Best Sewing Machine for Fashion Designers
Jessica QuiltNCo
Posted by
Jessica
|
Updated on
October 25, 2024
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9 Best Sewing Machine for Fashion Designers

After long hours of brainstorming to finalize the ideal apparel design, what if your sewing machine fails at the final moment? You probably don’t want to spend all day stitching to give your design a reality, right? But what else could you do to show your magical dresses to your audience or teachers (if you are starting)

Guess what? We have already come up with the 9 best sewing machines for fashion designers to help you boost your working potential.

We have handpicked all the sewing machines, so you don’t have to search and read hundreds of reviews and quickly choose one sewing machine that can stitch your dresses in no time.

Here is my top recommendation if you don’t want to read the entire article:

Best Overall
-5%
SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960 Computerized Sewing & Quilting Machine with Extension Table & Accessory Kit | 600 built-in stitches & Lettering, Full Metal Frame, LED Light & High-End Touch buttons
Amazon.com
4.5
$470.99 $499.99
SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960 Computerized Sewing & Quilting Machine with Extension Table & Accessory Kit | 600 built-in stitches & Lettering, Full Metal…
Budegt Friendly
SINGER Heavy Duty 4423 High Speed Sewing Machine with Accessory Kit | Strong Motor With Enhanced Piercing Power, 97 Stitch Applications, Full Metal frame, 1-step Buttonhole & LED Light
Amazon.com
4.5
$199.99
PRIMEPRIME
SINGER Heavy Duty 4423 High Speed Sewing Machine with Accessory Kit | Strong Motor With Enhanced Piercing Power, 97 Stitch Applications, Full Metal frame,…
Best For Industrial Use
-16%
SINGER Heavy Duty 6700C Computerized Sewing Machine with Accessory Kit | Strong Motor with Enhanced Piercing Power, 411 Stitch Applications, LCD Screen, Full Metal frame & 1-step Buttonhole
Amazon.com
4.3
$249.99 $299.99
PRIMEPRIME
SINGER Heavy Duty 6700C Computerized Sewing Machine with Accessory Kit | Strong Motor with Enhanced Piercing Power, 411 Stitch Applications, LCD Screen, Full…
Amazon price updated: December 15, 2024 1:00 pm
BEST OVERALL

1. SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960

Best Overall
4.5
$470.99 $499.99
in stock
Amazon.com
Amazon price updated: December 15, 2024 1:00 pm
QNC EDITOR’S RATING
4.9/5
SPEED :
PRICE :
EASINESS:
KEY SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 17.2 x 8.2 x 12 inches
Weight: 28.2 Pounds
Speed: 1,100 SPM (Stitch Per Minute)
PROGRAM
Heavy-Duty
BUILT-IN STITCHES
600
PRICE RANGE
Under $500
SKILLS LEVEL
What I Like
The Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 is a must-have for any sewing
enthusiast.
Its built-in needle threader is a great feature that reduces frustration and helps you make your work easy. Another amazing thing we discovered was that the machine comes with various presser feet, making it even more versatile.
With its wide range of foot options, you can make monograms, buttonholes, satin stitches, hemming, fix buttons, embroidery, overlocking, free quilting, repair torn areas and thread painting.
Therefore, it is perfect for fashion designers who want an all-purpose and easy-to-use machine.
Read my full Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 review here.
PROS
Plenty of stitches can be done with it
Integrated needle threader for your convenience
Built-in needle threader
Comes with a variety of presser feet
CONS
The foot pedal is challenging to work with
Considerable plastic is used in the machine body
Show more +
BUDGET FRIENDLY

