How do you ignite that passion for creativity and sewing your grandmother instilled in you? In the 21st century you may have to do more than simply handing over needle and thread: There are many modern toys and tools that dominate children’s attention. What you need is high tech sewing. And luckily that’s possible now with today’s range of quality kids oriented sewing machines. They’re smaller, safer & simple enough and one of the best sewing machine for kids options below can make your child feel quite grown up. And that’s a definite draw card.
One thing that’s vital in shopping for these nifty innovations is that it must align with your child’s skill and age. Still, you want quality needlework to help the kids realize their creative dreams, so speed and built in stitch options are very important features too. Keep it size-appropriate so your child can carry it wherever they want and you’ve got a winning recipe to launch your child’s new interest & hobby. We came up with a list of top 10 picks, and the Janome 2212 turned out to be the best one.
This design looks so sleek as it’s all in white: Your little one will feel like a grown up and want to sit next to you while you both work on your sewing projects.
They will be able to do quite a lot and even help you with your work, as there are nifty features such as a button hole option. Just note that it has fewer stitch options than some others in this category, so the creative souls may not find this stimulating enough. Newbies will adore the ease of use, not feeling overwhelmed by too many options.
Yes this is probably more appropriate for beginners but it still has advanced characteristics such as the free arm aspect. The brand even provides various accessories upon purchase, so you’re set for many projects from the get go.
This one is quite heavy; One of the heaviest on the list, so small kids won’t be able to carry this all over the house.
Note that the design isn’t very user friendly for left handers, due to the positioning of the lever to raise or lower the foot.
It’s easy to set up and don’t be afraid to work on heavy fabric. This one can handle it.
Not that many automated features, but still a perfect way to start teaching a newbie.
Extra features: comes with 4 presser feet, removable free arm, heavy duty metal frame, 3-piece feed dog, LED illuminated sewing space
In looks and features this is an exceptional training machine, as its color scheme is super attractive—your kids will WANT to work on this. While they’re enthralled with the aesthetics the features are simple enough to quickly grasp as there’s only a limited number of stitches and it’s not too technical to understand.
Still, as soon as your children feel comfortable with the basics, you can show them more advanced features such as the free arm with which they’ll do more intricate work in hard to reach places. This ensures your kid doesn’t get bored along the way.
It comes at a decent price, so if you’re not sure if this will catch on in your household this is a wise option to consider. It’s still durable though, so you’re buying quality. The design incorporates a sturdy metal frame which will keep for a long time and keep your machine still while you work.
The front loading bobbin setup’s value is debated widely. Many people appreciate its easy accessibility, but if you’re used to a different layout you may find this difficult to get used to. One additional upgrade they should consider is adding a thread cutter.
Although this design includes a light, it’s not ideally positioned so your work area stays dark.
We appreciate the range of accessories you get with this kit, so you don’t have to buy much more—just start sewing.
Extra features: automatic bobbin winding, free arm, 5 mm stitch width, comes with 3 presser feet, LED sewing area
This one you’ll order for its portability matched with a great price. It’s one of the best small sewing machine for kids options because you can place it almost anywhere to help keep them busy or take their hobby wherever you go. Granted, along with the small, light design you don’t get many options .in terms of stitches, but that’s what you need when you’re working with newbies: Make it easy for them to use.
The compact nature may influence how much you can do with this one and some users may feel cramped, but for kids it’s usually appropriate.
It’s not a complete entry level unit, as you get two spools for double stitching and there’s even a button hole feature. Early in your child’s life you can show them the value of this skill, as well as prompt them to help out around the house, thus giving them some confidence in themselves.
It’s definitely not for advanced users, but it’s still a sturdy design: You can even work on denim fabric or other heavy duty material if needed.
Because it’s portable many people also use it as an alternative to their own machines: Take it on holiday or use it for small jobs when helping out at a school play. It’s simple enough for your child, but the quality makes it appropriate for everyone.
It doesn’t allow you to adjust stitch length, but this isn’t a draw back for beginners. It’s rightfully a ‘start’ model and priced right so you can use this to determine if it’s a hobby that will stick for years to come.
Extra features: comes with 6 presser feet, free arm, bright LED work area, jam-resistant bobbin, includes instructional DVD
When you’re shopping for your kids you know looks matter. Little ones will adore the pretty design on the front panel of this model, making it a toy/appliance that they will treasure forever.
