Best Sewing Machines For Kids:My Favorites!

Beginner seamstress come in all ages, and children are the most eager sewists who can create fantastic crafts that can make even adults jealous. When you set a kid in front of a sewing machine, they can make things such as clothes, dolls, bags and decorations for themselves and their friends.

best cheap sewing machine for beginners

It is amazing to see a child sit there so involved with their work on a lazy weekend, as the machine works over the fabric and their nimble fingers moves the pattern with expert deftness.

Yet not every sewing machine is right for a kid who is just starting out in pursuing this hobby. Children often don't need all the fancy doodads and features available on larger and more expensive models. Instead, they need to learn the basics first (just like riding a bike with training wheels) before they get the hang with controlling the speed and making clean, professional stitches.

We performed extensive research on sewing machines that would be the right fit for children who are at a range of different sewing levels. We focused on , features and budget in our analysis. Since children can learn the sewing basics at different levels and have a varying degree of interest in sewing -- from everyday users to occasional sewists - select the right sewing machine that will help them hone their skills at the budget you can afford just in case your child's interests start to wane.

Best Sewing Machine for Kids 2017

Brother CS-6000i: Every Beginner's Favorite

I'm really impressed with this model. What could we possibly say that is bad about the Brother CS6000i?

This sewing machine definitely gets our number one rating due to the number of features it has at such a great price. Cheaper than the Janome 7318, it has 60 built-in stitches as it is a computerized sewing machine with a small LCD screen and buttons to select the stitches and stitch length. It has 7, one-step buttonholes and 9 presser feet to give tons of options for any beginner.

Features:

  • 60 built-in stitches
  • 7 one-step buttonholes
  • 9 presser feet
  • LCD screen
  • 6 piece feed dog
  • Automatic needle threader
  • Top loading drop-in bobbin
  • Free-arm
  • 25-year warranty

Distinct features of the Brother CS6000i is the stop/start button and variable speed control. If you have a small child who has problems using a foot pedal or needs more help controlling the speed, this is definite a useful feature for them.  Other than few issues I mentioned above, the Brother CS6000i is an ideal machine at a great price, making it very budget-friendly.

Pros

  • You can help your kids switch down to a slower speed in the beginning and then adjust later on as the child gains more confidence with their skills.
  • The automatic needle threader and drop-in top bobbin feature also are great additions to this sewing machine.

Cons

  • People have complained about the fact that it doesn't have a memory feature, and they have experienced problems with the tension and thread bunching until they were able to find a thread that worked well.

Janome Magnolia 7318: Great First Sewing Machine For A Child

The Janome Magnolia 7318 definitely gets our number 2 spot versus its brother, the Janome 2212.

There is just the perfect balance of versatility, functionality and ease-of-use that is desired for a first sewing machine for kids.

Features:

  • 18 built-in stitches
  • 1 four-step buttonhole
  • 4 presser feet
  • 5 piece feed dog
  • Top loading drop-in bobbin
  • Free-arm
  • 25-year warranty

If the flowers don't attract your child to this machine, then the functionality will definitely have them doing as many sewing projects as possible. It comes with 18-built-in stitches, 4 presser feet, and 1 four-step buttonhole. It has the top-loading bobbin, which is always a plus side, and the machine can create very smooth stitches.

When looking at the machine, there doesn't seem much of a difference with the Janome 2212 except for the positioning of the dials for the stitch pattern selector and the stitch length selector. Instead of being placed on the top, which might be distracting to young kids who want to continually look at the diagrams instead of the needle moving over the fabric, they are positioned to the side.

This is also a mechanical machine we are recommending because it is always good for a child to learn the basics without the frills of the computerized versions even though the latter ones are becoming more common.

Also, like most sewing machines produced by Janome, you can buy an optional finger guard so your child's fingers will be protected from the running needle. Overall, it is a great machine that offers the right balance of features for any young crafter who wants to learn to sew.

Pros

  • Simple mechanical machine
  • Top loading bobbin
  • Optional finger guard

Cons

  • The only cons we found was the lack of a speed control dial and an automatic needle threader.

Brother LS2125i: Budget and Kid Friendly

When it comes to a budget sewing machine, the Brother LS2125i will definitely save you money as your child learns the basics of sewing.

The sewing machine is completely streamlined with a large dial to select the stitches right in the top center and a long diagram to show the 12 built-in stitches available. This is an extremely basic sewing machine for those children that have grown fond about sewing but aren't going to use it on a daily basis. It can make clothing alterations, basic sewing projects and decorations for the home as your child can really use his/her imagination.

Features:

  • 10 built-in stitches
  • 1 four-step buttonhole
  • 3 presser feet
  • 6 piece feed dog
  • Front loading drop-in bobbin
  • Free-arm
  • 25-year warranty

This sewing machine is a great buy for a child as he/she will easily work the controls and make the sewing projects they always wanted.

