Mini Sewing Machine Pros and Cons

Differences between full size and mini sewing machines
Are you looking to finally get started on those little projects and ideas without making a huge financial investment in a sewing machine? Or maybe you have a budding seamstress or tailor that you want to help get started? Many people don’t realize the a mini sewing machine can be just the perfect solution when you are looking for your first sewing machine, or a mini sewing machine for small and side projects.
Mini sewing machines are perfect for beginner sewing, most think it’s just for kids or it won’t perform quite like a “real” sewing machine. Mini sewing machines are just as good if not better for some tasks. Below are a list of positive and negatives for choosing a mini sewing machine.
Slower. Some noticeable differences between full size and mini sewing machines might be that a mini sewing machine is a bit slower. This alone makes it optimal for beginner and first time sewing as it allows for more room for error and time allots more time to correct the stitch. Beginner adults and children will appreciate this none rushed paced.
Difficulty with thick fabric. Mini sewing machines also might have a few obstacles when it comes to sewing with thicker fabric. As with most sewing machines, a mini sewing machine needs to have the correct size needle installed before sewing denim and thicker fabrics. Save yourself a lot of time and make sure that you are using the manufacturer suggested needle for the job. This will greatly reduce sewing frustrations and having to replace broken needles.
Less automated. Many mini sewing machines don’t have an automated zipper or buttonhole capability. While this isn’t a big drawback it does make it more challenging to complete zipper installation and buttonholes. However for beginner sewing it’s highly unlikely that this would be a deal breaker.
Might not have a built in light. Though mini sewing machines are light weight and super easy to travel with they do come with disadvantages. Some might not have a built in light. Most full sized sewing machines come with a sewing light already installed as part of the sewing machine. With a mini sewing machine, some consider this a small sacrifice and aren’t willing to pass on a mini simply because of the lack of this feature. When sewing having the correct lighting is a requirement, if you're considering a mini sewing machine you might also find a regular lamp or ceiling light can be easily used for sewing.
Quality issues. Some have found the foot pedals on mini sewing machines to be very toy-like and plastic. This is mostly true but can be good for beginner sewing.
The Pros of a mini sewing machine
Easy stitching. Mini sewing machines are great for beginner sewing projects. If you're looking for your first sewing machine, a mini sewing machine might be the best choice for you. Mini sewing machines allow for easy startup and are easy to use right out of the box. Most mini sewing machines come with all of the required bobbins, and needles necessary to begin sewing immediately. It's easy stitch selection and ready to go features make it the perfect selections for first sewing machines.
It’s lightweight. These small, portable machines have been reviewed to create even stitches. They are great for lightweight sewing and paper crafting.
It’s cheap. Mini sewing machines have most of the features of a full-size machine and at just a fraction of the cost. This makes this an ideal pick for beginner sewing, first sewing machines and small projects.
Overall, we have found that mini sewing machines are definitely the best sewing machine for hobbyists who would like to dabble in sewing. Because of its small size, it also makes it a great first sewing machine for kids or beginner sewing.
Hot Basic sewing machines *ON SALE*
If you're looking for the best beginner level, mini-sewing machines for basic use these selections might be what you're trying to find.
SINGER 1507WC Sewing Machine with Cover Get this ON SALE NOW!
ONLINE SAVINGS! Brother XL2610 Sewing Machine with 25 Built-In Stitches
Even more suggestions
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Kenmore 11206 Three Quarter Mini Sewing Machine
- Full-size capability in a compact machine (550 stitches per minute)
- Starting at $117.99
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Michley LSS-505 Lil' Sew & Sew Mini Sewing
- Multi-purpose sewing machine with 8 built-in stitch patterns
- Starting at $39.97
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Janome 3128 Mini Sewing Machine
- 8 Built in stitches
- Starting at $119.00
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SINGER Expert Finish 1700 Watt Steam Iron
- Steam iron with LCD electronic temperature control
- Starting at $50.49
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Fiskars 9521 45mm Contour Rotary Cutter
- A handy tool for any craft enthusiast's toolbox, cuts through multiple layers of fabric and paper
- Starting at $8.99
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Singer Sew Essentials Storage System, 165 Pieces
- Includes storage case, thread, pearl head pins, seam ripper, needle threaders, plastic bobbins, pin cushion, needle compact with hand needles.
- Starting at $20.87
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Olfa Spinning Rotary Mat
- Designed for larger projects
- Starting at $56.46
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Tear Away -Embroidery Backing 100 Precut Sheets
- Medium Weight 1.8oz. - 8"x8" - Fits 4x4 Hoops
- Starting at $9.99
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40 Spools Polyester Embroidery Machine Thread
- 40 Spoools Polyester Embroidery Machine Thread
- Starting at $35.00
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Olfa Deluxe Rotary Cutter
- Cuts up to six layers of fabric
- Starting at $15.40
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Mary Ellen's Best Press Clear Starch Alternative
- Starch Alternative 16 Ounces-Caribbean Beach
- Starting at $10.04
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Singer Sewing and Detail Scissors Set
- Pink and White comfort grip handles are rubberized to make cutting easier on your fingers and eases hand strain
- Starting at $13.61
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Clover Wonder Clips, 50 Per Pack
- These mini clips feature great holding capacity and have a multitude of use
- Starting at $17.50
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Brother Embroidery Starter Kit
- 6 spools of colored embroidery thread; 10 embroidery needles; 10 empty bobbins; and 10 prewound thread on bobbins
- Starting at $42.00
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Singer 10-Pack Regular Point Machine Needles
- Universal needles are for most weights of woven fabric
- Starting at $5.99
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EK Success 13-by-13-Inch Self-Healing Pink Mat
- Self-Healing Cutting Mat is 13-by-13-inches
- Starting at $7.99
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Brother PE500 4x4 Embroidery Machine, 67 Built-in
- Embellish your creations with embroidery! Easy to learn and use embroidery-only model from Brother, with 4x4 embroidery area
- Starting at $269.97
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Tula Pink's City Sampler: 100 Modern Quilt Blocks
- 100 original quilt blocks patterns
- Starting at $21.16
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Morning Glory Low Loft Batting
- 1/4-Inch thick, pure white polyester batting
- Starting at $11.22
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SINGER 611.BR Universal Hard Carrying Case
- Lightweight, yet durable; provides dust-free storage for machines
- Starting at $21.97
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Steady Betty 16-Inch-by-16-Inch Pressing Surface
- A precision built, unique surface that keeps material and fabrics from slipping
- Starting at $39.80
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3M General Purpose 45 Spray Adhesive
- Bonds together paper, cardboard, plastic, films, foam, and fiberglass insulation
- Starting at $5.77
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Buyer's Tips
- Find the top rated product.
- Read the reviews.
- Read Reviews
Top Sewing Machines
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Brother 17 Stitch Sewing Machine, JX2517
Total Package & Spring Cutie! -
Janome Decor Computerized Sewing Machine with 50 Built-In Stitches
*ON SALE* Tons of Bonuses Make Janome DC2011 a WINNER! -
*New* Laura Ashley Limited Edition CX155LA Computerized Sewing & Quilting Machine with Built-in Font for Basic Monogramming
155 Built-in Stitches, 8 Button-hole Styles, Plus Included Sewing Font! -
*ON SALE* Brother XL-3750 Convertible 35-Stitch Free-Arm Sewing Machine with Quilting Table
Great Sewing Machine for ALL Levels of Sewing! INCLUDES BONUSES! -
Brother 60-Stitch Computerized Sewing Machine, CP6500
Creates Beautiful and Even Stitches Every time!