Ready to dive into the world of sewing? It’s fun, exciting, and a practical hobby.
You have a list of projects you want to get started on right away. You have your fabric, a craft room, and the time. But there’s one thing you still need.
A sewing machine!
But how do you decide? There are so many options, all with different features, and the prices are all over the place. You have a budget, but it’s modest at best. This is where we come in. We can help you find the best sewing machine under $100!
For less than the cost of your monthly phone bill, you can equip yourself with a great sewing machine that’s ideal for making pillows, clothing, crafts, and more.
So let’s find you a sewing machine that won’t break the bank. Get that crisp hundred dollar bill ready. It’s time to shop!
10 Best Sewing Machine Under $100
Without further ado, let’s begin our hunt for the best-rated sewing machine under 100 dollars.
1) Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine
Pros
- The machine has a lot of offer (seriously-you have to see for yourself)
- Depending on your technical skills, you can complete advanced techniques with ease
- Hemming and stitching have never been easier, and the 6 easily changeable feed dogs let you operate in different modes
- The stitch patterns that the machine can sew are massive and all perfect
Cons
- The LED lighting in the machine is a bit dim
- But this problem can be solved by working in a better lit area
The Brother XM2701 is loaded with features, including 27 stitches and a 1-step auto-size buttonhole setting.
Whether you’re new to sewing or advanced, you’ll love the versatility this machine has to offer. It’s jam-packed with everything a sewer could need. It’s surprising that its price qualifies it for our list of best sewing machines under $100.
The features this machine offers include:
- 27 built-in stitch patterns, including straight-line, zig-zag, and blind hem
- 63 stitch functions
- Automatic needle threader
- 800 stitches per minute
- Quick set bobbin, with 6 feed dogs
- Built-in quilting features
- 1- step buttonhole style, ensures virtually perfect buttonholes
- 25 year warranty
- Bilingual instruction anuals in English and Spanish
Final Words
This machine has it all, including a great stitch speed, automatic functions, and an affordable price tag.
It’s simple to use and dependable. To summarize, we guarantee you’ll love it. Whether you’re cutting buttonholes or quilting, this machine will work wonders for you.
It’s the best option in the $100 price range. We’re also confident in calling this one of the best sewing machines for beginners.
2. Brother Jx2517 Lightweight Full Size Sewing Machine
Pros
- Provided manual makes it easy to get started right away
- You can experiment with new techniques and build up your skills with this machine, including making buttonholes or hemming your pants
- Perfect for entry-level sewing enthusiasts
Cons
- With no automatic needle threader, you might struggle from time to time
- There are plenty of stitches to choose from but the dial makes it difficult to select one
- As compared to other models which require just a single turn for stitch pattern selection on the dial, you'll notice this machine takes more effort
This is an exceptional sewing machine at an incredibly reasonable cost. With this model, you can expect phenomenal results as it comes with 17 different built-in stitch patterns and a fully functional 4 step-buttonhole as well.
Whether you’re doing some simple stitching or maybe repairing complex hems, the Brother Jx2517 can do it all for you.
The model is great for basic, everyday use since it comes with all the simple features and accessories that you might want out of a sewing machine. Other features that this model offers are:
- Manual needle threading system
- Speed of 900 stitches per minute
- 4 feed dog systems
- A jam-resistant quick-set drop-in top bobbin
- Stitch width of 5mm and length of 4 mm
- Built-in storage for accessories
- Range of different, yet useful accessories including bobbins and extra needle pins
Final Words
If you are a new sewist or thinking of introducing your little one to the sewing world, this model could be the perfect choice.
It’s simple to use and very lightweight. It can help build confidence in a new sewist.
With 17 different stitch ranges, this model is an attractive bet. However, there is no automatic needle threader and the dial takes a little more effort than most.