While this is a full size sewing machine, it so streamlined that it appears compact, making it perfect as a portable machine when your child visits a relative or attends a sewing class. Other features included on this machine are the 1 four-step buttonhole, 3 presser feet and the thread tension control dial where you would expect to find it -- right by the needle -- to control the upper thread.

Pros

  • Extremely basic machine for kids
  • Budget friendly

Cons

  • There is no type of speed control for the foot pedal as it can go extremely fast when you push down on it when you first begin to sew. This issue may be disconcerting for some children who are beginners, as the sudden jolt of speed can be very surprising.

Singer 1507WC: Simplicity At It's Best

Simplistic comes to mind when looking at the Singer 1507WC. It is extremely simplistic that even the youngest child could sew with this machine.

Like many other machines created by the Singer company, they throw out the frills and instead focus on the functionality. This machine offers 8 built-in stitches that can be selected by the large dial on the front, and the stitch length with zigzag width selector is a dial nestled at the top of the machine.

Features:

  • 8 built-in stitches
  • 1 four-step buttonhole
  • 4 presser feet
  • 6 piece feed dog
  • Front loading drop-in bobbin
  • Free-arm
  • 25-year warranty

The Singer 1507WC also has a plastic foot pedal that won't automatically start when you press a little on it, but then when you place your foot down more it gallops away very quickly. So it can take some time for a child to find the right way to press the pedal to get the desired speed.

Most people loved the fact that this was a machine which could be used for very basic sewing projects, making it ideal for a child just learning their paces. There were only a few issues that could be improved upon. Despite some few issues, the Singer 1507WC deserves to be mentioned on this list as a good starter sewing machine for children.

Pros

  • With a 1 four-step buttonhole and 4 presser feet, it gives just enough so a child can really get started with sewing without becoming distracted with doodads and thingamabobs that they won't ever use.

Cons


  • Strangely, the thread spool holder isn't upright, although we doubt children would really care either way about the position when they start out. The reason we are mentioning this is that you may find a few more problems trying to get the right tension for the thread when the holder is at a slanted position.

Janome 2212: Easy Turn Dial Model

When looking at the Janome 2212, you can see it is a very simplistic machine, which is great for little kiddos who need to focus on learning all the features first before even starting to create their first stitch

Like most mechanical sewing machines on the market, it has large dials so a beginner can select the stitch pattern and the length of the stitch that will be used for the project. There are only 12 built-in stitches, which shouldn't be much of a problem as even expert sewists usually don't use every stitch on their more advanced sewing machines.

Features:

  • 12 built-in stitches
  • 1 four-step buttonhole
  • 3 presser feet
  • 5 piece feed dog
  • Front loading drop-in bobbin
  • Free-arm
  • 25-year warranty

Other features of the Janome 2212 are the free arm so your child can get into sewing sleeves and quilts, the 1 four-step buttonhole to make buttons on clothing, and the extra high presser foot lift that allows the child to stitch multiple layers of fabric.

This sewing machine gives just enough features so a child doesn't feel overwhelmed, while providing large diagrams of the stitch patterns so they can select the right one to use.

Pros

  • While it doesn't come with a finger guard, you can purchase one separately so tiny fingers are protected from the needle.

Cons

  • Perhaps the only issues you will find is that it has no automatic needle threader, and it also has the front loading bobbin that some reviewers disliked because the thread would jam for their child because she/he still had to get into the habit of turning the wheel so that the needle was in the right spot.

SINGER 3232: For Simple Sewing

The Singer 3232 is great value for money if you’re searching for a cheap sewing machine for teaching a child to sew. This model provides the essential features and will be a life-long tool for any child.

Singer designed this machine with the beginner in mind. It has all the basic features you need to start sewing and more. There are instructional videos online demonstrating how to thread and operate the machine.

Features:

  • Automatic needle threader
  • Adjustable stitch length and width
  • 32 built-in stitches
  • Fully automatic 1-step buttonhole
  • Heavy duty metal frame for skip free sewing
  • Free arm
  • 4 snap on presser feet

Pros

  • This machine offers such a large number of stitching styles
  • A decent number of presser feet are provided to set you on your way
  • Automatic needle threader makes setting up the machine a breeze
  • The low price makes this a risk-free investment

Cons

  • The bobbin isn’t a drop-in which requires more time to get to grips with. This could make a sewing machine a little more frustrating for children
  • Some users have reported issues with thread tension

Brother XL2610: Great Gift For a Tween

The Brother XL2610 is a durable machine that will see you through many years of sewing. Any child could get to grips with this machine and it will last them into adulthood and beyond.

