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Best sewing machine for intermediate or advanced sewists: tips from the experts

Whether you’re an intermediate sewist or an expert seamstress, there’s no denying the importance of having a great sewing machine. As your skills begin to improve, you may find that your beginner sewing machine is no longer able to keep up with your needs. If you find yourself sewing more frequently or are starting to tackle more challenging projects, it may be time to consider upgrading to a more advanced model.

a guide on the best sewing machine for intermediate or advanced sewists

I have always wondered if the sewing machines I use are indeed the best ones I can afford. Say that you have a certain budget – how do you decide what sewing machine to buy? 

Warranty is one consideration. Availability of service is another. Features are probably the most important characteristic. 

Consider what types of projects you will be doing most often. If you plan to do a lot of quilting or heavy-duty sewing, you will need a specifically designed machine for those tasks. Decide if you need a machine that also does embroidery. Think about the size of your workspace and how often you plan to sew. 

Don’t forget to factor in the price. Sewing machines can range widely in price, so be sure to set a budget and stick to it.

Note: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. This means I will receive a commission if you order a product through one of my links. I only recommend products I believe in and use myself. 

We now have a very large number of sewing machines from which we can choose. I look on Amazon, and the sewing machines category (restricted to the ones having 4+ stars in customer reviews) is 22 pages long!

There is a JOANN fabric store near me and they have a Husqvarna outlet in the store, where all sewing machines are on display. If you go to the Sew & Vac store 2 blocks down you get Brother, Janome, and Juki machines, and a few blocks away in the Flash Sew & Quilt store you get a display of Babylock machines. Which one to choose? And after that, how can you be sure you made the right decision for you?

Then, comes the question which became actual in the last 20 years: computerized vs. mechanical? The mechanical is cheaper, faster, heavier, looks and feels more solid than the computerized ones which are often much more expensive. Is the added cost worth it? Will they last, the computerized ones? I have seen Singer machines still working after 100 years. Will a computerized one last even a quarter of that time?

With all of the different machines on the market, it is certainly tough to figure out which one is right for you.

That’s why I asked some of my favorite sewing experts to share their top picks. From simple machines to heavy-duty workhorses, these sewing bloggers have tried them all – and they’re happy to share their thoughts. Keep reading to find out which machines they use and love.

Leslie Rutland

Leslie Rutland from seasonedhomemaker.com

1.      What is your sewing machine? Any reasons why you use (and like) that model? How many sewing machines do you have? 

I have seven machines (Bernina 790, Bernina 240, Juki TL 2010Q, Singer Featherweight, Babylock Evolution Serger, an older Babylock serger, and a Grace Q’nique Longarm. My machine of choice is my Bernina 790 because it has the built-in dual feed plus the different feet are absolute perfection.

2.      Do you prefer a mechanical or computerized sewing machine? Why? 

I really prefer computerized because you can switch up things like tension and needle location quickly, but I’m never giving up my mechanical machines because computerized machines can crash while mechanical machines seem to last forever.

3.      What feature (or features) of the sewing machine do you use (and like) the most? 

I really love the dual feed feature the most. It keeps fabrics from stretching while I sew. However, my Bernina 790 makes awesome buttonholes and that would be my second favorite feature. I can even make buttonholes using the embroidery feature on this machine. I also love the oversized bobbin on this machine.

4.      What built-in stitches do you like? Does it matter how many built-in stitches a sewing machine has? 

I think my Bernina 790 has over 1,000 built-in stitches which I rarely use. However, I love being able to easily put stitches together to form a fun new stitch. This machine has the ability to do this and then save the stitch pattern. If I had to choose a favorite stitch it would be the wavy stitch because you can do so much with it if you use something like a thicker variegated thread.

5.  What is your opinion on the best place to buy a sewing machine now? 

I will always point people to a local dealer – if they are high quality. If someone is within 150 miles of Austin, TX I highly recommend Sew Much More. I’ve purchased five machines from them over the years. I have a blog post about finding a good sewing store here: https://www.seasonedhomemaker.com/secrets-to-finding-an-awesome-sewing-store/

Melissa Mora

Melissa Mora from mellysews.com

  1. What is your sewing machine? 

I mostly sew on a Baby Lock Elizabeth, a Baby Lock Imagine Serger and a Baby Lock Cover Stitch. I used to be an ambassador for Baby Lock, but I also just like their machines and find them reliable and easy to use.

