In This Article

View All

In This Article

A few years ago, I decided I wanted to learn how to sew with a sewing machine. I knew how to sew by hand (and I love to embroider), but a machine was pretty intimidating to me. After spending hours reading the manual to my first sewing machine, watching videos, and reaching out to friends, I proudly made a bandana for my dog—and I was hooked.

When I first bought a sewing machine, I considered what I would be using the machine for. Since I planned on just doing minor garment alterations and fun DIY projects, I opted for one with a basic design and several different stitches.

Since I’m a beginner and still learning, I reached out to a few sewing experts for more advice and guidance.

“If you're buying a machine for garment construction, you want an excellent straight stitch, speed, durability, and the ability to easily backstitch,” says Lillis Taylor, CFO of Bib & Tucker Sew-Op. “If you plan on quilting or creating fiber art with your sewing machine, you might want a machine that has decorative stitches.”

In addition to speaking with experts, our team at Better Homes & Gardens tested out popular sewing machines for ourselves. Below, I’ve shared the machines that our team recommended after testing, as well as more information about the basics of sewing machines and what to look for when shopping for one.

What We Tested

To find the best sewing machines, we spoke to sewing experts and tested 24 machines in our lab to discover the top performers. We evaluated each sewing machine on its set up, features, design, and performance.

For more information on how we tested sewing machines in our lab, check out our testing process below.

What is an Embroidery Machine?

An embroidery machine uses thread and a needle to stitch an embroidered blank. Nowadays, almost all embroidery machines are computer-controlled devices that can stitch an embroidery pattern that was digitally created.

Hoops that connect to embroidery machines are included with the machines themselves. Placing the cloth inside a sewing machine hoop is known as “hooping.” Because the fabric must remain in place while the machine embroiders the pattern, tightness and stabilization are crucial. Numerous other individualized apparel items, including sportswear and branded workwear, are made using embroidery machines.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:Best Budget :PHOTO: Amazon$230 at Amazon $231 at Wayfair $240 at Target

• This machine is incredibly easy to use and makes some of the cleanest designs we’ve ever seen.

• You might need to play around with the tension for some features to find what works best for you.

After testing this sewing machine, we were way more impressed than we’d thought we'd be. It was easy to use right out of the box—which is half the battle when you’re learning to use a sewing machine—and worked better than any other machine we’d used before.

As soon as we set it up, it took just moments to thread the bobbin and needle. It has everything a beginner might need as well, including a quick guide, a manual that clearly explains all the features (we found this especially helpful for writing notes and keeping track of key settings), and a wide table for working with large panels.

As far as features go, it has a light, a buttonhole feature, a needle threader, a twin needle feature, several different feet for decorative and quilting needs, a seam ripper, and extra needles. We especially liked the way the bobbin was seated for threading—it made it simple to follow and allowed us to get rid of any excess thread at the end.

While we think some experimenting with the tension would be needed for some features, overall, we thought the stitches were straight, clean, and easy—we would recommend this machine for basic sewing based on ease of use alone.

The buttonhole was also very effective; we tried two different designs, and both were clean and simple. The stitching was even, too. We tried five different decorative designs, and there were plenty of options available—165 in total. All designs worked seamlessly and were, in fact, some of the cleanest we’ve ever seen from a sewing machine.

After testing it at home for six months, we found this machine to be best for someone who already knows how to sew and doesn't get overwhelmed easily. With so many features, it has more than a beginner needs but is good for someone who plans to sew for years to come.

8 Best Embroidery Machines Of 2025 – With A Clear Winner!

Are you planning to restart your passion for doing embroidery, but the availability of thousands of embroidery machine options in the market has made it difficult for you to decide which one will be the best for your needs. Guess what?

This blog has come ahead to provide you with reviews based on features, pros, and cons so you can lay your hands on the embroidery machine that ticks off all your requirements!

Embroidery has a magical way of transforming ordinary fabrics into works of art. Whether you’re personalizing gifts, starting a small business, or adding a creative touch to your wardrobe, the right embroidery machine can open up a world of possibilities. With today’s technology, embroidery machines are more powerful and accessible than ever, offering features that cater to both beginners and seasoned crafters.