Features:

  • Revolutionary automatic needle-threading system
  • 25 built-in stitches
  • Pattern selection dial
  • Lighting: bulb
  • Easy bobbin winding: horizontal

Pros

  • This machine has got you covered with it’s 25 built-in stitches with 59 stitch functions
  • The pink panel adds a pretty addition to an otherwise basic looking sewing machine
  • Added bonus of an automatic needle threader

Cons

  • What this machine doesn’t have is speed control and a pedal-free function. It’s not essential, but these features make this model more appropriate for an older child who is comfortable with more control.
  • The dial for stitch selection looks a little confusing upon first impressions but instructions are included to help ease any problems.

Janome 2206: Fuss-Free Machine

For fuss-free sewing, try the Janome 2206. This machine keeps things straightforward with it’s easy-to adjust settings making it great for children learning to sew.

The Janome 2206 would suit any beginner child - as well as any returning adult seamstress!

Features:

  • 6 stitches
  • 1 four-step buttonhole
  • Snap on presser feet
  • Free arm
  • 5-piece feed dog
  • Drop feed
  • Extra high presser foot lift
  • Stitch selection dial

Pros

  • A straight-forward sewing machine that will grow with your sewing skills - whatever your age!
  • The big dial and simple diagrams on the front machine makes selecting and adjusting a stitch that much easier.
  • An extra-high presser foot makes it easy to sew through lots of layers of fabric all at once - perfect for finishing of homemade quilting projects
  • Not too expensive - making this a good value for money machine

Cons

  • The Janome 2206 has a front loading bobbin, making it difficult to know when the bobbin thread will run out - potentially a cause for new sewist frustration.
  • A few users have reported that the Janome 2206 is not as quiet as they would like.

Janome 11706 3/4 Size Hello Kitty: A Cute Child Sewing Machine

The Janome 11706 is a great functioning 3/4 sized machine in a sweet, turquoise color with Hello Kitty motifs.

It lives up to the Janome quality and durability making it a great starter machine suitable for taking to sewing classes.

Features:

  • 9 stitches
  • 1 four-step buttonhole
  • Snap on presser feet
  • 3-piece feed dog
  • Free arm
  • Push-pull bobbin winder
  • Extra high presser foot lift
  • Stitch selection dial
  • ¾ size model

Pros

  • This machine is a smaller 3/4 size, making it a more suitable shape for children to get to grips with.
  • All the basic features are there too e.g. 8 built in stitches plus 1 four-step button hole stitch
  • A big stitch selection dial for straightforward stitch adjustment.
  • It’s capable of heavy duty sewing e.g. multiple layers of fabric all at the same time

Cons

  • Some users have reported a “timing problem” meaning the needles doesn’t pick up the bobbin thread
  • No finger guard is supplied with the machine
  • Nor are there any settings to adjust the speed of the machine
  • A child may tire of the Help Kitty theme over time

Janome Fastlane Fuschia: Cheap and Cheerful

This Janome model makes for a great starter machine for small children due to it’s colourful and compact appearance at a surprisingly low price.

It’s smaller size also makes it perfect for transporting, allowing you and your child to make it to sewing classes.

Features:

  • 4 stitches - Straight, Zig-Zag, Crescent, Multiple Zig-Zag
  • 4-piece feed dog
  • Extra high presser foot lift
  • Stitch selection dial
  • Top loading bobbin
  • Weighs only 5 lbs

Pros

  • The Janome Fastlane is a smaller than average machine (weighing only 5lbs), making it less intimidating for children
  • The bright fuchsia colour is a huge bonus - and if pink isn’t your thing, there’s a wide range of other shades to choose from
  • This Janome can handle all the basic needs well with it’s 10 built-in stitches, free arm and top drop-in bobbin
  • There’s also a presser foot with finger guards to protect those precious little fingers

Cons

  • A larger, more durable machine (in a simple, neutral colour) would work much better over a longer period of time
  • This machine also doesn’t have any button hole stitches
  • There also isn’t a built-in light to provide a better view of the needle

Brother CS5055PRW: Well-Rounded Sewing Machine

The Brother CS5055PRW aims to spark creative interest in designers, however young they may be.

This machine tackles clothing, home furnishings and quilting projects with style and ease.

