Best Sewing Machine to Buy for Kids

Whether your child dreams of designing their own clothes, making cozy gifts, or simply learning a fun and creative skill, finding the best sewing machine for them can make all the difference. A sewing machine tailored to young learners is not just about simplicity—it’s about sparking creativity while ensuring safety and ease of use.

This guide will walk you through the essentials of choosing a sewing machine for kids and highlight some of the best models available.

What to Look for in a Kid-Friendly Sewing Machine

When selecting a sewing machine for kids, there are key features to keep in mind. Here’s what matters most:

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority. Look for machines with finger guards or specially designed presser feet that reduce the chances of little fingers getting hurt. A slower speed option is also great for beginners who are just learning to control the machine.

Ease of Use

The machine should be straightforward to operate. Features like simple threading paths, an automatic needle threader, and a clear bobbin winding system can significantly ease the learning curve for young sewers.

Size and Weight

Choose a lightweight and compact machine that’s easy for a child to move and store. Portability is a bonus if your young sewer wants to work in different areas of the house or bring their machine to a class.

Modes of Operation

Kids often do well with machines that have a push-button start-stop function rather than a foot pedal. This provides better control for beginners still working on hand-foot coordination.

Stitch Options

More often than not, simpler is better. A basic selection of stitches like straight, zigzag, and reverse is usually enough for beginners. There’s no need to overwhelm a child with dozens of stitch options they won’t use—stick to the basics and watch their confidence grow!

Durability

For active kids, a sturdy and reliable machine is ideal. Opt for models that can handle light-to-medium sewing projects without frequent issues. Additionally, a durable machine should be able to handle multiple layers of fabric, making it suitable for various beginner projects.

Types of Sewing Machines for Kids

When it comes to choosing a sewing machine for kids, there are several types to consider. Understanding the differences between these types can help you make an informed decision and find the perfect sewing machine for your child.

Toy Machines vs. Real Machines

Toy sewing machines are designed specifically for young children and are often made of plastic. These machines are usually small, lightweight, and easy to use, making them a great introduction to the world of sewing. 

However, they may not be as durable or capable as real sewing machines. Toy machines are perfect for sparking an interest in sewing and teaching basic concepts, but they might not be suitable for more complex projects.

Real sewing machines, on the other hand, are built for actual sewing tasks and are made from more durable materials. While they are often heavier and more complex than toy machines, they offer a wider range of features and capabilities. 

Real sewing machines are ideal for kids who are serious about learning to sew and want to create actual projects. These machines can handle various fabrics and sewing techniques, making them a better long-term investment for budding young sewers.

Computerized vs. Mechanical Machines

Computerized sewing machines come equipped with digital screens and can perform a variety of stitches and functions. These machines are often more expensive and may be more complex to use, but they offer a wide range of stitch options and designs. Computerized machines are excellent for kids who are interested in embroidery and quilting, as they provide numerous creative possibilities.

Mechanical sewing machines, on the other hand, are simpler and more straightforward to use. They are often less expensive than computerized machines and are ideal for kids who are just starting to learn to sew. Mechanical machines are great for basic sewing projects, such as straight stitching and quilting. They offer essential features without overwhelming young learners, making them perfect for building foundational sewing skills.

Top 3 Sewing Machines for Kids

1. Baby Lock Zest Sewing Machine

The Baby Lock Zest is a full-sized but simple and lightweight machine that’s perfect for older kids or those with some sewing experience. With 15 built-in stitches, a drop-in bobbin system, and a one-step buttonhole function, this model offers more versatility than most kid-friendly machines.

• Best For: Older kids transitioning to more advanced projects.

• Why we love it: The large size and sturdy build make it suitable for longer sewing sessions while still being user-friendly enough for young sewers.

2. Baby Lock Joy Sewing Machine

The Baby Lock Joy is another full-sized machine with a simple design and user-friendly features. With 19 built-in stitches, a top-loading bobbin system, and an automatic needle threader, this model offers a bit more variety than other kid-friendly machines. Plus, it’s available in fun colors like pink and blue to capture kids’ attention.

• Best For: Variety of stitches for more creative projects.

• Why we love it: This machine offers the perfect balance of simplicity and versatility, making it a great choice for kids who want to explore different types of stitching.

Psst.. you can also purchase it re-certified for a lower price here

3. Baby Lock Jubilant Sewing Machine

The Baby Lock Jubilant is a high-quality, durable machine that’s ideal for older kids or those with more sewing experience. With 80 built-in stitches, an automatic needle threader, and a top-loading bobbin system, this model offers plenty of creative options. It also comes with an extension table for larger projects and a bonus accessory package.

• Best For: Advanced features and versatility.

• Why we love it: This machine is perfect for young sewers who are serious about their craft and want to take on more challenging projects. Its durability ensures it can handle all types of sewing tasks while still being user-friendly enough for kids.

Psst.. you can also purchase it re-certified for a lower price here

Tips for Parents: How to Introduce Sewing to Your Kids

Start with Easy Projects

When introducing your child to sewing, it's best to start with simple and fun projects such as pillowcases, tote bags, or small stuffed animals. This will help them build confidence and develop basic skills before moving on to more complex projects.

Teach Safety Precautions

It's important to teach your child about the potential dangers of using a sewing machine, such as sharp needles and fast-moving parts. Make sure they understand the rules for safe operation and supervise them closely while they are learning.

Involve Them in Fabric Selection

Let your child choose the fabric and materials for their projects. This will help them feel more invested in and excited about their creations.

Encourage Creativity

Don't limit your child to following patterns or instructions strictly. Allow them to experiment and come up with their own ideas and designs, even if they may not turn out perfect. This will help foster their creativity and problem-solving skills.

Make it a Bonding Experience

Sewing can be a great activity for parents and children to do together. Spend quality time teaching them new skills, sharing tips, and working on projects side by side.

Recommended Resources for Parents

• Online classes and workshops: At Meissner Sewing, we offer a variety of sewing classes and workshops. From beginner projects to more advanced techniques, these classes are a great way for anyone to learn from experienced instructors in a fun and supportive environment.

• Children's sewing books: There are also many instructional books specifically designed for children learning how to sew. Some popular titles include "Sewing School: 21 Sewing Projects Kids Will Love to Make" by Amie Petronis Plumley and Andria Lisle, and "My First Sewing Machine Book: Learn To Sew" by Alison McNicol.

• YouTube tutorials: While not as efficient as online classes and workshops, there are many kid-friendly sewing tutorials available on YouTube that can help your child learn basic techniques and complete fun projects.

All in All

Overall, introducing your child to sewing can be a fun and creative activity and a valuable life skill. With the right tools, resources, and guidance, your child can develop a love for sewing that will last a lifetime.

Looking for some projects to get started on together? 

• Accuquilt Bibs

• Party Bags

• Trendy Sweatshirts