2. SINGER 4423 Heavy Duty

Budegt Friendly
4.5
$199.99
PRIMEPRIME
in stock
Amazon.com
Amazon price updated: December 15, 2024 1:00 pm
QNC EDITOR’S RATING
4.4/5
SPEED :
PRICE :
EASINESS:
KEY SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 6.25 x 15.5 x 12 inches
Weight: 14.5 pounds
Speed: 1100 SPM (Stitch Per Minute)
PROGRAM
Heavy Duty
BUILT-IN STITCHES
23
PRICE RANGE
under $250
SKILLS LEVEL
intermediate level
What I Like
The company gives a 25-year limited warranty, similar to other SINGER sewing machines so that you can be confident in its quality and durability.
No matter what project you’re working on, the SINGER Heavy Duty Sewing Machine can handle everything from quilts and home décor to fashions and crafts and it can also sew through faux fur effortlessly.
The extra-high piercing power of the machine’s motor can sew through even the heaviest of fabrics with ease, and with its high sewing speed of up to 1100 stitches per minute, you can complete your projects in no time.
Coming towards it durability, then it is unbelievable as its interior frame is made of pure metal that adds extra longevity and life to the sewing machine. So with this material, you are not supposed to fear of breakage or damage, just start sewing.
After using this machine for a few months, I can say that if you want a top-quality sewing machine that can handle just about anything, then the SINGER 4423 Sewing Machine can make your way to a successful start in fashion designing.
WHAT I LIKE
The high sewing speed of up to 1100 stitches per minute
Extra-high piercing power for heavy fabrics
25-year limited warranty included
Durable metal frame
WHAT I DISLIKE
It may be too powerful for some projects making it difficult to use for beginners
Only for use with a 110-volt power supply
Show more +
BEST FOR INDUSTRIAL USE

3. SINGER HD6700 Electronic Sewing Machine

Best For Industrial Use
4.3
$249.99 $299.99
PRIMEPRIME
in stock
Amazon.com
Amazon price updated: December 15, 2024 1:00 pm
QNC EDITOR’S RATING
4.4/5
SPEED :
PRICE :
EASINESS:
KEY SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 13.5 x 20 x 9.5 inches
Weight: 14.5 pounds
Speed: 1100 SPM (Stitch Per Minute)
PROGRAM
Industrial
BUILT-IN STITCHES
411
PRICE RANGE
under $300
SKILLS LEVEL
intermediate level
What I Like
This SINGER 6700 HD Sewing Machine comes with 411 stitch applications that were totally unexpected which is great for a beginner and professionals who want to experiment with different stitches.
Moreover, SINGER HD6700 has an LCD screen that displays the stitch number, settings, presser foot, and more. With its touch button selecting options, you can check your stitches’ length, size, and width. But it has one issue which is that uneducated people may find difficulty using it. Additionally, the ten presser feet allow you to try multiple things from making buttonholes to hemming etc.
This machine also has speed control to meet various project needs and a top drop-in bobbin for easy threading and viewing. Plus, the needle threader is a lifesaver as usual!
Overall, I can say SINGER HD6700 is one of the best industrial sewing machine for fashion designers. I recommend it if you want a flexible, effective, and go-to sewing machine.
WHAT I LIKE
Heavy duty machine with 411 stitch applications
LCD screen and touch control
Speed control to meet a variety of project needs
Top drop-in bobbin for easy threading and viewing
WHAT I DISLIKE
It might be challenging to use for beginners.
It is noisy when used for hard fabrics.
Show more +
THE runner up

4. Janome HD1000 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine

The Runner Up
$359.00
PRIMEPRIME
in stock
Amazon.com
Amazon price updated: December 15, 2024 1:00 pm
QNC EDITOR’S RATING
4.6/5
SPEED :
PRICE :
EASINESS:
KEY SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 25.6 x 13.6 x 17.9 inches
Weight: 15 Pounds
Speed: 1,100 SPM (Stitch Per Minute)
PROGRAM
Heavy-Duty
BUILT-IN STITCHES
14
PRICE RANGE
under $400
SKILLS LEVEL
intermediate level
What I Like
After using the Janome HD1000, I can say it’s an excellent option for those looking for a reliable workhorse of a machine.
It has 14 integrated stitches in addition to this you will find utility and stretch stitches. Moreover, it is quite versatile because it allows you to make buttonholes in a simple 4 steps.
It’s made of cast aluminum and metal parts, making it strong and durable enough to handle even the most challenging projects. And most importantly, its sturdy construction has made a perfect choice for industry level works.
Overall, the Janome HD1000 is one of the best sewing machines for aspiring fashion designers looking for a powerful and durable machine. Features like affordability, presence of automatic needle threader, a free arm, and an easy to use interface is what makes it the #1 option for fashion designers.
WHAT I LIKE
Sturdy enough for heavy-duty tasks
Long-lasting because of its aluminium body
Has numerous accessories for machine fixing
Free arm that you can detach accordingly.
WHAT I DISLIKE
Bobbin needs extra care because of its sensitivity
It is a little noisy
Show more +
BEST FOR BEGINNERS

