Sewing Machine for Beginners

Purchasing the best sewing machine can be a little bit intimidating. There are so many models in the current market that is quite difficult to choose only one model. Most models come with advanced technology and many impressive features that will surely satisfy all your needs. However, before you give yourself a headache with all the possibilities out there, it’s recommended to do some research and find a device that will meet all your requirements.

Top 5 Sewing Machine for Beginners Compared

	1. Brother cs6000i	2. Janome Magnolia 7318	3. Brother SE400	4. SINGER 7258	5. SINGER 2259 Tradition
	BEST MODEL		OUR CHOICE
	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price
Product Specifications
Manufacturer	Brother	Janome	Brother	Singer Sewing Co.	Singer Sewing Co.
Model	cs6000i	7318	cs6000i	7258	2259 Tradition
Dimensions (H x W x D)	11.4″ x 6.7″ x 16.1″	11.7″ x 16″ x 7.1″	10.94″ x 6.89″ x 15.55″	12″ x 7.5″ x 14.5″	12″ x 6.2″ x 15″
Weight (pounds)	13	17.6	13.6	19.2	17.6
Color	White	White	White	White	White
Technical Specifications
Machine Voltage	120V AC	110V	120V AC	110V	110V
Bobbin Winding	Automatic bobbin winding system	Push-Pull	Automatic bobbin winding system	Automatic bobbin winding system	Automatic bobbin winding system
Thread Tension Control	Automatic	Manual	Automatic	Automatic	Automatic
Hook Type	Drop-in top bobbin	Front Loading Vertical Oscillating Hook Bobbin	Drop-in bobbin	Drop-in top bobbin	Oscillating Hook
Maximum Stitch Width	7mm	5mm	7mm	6mm	5mm
Maximum Stitch Length	5mm	4mm	5mm	3mm	4mm
Feed System	6 pieces feed dog	5 pieces feed dog	7 pieces feed dog	6-Segment Feeding System (1 feed dog)	4-Segment Feed Dog System
Number of Stitches	60	18	67	100	19
Buttonholes Styles	7	1	10	6	1
Buttonholes Pattern	One-step	4-Step	One-step	One-step	4-Step
Stitch Selection	Dials	Dials	Dials	Dials	Dials
Presser Feet	9	Snap-on	Snap-on	10 (snap-on)	4 snap-on
Maximum Sewing Speed (Stitches Per Minute)	850	840	710	750	N/A
Features
Start/Stop Button
Reverse Stitch Button
Free Arm
Display LCD/LED	LCD	None	LCD	LED	N/A
Lighting	Dual LED	No light	Bright light (LED lamp)	STAIBRIGHT LED light	Inbuilt light
Drop Feed
Automatic Threader
Extra High Presser Foot Lift	N/A		N/A
Foot Pressure Adjustment
Additional Features	Audible Tone		Backlit display	Built-in embroidery design	Built-in carry handle
	Computer Connectivity	Computer Connectivity		Auto Tie-Off Function
Accessories	Accessory pouch with needle set, twin needle, spool pin, bobbins (3), cleaning brush, seam ripper, screwdriver, eyelet punch, power cord, Operation Manual, hard protective case, oversized table	Blind stitch foot, Bobbin, Buttonhole foot, Extra spool pin (2), Felt, Foot control, Instruction book (ENG), Lint brush, Needle set, Screwdriver, Seam ripper, Spool holder (Small), Zipper foot	4″ x 4″ embroidery hoop, Embroidery arm, Soft cover, Accessory feet, Embroidery bobbin thread, USB cable, Power cord, Accessory bag with seam ripper, needle set, cleaning brush, screwdrivers (2), touch pen, spool caps (3), scissors, bobbins (3), English/Spanish operation manual	All-Purpose Foot (on machine), Zipper Foot, Buttonhole Foot, Blind Hem Foot, Satin Stitch Foot, Overcasting Foot, Darning & Embroidery Foot, Gathering Foot, Rolled Hem Foot, Quarter Inch Foot. Pack of Needles, Bobbins (Class 15J), Thread Spool Caps, Auxiliary Spool Pin, Spool Pin Felt, Darning Plate, Needle Plate Screwdriver, Seam Ripper / Lint Brush, Soft-Sided Dust Cover, Foot Pedal, Power Cord, Instruction Manual (English, Spanish, French), Machine Intro DVD	All-Purpose Foot, Buttonhole Foot, Button Sewing Foot, Zipper Foot, Thread Spool Caps (2), Screwdriver, Edge / Quilting Guide, Bobbins (Class 15), Needles, Seam Ripper/ Lint Brush, Foot Pedal, Power Cord, Instruction Manual, Machine Intro DVD
Warranty&Support
Warranty	25-year limited warranty	15-year limited warranty	25-year limited warranty	25-year limited warranty	25-year limited warranty
User Manual
Customer Support

