Keep Your Needles Happy
little girl working on sewing machine

Best Sewing Machines for Kids in 2021

This post contains affiliate links. For more information, visit my disclosure page.

Looking for a kids sewing machine? This can be quite the difficult task, and it’s often easy to just opt for the cutest and most affordable option. But if you really want your kid to enjoy the wonders of sewing, then it’s best to look for something that’s reliable, durable, and of course, easy to use.

The good news is, you can easily find a good quality machine for as low as a hundred dollars. These beginner sewing machines will give you all the basic stitches, along with a couple of other features, and will last long enough so your child can grow with it.

To help you further, we’ve reviewed the best kids sewing machines this 2021, and at the end is a comprehensive buying guide to help you find the best childrens sewing machine.

Top 10 kids sewing machine

We’ve taken the time to research and test dozens of sewing machines out there to find the best ones for your kids. Not all sewing machines are made equal, but these ten are guaranteed to be superb for kids and beginner sewists:

Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine

sewing machine choice1

Our first pick is the Brother XM2701 sewing machine, which is a highly versatile yet lightweight machine that boasts of a full range of features designed to give any user an ease of use with excellent and great quality results.

This machine is built for everyday sewing projects and feature user-friendly functions, making it perfect for those who are just learning how to sew. Of course, it’s also versatile enough that a more experienced sewist can still enjoy it, so it’s great to grow with.

It’s also really lightweight, and offers plenty of features, such as a one step buttonhole, six quick change sewing feet, a built-in free arm, an easy needle threader, an automatic bobbin winding system, and a jam resistant quick set top drop-in bobbin.

  • Amazon best seller
  • Also available in GX37
  • 27 built-in stitches
  • 800 stitches per minute
  • Dial selection for stitches and designs
  • Limited 25 year warranty

SINGER Tradition 2277 Sewing Machine

sewing machine choice2

Ranking a close second is the Singer Tradition 2277, an easy to use mechanical sewing machine that’s essentially maintenance free and lasts for a lifetime, making it a great choice for a child sewing machine.

This one is designed with manual controls and come with a variety of built-in popular stitches so the user can work on various fabrics and take on different sewing machine projects, from simple stitching, to alterations, and so on.

What’s more is that it features an adjustable stitch width for improved customizability, comes with a one step buttonhole that allows you to easily work on dresses, pillows, totes, and whatnot. It even comes with a free arm, as well as basic accessories in the built-in storage.

  • Heavy duty metal frame
  • Comes with 19 or 23 stitches
  • 97 stitch applications
  • Comes with 3 presser feet
  • Automatic 1 step buttonhole
  • Limited 90 day to 25 year warranty

Varmax Mini Sewing Machine

sewing machine choice3

In third place is the Varmax mini sewing machine, a total space saver that comes in a small yet elaborate package to offer all those must have features without the bulk. Of course, it comes with a large extension table, so your kid can still work on bigger projects without a hassle.

Besides, the table also helps stabilize the machine. There’s even a special cuff slot that allows the user to conveniently sew sleeves and trousers. And of course, there’s a built-in lighting to ensure that sewing projects are always well illuminated, day or night.

What makes this machine really great for kids and beginner sewists, however, is that it features double thread stitching that allows for an easy sewing without having to knot. That, and the two speed control that ensures that the stitching selections remain safe and powerful.

  • Small design with large table
  • Built-in lamp and cuff slot
  • Easy to rewind bobbin system
  • Multiple power supply options
  • With complete accessories
  • 1 year warranty

SINGER 57 Applications Best Sewing Machine

sewing machine choice4

Taking the fourth spot is the Singer 1304, which is another simple and user friendly mechanical sewing machine that comes with six built-in stitches and a lot of other amazing features that make it a good choice for kids and beginners.

It also features pre-set stitching width and length, so it’s pretty straightforward as all that needs to be done is to select the stitch and then begin sewing. It also comes with a free arm attachment, an easy stitch selection, a built-in reverse, adjustable tension settings, easy threading, and a high presser foot lifter.

Furthermore, this Singer kids sewing machine is built with a heavy duty metal frame, making it durable while ensuring perfect alignment and a skip-free sewing. All in all, it’s a great machine that’s perfect for beginner sewists to unleash their creativity and passion.

  • 4 step automatic buttonhole
  • Built-in LED light
  • Convertible free arm
  • Automatic bobbin winding system
  • Complete accessories
  • Limited 25 year warranty

Cool Maker Sew N’ Style Sewing Machine

sewing machine choice5

Ranking fifth is the Cool Maker sew n’ style sewing machine, which is perhaps one of the most unique and adorable looking machines we’ve found that’s really perfect for children. It comes in bright and vibrant colors, and is designed for curious kids who want to explore sewing.

It’s a children’s sewing machine that’s perfectly safe and easy to use, and comes with everything your kid will need to craft amazing projects, such as sparkly fabrics, bright prints, glitter and felt fabrics, decorative pieces, style strings, pom pom yarn, and more.

The machine is also designed with a unique pom pom maker attachment that’s perfect for customizing funky and pretty creations. And, also included are pre-cut projects, pop-out patterns, and even a playbook to help your kid get started.