5. Janome HD1000BE Black Edition

Best For Beginners
$274.56 $299.00
PRIMEPRIME
in stock
Amazon.com
Amazon price updated: December 15, 2024 1:00 pm
QNC EDITOR’S RATING
4.6/5
SPEED :
PRICE :
EASINESS:
KEY SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 6.3 x 15.6 x 12.4 inches
Weight: 16.8 Pounds
Speed: 1,100 SPM (Stitch Per Minute)
PROGRAM
Heavy-Duty
BUILT-IN STITCHES
14
PRICE RANGE
under $400
SKILLS LEVEL
beginner level
What I Like
The Janome HD1000BE All Metal Body is the best sewing machine for fashion design students because of its simplified yet durable properties.
For beginners it has basic stitches that are essential for learning, like straight, zigzag, and buttonholes. It’s tough to sew through tougher materials like belt leather holsters and denim, but with this machine, you’ll be able to sew easily.
Coming towards its longevity, thanks to its interior and exterior aluminum frame and all-metal body it can last for years.
The machine also features a front-loading bobbin system that allows easy and quick insertion and removal of the bobbin case especially for fast sewers as well as for lazy who don’t have energy to open the case.
Similar to Janome HD1000, you’ll also appreciate the convenience features, such as the automatic needle threaded and adjustable stitch length and width.
However, it is heavier than other machines, so it’s not ideal for traveling. Plus, sometimes, the automatic needle threaded can be challenging to operate, while the tension control is manual, but you can experiment to find the proper settings for your fabric.
WHAT I LIKE
Hard overall frame and outer body
Great for beginners because of its user-friendly features
The robust, sturdy, and high-power motor
WHAT I DISLIKE
Sometimes it performs badly when used continuously for hours
Not ideal for travelling
Show more +
BEST Industrial sewing machine

6. Juki TL-2010Q Quilting Machine

Best Industrial
$999.00
PRIMEPRIME
in stock
Amazon.com
Amazon price updated: December 15, 2024 1:00 pm
QNC EDITOR’S RATING
4.6/5
SPEED :
PRICE :
EASINESS:
KEY SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 8.6 x 13.6 x 17.9 inches
Weight: 25 Pounds
Speed: 1,500 SPM (Stitch Per Minute)
PROGRAM
Heavy-Duty
BUILT-IN STITCHES
14
PRICE RANGE
$1000 – $1200
SKILLS LEVEL
intermediate level
What I Like
If you are a Japanese brand lover and has a good budget, then Juki is for you because there’s no doubt about Juki’s potential name in the market for producing high-quality sewing machines to fulfil professionals’ demands and needs.
Starting from its first and most crucial feature which is automatic thread trimming device (the best in the market), it really made thread cutting easier than ever. Why? Because when you finish your project, the machine will trim both needle and bobbin thread for you, just unbelievable.
Secondly, its push lever automatic needle threader allows any sewer to thread the needle of any size easily without using hands, saving plenty of your precious time and also saved finger from injury.
A bundle of positive reviews and thorough research has made it clear to us that Juki TL-2010Q can be an effective addition to your fashion designing journey.
WHAT I LIKE
High-performance machine
Automatic thread trimming and bobbin threads simultaneously
Handle light to heavyweight materials
Push lever automatic needle threaded
WHAT I DISLIKE
Automatic needle threader may not work at some cases, but not a big issue
Show more +
PERFECT VERSATILE DEVICE