Features:

  • 50 built-in sewing stitches
  • 87 stitch functions
  • 5 styles of 1-step auto-size buttonholes
  • Free arm for sewing cuffs and sleeves
  • Automatic needle threading system
  • LCD Screen with computerized stitch selection
  • 7-point Feed Dogs to ensure smooth fabric feeding
  • Fast bobbin winding system plus a Quick-Set™ bobbin

Pros

  • Easy to set up and get going with a sewing project - even for beginners
  • A reasonable price for the number of features this sewing machine offer
  • Includes a well-written manual to guide a child through how the machine’s features work
  • This Brother model isn’t too large or heavy, making it much easier for a child to take to a sewing class

Cons

  • Some reports suggest that the LED light isn’t “super bright” as advertised so additional lighting may be helpful
  • There have also been a few issues with the needles threader despite supposedly being “an advanced needle threading system”

How to Choose A Sewing Machine for Your Children


Buying a sewing machine for a child takes a little more consideration than if you were to buy one for yourself. Sewing can be a wonderful way to get creative, but it can also lead to blood, sweat and tears if things go wrong. The age and responsibility of your child is an important factor in deciding which sewing machine to purchase - little legs may need assistance if they can’t quite reach the foot pedal. We’ve listed a few of points for your consideration below:

Simplicity

Simplicity keeps the focus on learning a useful life skill. Many machines have fancy stitch features and extra presser feet that realistically you wouldn’t even use as an adult. There’s a high chance your child won’t use these features either, so save some money by keeping things simple

Longevity

Will your choice of sewing machine grow with your child? Cute and colourful decorations may seem like a good idea at first. But there’s a possibility that these motifs become too childish over time. Also consider the capabilities of the machine. Does it handle the basic needs e.g. buttonholes or thick layers of fabric well? A sewing machine can be such a worthwhile investment if you can think ahead.

Budget

A low budget makes for a risk-free option that won’t break the bank if a child’s sewing interest wanes over time. With that in mind, still look at well-known brands that make quality machines but at a lower end of the price scale - a sewing machine could easily be with you for life so pick a decent one for your child.

Safety

The safety of a child is important and when it comes to sewing, there are potential for accidents. Some sewing machines are better suited for children who sew and cater to this. Look for finger guards to keep little fingers away from the needles and speed control to help keep things moving nice and slow.

Size

This factor is very important, too. Consider if the child in mind is interested in taking a sewing class. A compact, lightweight machine could be more suitable - being able to take your own machine would help a child become more familiar with how their machine works.

Intuitive design

Intuitive design makes for easy sewing - and this applies to any sewing machine, not just the child-friendly ones. Automatic needle threaders and top-loading bobbins remove the fiddly nature of setting up a sewing machine.

Wrap Up: Top 5 Best Sewing Machines for Kids


There are several dozen sewing machines on the market today that are great starter machines for children -as well as the ones that we mentioned above. However, the ten sewing machines we featured in this article stood out due to overall satisfaction, features, and ease-of-use for a child. Depending on what exactly you’re looking for a sewing machine for a child, our favourite picks for the best model are as follows:

Brother CS6000i: This computerized sewing machine gives you so much for your money, and then some. We think that this machine would be a great option for an older child who’s interested in learning how to make their own clothes with it’s long list of stitch features. But with it’s start/ stop button and variable speed control, this machine would also work well with smaller children. Overall, the Brother CS6000i would suit any skill level, as a your child’s interest in sewing grows.

Singer 3232: This is a great example of a low-cost sewing machine that your child (and maybe you too) could easily fall in love with! It’s basic enough to keep all the focus on learning how to sew, yet this machine is most definitely not a “toy” sewing machine and still holds true to Singer’s reputation of good quality sewing machines.

Janome Magnolia 7318: This is an impressive sewing machine that can definitely challenge the Brother CS6000i for the top spot. The reason it is in third place is because it doesn't have as many built-in stitches and it costs the most compared to other sewing machines that we featured today. It is a versatile sewing machine that can handle most projects

Brother LS2125i: A child can fall in love with this machine. It is basic enough so they can learn about all the features, yet not too basic where the child will end up growing bored in time. They can take it anywhere and use it anytime for a multitude of sewing projects.

Brother CS5055PRW: This is a machine will help any child on their way to create their own Project Runway outfits. This Brother model has easy stitch selection with it’s LCD display and straightforward stitch chart. The top-loading bobbin makes it easy to check your level of remaining thread as well as being quick to set in. If clothing isn’t their thing, then this sewing machine also handles multiple layers of thick fabric well e.g. quilts.


Get your child interested in sewing by purchasing a sewing machine that will be able to hone their skills. They will surprise you with all the projects they can make as they will spend many productive hours learning their new hobby.

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Disclosure: Sew Uber is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon properties and other similar affiliate companies. Please be informed that you pay no extra for your purchase.

Having said that, all prices, warranties, and ratings that were mentioned in each review were the information listed on Amazon when creating this post. Prices are subject to change depending on where you may purchase the machine and what types of sales that are being offered. We can't guarantee accuracy of the prices and stock availability. We will correct any inaccuracies as soon as they are brought to our attentions.

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