3. Singer 1304 Start Free Arm Sewing Machine
Pros
- Basic stitching can be done instantly with a fantastic finished look
- The amount of features it offers under the $100 mark makes it more than worth the cost. The speed is satisfactory along with the 6 main stitch patterns that the machine offers
- It's light weight makes it an ideal choice for those who need to move around a lot
Cons
- With the vertical bobbin, some may struggle
- However, a sewist who has worked with a variety of machines might not find this to be an issue
For those of you who take sewing as a serious hobby, this model is your perfect match. The Singer 1304 is simple, easy, and effective to work with.
This Singer model is easy to set up and because it’s so light, you can carry it anywhere you need to.
There’s no need for you to make stitch length and width adjustments with this one, as they’re already set. You can complete a wide variety of stitching with this model, including cuffs, hems, and so much more.
The Singer 1304 has the following specifications:
- Speed of 750 stitches per minute
- 6 built-in stitch patterns to choose from (including the 4 step buttonhole)
- Easy stitch style selection from dial
- Automatic bobbin winding feature
- Reverse sewing option
- Included all-purpose, buttonhole, and zipper presser feet
- 5 mm stitch width (automatically set)
- Free arm setting for stitching cuffs, collars, hemming, and reaching other difficult areas
Final Words
The Singer 1304 is the best starter sewing machine you can purchase. Those who sew as a hobby will enjoy its speedy and clean stitches, the three different presser feet, and the reverse hassle-free speedy stitching.
Threading can be an issue but with a little practice, this hiccup can be avoided. The machine can also stitch layers of fabrics together with its extra-high presser foot lifter. Overall, this machine is simple, compact, and powerful.
4. Janome Fastlane Compact Lightweight Sewing Machine
Pros
- Extremely lightweight at only 5 pounds
- Portable and easy to travel with
- Free arm allows for more experimentation and skill building
- Perfect sewing machine for kids or first-time sewers
Cons
- The machine's light weight is great but it isn't battery powered so there are some limitations on its portability
- The machine is mostly made from plastic so it is not as durable as other options
- Short lifespan
This is a workable yet inexpensive 10 stitches sewing machine at a great price. It is a simple yet powerful machine that’s great for new sewists.
It’s a small-sized, portable, easy-to-use sewing machine that is perfect for alterations and other basic sewing tasks. The attached finger guard helps protect little fingers from accidents. The Fastlane can be used for several different fabrics, including light denim, cotton, and chiffon. More features include :
- Straight, zig-zag, and multi-stitch option
- 10 stitches built-in
- Easy to use top loading bobbin system
- Free arm and reverse lever
- Presser foot with finger guard
Final Words
This is not the best sewing machine under $100 but if you are looking for a sewing machine to get started with, the Fastlane will serve its purpose.
New sewers can use it for their basic sewing lessons and then switch to an advanced machine once they have learned the basic operations.
5. Michley LSS-505 Sewing Machine
Pros
- Want to hem pants? Or maybe sew collars? Or have perfect reverse, tight stitches?
- All of these are tasks which this model can accomplish perfectly
- Its size and price are perfect for those who want to learn the basics
Cons
- Short warranty
Let’s start with the weight of this machine. At only 5 pounds, it’s hard to find a lighter machine.
Besides being portable, this model offers plenty of other great features, like 8 built-in stitch patterns, reverse stitching, and an LED to work beneath. You can learn how to create neat and clean stitches with this machine.
Other highlights of this model are:
- 8 built-in stitch patterns to choose from
- Select your stitch speed from the high-low options
- Reverse stitching option
- Easy thread tension control from the front dial on the machine
- Free arm option
- 3 different feed dog systems
- Extra accessories, including needles, bobbins, and foot pedal
- Very easy to understand manuals
- Compact and highly inexpensive
Final Words
If you are looking for an easy to use and great stitching machine, then you can’t go wrong with the Michley LSS-505.
Its price, coupled with its wide range of features, will certainly provide surprisingly satisfactory results.
However, if you are looking for advanced features or a bit more variety, then this one might not suit you.