7. Brother SE700 Sewing and Embroidery Machine

Perfect Versatile Device
$449.99 $499.99
PRIMEPRIME
in stock
Amazon.com
Amazon price updated: December 15, 2024 1:00 pm
QNC EDITOR’S RATING
4.6/5
SPEED :
PRICE :
EASINESS:
KEY SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 8.6 x 13.6 x 17.9 inches
Weight: 26.2 pounds
Speed: 710 SPM (Stitch Per Minute)
PROGRAM
Embroidery
BUILT-IN STITCHES
103
PRICE RANGE
under $500
SKILLS LEVEL
beginner level
What I Like
This sewing machine comes with 80 built-in designs and 103 sewing stitches, so choose any design from machines library that simply put the fabric on the sewing machine and start work.
It has a multi-color touchscreen on its front that gives you the preview of your work, so with this you can see what improvements you have to do with the project.
Additionally, the machine includes a convenient, jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin and an automatic needle threader.
It also has a four-inch by four-inch embroidery field with an included hoop, embroidery arm, and seven sewing feet that offer multi-tasking from buttonhole making to simple embroidery projects.
I have found the Brother SE700 as the perfect machine for fashion designers looking for a versatile, user-friendly, and reliable sewing and embroidery machine. Sewing enthusiasts and beginners alike will find it to be a great tool. The SE700 will meet all your sewing and embroidery needs with its many features.
WHAT I LIKE
80 built-in designs and 103 sewing stitches
Large color touchscreen
Noiseless and simple to use
Highly powerful in moving through multiple quilting cotton layers
WHAT I DISLIKE
Require additional digital software for customized designs
Reduced working potential to some extent
Show more +
ALL PURPOSE SEWING MACHINE

8. JUKI MO654DE

All Purpose
$469.00
PRIMEPRIME
in stock
Amazon.com
Amazon price updated: December 15, 2024 1:00 pm
QNC EDITOR’S RATING
4.8/5
SPEED :
PRICE :
EASINESS:
KEY SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 10.6 x 13.6 x 11.6 inches
Weight: 15.18 Pounds
Speed: 1,500 SPM (Stitch Per Minute)
PROGRAM
Serger
BUILT-IN STITCHES
PRICE RANGE
$350 – $550
SKILLS LEVEL
What I Like
You might have already heard about Juki (which is a renowned brand name for producing efficient all-purpose sewing machines).
The MO654DE offers many features that make it ideal for fashion designers, including a powerful knife system, dedicated drive mechanism, and adjustable stitch length, which allow smooth fabric cuts with improved control while stitching.
It is also very easy to use, with color-coded threading and an external adjustment for stitch length that gives you an idea about the needle type and size, respectively. This powerful machine can easily sew through multiple layers of fabric in minimum time due to its high sewing speed, up to 1500 rpm.
The only drawback of this hefty machine is no automatic needle threader.
Otherwise, this machine is for fashion designers looking for a top-quality sewing machine with durability, power, ease of use, and various features.

It is a must-have machine for any fashion designer looking to create high-quality garments. You can read my full Juki MO-654DE review here.
PROS
Powerful and multi-purpose knife system
Dedicated drive mechanism
High sewing speed
Durable and powerful
CONS
No automatic needle threader
Noisy
Show more +
EASY TO USE

9. Brother XR9550PRW Sewing and Quilting Machine

Easy To Use
$279.99
in stock
Amazon.com
Amazon price updated: December 15, 2024 1:00 pm
QNC EDITOR’S RATING
4.7/5
SPEED :
PRICE :
EASINESS:
KEY SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 13.5 x 20 x 17.9 inches
Weight: 10.14 pounds
Speed: 850 SPM (Stitch Per Minute)
PROGRAM
Embroidery
BUILT-IN STITCHES
165
PRICE RANGE
under $250
SKILLS LEVEL
intermediate level
What I Like
I found that the machine comes with 165 built-in stitches, which are immaculate for creating different types of clothes. It also has an LCD display that makes it easy to choose the right stitches and settings. It is quite user-friendly because of its easy-to-use navigation system. All the designs, right stitches, and settings will be displayed on the screen, so select any settings and proceed sewing.
The machine comes with a wide table, perfect for quilting projects. It includes eight sewing feet and a protective hard cover for multiple sewing chores, from making button holes to you name them.
The Brother XR9550PRW also contains a drop-in top bobbin similar to Brother SE600, which allows you to see if the bobbin thread is running out or not during your seaming process.
In conclusion, I think that this machine is an excellent choice for fashion designers looking for a versatile and easy-to-use machine. It has everything you need to create beautiful clothes and is very user-friendly.
WHAT I LIKE
165 built-in stitches for versatile sewing
LCD display for convenient stitch selection and other settings
Wide table for quilting projects
Jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin
WHAT I DISLIKE
It can be noisy sometimes
Show more +