2. How many sewing machines do you have?

I have 5 sewing machines in my studio and another spare I keep for parts. 

3. Do you prefer a mechanical or computerized sewing machine? Why?

I sew on a computerized machine for ease but keep a mechanical one as a backup because I can fix that one myself

4. What feature (or features) of the sewing machine do you use (and like) the most?

I love the automatic thread cutting and the knee bar to lift my presser foot

5. What built-in stitches do you like? Does it matter how many built-in stitches a sewing machine has?

I prefer a machine with built-in zig zag, blind hem, stretch stitches, and one step buttonhole. Beyond that, the built-in stitches aren’t important to me. 

6. What is your opinion on the best place to buy a sewing machine now?

My machine was discontinued, so I don’t have a current machine recommendation. 

Sarina T. from sewguide.com

  1. What is your sewing machine? Any reasons why you use (and like) that model? How many sewing machines do you have?

I have 2 machines – one is a Singer 4423 heavy-duty machine and another an industrial machine, which has changed the way I approached sewing (It is so easy to sew and not more complicated or expensive than the home sewing machines) – can sew without getting frustrated for a long time. I have not had it for long and do not know what maintenance it takes. So far happy. As it does only straight stitching, I need a sewing machine with other functions too – so keeping the Singer. This model of Singer is ok for simple home sewing (other than the sound it makes).

2. Do you prefer a mechanical or computerized sewing machine? Why?

Never owned a computerized one but would love to 🙂

3. What feature (or features) of the sewing machine do you use (and like) the most?

I seem to be sitting in front of the computer a lot more than sewing nowadays 🙂 – I really love using my machine to do free motion embroidery; so you can say stripping off the presser foot and feed dogs and doing whatever I want 🙂

4. What built-in stitches do you like? Does it matter how many built-in stitches a sewing machine has?

No, it doesn’t matter. I use zig-zag and straight stitching the most so it doesn’t matter.

5. What is your opinion on the best place to buy a sewing machine now?

I am a staunch Amazon shopper and buy everything on Amazon, even sewing machines. They pack everything so nicely and safely that I have not had any problem with any delivery, though many may be apprehensive.

But now I would rather buy from a friendly neighborhood shop. Offline shops are nice in that you have a point of contact to call and ask your doubts, if you are the kind who has many (I am) and if the shop person is one who appreciates your doubts.  As for the names of offline shops, there is one problem – I am not an American citizen  – so you wouldn’t recognize if I tell you the shop names 🙂

Emily Thompson

Emily Thompson from lifesewsavory.com

  1. What is your sewing machine? Any reasons why you use (and like) that model? How many sewing machines do you have?

I have many! I have two sewing/embroidery combo machines and a serger and a coverstitch machine. My favorite machine is my Brother Essence VM5200. It’s a combo embroidery and sewing machine and it’s amazing. I love that I can easily switch between sewing and embroidery. 

2. Do you prefer a mechanical or computerized sewing machine? Why?

I learned to sew on my mom’s mechanical Singer sewing machine many years ago, but since then I’ve only used computerized models. I love them! But I can’t really say if I would like a mechanical one since I haven’t used one in so long. 

3. What feature (or features) of the sewing machine do you use (and like) the most?

 I love an automatic thread-cutting function and a good buttonhole maker! I also look for machines that can sew multiple layers of fabric, since it seems like I’m always sewing thick projects. For my serger, I love that it’s such an easy way to sew knit fabric. 90% of what I sew is a stretch fabric, so this machine is a lifesaver for me. 

4. What built-in stitches do you like? Does it matter how many built-in stitches a sewing machine has?

 I probably don’t use the built-in stitches as much as I should on my sewing machine, but on the embroidery unit, I do use the built-in fonts all the time for embroidery.  I love that my machine has a ton of built-in embroidery designs and it makes for quick and easy projects. As far as sewing I mainly use the straight stitch and zig-zag… As I’m typing this I’m realizing I should be more adventurous! {haha}

5. What is your opinion on the best place to buy a sewing machine now?

It depends on what you are looking for. If you just want a simple machine I would buy it online when I saw a good sale. If you are looking for a middle/high-end machine I would definitely check out a sewing machine dealer to see what they offer. I have mostly all dealer-level machines and they are amazing for me and what I need in a machine. If I were buying my very first machine though I would probably start online.

