Picking the right sewing machine for your needs is key to enjoying your projects and staying motivated. There's a huge range of machines on the market these days (check out our Top 5 Best Sewing Machines if you want a shortcut), and it's not always easy to know where to start. Here are the essential things to think about before you buy :
Figure Out What You Actually Need Before Buying
When choosing a sewing machine, there are a few things worth considering : your experience level, the kind of projects you want to make, how often you'll use it, and of course, your budget.
1. Experience level
If you're just starting out, you can find great entry-level machines from trusted brands like Singer, Janome, or Brother for around €200. Entry-level machines usually offer fewer stitch options than fancier models, but here's the truth: most of the time, you'll only ever use straight stitch and zigzag — the two basics found on every single sewing machine out there.
More experienced sewists, on the other hand, will appreciate a machine with more advanced features for high-end finishes (decorative stitches, embroidery...). They might also prefer an electronic — or even industrial — machine, which would honestly be overkill for a beginner.
2. Types of projects
More than your skill level, we'd actually recommend thinking about the kinds of projects you want to sew — both now, and down the line! In sewing, you progress way faster than you'd think, and even if you feel like you're fumbling around today, you won't stay a beginner for long.
In our opinion, the main difference between entry-level machines and pricier models comes down to their ability to handle thicker fabrics — that's really the criterion that matters most, as far as we're concerned. An entry-level machine, for instance, won't let you sew denim (you'd need at least a walking foot and a strong motor for that). Higher-end machines also often come with special stitches for specific fabrics like lace, or for sewing swimwear, activewear, and so on.
3. How Often You'll Use It
Frequency of use matters too: a basic machine is plenty for occasional sewing, while sewing enthusiasts will want something sturdier — a motor that can keep up over the long haul.
Whether you go entry-level or splurge on something fancier, remember that regular maintenance is key to making your machine last:
- Oil it regularly (with proper sewing machine oil — not olive oil 🙃)
- Get it serviced at least every two years, or up to twice a year if you sew weekly
- Take the pedal off and cover your machine after each use so dust doesn't build up (dust causes way more sewing headaches than you'd think)
4. Budget
Budget-wise, entry-level models start around €100, but for something more powerful and built to last, expect to spend between €300 and €500. If your budget allows and you're not afraid to splurge, some machines go for over €1,000, even €2,000! If you're a sewing addict like us, we won't lie — you really can feel the difference in performance and comfort.
Mechanical or electronic sewing machine ?
Mechanical machines tend to be cheaper, both to buy and to repair. Unlike electronic machines, they don't have a "dashboard" — every setting is manual (whereas electronic machines can guide you and even flag mistakes, like the wrong stitch for your chosen presser foot).
Mechanical machines absolutely get the job done, but electronic machines are easier to pick up and more enjoyable to use, especially for beginners. They usually offer a wider range of stitches, automatic settings, and programmable functions that make more complex projects easier — sewing delicate fabrics or intricate designs, for example. The feature beginners tend to love most on electronic machines is speed control: you can "cap" your machine's speed, which makes it much easier to sew stitch by stitch while you're still getting the hang of the foot pedal.
Technical features worth checking
1. Stitch Count
Check what stitches are included: a solid machine should have the basics (straight and zigzag), plus decorative stitches and an overlock stitch for extra versatility — especially handy if you don't own a serger.
2. Power and durability
If you're working with thick fabrics like denim or leather, you'll need a powerful, sturdy machine. As we mentioned earlier, this is the single most important factor in our book when picking a machine.
3. Included accessories
Some models come with specialty presser feet (the invisible zipper foot is a total must-have), extra bobbins, and other accessories that make your life easier — and open up a lot more creative possibilities.
4. Ease of Use and Comfort
Higher-end machines come with features like automatic needle threading, one-step buttonholes, speed control... some even auto-adjust thread tension based on the fabric under the presser foot! If you had to pick just one "comfort" feature, we'd recommend a machine that lets you shift the needle slightly left or right — it comes in handy more often than you'd think, and makes pintucks a breeze.
New or Secondhand?
Buying new gets you the latest features, a manufacturer's warranty, and customer support — extra peace of mind. Recent models also tend to come with better tech and improved durability.
Buying secondhand, on the other hand, can be a great budget option if you find a well-maintained machine. You'll find plenty on resale sites (in France, we love leboncoin). It's a good way to snag a quality model for less, but it does come with some risk. If you go this route, try to check it's in working order, ask for a maintenance history, and test it out before you commit.
Our best tips for buying a sewing machine
1. Invest in a good machine from day one
You'll often read online that beginners should start with a cheap, basic machine. At disclothed paris, we actually disagree. Like we said, you progress in sewing way faster than you'd expect, and you might get frustrated fast if your machine can't handle anything beyond poplin. A basic machine makes sewing harder than it needs to be, and your finishes will suffer for it.
Chances are you'll end up shelving that first machine and buying a better one a few months later anyway — which means you basically pay twice. Worse, a machine that can't keep up with you might make you give up on sewing altogether and think "this just isn't for me." A good machine gets you clean results with way less effort, and makes you want to keep improving.
If you're not sure yet whether sewing is for you, try it out first — sewing workshops, fablabs, or renting a machine are all good ways to test the waters. Once you know you're hooked, investing in something sturdy and versatile is the smart move for a frustration-free experience long-term. If it's within your budget, we'd recommend starting with something in the €300–400 range.
2. Stick to Trusted Brands
Nobody's paying us to say this, but we genuinely recommend sticking to established brands that specialize in sewing — think Singer, Brother, Janome, or Bernina. Even for your very first machine.
Cheaper machines from less specialized brands tend to break down faster: their parts (often plastic) don't hold up as well, and repairs can be tricky or even impossible. Trusted brands, on the other hand, have strong distribution networks, so replacement parts are much easier to find if something goes wrong.
Investing in a reliable brand doesn't just get you a better machine that lasts longer — it also means solid customer support if you ever need it.
3. Visit a specialist store
If you can, we'd really recommend visiting a specialty sewing shop to get expert advice from actual salespeople. They can walk you through a demo and help you get comfortable with the machine. Trying before you buy really matters here — kind of like test-driving a car, you want to feel comfortable! There's a "feel" factor that goes beyond specs on paper, and it's honestly pretty personal.
4. Sign up for newsletters !
Subscribe to newsletters from these major brands — they often send subscribers exclusive deals, sometimes with discounts of €100–200 off a machine! It's a great way to snag a good model at a better price. You might also want to subscribe to Veepee's newsletter, since they regularly feature flash sales on these brands.
Conclusion
We hope these tips help you find THE sewing machine that's right for you — one that'll stick with you for years to come! Still feeling a little lost? Click here to check out our pick of the 5 best sewing machines on the market, according to us.
