out of the cupboard and threading it can take a couple of minutes, not to mention having to take a curtain off the pole if that is the repair. A handheld sewing machine is ready to go much sooner, so when a brand says it is designed for ‘quick repairs’, they mean it.
Portability
The size of a handheld sewing machine makes it incredibly convenient with many of them being able to fit into a pocket. We’re not saying they should be carried everywhere but if you are going away, they can fit into a bag with ease. This also means they can be taken to the fabric, not the other way around.
Affordable
Not everyone has $200 to spend on a traditional sewing machine but needs to be able to make repairs and patchwork to certain household items. Because they are usually under $20 and even a mini sewing machine will be under $50 most of the time, they are an affordable option.
Simplicity
Although a lot of people will get plenty of use out of a traditional sewing machine, not everyone can justify the expense. When only straight stitches for repair work are required, it makes sense to keep things simple and use a handheld sewing machine.
Convenient
You often hear about how a handheld sewing machine is ideal for fixing curtains but also rips and tears in clothes. They can be used to stitch up a blemish without removing the garment, making it a convenient way of fixing clothes. This makes them ideal for anyone who works in TV or any performing arts where quick costume maintenance is important.
Included Accessories
One of the best traits of these machines is that they usually come with plenty of accessories. With everything needed to get going, there is no need to have to invest in other items. With a traditional sewing machine, they often come with a lot but after a while, the user might require different presser feet and needles. Because they are simple devices, most handheld sewing machines come with everything.
Not Too Powerful
When making a quick fix, you don’t need 800 stitches per minute of power. Luckily, handheld sewing machines get the job done fast without needing too much power. This makes it easier to handle. The same goes for a mini sewing machine that has two speeds offering an easy learning curve for a beginner.
Handheld Sewing Machine Vs Mini Sewing Machine
Sometimes the two get classed the same, and it is easy to see why. Both are lightweight and simple devices and easy to use. Because of this, it is not uncommon to see them share the limelight in terms of portable sewing machines, but which is better?
When it comes to convenience, a handheld machine wins. Because it takes virtually no set up and can be held against a hanging curtain, it offers the easiest user experience. Still, for quick repairs and versatility, a mini sewing machine is a good option. Because they often come with two speeds, and LED light to make for more accurate stitching, and don’t cost a lot more, they are favored by a lot of people.
How Does a Handheld Sewing Machine Work?
The key is in its simplicity, making them ideal for those who have no experience in sewing. Because they require only a thread to work, there is virtually no set up. Slide on the bobbin and thread the needle. If this bit is tricky, most products include a needle threader to make things simple.
Then, turn the rotary to move the thread beneath the fastening plate before lifting it to pull the thread from under.
Are Handheld Sewing Machines Any Good?
As with any device, it depends on its intended use. For example, a handheld sewing machine would not be good for sewing jeans or quilting. They are designed to make small tasks more convenient and are well suited to repair work on a variety of fabrics. Because they are affordable, a lot of people buy them to use alongside a traditional sewing machine.
That way, when the time comes, a small repair can be easily fixed without having to set up a bulky machine. When using them for their intended use, a handheld sewing machine is a convenient and fast alternative making them a worthy purchase for a lot of people. If there was one main issue with these products then it would have to be that a lot of brands do not include batteries. However, almost all the products we have seen use 4 x AA batteries which are not only affordable and easy to come by, but most people have spares around the house somewhere.
Is A Mini Sewing Machine Worth Buying?
Again, for small repair work, a mini sewing machine is excellent, but not just for fixing a curtain or t-shirt. These small and lightweight devices aren’t as fast or powerful as a traditional sewing machine, making them an ideal product for a kid to learn how to sew.
Most products are easily portable and offer a little more than a handheld sewing machine. A lot of the mini sewing machines still have their limitations so don’t expect to be able to sew a wide variety of stitches and switch between numerous presser feet.