Heather Paulsen

Heather Paulsen from heatherhandmade.com

  1. What is your sewing machine? Any reasons why you use (and like) that model? How many sewing machines do you have?

I have a Bernina Aurora 430. I originally purchased it because it was the machine I used in college and they were selling them at 50% off. I have always loved using Bernina sewing machines. I was taught on a Bernina sewing machine at home and at school, so it was exactly what I was looking for when I went to purchase my own machine. I also have a serger and a coverstitch machine.

Aurora 430

2. Do you prefer a mechanical or computerized sewing machine? Why?

I am fine with a mechanical or computerized sewing machine. I don’t mind either way. I have used both with great results.

3. What feature (or features) of the sewing machine do you use (and like) the most?

Besides the stitches, I switch out my sewing machine foot, drop my feed dogs, and change the pressure of my sewing machine foot.

4. What built-in stitches do you like? Does it matter how many built-in stitches a sewing machine has?

I love the straight stitch, zigzag stitch, and the blind hem stitch the most. I rarely use the majority of the extra stitches that my machine came with. I think for apparel sewing, you don’t need more than the basic stitches.

5. What is your opinion on the best place to buy a sewing machine now?

I think when you are starting out, it’s okay to start with an inexpensive machine from a big box store or online. You won’t have someone you know to help you fix your machine, but it’s a great way to get started. Once you are fully into sewing, you can buy a sewing machine from a dealer who can teach you everything about that machine. They will be the ones you go to when you need help or need your machine fixed or tuned.

Olga Balasa

Olga Balasa from ageberry.com

  1. What is your sewing machine? Any reasons why you use (and like) that model? How many sewing machines do you have?

I have 2 sewing machines that I use regularly (and a few old mechanical machines in a closet as a backup)  plus a serger and a coverstitch.

My main machine for sewing projects is Janome Memory Craft 6600P. I have it for more than 10 years, use it every day and it still didn’t see any repair. Very reliable, a real workhorse, does everything I can think of, and I have never had problems with stitch quality. I have a full detailed review of this machine on my site if you are interested. I also have Brother Luminaire and use it mostly for my embroidery projects

my favorite sewing machine Janome 6600 p

2. Do you prefer a mechanical or computerized sewing machine? Why?

I used a mechanical machine when I was young, but once I got my first computerized sewing machine, there was no turning back! While the basic principles of sewing have remained the same, the tools and techniques have changed significantly over the years. One of the most significant changes has been the introduction of computerized sewing machines. 

These machines offer a number of advantages over mechanical sewing machines, such as a wide range of built-in features and programs, greater speed and efficiency, and also the possibility to do machine embroidery. With a computerized machine, you can easily change all the settings with the touch of a button. The machine does all the hard work for you. So I much prefer the convenience and versatility of a computerized model. 

For those who are comfortable with computers and want to take advantage of the latest technology, a computerized sewing machine is an ideal choice. However, for those who prefer the simplicity of a mechanical  sewing machine, there are still many excellent options available.

3. What feature (or features) of the sewing machine do you use (and like) the most?

I am aware of all the features of my sewing machines but I noticed that I don’t regularly use many features that might be very helpful. For example, I have never tried dropping feed dogs for free-motion quilting.

But I love to use a built-in walking foot on my Janome machine (the feature is called AcuFeed fabric feeding system), the ability to regulate presser foot pressure (and sew all kinds of fabrics from lightweight chiffon to heavyweight vinyl and leather), an automatic thread cutter, an automatic needle threader, and 7 types of 1-step buttonholes. 

4. What built-in stitches do you like? Does it matter how many built-in stitches a sewing machine has?

My machines have thousands of built-in stitches. Do I use them all? Nope. Yes, it’s nice to have them and from time to time I make a project with a fancy decorative stitch but it doesn’t happen often. So to me, it doesn’t matter how many decorative stitches a sewing machine has. The stitches I use all the time are these: all types of straight stitches (yes, there are many types of straight stitches, and they are awesome!),  all types of stretch stitches, blind hem stitches, and all types of 1-step buttonholes. 

5. What is your opinion on the best place to buy a sewing machine now?

I believe that it is always best to buy from a local dealer. There are several reasons for this.

First, you will be able to get service and support directly from the dealer if you have any problems with your machine.