Buyers’ Guide

How to Choose a Sewing Machine (for fashion designers)
As a fashion designer, you know that having a good sewing machine is essential. There are different machines in the market, so choosing the best sewing machine for your needs can be tricky. So, we have discussed a few essential factors you should keep on hand before buying a sewing machine.
Type of Machine You Need

Type of machine is by far the most important factor, but let me tell you that you need to know what type of clothes you will be sewing. If you plan to sew mainly dresses or other garments that require delicate fabrics, you will need a machine that can handle those fabrics well. Janome 9960 Sewing & Quilting Machine is my favorite that is why I recommend this one.

Adjustable Tension and Stitch Length

Look for a machine with adjustable tension and stitch length so that you can customize your stitches according to the fabric type. You will also have to ensure that the needle size is appropriate for the fabric thickness.

Specific Features to Look Out For

Next, consider what kind of features you need in a sewing machine. If you want to be able to sew buttonholes or add embellishments to your garments, then look for a machine that has those features. Some machines even have built-in embroidery designs, which can be a great way to personalize your clothes.

The Importance of Needle

Everyone may be sure about the importance of needle because without it, fashion designing work will not proceed. Needle should be sharp and strong so that it doesn’t break when used for hard sewing works. There are different types of needles but based on shank, you will find the two most famous types: round shank and flat shank. So make sure you know which needle type is compatible with sewing machine.

Warranty

The second last most important factor is the warranty which is provided by the company. The standard warranty is 25 years for most sewing machines, therefore, before you buy sewing machine for fashion designing work, I highly suggest you read the warranty from the company which they clearly mention.

Budget Matters

Finally, consider your budget. There are many sewing machines on the market, and the price can range widely. Before you start shopping, you’ll need to decide how much you’re willing to spend on a machine.

Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you should have a good idea of what type of sewing machine is best for you. Be sure to double-check our product reviews before making your final decision to choose the best machine for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which brand of sewing machine is best for designers?

Brands have direct impact on the productivity of fashion designers because brands always value their users. But there are different companies like Juki, Jack, Janome, Singer, etc. Now if you only want to decorate clothes, then Singer and Janome can be Ok. However, for intensive work, go for Juki.

Product Recommendation
SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960 Computerized Sewing & Quilting Machine with Extension Table & Accessory Kit | 600 built-in stitches & Lettering, Full Metal Frame, LED Light & High-End Touch buttons
Editor’s Choice
4.9/5
Singer Quantum Stylist 9960
Many readers want to know about the reason behind keeping Singer 9960 the best overall. I have used Janome HD1000 Heavy-duty Sewing machine and a few others, but Singer 9960 impressed me. I don’t say the other machines are not good; all are the best in the market in their places. However, I want a speed sewing machine with different stitching patterns, which I found on the Singer 9960.
If I compare it with its newer model, 9985, in terms of stitching applications, the 9985 model has won the battle because it has 960 built-in stitches. But most of those stitches are not what I like, and some are copies of one another; therefore, I went for Singer 9960 Sewing and Quilting sewing machine and ordered it for myself.

Final Takeaways

After reviewing some of the top sewing machines on the market, I have concluded the following sewing machines for fashion designers keeping your preferences;

SINGER 9960 Sewing & Quilting Machine is the overall best sewing machine for fashion designers.
SINGER 4423 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine is affordable and beginner-friendly sewing machines.
SINGER HD6700 Heavy Duty machine is best for industrial purposes.

A sewing machine, especially a durable one could prove to be a make or break in your fashion designing career.

That said, make sure that you go through the entire guide especially the buying guide section before deciding on a fashion designing sewing machine.

Rest assured, once you lay a strong foundation, i.e. choose the best sewing machine for fashion designers, you’ll already improve yourself by leaps and bounds.

Happy Shopping!

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