1. Brother cs6000i

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What we really like about this unit is the fact that it is a powerful machine that sews at 850 stitches per minute. Despite its high-speed, this device works well for beginners, and it comes with plenty of features that automatically adjust to your quilting and sewing projects. The maximum stitch length of this device is 5 millimeters while the maximum stitch width is 7 millimeters. However, despite the fact that it automatically sets the maximum stitch length and width, it can be manually adjusted in order to customize the stitches. The Brother cs6000i comes with an LCD screen that provides information about the stitch number and pattern. Also, the LCD screen displays error references you should pay attention when the device malfunctions. Compared to conventional models, this product features a bright sewing light built making it easy to see the details of your work. Furthermore, it includes a drop-in bobbin and an extension table for when you work with heavy and large fabrics. However, if you are planning to purchase this product, you need to know that it comes with a 25-year warranty. Plus, if you have any question and you need more detailed information about the product, feel free to contact Brother’s support team.

2. Janome Magnolia 7318

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The Magnolia 7318 model manufactured by Janome is one of the most efficient and easy to use sewing machines available in the current market. Not only that it comes with a plethora of impressive features and advanced technology, but it also has a reasonable price. It boasts 18 stitches, a 4-step buttonhole maker and a 7-piece feed dog that ensures precision fabric control. The stitch width and length are adjusted with the use of a dial. Also, the dial is used to select the stitch style. Plus, it’s very important to know that the maximum stitch width is 5mm, while the maximum available stitch length is 4mm. Like many other sewing machines, this model comes with a free arm feature that provides easy access to harder to reach areas, such as cuffs, collars, pant hems and more. Because of its 840 stitches per minute, this incredible machine with definitely help you complete your project in just a few days.

3. Brother SE400

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What would you choose between sewing and an embroidery machine? Do you have difficulties making decisions? Sometimes, things in life are not always what they seem to be and with the Brother SE400, we can prove it. It should come as no surprise that we selected the Brother SE400 as the most efficient one in the current market, but after testing and reviewing dozens of models, we can confirm that it the best machine out there. In fact, it is astoundingly easy to use, very affordable and comes equipped with a plethora of features. Not to mention that it is a combination of computerized sewing and embroidery machine. It is a 2-in-1 machine and it deserves to get the first position on our list.

Sewing abilities

If you are new in this industry and you need a combo machine for sewing and embroidering projects, this could be exactly what you need. But in order to make the right choice, make sure you take into consideration several factors. First of all, whether you purchase a sewing or embroidery machine, take a look at its stitches. For example, this model comes equipped with 67 built-in sewing stitches and 70 built-in embroidery designs. Aside from sewing stitches and embroidery designs, it also comes with 98 stitch functions, 120 frame pattern combinations and 5 lettering fonts for monogramming. Another important thing to consider when investing in a tailoring machine is the sewing speed. In this case, we have a combo machine that sews 710 stitches per minute and embroiders 400 stitches per minute. It has a sturdy motor and it is powerful enough to help you complete all your tasks and new projects. It is also worth mentioning that its maximum stitch width is 7 mm and the stitch length is 5 mm. The one-step buttonhole makes it perfect for beginners and intermediate sewers.