Second, you will be able to establish a long-term relationship with the dealer, which can be helpful if you ever need to purchase another sewing machine in the future. They can offer advice and recommendations based on your specific needs.

Third, and maybe most importantly, dealers offer better quality machines and provide more comprehensive warranties.

Finally, high-end sewing machines are a significant investment, and it’s important to be able to see and test the machine before making a purchase.

Of course, not everyone is fortunate enough to have a good sewing machine dealer nearby. In these cases, I would recommend buying from a reputable online shop such as Amazon or Sewing Machines Plus. These shops offer high-quality machines at competitive prices, and they also provide excellent customer service. 

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you to clear up some of the confusion around what intermediate or high-end sewing machine might be right for you. Now it’s your turn – what is your sewing machine and where did you buy it? Leave a comment below and let us know. And if you’re still not sure which machine is right for you, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of the experts. We would love to help you find the perfect sewing machine for your needs. 

As you can see, we don’t really need more than the basic stitches. It’s obvious that the thousands of stitches bestowed upon us by the Computerized Sewing Machine Gods (manufacturers, ha-ha) mean in fact little to advanced sewists. Yes, it’s nice to have them, we might even use them once in a blue moon if they are there, but it’s not something that decides which machine an experienced sewist buys.

While we do not seem to appreciate the many stitches, we do like other perks like the built-in walking foot, automatic threader, speed. Who can blame us?

We seem to prefer computerized machines. With good reasons, I might say. They are able to perform multiple tasks, are easier to configure, and offer functions that you would be hard-pressed to find in a mechanical machine. But let’s not discard the classic mechanical machines: most of us have, and use, a mechanical machine. And not for sentimental reasons: practical ones. They seem to last longer, and are easier to fix (especially for people who don’t have easy access to dealer shops). I am discussing some pros and cons in this article: Mechanical vs Computerized Sewing Machine.

It is also apparent that most if not all advanced sewists have at least one entry-level sewing machine as a backup. Also, most if not all advanced sewing enthusiasts have a serger (overlock) and a coverstitch. Indeed, if you are serious about sewing, you need them.

Here is my article on how to buy a serger – Best Serger For Beginners: Serger Buying Guide in 2022.

We all prefer to buy a high-end sewing machine from a local dealer. With good reason: service, support, establishing a long-term relationship. If you have read my articles on how to select a sewing machine (Best Beginner Embroidery Machine, How to buy a sewing machine for beginners on Amazon) I always stress that expensive ones are better bought at a sewing machine dealer, if possible.

It is also a consensus that reputable online shops (I like amazon.com and sewingmachinesplus.com) are a very good choice, and not only for beginner-type machines. 

Did you find this article helpful? If so, save this pin (see below) on your sewing board so you can come to this tutorial later when you need this information on the best sewing machines for intermediate or advanced sewists, and follow me on Pinterest for more tips, tutorials, and inspiration!

how to choose the best sewing machine for intermediate or advanced sewers

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Carol

Saturday 3rd of September 2022

I love my Janome computerised Memory Craft machine but, like others find it has many features I never use and is missing others I would use. Result I had to purchase a second machine just to have a free arm. And no brand has the one feature I would kill for - a buzzer to warn you that the bobbin thread is running out.

Sherene Thompson

Monday 5th of September 2022

@Carol, Husguvarna machines (at least some (I have the Topaz 50) has a low bobbin thread warning)

Olga Balasa

Sunday 4th of September 2022

This is true about Janome, my Memory Craft machine (6600P) doesn't have a free arm. And I also have a second machine that has a free arm. But I have the second machine mostly for embroidery and quilting, not that I need the free arm often. As for the other feature you mentioned, many high-end sewing machines have this feature. My Luminaire gives me a message that the bobbin thread is almost finished.

Kathleen Houser

Saturday 3rd of September 2022

I bought my Brother from a sewing machine dealer that sells Brother and Babylock. I really love my Brother.

Olga Balasa

Sunday 4th of September 2022

If you're in the market for an intermediate or advanced sewing machine, you've certainly noticed that there are a lot of different brands to choose from. One brand that is definitely worth considering is Brother. Brother sewing machines are known for their durability, ease of use, and wide range of features. Indeed, the Brother brand is one of the most popular sewing machine brands on the market. Brother has a long history of producing high-quality sewing machines.

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