This one is our most versatile unit because despite its compact nature it gives you quite a lot of features to use. There are 27 stitches but also 63 stitch functions. Added to this you get easy button hole making and it’s made jam resistant. This is ideal for your little one’s training period so you keep the frustration to a minimum.
This set has dynamic accessories and where many others only come with four sewing feet, this one gives you six.
It’s a user friendly layout as you drop the bobbin in from the top. For most this will make for comfortable training, as you don’t have to reach awkwardly around the unit. Other features of the machine need some rethinking though. For some users the take up lever is tricky to reach, and can hamper your workflow.
A nifty feature is the LED lighting. This gives adequate light but note that your eyes may still feel strained after long sessions.
Not the smallest unit, but still portable for easy storage or to take where you want to. This one is even a favorite among adults looking for a compact sewing solution.
Extra features: automatic bobbin winding, comes with 3 presser feet, free arm, extra high presser foot lifter (for thick fabrics)
You can’t go wrong when you invest in Singer, the famous brand in the industry. This is also one of their winner small sewing machine for kids sets that can even work for adults.
It’s compact and light, so taking this on a trip or when your child visits a friend is easy. But small design doesn’t mean you compromise on options. This one still gives you multiple stitch options. Of course bigger, more experienced kids will want more than the provided six, but this one is great for the little ones.
Another interesting option is that you can easily make buttonholes. There is even a free arm feature as in most Singer models.
This one makes it easy to train a child on the basics of sewing as the exterior surface contains guidelines on how to thread. If your child forgets what you told them they can simply refer to the diagram, in such a way learning to be self-sufficient.
Note that this is a pedal type sewing machine, which can be problematic if children find it challenging to coordinate hand and foot motions. A push button system would also have been safer.
The brand makes it easy to help kids understand and parents to train their kids: There are many tutorial videos available and it’s extremely user friendly. Even adults who have never used a sewing machine before find this one easy to work with.
Extra features: comes with 4 presser feet, automatic bobbin winder, jam-resistant bobbin, free arm, adjustable thread tension, includes instructional DVD
Here’s the little brother to the other Brother model on our list. You get fewer presser feet and less stitch options, but that just makes it more ideal for the little ones: They won’t feel overwhelmed.
Their excitement will be enhanced by the exterior images that make this seem stylish, yet interesting so kids will love it.
This one is one of the lighter options, so take your child’s new hobby wherever you travel.
It’s quite advanced despite being one of the most affordable options on our list. You can even adjust the tension of your thread.
The brand is known for its user friendliness and this one comes with instructional help such as the provided DVD. No wonder this brand wins awards across the globe: They know what consumers (and your child) are after.
This one is even impressive in terms of speed (750 stitches per minute), yet it’s yours at an extremely low price.
Quilting and applique will be easy thanks to its ability to work on thick fabric and the free arm enables a user friendly way to work on sleeves & cuffs.
Last bonus: Some of the most important instructions feature on the unit itself, so your child will have a back up plan if he or she forgets how to thread.
Extra features: extension table, comes with foot pedal, 4 bobbins, needle and needle threader
Don’t be fooled by this one’s price. Yes, it suits your budget perfectly, but that doesn’t mean you’re compromising elsewhere. This model is filled with options and we love the original design. It looks modern—almost futuristic—which will attract kids’ attention.
The versatility starts in powering it up: You can use either batteries or an AC/DC power supply. So yes, your little one can work on the go, taking it anywhere to keep busy or show off new skills. The extension table even makes it possible to work comfortably in almost any scenario.
Next up you can pick between using the foot pedal or the knob. The latter is the user friendly and safer way for beginners. This one is definitely child-friendly.
It’s further kid appropriate as it weighs so little. Your child can easily handle carrying it around and if it should fall on someone’s toe there won’t be much of an injury.
Of course you can’t expect too much from a budget buy, so note that you’re limited to one stitch option. For training your child though, that’s all you need. There is no reverse action, but this doesn’t have to be seen as a problem—with minimal options sewing won’t feel overwhelming so your child can fall in love with the joy of doing it.
At least you can adjust the speed, so this gives you some kind of control if you want to try it for your own projects too.
Extra features: 7 mm stitch width, bright LED stitch panel, comes with 7 presser feet, 3 bobbins, feed dog drop – machine can be used for quilting and embroidery
The Charlotte is proof that brands can succeed in giving you an all in one option. This one definitely works for beginners as there are many automated features, such as an automated needle threader. Help your little one with the technical aspects so they can enjoy the creative side of sewing.
