Let's talk about the best sewing machine for kids. For Anne’s 4th birthday we got her a sewing machine and I did a lot of research beforehand to find the best sewing machine for kids. This first sewing machine didn't have to be anything fancy with decorative stitches or lots of computerized options. It just needed to be a portable option to start her gaining some basic sewing skills at a young age.

It took me about 5 minutes to rule out all of the machines designed just for kids. You know the chain stitch style you find in the toy department…they really just don’t work so don’t even go there. I want to teach my child that sewing is fun and functional – not frustrating. It turns out the best sewing machines for kids aren’t necessarily made for kids often.

I’ll give you my top choice sewing machine for kids as well as a few other options. Also, if you have other questions about using a sewing machine or what sewing machine to purchase then check out our comprehensive Sewing Machine Post. 

Best Sewing Machine for Kids

#1 Sewing Machine for Kids | Janome Portable Sewing Machine

We ended up going with the Janome Portable Sewing Machine which you can find on Amazon for around $70 in 4 different colors. If you are a prime member you also get free 2-day shipping 🙂 *I am an Amazon affiliate but this review is 100% my own opinion

We’ve had this for a couple months now are loving it! First of all it is a 1/2 size machine so it is very small and a lightweight sewing machine. Overall it’s less intimidating for a child than a full size machine and it’s easy to store when not in use. It is definitely much slower than my machine and I’m comfortable with my 4 year old using it with limited supervision (I’m in the room but don’t have to hover)

My favorite feature by far (which I didn’t know about until it arrived) is this wonderful presser foot! The way it’s shaped it would be incredibly difficult to get your finger under the needle which was a big safety concern I had.

I’m not saying it’s impossible but it definitely gives me a lot of peace of mind. We of course still teach sewing safety but I’m glad to have this chunky presser foot blocking her precious fingers just in case. 

The machine includes 10 basic stitches including a straight stitch, basting stitch and a zig-zag. It’s plenty for a beginner and I like the easy-to-read dial. My toddler can quickly switch between the letters and understand which stitch she is picking. No bells or whistles but for a child it’s perfect

We’ve used this machine to sew through multiple layers of fabric (including fleece) and it did quite well. One of our early projects was a dolly sleeping bag and the machine did fine with a layer of cotton and a layer of fleece.

When it got time to sew all the layers together it was manageable on this machine but it did begin to struggle a bit. Granted a child won’t be sewing through that much fabric very often.

The only real drawback to this machine is it doesn’t have a light. My toddler isn’t used to sewing with one so she does fine with a lamp but light would’ve been nice. I imagine if she continues sewing and really takes it seriously we’ll be getting her a full-size machine with more features when she’s 9 or 10 but I think it will be a while before she outgrows the functionality of this machine

Once I realized how much she loves to sew I decided she needed her own sewing nook in my office. I got this drop-leaf table and a child-size folding chair  (it came in fun colors too!)

It’s the perfect size for her to sew and just barely fits between my sewing desk and computer desk.

When she’s done I put away her machine and fold down her whole station. The little chair slips between my desk and the wall and the table only sticks out 2.5″ when it’s folded so it’s not in my way. I also installed the little table all on my own (9 months pregnant!) and I’m proud to say it’s very close to level 🙂

Now she has her own little work space and we’re both loving it!

Hope that helps you and your little one in your sewing adventures! In our opinion this is the best sewing machine for kids and young learners. However, we have a few more ideas regarding the best sewing machine for kids:

Top 5 Other Best Sewing Machines for Kids

1. Brother CS7000x Computerized Sewing Machine

The Brother CS7000x isn’t probably what you think of for a sewing machine for “kids” but its a good beginner sewing machine for anyone and its price point is low enough to the point where you might want to upgrade to it for an older child. It has 70 built-in stitch options and the functionality needed to teach your child the basic ins and outs of any sewing machine. Of course, sewing machines can cause injury when not properly used so children, especially small children, should be appropriately supervised and use the sewing machine according to the manual. 

Of course, this isn’t just for kids – it’s also the #1 sewing machine on our Beginner Sewing Machine list. It has top-level features like an automatic needle threader, easy machine threading, options for zippers, buttonholes, and an oversized table. They also make one with an extension table. It is lightweight and low noise and a good value for sewing hobbies. Get more info on this sewing machine or purchase it HERE.

2. Mini Sewing Machine for Beginner

The Mini Sewing Machine for Beginners is meant to give you a beginner’s knowledge of what a sewing machine does and what parts it has – it includes bobbins, spools, a spare needle, a needle threader, presser feet, etc. It also includes 12 stitch patterns and a thread cutter.

It really is a beginner machine though and won’t be suitable for many sewing projects. It’s main purpose is to teach sewing machine basic to a child. It has a very low price point and is good for that purpose. Get more info on this sewing machine or purchase it HERE.

3. Singer Simple Sewing Machine

The Singer Simple Sewing Machine is another great beginner machine to learn how to sew with fewer features. It would work for children or adults. You’ll be able to create a lot more projects on this than a sewing machine geared specifically to small children. It has 21 built-in stitches and a maximum speed of 750 stitches per minute.

Again, sewing machines can cause injury when not properly used so children, especially small children, should be appropriately supervised and use the sewing machine according to the manual. Learn more HERE.

4. Made by Me Very Own Sewing Machine

Now this is a true "child's sewing machine." The Made by Me Very Own Sewing machine is a battery-operated two-speed sewing machine to teach children some sewing basics. You aren’t going to start sewing your own clothing with this machine but it does include 10 different projects to help you learn some sewing basics like basic straight stitches. Reviews say this is a good gift for children to make a small project and learn some sewing basics. It’s also super cheap at just over $20 at the time of this writing so if you have a kid that’s beginning to show a small level of interest in sewing this machine might be just the trick to help spark that interest. For more information click HERE.

5. Brother GX37 Machine

Finally, we’ll give another shout-out to a machine that isn’t necessarily meant for children but that could be the perfect sewing machine for any beginner. The Brother GX37 is a great portable sewing machine with 37 stitches and an easy-to-use stitches turn dial. It has over 17,000 reviews on Amazon. While it’s currently listed at around $185. This machine is small, lightweight, and easily portable or easy to work around for small people.

Once again, sewing machines can cause injury when not properly used so children, especially small children, should be appropriately supervised and use the sewing machine according to the manual. Get more info on this sewing machine or buy it HERE.

What factors should you consider when choosing a sewing machine for kids?

When choosing which is your best sewing machine for kids, consider factors such as safety features, ease of use, size and weight, stitch options, and included accessories. Look for machines with finger guards, speed control, and clear instructions. Additionally, choose a machine that is durable and suitable for beginners.

Thank you for joining us to learn about the best sewing machine for kids. These aren't professional machines but they are good for child's sewing machines that are great for ease of use. We hope you can find the perfect machine for you. Before you leave, make sure to come to join us over in the Peek-a-Boo Pattern Shop Facebook Group for all of your sewing-related questions. You can also follow us on Instagram or sign-up for our email newsletter below.