You have acquired a new hobby, that of sewing, and you want to buy an easy-to-use sewing machine to make your first stitches;

You are an experienced tailor but you need to update your equipment;

Below we will see what you need to consider in each case before your purchase.

Main Types of Sewing Machines

First of all, you should keep in mind that there are various types of sewing machines depending on the tasks they perform and the needs they are called to cover. Some of the most basic ones are:

• Basic sewing machine: This is the type of sewing machine used for everyday sewing tasks. It can sew basic stitches, such as straight, zigzag, and side stitches.
• Embroidery sewing machine: It is specifically designed for embroidery, and often has special programs for creating more complex patterns.
• Overlock machine: A sewing machine that cuts, sews, and secures the edge of fabrics to prevent fraying.
• Patchwork and quilting sewing machine: It usually has a larger work table for easier handling of large fabrics.
• Heavy-duty sewing machine: It is used for sewing heavier fabrics, such as leather and denim, and therefore has a more powerful motor.

Use of a Sewing Machine

After looking at some of the main types of sewing machines, the first thing you should think about before making your purchase is the use it is intended for. For home or professional use?

If sewing is your hobby, then a small home sewing machine is ideal. You do not need to invest in a sewing machine that offers every kind of stitch, special functions such as an automatic threader, button-sewing capability, and more. What you need to start with are the two basic functions for straight and zigzag sewing.

However, if your sewing machine is intended for more intensive use, then it should have a more powerful motor so it can handle a larger workload at high speeds, as well as more than one needle. Also, it is important for it to have a large work table for greater ease when sewing large or heavy fabrics, automatic functions such as automatic thread cutting, presser foot lift, special stitches such as stitching elastic fabrics, embroidery capabilities, settings for presser foot pressure as well as stitch length and width, and higher-quality construction materials for greater durability over time and with use.

Fabric Types

Something else you should consider is what type of fabrics you will be sewing. There are two options: stable fabrics and stretchy fabrics. Stable fabrics include those that do not contain elastane, such as cotton sheets or curtains, while stretchy fabrics include fleece, leggings, wool, and jersey. For stretchy fabrics, your sewing machine needs to have an elastic stitch. However, if you do not wish to purchase a sewing machine with an elastic stitch, what you definitely need to do is use straight stitching and zigzag stitching, as with these two functions you can sew anything from hems and curtains to more complex fabrics.

Mechanical or Electronic

In your search for a sewing machine, you are likely to come across this dilemma. However, the main difference is the way you choose its functions, so if you are a beginner, a mechanical sewing machine is sufficient as its use and functions are simpler compared to those of an electronic one.

Size and Weight 

Additionally, it is important to consider whether you plan to move your sewing machine often, as well as whether you have the necessary space to keep it permanently in one place or whether you will need to put it away after each use. In these cases, it would be a good idea to buy a lightweight, portable and small sewing machine that folds up for storage until it is used again. Also, there are many options for mini sewing machines. However, be careful, as in this case it is difficult to find a sewing machine for professional use, since the lighter and smaller sewing machines are usually not intended for more demanding tasks.

Budget

Given that there are options in the market ranging from affordable to very expensive, it is good to define your budget according to your needs and the intended use. Since it is a significant investment, you need to consider all the above criteria in order to find the one that suits you best. Remember that if you are a beginner, you do not need to buy a sewing machine with many complex functions. On the other hand, if you do not have specific requirements and simply need a lightweight, simple machine for small repairs on the go, you can choose a handheld sewing machine, knowing that it cannot offer the capabilities and functions of more expensive electric sewing machines.