There are also safety features such as many of the settings being on the front of the machine (no need for reaching to the back and getting flustered) and you don’t have to press on a pedal.
However, don’t think this won’t intrigue your more advanced children too. There is enough diversity in the stitch package as well as a high possible speed (one of their faster models) for those who want to quickly finish their latest grand idea.
This brand even succeeded in adding quilting and embroidery add ons, all accessible by a simple feed dog adjustment. This gives children so many more options for their projects.
The brand even considers aspects such as an ergonomic design, so EverSewn respects its target audience.
Even sewing teachers endorse this model, so you know you have a winner. Specifically we were amazed at the heavy duty work with tough fabric you’ll easily be doing with this one. You’ll get neat work and although it’s not the lightest unit here, it’s still a child friendly option.
The tension aspect can still improve and of course the embroidery won’t be as advanced as an embroidery machine’s, but like we said: This is a great all rounder.
Bonus: It looks professional too, so your child will feel quite grown up.
It’s expensive, but worth it.
Extra features: automatic needle threader, adjustable stitch width and length, brightly lit LED sewing area
Spiegel gives you quite an impressive unit a very affordable price. This makes it possible for almost anyone to spark a new hobby in the household.
It has an LED light that will fill your entire work area with light, making it easier to work in rooms with low light conditions.
This is one of the heaviest options on our list, so less portable. However many consumers still pick this one for themselves and their kids: It’s simply enough for the little ones, but strong enough for your own projects. It can handle thick fabric and pulls material through straight. This will affect the quality of your work and many pros or adults are comfortable using it for their projects too.
This one is also one of the most quiet units on our list, so using this with one child while another takes a nap is a possibility.
Instructions are in abundance and clear enough to ensure a quick start to this new activity in the home.
One draw back: The stitch dial and balance wheel are positioned close together. You may find yourself using the one, meaning to work the other one. Don’t lose focus!
Extra features: heavy-duty metal frame, automatic reverse function, free arm, comes with 4 presser feet
This model is supported by a firm metal framework, so be assured you’re buying quality. What this adds to your experience is that the machine won’t move much during sewing. It enhances precision work, making it easy for those born perfectionists to get the results they want.
Around this frame you’ll find impressive features for little ones such as the push button start function.
Despite it being a simple design (safe for newbies and smaller kids) you’ll be surprised at how much fabric it can handle. Multiple layers can easily be stitched through; the easy to adjust foot lifter allows you to get just the right height.
We also loved the reverse action, making it so much easier to lay down another row of stitches so you know it will hold. The unit has multiple stitches, although not the most of the sewing machines on this list. By adjusting the stitch length you get even more options.
The one part that requires an upgrade is the needle threader as it often doesn’t want to follow the automated process.
If your child gets more advanced the free arm will help them doing cuffs and collars.
The snap on feet may not be the safest option, so just make sure your child knows how to use it before leaving them alone with it.
The brand provides instructions in written form, on a CD and online, so if you feel at a loss you have a few options. Since you’re getting this at a very low price, this is a beneficial option all around.
This is a unique appliance to purchase for your child – not all parents know exactly how to pick the winner in such an original niche. The best beginner sewing machine for kids must be relevant to your child’s abilities and needs. In this buying guide, we’ll show you exactly how to make the right choice!
First up, if you’re unsure if this is the investment you want to make in your kid’s life this year, doubt no more. There are multiple reasons for adding this to the playroom, or even let them join you in your own work room:
We have mentioned above how important safety is in this niche. That’s only one reason why it’s so important to pick the correct sewing machine kit for your child. We’ll cover all vital features of these appliances so you understand how to vet your options and then decide on the right one.
Remember to let your kid also have a say—if there’s one that catches their eye, it may be the reason this becomes their new favorite pastime.
There’s not necessarily a better speed, but consistent speed is very important. That’s how your child will be able to make high quality items, and get used to the method so they can move on to adult sized machines.
This aspect needs to align with your child’s abilities as too many options could simply confuse them.
Consider what they know about sewing already: If your child is a complete beginner a few basic stitch options will be more than enough and the limited number of buttons & options won’t overwhelm them.
For older children (or even younger ones who have become adept at using the basic designs) more advanced machines with multiple intricate stitch options will keep them interested. This will also support their growing sense of creativity so they can design and make unique sewing projects. This is one of the reasons the EverSewn is so popular.
This is essential if you want to teach your child more intricate work, such as hemming, working on a collar or even a sleeve. For this you need a removable part to make it more comfortable to work on hard to reach areas of fabric. Look at the Singer Simple for an example of this.