Features

Since we are talking about a combo machine, we find it interesting to talk about all its features. At first glance, this is a relatively affordable model that comes packed with many impressive features. First, you will notice its large 4” x 4” embroidery area. As compared to other similar models that lack the work area needed for large projects, this one is different. It comes with a spacious work area that allows you to be freely creative. Another interesting feature is the LCD display. Thanks to this display screen with sensitive touch you will be able to choose the desired stitch and design option. You can make them according to your preferences. The Brother SE400 comes with many surprises and one of them is the iBroidery.com store. It is an online store that comes with thousands of limited-edition designs. It allows you to download directly to the machine new designs you want to try out. Due to its automatic winding system, the unit will prepare your bobbin in order to thread much easier. You can also say goodbye to old bobbin thread. This is a more advanced machine and it comes equipped with a jam-resistant top bobbin system.

Ease of use

Although it is a computerized sewing and embroidery machine, the Brother SE400 is extremely easy to use. It is packed with high-end features, but there is nothing complicated about them. The manufacturer has designed this model with ease of use in mind. Its embroidery area is large, its LCD display is easy to read and its automatic needle threader does everything for you. With a touch, the machine works by itself. When it comes to ease of use, you should also take into account its design. This is a compact model that measures 20.3 x 15 x 15.2 inches and weighs only 10.9 lbs.. Due to its lightweight feature, it can be carried with ease to your sewing class.

Warranty&Support

In what regards the warranty, it is backed by a 25-year limited warranty. Like most machines, it has a 1-year warranty on labor, parts and accessories and a 5-year warranty on electronic components. For further information about this model, you can contact the customer service department. It will gladly answer all your questions.

4. SINGER 7258

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When it comes to performance, ease of use and quality of construction, the Singer 7258 is by far one of the best sewing machines out there. It boasts 100 stitches, 10 presser feet which are specially designed for crafting, quilting and sewing, 6 automatic 1-step buttonholes and an easy threading system with the automatic needle threader. Also, there is a push-button stitch selection that will allow you to select the desired stitch and a start/stop button that will help you use the machine without using the foot controller. The LED display helps you adjust the stitch length and width before running a quick check of the stitch. Keep in mind that the maximum stitch width of this device is 6 millimeters and the maximum stitch length is 3 millimeters. The fact that it has an automatic reverse, an auto tie-off tacking stitch and an electronic autopilot feature that allows you to sew without foot pedal is a major perk. Overall, the Singer 7258 is a great sewing machine for home sewers at all skill levels.

5. SINGER 2259 Tradition

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There are plenty of sewing machines available on the market, so it can be extremely difficult to choose the right model for your needs. Most of these models come with a plethora of impressive features and advanced technology in order to make this activity easier and more enjoyable. The Singer 2259 Tradition is one of those models that includes enough features to be versatile. Despite its low price, it has all the features you need to complete your projects. As such, it’s important to know that it comes with 19 built-in stitches with a fully automatic 4-step buttonhole which provides endless project possibilities, along with the adjustable stitch length and width features which will allow you to create customizable stitches. Therefore, keep in mind that the maximum stitch width is 5 millimeters while the maximum stitch length is 4 millimeters. Even though it weighs 13 lbs. and the carrying case is absent, mobility is made simple and you can improvise. However, it’s important to know that this is a great unit that will surely satisfy all your needs.

6. SINGER Start 1304

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Are you planning to buy a new machine and start sewing? If so, this is the right place to be. The Start 1304 machine by SINGER will make your life easier and more enjoyable. First of all, it is important to know that it is basic and very easy to use the machine. The fact that there are only 6 built-in stitches to choose from is a major perk as you won’t feel confused when using them. Each stitch has pre-set width and length, so all you have to do is to select the favorite stitch and start working. another thing that we like about this model is the fact that it is lightweight and portable. It measures 13 x 7 x 11.5 inches and weighs only 11.5 lbs. For classes that require a good quality machine, this is exactly what you need. It is not the most powerful machine out there. It only sews with 400 stitches per minute. However, a beginner could be pleasantly surprised by how well it works, especially because of the fact that it is very easy to navigate.

As previously mentioned, it comes with some of the most important stitches for basic sewings, such as a straight, zigzag, satin, blind hem, scallop, and a 4-step buttonhole. In addition to this, it has something very useful, such as a free arm that allows you to sew cuffs, pant hems, collars and other difficult to reach areas. Although it is one of the most affordable models on the market, it still has an automatic bobbin winding system, easy threading and an extra-high presser foot lifter. All these features will make sewing much easier. As such, if you are planning to purchase a quality machine and you don’t have enough money for an advanced model, take a look at this one and you will be surprised to discover a good quality-price ratio.

