If you've recently decided to brush up on the skills you learnt many moons ago in home economics, or you're just looking for a more up to date machine - the good news is, there are loads of options to choose from.
The bad news is, with the vast range of models out there, to a novice it can all get a bit confusing and tedious.
Nowadays, sewing machines are packed full of automated and computerised features to help make your stitching life easier. Although, old school users may feel more comfortable with manual settings.
If you're more confused now after reading this intro - we've compiled a list of the best sewing machines to buy now, whatever your budget and competency.
Best sewing machines for 2019
1. John Lewis & Partners JL110 Sewing Machine
If you're on a budget, but are looking for a decent quality sewing machine, this option from John Lewis is a great place to start. It's also got a super sweet hot pink design, which will make a great accent to any sewing room.
The retro looking machine is perfectly suited to beginners or pro's and is able to tackle light to medium weight fabrics. Choose from 14 available stitch options, a twin needle can also be used with this machine - but isn't included in the set.
Features on this machine include a front loading bobbin and free arm, which is great for adjusting cuffs or hemming. It also has an LED light to illuminate your work, as well as an automatic four-step buttonhole function.
Price: £99, John Lewis - buy here now
2. Singer 4411 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine
If you're after something a little bit more professional acting, this one from Singer is idea and at under £200, is a bargain not to be sneered at.
The heavy duty machine is able to tackle all kinds of fabric, even the heavier/thicker stuff. You'll have 11 stitch patterns to choose from, including four decorative stitches and a four-step, fully automatic buttonhole.
Compared to a standard sewing machine, the motor in this Singer mode is 60% faster, offering over 1100 stitches per minute. It also has an easy to use drop-in bobbin with clear casing so you can monitor your thread. A drop feed allows for easy free hand embroidery and creative topstitching.
If you sew for a living or are going to be using the machine regularly, this is a top contender.
Price: £191.44, Amazon - buy here now
3. Starlyf Fast Sew Mini Sewing Machine
Perhaps you don't have the room for a traditional sized sewing machine and you're only really using it for quick alterations here and there. If this is the case, save yourself some pennies and stick to something simple - like this one from Starlyf.
The portable handheld device is motorised and has a gentle six watts of power. It's easy to handle, easier to carry around with you and has an automatic bobbin winding.
It can be used on a variety of material types like cotton, denim, leather and silk. For the best results, we'd recommend light materials so you don't overwork your device.
Price: £12.99, Argos - buy here now
4. Janome 725S Sewing Machine
If the Great British Sewing Bee has sparked the desire in you to get sewing, the Janome 725S Sewing Machine is the machine contestants used in the last series. If you watched the last series, you'll know these robust machines are capable of a whole host of sewing jobs.
If you're a beginner looking to improve your skill set and explore different tasks, this is a great option to go for. There are a whopping 25 built-in stitches to choose from, including a handy one-step automatic buttonhole function.
Price: £259, Amazon - buy here now
5. Silver 12 Stitch Mini Sewing Machine
If you're stuck for space at home and you're also looking at the more affordable end of the budget spectrum - this one is for you.
This lightweight option from Silver is suitable for complete beginners and is recommended for use on light fabrics. As it's nice and compact in size, you can easily travel with it if you need to.
The mini sewing machine has 12 stitch options including embroidery and an automatic four-step buttonhole.
Price: £49, John Lewis - buy here now
6. Toyota Oekaki Sewing Machine
Good sewing machines should last a lifetime, this one from Toyota will grow with you and your abilities as your skills improve.
With over 50 stitching options built-in, you can tackle all of your sewing needs with the simple controls. Embroidery is also made easy on this machine, with an advanced option 'Oekaki' mode - which allows the stitch width to b controlled by pressure on the foot pedal.
The machine is capable of dealing with thick fabrics - capable of stitching up to 12 layers of denim.
Price: £349, Amazon - buy here now
7. Juki HZL G220 Sewing Machine
The Juki HZL G220 is a sewing machine best suited for intermediate users.
This machine boasts an incredible 180 stitching programmes, so whether you're top stitching, embroidering or quilting, you can do it all with this machine.
The Juki has powerful feeding thanks to a special, steel feed dog and an improved presser foot construction. Heavy material projects, such as hemming denim jeans, can be completed with ease.
Price: £692.90, Amazon - buy here now
8. Brother LS14s Manual Stitch Sewing Machine
Another great option if you're lacking space and looking for a beginner friendly model.
This model from Brother is motorised with 50 watts of power and has 14 built-in stitches as well as a four-step buttonhole function. It also has twin needle capabilities.
Accessories included in the pack are a zig-zag foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, set needles and many more.
Price: £79.99, Argos - buy here now
9. Singer 9960 Quantum Stylist
If you're an avid stitcher and need as much variety as you can get from your machine, this model from Singer is packed with a very impressive 600 stitching programmes. How's that for versatility?
As well as vital features like speed control, a top drop-in bobbin and a thread trimming button; you'll also be able to mix stitches and lettering to create unique stitch sequences, for endless possibilities of customised projects.
At under £700, it's not an amount of money easy to part with - but if you're looking for a professional machine, this is super close.
Price: £649, Amazon - buy here now