Size does matter as you know you only feel comfortable working when you’ve got enough elbow room. Your child is no different and without a comfortable work setup they won’t feel attracted to their new activity.
Consider where you’ll put the unit, measure the available space and look for one that will fit inside those dimensions. It may even be a smart idea to have your child sit at that counter so you can determine how much space for movement he or she will require.
Remember to consider the space for excess fabric, placing scissors, a notebook or pattern and other odds & ends.
Fun should be a major focus when your child uses his or her new sewing machine for kids. You want your child to fall in love with the creative side first, without the dreary tasks being overwhelming. The easier it is to operate a sewing machine, the earlier your child can start using it and the Janome 2212 and Pink Sorbet models mentioned above are excellent examples.
For these reasons automated features, such as getting that bobbin wound on your behalf, are worthwhile investments. Especially for beginners, this will make the experience attractive.
While they learn the other aspects of sewing, the machine can do some tasks on their behalf, until it’s time to purchase a more advanced unit.
This links in closely with your available space as mentioned above. However, dimensions also relate to what a manageable size is for your child to carry. He or she may want to carry it all over the house to show you the latest project or they want to take it with when visiting grandma.
Make it easy for them as well as safe—if they can easily hold it, it won’t drop and hurt one of their toes.
For similar reasons as the previously mentioned, you need a light unit your child can easily carry. The younger and smaller your child, the lighter the unit should be.
One big advantage with keeping it light is that dropping it won’t hurt tiny toes as much as standard machines will.
Enhanced portability will also lead to your child taking it on more excursions in the car, or carrying it to work closer to where you’re sitting that day. Make it easy for them to incorporate their toys into your lifestyle and they’ll be more into this hobby.
It’s ideal if you can find a model where accessories are included in the purchase. You can start straight away and you know they’re all compatible. One of the best options is additional presser feet such as:
Other accessories you’ll often use include: A screwdriver, needles, darning plate and a seam ripper. If it’s included, it saves you a journey to the store.
Here’s the good news: These can be some of the most durable toys you’ll ever buy, with some warranty periods being as long as 25 years. Your child can use one for their entire childhood, and even pass it on to a younger sibling. Just make sure they look after it.
Realize that this is a toy and children have accidents. A warranty will prevent you having to replace it out of your own pocket if something does go wrong one day.
For smaller, simple units a long warranty doesn’t have to be your first priority: After a few years they will move on to using more advanced machines. Unless you want to make this an heirloom, you can get your child started on a less than state of the art model.
As with all toys: Consider your budget before you buy. It should enhance your child’s life without putting you under pressure. Luckily there are models in many different price ranges.
Warning: This may not be your child’s favorite hobby for years to come. If he or she is just starting out, a cheaper model will suffice. Determine if they’re really into it before investing in high end models at high prices. This isn’t the cheapest toy category on the market, so shopping smartly is vital.
We mention it last, but it’s the item that needs to feature at the top of your list: Is this machine safe for children?
Many features add to this rating, such as finger guards to prevent fingers slipping under the needle. You also have to look at the design as firmly attached feet are much safer than the ones that snap off.
You want your child to concentrate on the sewing and trying to coordinate stepping on a pedal could distract them. A push button model is often safer and more appropriate for beginners.
Remmeber to have a secure sewing space – well-made sewing table and comfortable chair for sewing will make learning process safe and pleasant.
Now, how do you get your child into this?
We suggests parents do take an in depth look at their child’s interests. While it’s not wise to force anything on them, you should guide them in directions you know will be good for them.
For creative youngsters who love working with their hands, this is an ideal solution but your child won’t necessarily suggest this as their next birthday present. After all, they want what all the other kids have: Gaming consoles.
To get your child intrigued, a few gentle manners of persuasion can work:
For children who are doing this for the first time, you can also look for these features:
We must mention the Janome 2212 as well, as it’s simple enough for beginners, but sturdy and versatile enough that it can be an asset for any home. Need to do a quick sewing job? This one’s compact design means you can store it where you have easy access to it.
If you’re after a versatile sewing machine that also offers some tutorial videos the Janome Pink Sorbet is your pick. It’s a bright and fun model with 15 stitches that includes 4 presser feet and a removable free arm.
Yes, both you and your child’s lives can be transformed by one of the best sewing machines for kids options listed above. Which one will it be? You’ll be clamoring to use it, so perhaps you’ll need to get two!