7. Janome Arctic Crystal

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This machine has been crafted with 15 built-in stitches, 4-step buttonhole, front-loading bobbin system, and customizable features. You will have the ability to easily change between stitch length, zigzag width, reverse lever, and darning plate. In addition to this, it has been made with a 3-piece feed dog system and a removable free arm. This means that you can use this machine on different materials regardless of their size. As well as, it will also ensure a smooth fabric feeding. The front-loading bobbin system is easy to figure out as all of the instructions are included in the user manual. You will be thoroughly pleased to know that you will receive all of the accessories you need such as bobbins, needles, seam ripper, and a quick start guide. The heavy-duty housing will maintain efficiency for many years so you don’t have to worry about damages. You will also enjoy the LED light which means that you can use the machine whenever you wish and it limits the possibility of eye strain.

8. Varmax Mini Sewing Machine

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This specially designed machine is compact in size yet it has an incredible capability. This machine has been designed with 2-speeds and you can easily control it through the labeled button. In addition to this, the double thread stitching will allow you to easily finish the sewing without the need to knot it yourself. Furthermore, the built-in light will allow you to work in low-light conditions. Numerous people have vouched for this sewing machine due to the fact that it can be used for different fabrics such as denim, silk, and even professional craft paper. For example, many have used it for sleeve cuffs and trouser legs.
The large extension table will allow you to work on large projects even if this machine is small. As well as, the easy bobbin rewinding means that you don’t need thorough knowledge to operate the machine. What stands out about this product is the fact that you have the freedom to choose the power supply. Hence, you can choose between batteries or adapter. Additionally, you can also turn it on through a button or by pressing on the foot pedal. If you consider this machine, you will be covered by the 1-year warranty period. Nonetheless, you don’t have to worry about its quality as it’s ETL certified.

9. Brother XM2701

It should come as no surprise that we have decided to review the Brother XM2701. It is one of the best yet affordable sewing machines available in the current market. With 27 built-in stitches that include decorative, stretch and zigzag stitches and 6 quick-change sewing feet, it tends to be perfect for beginners and intermediate alike. Although it doesn’t come with an LCD, it still is easy to navigate due to its dial stitch selection. Besides, it features a jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin that eliminates jamming which is a common problem for these machines.

The work area is large enough to sew large and heavy fabrics such as denim or leather. Plus, there is a built-in LED light that helps you keep an eye on details. It might not be one of the most powerful machines out there, but with 800 spm, it is fast enough to complete your projects in no time. Making buttonholes on this machine is extremely easy. It is equipped with a 1-step, auto-sized buttonhole that will ease your task even if you haven’t tried this before. Also, there are another 5 feet to choose from. From zipper, zigzag and button sewing to blind stitch and narrow hem, this machine has all you need to suit your projects.

10. Janome HD1000

Love it or hate it, the Janome HD1000 is a heavy-duty model specifically designed for beginners and intermediate. It lacks certain features, so it cannot be compatible with the needs of a professional sewer. However, it still comes with a plethora of interesting features that should be considered when looking for a new tailoring machine for basics projects. Did we say basics? Well, no! it is powerful and fast enough to handle heavy and hard to sew materials such as denim, wool or leather.

It lacks the LCD and built-in LED light of a more expensive machine, but it’ easy to use due to its dial stitch selection. At first glance, it looks like most tailoring machines in the marketplace. The truth is that it is more durable than most of them. It has been designed with a cast aluminum body and a metal frame. It doesn’t have as much built-in stitch as other models, but with its 14 built-in sewing stitch, you can do an amazing job. Plus, it comes with a free arm feature. This is great as you will be able to sew pants, cuffs, collars and other cylindrical items. Another incredible feature is the built-in needle threader that will automatically pass the thread through the eye of the needle. As compared to many other models, this one is very easy to use. Besides, it comes with a hard cover that will keep it in good conditions.