  • With glitter fabric and pre-cut projects
  • Designed with bottom drawer
  • Recommended for kids 6 years up
  • Powered by 4 AA batteries
  • Easy to use, great value for money
  • Giftable packaging

Brother Sewing and Quilting Machine

sewing machine choice6

Next up is the Brother sewing and quilting machine, which isn’t exclusively a sewing machine for kids, but with its portability, straightforward functions, and ease of use, makes it a good option for beginners who want to practice their sewing skills.

It boasts of a wide range of features for both sewing and quilting projects, such as 60 built-in stitches, nine presser feet for zippers, buttonholes, and more, a detachable wide table for quilting, an automatic needle threader, adjustable sewing speed controls, threading diagrams that are easy to follow, and even a backlit LCD display screen.

Plus, it also comes with a free arm and built-in lighting to make any sewing and quilting job as easy as they can be, and the machine even comes with its own hard case for storage and transport. And, it’s also pretty affordable, too!

  • LCD screen and button selection
  • Free arm and extension table
  • 600 sewing stitches and designs
  • Also available in CS7000i
  • Complete accessories included
  • Limited 25 year warranty

Beletops Portable Sewing Machine

sewing machine choice7

There’s also the Beletops portable sewing machine, which is an adorable looking girls sewing machine with its pretty pastel exteriors. It’s simple yet extraordinary, making it suitable for beginners and aspiring sewists.

This portable sewing machine is equipped with double thread and double speed functions that ensure straight, firm, and neat stitches. Its also really easy to work with due to its features such as the foot pedal, thread cutter, and self winding bobbin, as well as the built-in night light. It also makes use of a powerful motor, and features two adjustable sewing speeds.

Moreover, it’s lightweight, compact, and portable, making it really easy to carry and set up just about anywhere. It’s also built with a heavy duty frame that’s durable and lasts for a long time. It can even be used on a variety of materials and fabrics, such as synthetics, cotton, linen, denim, wool, and so on.

  • Adjustable automatic speed motor
  • Automatic bobbin winding system
  • Built-in LED night light
  • Basic accessories included
  • Comes in 3 pastel color options
  • Most affordable option

DONYER POWER Electric Sewing Machine

sewing machine choice8

You might also want to consider the Donyer Power electric sewing machine, which is really compact and easy to use on the go. It may be small, but it’s powerful enough to get the job done, making it ideal as a beginner sewing kit, even for kids.

In fact, this machine can even be used to sew furniture covers and other home decor. That’s because it makes use of different stitching sizes and patterns, including lock stitching and buttonholes. Simply select the correct stitching number and maneuver the adjustment button, and you’re good to go.

There are plenty of stitching options to choose from, including a variety of fancy stitches. With twelve preset stitching patterns, this machine offers a simple learning curve for beginners who dream of completing complex projects. Of course, the machine also comes with a variety of other features, such as an adjustable stitch length and width, a free arm, and more.

  • 12 pre-set stitching patterns
  • 2 adjustable automatic speeds
  • Built in needle threader
  • Free arm and on-board storage
  • Adjustable stitch length and width
  • Limited 1 year warranty

Enjoylf Mini Sewing Machine for Beginners

sewing machine choice9

Another excellent option when it comes to little girls sewing machines is the Enjolf mini sewing machine for beginners, which is small, portable, and lightweight, making it easy to sew whatever daily DIY and crafting projects anywhere, anytime. It’s also pretty cute, so it should work well as a gift for your kids and loved ones.

It’s really easy to operate given its simple structure, two sewing speed options (low speed for beginners, high speed for more experienced sewists), a double switch including a foot pedal and a manual switch, and so on.

And, this small sewing machine is really multifunctional thanks to its other features, such as a built-in night lamp and thread cutter, both allowing the user to clearly see their immediate surroundings without causing eye strain, as well as enabling an easier thread cutting. There’s even a specially designed cuff slot for sewing sleeves and trousers.

  • Classic straight line stitch
  • 330 rpm maximum speed
  • Suitable for light materials and denim
  • Complete accessories included
  • Automatic thread winding system
  • Easy to learn for beginners

Mini Electric Sewing Machine

sewing machine choice10

Finally, we also have here the Mini electric sewing machine, which boats of an ABS material engineering that allows for reliable operation and a longer service life. It comes in a small package that makes it lightweight and portable, all without sacrificing quality and performance.

It’s also built with a single stitching type that can easily meet basic home sewing needs and demands, and this is also what makes the machine ridiculously easy to operate. Of course, it still comes with plenty of must have features, such as a special cuff slot for sleeves and trouser legs, a double thread design with cross sewing, a built-in thread cutter, and more.

This machine also comes with two adjustable sewing speeds, a pedal and a manual switch, a lighting function, all to make everything as simple and user friendly as possible. Plus, this can even be used on various types of fabrics, even on thick and multiple layered ones, while still ensuring a perfect and solid seam.