6. Mini-Sewing Machine Portable LightWeight
Are you looking for a mini-machine with a good-learning curve to jumpstart your sewing journey? This mini-machine by Suteck may be your only bet. It works perfectly for kids and other novice learners who would wish to begin their epic journey to the world of sewing.
This machine comes in either pink or blue to give it a beautiful shine that kids love. It also features a small compact design and only weighs a few pounds. You or your kid can easily carry and use it in any place with power.
This mini-machine comes with a strong needle that can stitch through light fabrics such as cotton and polyester shirts. It supports the straight stitching mode, making it perfect for joining pieces and adding, fixing slits, and adding solid seams to weak ones.
Additionally, it comes with a special scuff slot that works perfectly in designing trouser legs and sleeves. You can do all these with the support of the LED lights that help users see more clearly, especially in the dark.
The threader is designed with double-thread—the upper part for cross sewing and the lower part for making the seams more solid. The threader is also a cross cutter that comes built-in to enable you to slice into any fabric faster.
Key Features:
- Portable and compact
- Two-mode speed
- Thread cutter
- Automatic bobbin rewinding
- Easy to use
- Durable
Pros:
- Versatile for almost all basic home sewing tasks
- It comes in a durable body.
- Compact enough for easy storage
- Has an excellent learning curve
Con:
- Does not stitch backward
7. Anoesy Portable Sewing Machine
Money is one of the most versatile machines you will ever meet when looking for a sewing machine for basic home tasks. It runs entirely on electricity and supports up to 12 stitches. With it, you can learn the ropes, from a 100% green beginner right to an advanced level expert.
This machine measures 12.5 x 6 13.5 inches and weighs only 5.8 pounds. It is your ideal option when looking for a highly portable machine that you can use indoors and outdoors. It also comes with LED lights that minimize eye-straining when working in a dim or dark room.
Attached to this machine is a foot pedal that supports 2 speeds. You can keep the speed slow when designing hems or buttonholes and high speed when stitching straight on your fabric. The thread cutter will also make your stitching ordeal memorable by cutting the thread as per your measurements.
This mini-machine is sturdy and strong enough to stitch other thick fabrics such as denim without the material clamping on the working table. Generally, it guarantees the best value for money when looking for a basic machine for all your home tasks.
Key Features:
- Portable
- Easy to use
- Perfect for beginners and advanced users
- Safe for use
Pros:
- Versatile for use by any person
- It comes with buttons for easy use.
- Has an excellent learning curve
- Highly portable for use both indoor and outdoor
- It comes in a weather-proof body for years of use.
- Works with AA batteries for use under power outage
Con:
- It may not be ideal for persons sensitive to noise.
8. Suteck Mini-Sewing Machine for Beginners
Take your sewing skills a notch higher using the Suteck Mini-sewing machine for beginners. Apart from being small in size and highly portable, this machine has an incredibly high speed that makes it your perfect bet for basic home tasks. It decorates, stitches in straight lines, creates and designs buttonholes, and a lot more.
Suteck mini-machine has a 2-speed level that you can adjust using the foot pedal. It also comes with an extension table that works great for stitching and mending sheets, large clothes, and other home crafts accessories.
Apart from the pedal, you can also control the machine’s speed through a press on a switch. Therefore, if your pedal ceases to function, you can go on with your tasks as if nothing happened. The double thread design also ensures that the seams are solid enough for longevity.
You don’t need a scissor; the thread cutter will do you a great job slicing any piece of cloth you are working on. Neither do you need a light, since this machine comes ready for use, with LED lights for use under darkness. The package also includes a charge plug that fits into a standard socket, making it easy to charge the system anywhere.
This machine also accepts large spools as it comes with a rewind device. AT the bottom of the threader is a bobbin that maintains the thread tension and makes it easy to change the spool.