Important Things to Know

Home sewing is becoming one of the most popular hobbies, and not just among the elderly people, but also among young people. More and more people are realizing the feeling of accomplishment they have when creating something. However, sewing without a quality machine may be quite intimidating. There are countless types of sewing machines on the consumer market, but very few are reliable, affordable and easy to use. Therefore, when purchasing a tailoring machine, you need to pay heed to various factors. First of all, you need to know that there are 3 different types of machines, such as mechanical, electronic and computerized machines.

• Mechanical machines
  Mechanical machines are vintage models and despite the lack of features, they are great for beginners and for those people who undertake lighter sewing projects. These machines are not operated by electricity and they need a bit of power as the user has to use a dial to make the needle and the bobbin to move.
• Electronic units
  As the name suggests, these models use an electric motor which powers the needle and the bobbin. These types of machines are operated by a foot pedal, therefore the more pressure you apply to your pedal, the faster the needle moves and you stitch. Furthermore, these electronic units are the best models out there as they come with a plethora of impressive features and patterns.
• Computerized models
  These types of machines are usually used by professional sewers. Most of them come with advanced technology and a plethora of impressive features. For this reason, they tend to be more expensive than other models and are best suited to experienced sewers who will be using the machine on an almost daily basis.

How We Grade our Ratings

There are hundreds of sewing machines available on the market and each one of these models comes with its own technology and a plethora of impressive features that will surely meet all your requirements. However, it’s important to know that there are several factors you need to consider when looking at an appliance for a beginner.

• Bobbin

  The bobbin is a cylinder with or without flanges on which thread can be wound. They can be made of metal, bone, plastic or wood and are usually found in sewing machines. Some units have bobbins wound with wire and a knitter often works with a yarn bobbin close at hand. Keep in mind that the thread needs to be spun onto the bobbin and then inserted into the bobbin housing in the bed of the device.

• Buttonholes

  Buttonholes are holes in the fabric into which the button goes into, securing one piece of fabric to another. Some tailoring machines come with an included foot that will allow you to apply pressure to the foot pedal, while others will stitch the button on for you.

• Free arm

  On a free arm sewing machine, the area under the needle extends out in order to allow the user to operate the fabric more easily around and under the needle. In fact, this is a great feature that provides easy access to cuffs, collars, pant hems and other difficult to reach areas.

• Feed dogs

  The feed dogs are the most important components of a “drop feed” machine. In short terms, these are the teeth on the bed of the unit placed under the presser foot. When you are stitching, these feed dogs pull the fabric through the device.

• Foot pedal

  The foot pedal is a little pedal placed on the floor and controlled using the foot. Its purpose is to control the needle. The greater the pressure that is applied on the pedal the faster the unit will go.

• Presser feet

  The presser feet are some special attachments that will make sewing much easier. As a beginner, you will use the walking foot and zigzag foot the most. Some units have one snap-on presser feet which are automated and easy to use for beginners, while others have 4-step buttonholes which are created in stages and are a more manual process than 1-step buttonholes.

Important Features to Consider When Purchasing

Purchasing a sewing machine can be an exciting yet intimidating task. It is very difficult to choose a great machine as there are hundreds of models available on the consumer market. Therefore, there are several factors you need to consider when you are first starting out.

• Consider your budget

  If you are planning to purchase a tailoring machine, then you really have to take a good look at your budget. There is no point in buying high-end products if you have a limited budget. However, there will always be a unit that you can actually afford it. For example, if you have a limited budget and you can only afford a $ 50 device then you should think about choosing a quality second-hand machine. Investing in a plastic sewing machine is probably not the best idea because it won’t last as much as other models.

• How many stitches does it have?

  Once you have decided exactly what your budget is, you can start thinking about what you really want. To sew successfully, you need a machine that has at least two stitches such as a straight stitch and a zigzag stitch. Each one of these stitches will allow you to do everything you want to do on a machine. However, there are units that come with more than 100 stitches, but a beginner will rarely use anything other than a straight stitch and a zigzag stitch. Obviously, the rest of them look great and are fun, but you won’t need them on a regular basis. Therefore, before making a purchase, it is important to know how many stitches do you really need.

• Is the stitch length and width adjustable?

  While you may use only the zigzag and straight stitch, being able to adjust the length and the width of these stitches can be a major perk. As outlined above, there are hundreds of models in the current market and each one of these units comes with its own features. Some of them provide variable stitch lengths and widths, while some of the lower-priced devices don’t. That’s why it always worth checking.

