One of our favorite deals today is a $100 iTunes gift card for $80 at Best Buy. Click to see more.
Sewing Machine Reviews
Cheapism
Mid-range
High end
$70
$250
$600...+In this review:
Sewing Machine Performance
Overall Performance.
Whether you sew for fun or to support a frugal lifestyle, you want an inexpensive sewing machine that's hassle-free and delivers a finished product that holds together and looks well-crafted. Sewing machines reviews by consumers indicate that some models perform better than others, and when they do meet expectations, users say they've gotten good value for their money.Another Brother machine, the XL-2600i, the only mechanical sewing machine among our picks, wins points for its portability and suitability for novice sewers (including the pre-teen set). Sewing machines reviews on Overstock.com praise the automatic needle threader, smooth stitching, and quilting capabilities, although some suggest sticking with lighter fabrics and say the decorative stitching is disappointing. A consumer posting a sewing machine review on Epinions appreciates that it can sew on buttons.
Like other inexpensive sewing machines on our list, the Kenmore 16231 is noted for being user friendly and producing commendable stitches. A round-up of sewing machine reviews of the Kenmore 16231 on this site is overwhelmingly favorable, and a consumer review on Viewpoints says it easily handles bias tape on rounded edges. Then there's the sewing machines review by a grandmother on Thathomesite.com who's been sewing for more than three decades and says she uses the Kenmore 16231 for doll clothes, mending jeans, and other basic tasks.
Despite a few gripes about the Singer 7442, (This site considers the buttonholes sloppy-looking), users seem quite satisfied with the performance of this relatively simple model. Sewing machines reviews on sites like Amazon and Viewpoints report the Singer 7442 runs smoothly, hems and repairs jeans, and embroiders multicolored designs (thanks to the thread exchanger), although a few owners complain that lightweight fabric sometimes jams and some report minor struggles with heavier fabrics.
For all the good cheap sewing machines out there, some just don't deliver. Problems with the bobbin, presser foot, and foot pedal on the Singer Pixie are so pervasive that few consumers even get around to commenting on the machine's ability to actually sew. Users posting sewing machine reviews on Joann.com like the portability of this model (it runs on four AA batteries and weighs less than seven pounds), but cite numerous instances of machine failure shortly after purchase, including weak thread tension, thread that wraps around an internal screw or snags on the bobbin, bobbins not winding properly, jams even with thin fabric, and presser feet and foot pedals that break or stop working.
Bobbin Problems.
A bobbin that jams or won't pick up the thread takes all the joy out of sewing. Although widely considered to be a good cheap sewing machine, the Brother XL-2600i draws a few scattered gripes about bobbin tangling in sewing machine reviews on this site. A consumer posting a sewing machine review on Target disagrees, however, and says bobbin winding is a cinch on this machine. Likewise, the bobbin on the Brother CS-6000i causes occasional snafus, write users in sewing machine reviews on Amazon, and one sewer comments that replacing the plastic bobbins with metal bobbins, which cost about $1.79 for four, easily solves the problem. Bobbin problems seem to plague the Singer Pixie Plus Craft, as noted above.Fabric Handling.
No matter what type of sewing project you undertake, the fabric should pass smoothly beneath the needle. Both the presser foot and the "feed dogs" (the metal teeth sitting under the fabric that propel it forward) facilitate this process. Most of the sewing machines we researched are meant for entry- or intermediate-level sewers, for hobbyists and crafters, and for simple DIY projects; few are designed for heavy-duty upholstering. That said, individual models have their strengths and weaknesses. The Brother CS600i sews through multiple layers with ease, according to sewing machine reviews posted on Amazon, while users commenting on Epinions and Target say the mechanical Brother XL-2600i does best with lighter fabrics. Ten layers of denim pose no challenge for the Singer 7442, notes a user on Amazon, although an ultra-thick quilt might not fit under the presser foot; a sewing machines review on Viewpoints says this low-cost sewing machine jams if you're working with thinner material. The Sewing With Nancy SWN10 EZ Lock Serger Machine (starting at $235, Amazon
) finishes the edge and trims away extra fabric after sewing a seam in one movement, according to sewing machine reviews on Amazon.
Sewing Machine Construction and Durability.