Key Features:
- Portable
- Double switch and two-line design
- Multifunctional household mending machine
- Automatic rewinding and two-speed control
- Easy to operate
Pros:
- It comes with a superior speed that is easy to adjust.
- Offers quality results with long-lasting seams
- Less noise provides a conducive stitching environment.
Con:
- No battery support for use in remote areas
9. Suteck Sewing Machine for Beginners
Suteck has outstanding releases that stand out in the market, and this model is not any different. Well, it is mainly made for novice learners who wish to start their journey as professional designers.
This machine is loaded with features that make it ideal for crafts and basic embroidery. It stitches and designs light-duty pants, curtains, sheets, clothes, and bags like a pro. Save for its 16 stitch patterns, and it can stitch along straight lines, zigzag, and reverse lines.
Surprisingly, its price tag is generous enough to fit it inside this list. You will find out that its scope of functionality exceeds even what your intermediate-level sewing machine can do in the real sense.
The large extension table makes it even more efficient when working on large fabrics. Conversely, the free arm enables easy navigation from one function to the other.
Key Features:
- Mini sewing machine
- 16 stitch patterns sewing
- It comes with a large extension table
- Portable and electric
- Easy to use for beginners
Pros:
- An automatic needle threader saves time.
- It maintains perfect thread tension throughout
- The table is removable for easy storage.
- Provides quality and long-lasting seams
Con:
- Works exclusively on a plugged power source
10. Galadim Minisewing Machine with Pedal
If you take sewing seriously, then you won’t mind splurging on the Galadim mini sewing machine. Well, this device comes jam-packed with adequate features to jumpstart your sewing career right through to the intermediate level.
Galadim comes with an extension table that is easy to attach to the system. The table also makes it stable enough to minimize vibrations that can otherwise result in unsightly seams. With basic skills, you should stitch in a zigzag, straight line, and backward.
This machine comes ready to use with pre-adjusted stitch lengths and widths. It also comes with LED lights for use in dim or dark rooms. With only a press of the start switch, this machine is sufficient for all your DIY tasks. It perfectly designs aprons, kid’s pants, curtains, purses, and even quilts.
Key Features:
- Large expansion table
- Automatic bobbin rewinding
- Double threads
- Classic straight line sewing
- Perfect for various materials
Pros:
- Produce low noise hence conducive for indoors
- It comes with a standard cable for both AC and DC power supply.
- It comes with 16 stitch patterns.
- It comes with an automatic bobbin winding.
Con:
- Lacks battery-powered options for 100% portability
Buying Guide: 4 Things to Consider
Apart from the budget, you need to consider four metrics when looking for a machine that suits all your needs:
Scope of Functionality
Are you looking for a machine for basic straight stitching or advanced methods such as quilting? Well, all machines under 100 dollars will stitch in straight, while only a few will reverse-stitch and quilt.
If you are a hobbyist and a fast-learner, machines with reverse, zigzag, and quilt stitchings are your ideal bet. Otherwise, if you are perfecting your straight-stitching skill, any model can do.
Mechanical or Electric
Mechanical machines are perfect for remote places away from the grid. However, some people prefer them for their vintage-styled functions. They also come with excellent learning curves.
Electric models, on the other hand, are perfect for areas with uninterrupted power supply. They start and attain thread tension by a switch of the button, making them ideal for kids. The type of machine you go for melts down to your personal preferences.
Weight and Size
If you blend the love of stitching with the passion of traveling, a small, compact, and lightweight machine is your sure bet since it will not weigh you down. The same case applies when you intend to work outdoors.
Conversely, if you love working from your static office desk, then a heavy and oversized machine can suit your needs. You only need to ensure that the sewing machine doesn’t suffocate your working space.
Durability
Metallic sewing machines are the best when looking for something that will last you decades. They withstand years of wear and tears. Some metallic devices also come with rust-proof bodies that are perfect for humid areas.
On the other hand, plastic machines are lightweight but not durable. They are also appealing, especially for kids, but breaks into pieces with only one topple. If you want value for your cash, we recommend heavy metallic machines over plastic sewing machines.