  • Built-in light and thread cutter
  • Automatic bobbin rewinding system
  • 2 mode speed with foot pedal
  • Available in pastel pink and blue
  • Basic accessories included
  • Portable and easy to use

What to look for when buying a kids sewing machine

Once your kids are at that age where they love to learn and explore new things and take up new hobbies, sewing is one of the best things you can introduce. It’s not only fun, it also helps them channel their creativity and imagination, gives them a chance to create their own stuff, whether it’s clothes, accessories, gifts, and whatnot, and leaves them with a useful life skill.

But, it’s not always easy to find an appropriate sewing machine for them, as kids have different needs that many typical sewing machines cannot meet, especially those complex computerized ones.

You need to find a sewing machine that’s safe, easy to use, and reliable, and allows them to develop their skills without being overwhelming. So, when choosing a kids sewing machine, here are the most important features you need to consider:

child with a sewing machine

Sturdy and well built

Buying a toy sewing machine can be tempting, since these come in bright and pretty packages and are insanely affordable, but more often than not, they are really not worth the hype. They are also made cheaply, and can only do weak stitches that come apart almost instantly.

If you really want your kid to enjoy sewing and learn a few things from it, you’re better off with an actual sewing machine that’s built for beginner sewists, and come with all the important safety features. These machines will be quality and durable, not to mention safe to use.

Besides, let’s be honest. Kids aren’t the most careful beings on the planet, and you don’t want to waste money on something that will break once it gets banged up or accidentally dropped. Also, in terms of safety, try to look for a machine that features finger guards, or at least look for a suitable finger guard online or in the nearest craft store.

Easy to use

When it comes to kids, what’s important is that the sewing machine is pretty basic and simple, especially if your kid knows nada about sewing. An easy to use machine will help them learn and grow, whereas a complicated one will be too difficult to use, and will likely result in your kid losing interest quickly.

As such, in terms of user friendliness, there are a few things to look out for:

  • Easy to load bobbins and an automatic needle threader for convenience
  • Screw in presser feet that stay in place to prevent sewing accidents
  • Push button foot pedal with a consistent stitching speed
  • Preset and consistent sewing speed that allow for precision and control

Remember, you want to avoid having your kid complain of too much difficulty in just setting up the machine, accidents like sewing through their clothes (or worse, their fingers), not being able to reach the foot pedal, or inconsistent stitching. All these can prove too much of a hassle for your kid to enjoy sewing.

Simple functions

In relation to ease of use, you will also want a machine that has simple and straightforward functions, so as to not overwhelm your child and give them a simple learning curve so they can practice their sewing skills and grow more naturally without being overwhelmed.

As long as the machine comes with all the basics, such as a handful of stitching patterns, convenient features like a top drop-in bobbin, a built-in light source to illuminate the working area, and so on, you should be good to go.

Sure, a couple of other features may be nice so your kid can grow with the machine and explore new things as they develop their skills, but avoid going over the top and buying the most expensive and most complicated machine that will likely not be used all that much.

Really, until your kid becomes a pro and demands more functionality out of their machine, there’s no reason to invest in a high-end sewing machine that can cost hundreds if not thousands of dollars.

Lightweight

The size and weight of the sewing machine should also be considered, especially since it’s for a child. A large and heavy machine will be much harder to work with and maneuver, especially if your kid doesn’t have a permanent working space and will want to move the machine around.  Besides, a heavier machine will cause more severe injury if it gets dropped on the child’s foot.

With a lightweight machine, on the other hand, it will be easier to move, bring to places, and store, without being a hassle, needing the help of an adult, and posing too much danger.

Affordable

Buying a sewing machine for kids need not burn a hole through your savings. After all, they don’t need all those bells and whistles that high-end professional grade machines come with. Just a few basic features and functions, and they should be fine.

That said, don’t just go for the cheapest machine that’s likely to break after a short period of use. Children’s sewing machines can cost anywhere from 50 to 200 dollars, but it’s best to stay within the 80 to 120 dollar price range.

This should give you a machine that’s good quality, built to last, works the way it should, comes with all the basic features a child sewist will need, and may even feature a few additions such as automatic needle threaders or even sewing multiple fabric layers.

Well known brand

You might also want to get a sewing machine made by a well known, reputable, and trusted brand, so as to guarantee quality, performance, and reliability. Even if the machine will be used by a kid, you still want it to work the way it should and deliver quality results.

Some good brand names when it comes to sewing machines include Singer, Brother, and Janome. Their basic models come at a pretty affordable price range, and your kids will surely love the features that these machines offer. 

Warranty

As with any relatively expensive purchase, having good warranty coverage is ideal in order to protect your investment and get the most use out of the item you’re buying. The same is true for sewing machines, especially so if it’s for a child.

After all, when kids are around, accidents are bound to happen. It’s really a question of when, rather than if. And that’s okay. But if you don’t want your money to go to waste, buying a machine with a good warranty is a good idea.

Final thoughts

Creativity, imagination, and passion are some of the many things that sewing can fuel. When it comes to children, sewing can also be a form of self expression, an outlet, and a sense of pride, not to mention a life skill.

If you would like to get your kid engaged in sewing, feel free to choose from our recommendations of the best kids sewing machines, and use our buying guide to help you decide which one is the right machine for your kid.