Anything that can get a teenager off of their phone for an hour can be a shrewd purchase and a few are as rewarding as a sewing machine for kids. They often have all the capabilities of a regular sewing machine but are just that bit simpler to get to grips with. Features such as slower speeds and easy threading will be useful, but only certain brands make quality machines in the niche.
To ensure all kids have access to a product they can get a lot of use out of, we have created a list of the best sewing machines for kids. Some are designed for the older kids in the family but there are also options for those wishing to sew with an easy learning curve. With something for every budget, hours of rewarding fun are guaranteed from all of them.
The 6 Best Sewing Machines For Kids
#6 NEX Sewing Machine, Crafting Mending Machine
A super simple sewing machine for kids that don’t necessarily have the build quality of some of the other brands, but is easy to use. It also requires less of a learning curve and every one of the 12 built-in stitches is clearly displayed and easily selected. This machine is also lightweight making it easily portable and doesn’t take as much room on the table.
It is beginners or kids sewing machines that can be used for a variety of projects from making clothes, quilting, crafting, and more. We like that it is still strong enough to get through multiple layers of fabric and the two speeds keep things nice and simple. One for younger kids but also teenagers who would prefer an easier introduction into sewing.
#5 Varmax Mini Sewing Machine with Extension Table
Around the mid-size is this convenient sewing machine suitable for kids. Because it has an extension table, it can be used for bigger projects and quilting when the child develops their skills. The table will also keep the machine stable when not being used which is good since this is a lightweight and portable product.
There is a light built-in to make it easier to sew with accuracy and the special cuff slot makes sewing sleeves a lot simpler. The two-speed controls are good for complete novices and those who are learning to use a sewing machine as it won’t go too fast to keep up. Other handy features include a thread cutter, tension screw, and winding poll among others. The simplicity is its strength, making it ideal for a child to grow in confidence.
#4 Lena 42521 Children’s Battery Operated Machine
A mix between a toy machine and a machine useful for learning how to sew, this is battery operated so less powerful which can be a good thing with small fingers. The colorful design makes it an enticing option and plenty of useful features for learning how to use the real thing. There is a threading aid that helps a young one to get set up, and a foot pedal to help control the sewing machine.
Included are 3 sewing threads, plastic needle, tape measure, and more to make this a good option for anyone not quite ready to take the leap to a faster machine. Easy to carry, portable, and fun, but with a few limitations, it is still an option for the younger kids in the family.
#3 Singer 3221 Simple Sewing Machine
One of the easiest sewing machines for kids that still has enough about it for it to be used past the beginner stage, it features an automatic needle threader to help get things going faster and 21 built-in stitches. Each one of these can easily be switched between thanks to the side dial and the adjustable stitch length is easy to use to prevent bunching.
There is a storage space for all the spare needles, thread, and bobbins but also a drop feed for free-motion stitching when the child is feeling confident. It weighs 15 pounds so can absorb a lot of vibrations compared to some of the other products designed for kids and beginners. The maximum speed is a big 750 stitches per minute meaning this is not for younger kids, but a teenager will be able to develop and still use it for many years.
#2 SINGER, 57 Applications-Perfect Made Easy | Start 1304
Whether you want to call the Singer Start 1304 a basic or kids sewing machine is up to you, but what no one can argue against is the ease of use. This is often labeled the ideal machine to learn on and in the 57 built-in stitch applications and adjustable stitch length and width, it’s easy to see why. Because it weighs 7 pounds, it is. a great option for taking to a sewing class or sewing with friends.
The automatic bobbin winder is another neat feature to get things started and will stop kids from getting frustrated with the setup. Thre are a few presser feet included as well as needles and bobbins, and in the 400 max stitches per minute, there is enough power without it being intimidating.
#1 Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine, Lightweight, Full Featured, 27 Stitches, 6 Included Feet
Not too advanced for young kids, but also with plenty of features for teenagers, this is the ideal sewing machine for kids of all ages. It is lightweight so easier to handle but has enough to it to ensure skip-free stitches. It comes with a variety of features including 27 built-in stitches. This is a good amount that would overwhelm but will provide plenty of options.
To make things simple it has an automatic needle threader and drop-in top bobbin to make it convenient and jam-proof. Included are 6 sewing feet to open up plenty of possibilities for different fabrics and projects as well as an instructional DVD to make it easier to learn the basics and beyond. Its LED light ensures the sewing area is brightly lit and with 800 stitches per minute, it is capable of going fast once the child is confident enough.