As with any small appliance, the construction of a discount sewing machine should be solid. By that we mean no rattles or vibrations, buttons and levers that feel strong to the touch, and parts that don't easily break. One consumer who posted a sewing machines review on Epinions likes the Singer 7442 in part for its sturdy feel, although an Amazon reviewer suggests that its light weight might limit its longevity.Most of the reviews we read were posted by consumers who had recently (within the last couple of years) bought their inexpensive sewing machine, making durability hard to assess. Apart from a spate of reports about the Singer Pixie Plus malfunctioning within days of purchase, operational breakdowns don't seem to be an issue for these budget sewing machines. Even so, you'll want to check the warranty. Sewing machines often come with two or more warranties for different components and functions. The Singer 7442, for example, has a 25-year limited warranty on the head (where the shafts, rods, and oil holes are located), a two-year warranty on the electrical system, and 90 days on parts and labor. The Brother XL-2600i offers a 25-year limited warranty on mechanical parts, two years on electrical parts, and a year for service/labor; ditto for the Brother CS-6000i. On the other hand, the Kenmore 16231 comes with a 90-day full warranty and the very low-priced Singer Pixie Plus offers only a limited 90-warranty on parts and labor.
Remember that the manufacturer's warranty may not apply if you are buying the sewing machine from an online retailer instead of directly from the manufacturer or an authorized dealer. If the retailer is not authorized, ask about a substitute warranty. A good deal on a cheap sewing machine should always include a valid warranty.
Finally, the quality of your manual is almost as important as the quality of your machine. A good manual clearly explains all these different functions and how to make them operative. One user review of the Brother CS-6000i says one reason this sewing machine appeals to beginners is because of the manual. Whichever model you buy, do make sure to read the manual carefully.
Back to top »
Discount Sewing Machines Feature Comparison Table [next]»
«[prev] Cheap Sewing Machines, Best Cheap Sewing Machine
Read user comments below
Best Cheap Sewing Machines
Brother CS-6000i
This is an advanced electronic sewing machine that offers a number of appealing features, including seven styles of buttonholes, 60 different stitches, and seven different presser feet. The Brother CS-6000i is a versatile and functional machine that users praise for its ease of use, quality performance, light weight, and low price.Sewing Machines Deals
Brother XL-2600i
A simple-to-use mechanical sewing machine that gets attention for being one of the best options for beginning sewers, the Brother XL-2600i offers several preferred features, including a one-step buttonhole, an automatic needle threader, and six different snap-on presser feet. Users appreciate its portability, responsiveness, and suitability for basic crafts and household tasks.Sewing Machines Deals
Good Cheap Sewing Machines
Kenmore 16231
The Kenmore 16231 is comparable in many ways to the Brother sewing machines: It offers a variety of advanced options, including 90 different stitch types and an adjustable pressure feature for the seven different presser feet. Although consumers report it's sturdy and user-friendly, this machine has limited buttonhole options, a weak warranty, and it sits at the high end of the budget spectrum.Sewing Machines Deals
Singer 7442
This is an electronic sewing machine that features two buttonhole styles, 30 stitches, and five different presser feet. The Singer 7442 offers a good warranty and the brand is well-regarded in the home sewing machine market; users say it's a good choice for novices but also pleases more seasoned sewers.Sewing Machines Deals
Cheapism.com on Facebook
Don't Bother Cheap Sewing Machines
Singer Pixie Plus Craft
Many people are interested in this electronic sewing machine because it's one of the least expensive and most portable options available (it runs on four AA batteries or AC power). But this is a case of getting what you pay for: The Singer Pixie Plus Craft has very few options (only one presser foot and four stitches) and consumers often report serious bobbin and foot pedal problems.
Products Mentioned in This Review
Singer Pixie Plus CraftKenmore 16231
Singer 7442
Brother CS-6000i
Brother XL-2600i
Thrifty Resources
Article Sources
Consumer Search Consumer Reports Reviews Reviews Sewing Machine Reviewer Channel4.com EthicalConsumer.org Slipstitches.com Kenmore.comManufacturers
Brother
May 22nd Daily Deals - iTunes Gift Card, Woot Off and more
How to Hire a Home Improvement Contractor for Less
This may be the time of year when you look at your home afresh and notice all the improvements you'd like to make.
5 Cheap Outdoor Home Improvement Ideas That Make a Big Impact
Whether your home needs a quick pick-me-up in time for spring or a more dramatic improvement to compete in a buyer's market, try these quick and low-cost outdoor home improvement fixes.
© 2012 Cheapism
We do not accept payment or other gratuities from manufacturers or retailers to recommend or discuss their products on Cheapism.com. Nor do we accept any payment or other gratuity from websites to blog about their news stories or posts.
Made in NYC