What to Look For in a Sewing Machine Under $100
Let’s be clear.
A $100 price isn’t going to buy you a professional grade machine.
When your budget grows, so does the quality of your machine. But don’t think that you can’t get a fully functional and great machine for $100 or less.
To make sure you’re getting a machine that will suit your needs, look for a model that offers the following:
- Basic stitches like the straight line and zig-zag stitch, followed by some other decorative stitches.
- A range of solutions to your basic sewing concerns, such as assisting with decor projects and projects that involve both light and heavy fabrics.
- Simplicity. While it will probably take you some time to adjust, make sure you get a machine that won’t overwhelm you.
If you find shopping for a sewing machine intimidating or you don’t want to deal with all the research, our guide is perfect for you. All it takes is a few minutes of your time and you’ll know exactly which machine is best for you. And the best part is that your new sewing machine won’t cost you more than $100.
Just remember, there are several machines that have a tempting $100 tag, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be getting a quality machine. We love the Brother XM2701 and believe it is the best sewing machine under $100 but any of the options on our list will have you sewing in a flash without going over budget.
How to Use a Mini Sewing Machine?
Using a mini-sewing machine shouldn’t be an uphill task since most models come with intuitive manuals and guides. In case you are stuck, here is a step-by-step procedure to follow for a standard mini-sewing machine.
Step one: Threading the Guides
First thread guide
Check the color of the fabric you intend to work on, and choose a thread with a matching shade. When done, focus on the top spool, as the whole process of threading starts there. Depending on the type of your mini-machine, the spool should be upright or lying down.
Pull one end of the thread from the spool pin, then pass it through the thread guide. Loop the thread around the tension disc below the thread guide.
Second thread guide
Pull the thread up and pass it on to the second thread guide. Your thread should be in a U-shaped lever to maintain the tension of your thread. Then bring the thread downwards, making sure that it passes any thread hook available along your course.
Eye of the needle
Immediately you reach the needle, make the tip of your thread wet and position it into the eye of the needle. Carefully pass it through the eye, and then tug about 5 inches of the thread backward. This way, the thread will not fall back when you start working with your machine.
Step 2: Threading the Bobbin
Wind a thread of your choice onto the bobbin. Then insert it back into its compartment. Depending on the type of machine you are working with, the bobbin compartment can be in the top or front. Make sure to place the bobbin in an upright manner.
Use a pin or tweezer to catch the loop of the bobbin thread. Pull the loop up to the top. Then join the thread from the needle’s eye to the bobbin through the bobbin’s loop. Once done, pull the thread to the back, making sure that it doesn’t lose touch with the bobbin spool.
Step 3: Test the Scrap.
Place a piece of scrap and place it below the threader. Start the machine. Grab the thread at the back and hold it gently. Start sewing while ensuring the thread moves steadily to adjust the tension.
If the thread keeps the tension and the stitching begins, your machine is ready for use. You are free to start working on any fabric.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What makes a sewing machine heavy duty?
A heavy-duty sewing machine can do both bulk works and also stitch through heavy fabrics. Most of these machines are ideal for commercial purposes.
What is the best all-around sewing machine?
Any electric machine that can handle heavy fabric will come with all features you are looking for in an all-rounder.
Are old sewing machines worth money?
The vintage wheelers still offer value for money since they have the right learning curves and do a better job. However, they may not meet your needs when intending to embroider or quilt.
Conclusion
Are you on a tight budget while still looking for a sewing machine that provides essential functions for home needs? Well, sewing machines come with a range of price tags. On the higher end are the fully automated machines that come with features for advanced procedures. On the lower spectrum are the mini-machines, some of which can only do one or two functions.
Depending on what you are looking for, the best sewing machine under 100 dollars should provide just enough. This review will show you five sewing machines under 100 dollars, their features, and what they can do.
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