Top 3 Brands on the Market

• 1. Brother

  Brother Industries Ltd. is a Japanese company headquartered in Japan. In the last decades, it has earned its reputation as a leading supplier of products for home, including printers, desktop computers, fax machines, multifunction printers, sewing machines, and other large machine tools. The globally-recognized Brother company is well-known for its high-quality products and accessories, providing flexibility, performance, and ease of use at affordable prices. In fact, this is one of the leading brands for sewing machines because it manufactures great products which do exactly what it says they will do. However, if sewing is one of your passions and you are looking for an easy way to develop your skills, than any of the sewing machines that Brother has manufactured will offer you exactly what you need.

• 2. Janome

  Janome is a well-known Japanese company that produces sewing machines. Their main purpose is to produce machines that are simple and easy to use. This is a globally recognized brand that produces a wide range of machines, including basic sewing, embroidery and quilting machines. Additionally, it also produces electronic and computerized machines that could be updated via software. In fact, Janome was the first to develop a computerized, a long-arm quilting and a professional style embroidery machine for home use. As a leader in the sewing industry, they try to design their products for performance, but also for quality, comfort and intuitive ease of operation.

• 3. Singer Sewing Co.

  Singer Sewing Co is an American company that produces sewing machines that have consistently retained a place among some the most efficient and affordable machines in the world. Since 1851, this company has been developing machines for every level of sewing. The truth is that they have celebrated many firsts, such as the first electronic machine, the first zigzag machine, as well as the most advanced embroidery machine. Most of these products are affordable and extremely durable. Plus the Singer Sewing Co. company provides a large selection of sewing machines suitable for beginners.

Why Sewing Machines Are A Must-have

If you are planning to save some money and keep up with the fast evolution of fashion trends, then you probably need a basic sewing machine. Therefore, whether you are passionate about craft or you just love to create your own clothes, you should think about investing in a quality sewing machine, because it can provide you with plenty of benefits.

• It helps you customize anything

  If you are the type who loves to create clothes and customize them, then you really need a tailoring machine. A quality device will help you be more creative and practice your own skills. You can create anything you want. You can easily make a dress, pants, shirt and you will able to choose colors and patterns that you love. Also, you will be able to follow your own designs and the rights stitch for your design. In short words, there are so many clothing and garments that you can make with the help of a tailoring machine.

• It helps you repair unused garments

  A quality sewing machine can help you repair unused clothes that have not been used for a long period of time. Furthermore, it will help you get rid of the torn garments that are stuck in the garage. By using this tool, you will be able to turn your old clothes into some new and fashion ones, in just a few hours. Plus, you can save a lot of money. If you change your wardrobe every month, you will surely go beyond your monthly budget. Instead, if you have your own sewing machine, you will be able to make your own clothes, which means that you don’t have to buy at shopping malls.

• It helps you start a business

  If sewing, quilting, and embroidering are your passions, you can utilize your skills and invest in quality tools for business purposes. A professional tailoring machine will help you start a small garment business. Plenty o people have become successful in his industry and they continue to flourish in the market.

Conclusion

Best Overall: Brother cs6000i
Regardless of the size of the project, Brother cs6000i is an excellent choice. It has a built-in free arm, wide table, and adjustable sewing speed so you can use it whenever you need to. Also, it comes with an automatic needle threader so it eliminates the possibility of eye-strain. Additionally, the bright LED light will make sewing on dark fabrics easier.

Best for Complicated Projects: Brother SE400
Whatever you imagine, you can create with Brother SE400. Even though it has been designed with numerous convenience features such as 67 unique stitches, 70 embroidery designs, and 5 lettering fonts, it can be used by novice and professionals. The backlit LCD screen will allow you to easily choose between designs, change stitches, and watch tutorials right on the machine. If you wish, you can upload your own designs to test out.

Best for Beginners: Janome Magnolia 7318
If you’re looking for a machine that is not only versatile but also suitable for your experience, Janome Magnolia 7318 is suitable for your needs. It has been designed with 18 different stitches so you can use it for quilting, crafting, and fashion. It has different convenience features so you can use the machine even if you’ve never used a sewing machine before. Also, it comes with numerous accessories at no extra price.