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Sewing Machine For Kids Buyers Guide
It is the sort of skill that everyone had to learn at one point in time, but even though it is not as often talked about, sewing is still very much alive and kicking. Introducing it to your kids has many benefits, but their enjoyment will all be down to the quality of the sewing machine.
Because we don’t want anyone to miss out on this rewarding pastime, we have created the following buyer’s guide. It details everything there is to know about kids sewing machines so by the end of it, you can make a sensible purchase.
What Are The Benefits Of Sewing For Kids?
There is nothing wrong with learning any new skill, but sewing, in particular, can be one of the most beneficial. Because technology can take over a child’s life, it is good for them to have a break from their phone and get creative. Sewing can help them make something they can be proud of but when done socially, can also be fun as a group.
There are sewing clubs in most areas so it can be a good way to make new friends. Also, as they develop their skillset, kids grow in confidence. Let’s not forget that learning how to sew can be a rewarding life skill that it becomes useful time and again.
What To Look For In A Sewing Machine For Kids
Any child using their first sewing machine will need a product that is designed specifically for children or beginners. Safety is of course a major priority but the machine should also be easy to use.
The sewing machine should be able to help them grow in confidence as they develop, without being too complicated or overwhelming.
Speed Control
The sound of the motor whirring and the needle moving up and down can be intimidating at first. This is why it is important to find a sewing machine that has speed options that are easy to control. Although a lot of the products we recommend can be taken up to 800 stitches per minute, this is fast. As long as the speed can be kept down, then they should get on ok.
Alternatively, because a foot pedal can be difficult for young ones to control, some basic products have a high and low-speed option making it easier.
Presser Feet
As nice as it is to have plenty of options in this area, most kids don’t need to be able to do the basics and not a lot else. Also, presser feet need to be secure when on, ideally screwed in but this shouldn’t be a deal-breaker. If the machine has snap off feet, make sure the child knows how to use them safely.
Weight
As an adult, a sewing machine with some weight behind it is good. It can mean it absorbs a lot of the vibrations and is sturdily made. However, for kids, this is not so good. A heavy sewing machine can do a lot of damage if dropped on a young foot and will be difficult to take from place to place.
A lightweight model is a good idea and also means it can be taken to a sewing club.
Stitches Per Minute
Again, this is another trait that a parent should be wary of. The products that can push out 1,000 stitches per minute and above are powerful, and more of a challenge to manage. Even 800 stitches per minute is a figure that should be saved for older kids.
A slower swing machine can be better suited to children and it will mean fewer vibrations and a machine that is easier to handle.
Quality
A lot of the children’s sewing machines that are available aren’t a lot more than a glorified toy. This is fine for young hands around the age of 8 but any child nearing or within the teenage years might be better suited to a beginner’s standard sewing machine. The toy machines tend to be lower in quality and break easier than a product designed for a beginner adult that will last for years.
Size
This is something that should be matched to the age of the child. A mini or half-size machine will be good for a young child with supervision whilst a lot of teenagers will find a full-sized machine is easy enough to handle.
Finger Guards
We have to admit, there aren’t enough sewing machines for kids that come with a finger guard. This will be one of the leading concerns for parents, especially when a child starts to use the machine without supervision. Thankfully, they can be purchased separately online and there are different sizes to fit different machines.
How Old Should A Child Be To Sew?
It’s not uncommon for children to start sewing as young as 5, sometimes younger, but this will require constant supervision and a particular type of sewing machine. A lot of machines say they can be used by children 8+ but if an adult is helping, it is up to the parent.
How Much Does A Kid’s Sewing Machine Cost?
This is one of the major benefits of looking for a sewing machine well suited to young ones. Because they are less complex machines, they tend to be made simpler. For the consumer, this means a cheaper sewing machine compared to a high-end product that can do it all.
There are some excellent products around the $200 range that will continue to be enough for an experienced sewer in adulthood. Alternatively, $100 can get a lot of the above features.
How To Help A Child Improve Their Sewing
With modern technology, it is easy to develop a child’s skills with online tutorials. However, anyone looking for a break from the likes of YouTube can help a child develop by being more involved in the process. First of all, try to encourage them to start small. Taking on big projects from the start can be too difficult and will out them off trying new tasks.
Try to make it fun by choosing projects that are centered around their interests. Choose fabrics that are their favorite colors or if they love horses, for example, a pattern with such a theme.
Don’t overdo it and make demands of a child when at the sewing machine, especially early on. When they make mistakes try and help them learn from it, see where they can improve, and encourage them along the way.
