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Whether you’re a seasoned seamstress or a total newbie, the right sewing machine choice can make or break your experience. With a multitude of options on the market and a lengthy list of factors to consider, it’s a little mind-boggling. However, we’ve found the best sewing machines in Canada for you to choose from, stress-free.
Best Sewing Machines in Canada
Singer 4423 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine
The Singer 4423 is ideal for beginners as the set-up is simple, including an automatic needle threader and drop-in bobbin. Plus, the controls are in the form of simple dials to control thread tension and choose your stitch. While simple, this machine is very hard-working (hence the name) and can easily handle very tough fabrics such as denim and thick upholstery. You’ll find four presser feet (buttonhole, zip, button, and standard), and the option for free sewing.
An affordable sewing machine for newbie upholstery sewers, or anyone wanting a simple-yet-thrifty machine for general sewing needs.
Pros
- Automatic needle threader
- 23 stitches
- Fast and powerful motor (1100 stitches per minute)
- Sturdy metal casing
- Excellent for beginners
Cons
- Prone to bobbin tension and rattling
Janome 3160QDC Blue Line Sewing Machine
At a very close second, we have the Janome 3160QDC, a computerized model that can glide through most fabrics with 60 stitch choices. This nifty model is especially great for quilting, with a table, free arm, and plenty of stitches to choose from. You also get 6 buttonholes (1-step), auto thread cutting, extension table, auto needle thread, and free-arm option. These features (and many more) make for an easy setup and operation, especially for beginners. A very lightweight model at 12 pounds (despite the sturdy aluminum frame) so you can easily transport it. The controls are simple to figure out, with a mixture of manual dials and digital buttons with a backlit LCD control screen. The best of both worlds.
We recommend this model for anyone wanting to develop their quilting skills with the opportunity to get into more complex apparel.
Pros
- 60 stitches
- Automatic thread cutting
- Very lightweight
- Easy to use
- Auto need thread and thread cutter
Cons
- Lighting could be brighter
Brother XM2701 Lightweight Sewing Machine
Next up, the Brother XM2701, an affordable model but with a slightly less heavy-duty motor and construction than the previous picks. This attractive-looking machine features 27 stitches including an automatic buttonhole stitch feature. Plus, it comes with 6 sewing feet for multiple tasks such as zippers, narrow hems, and zig-zag stitching. Set-up is easy, even for beginners, with an automatic needle threader and drop-in bobbin, with an LED workspace so you can see exactly what you’re doing.
This is an excellent choice for anyone wanting a lightweight sewing machine they can pack up and transport easily. It is beginner-friendly but boasts enough features to allow you to grow as a more experienced sewer.
Pros
- 27 stitches
- Automatic needle threader
- 6 feet (including buttonhole)
- Drop-in bobbin
- Auto buttonhole feature
- Lightweight and portable
- LED workspace
Cons
- Not powerful enough for thick, tough fabrics
Singer MX60 Mechanical Sewing Machine
At number four, an even more affordable model! The Singer MX60 is a true beginner’s sewing machine, but with a sturdy metal internal casing. This portable and lightweight model features 6 stitches for beginners to practice with and a 4-step buttonhole creation.
You won’t find any fancy stitches or features here, so it’s best for total beginners or those with very simple needs.
Pros
- Great for beginners
- 6 built-in stitches
- Easily portable
- Reverse lever for securing stitches
- Adjustable thread tension
Cons
- The manual is lacking in comprehensive instructions
Brother CS6000i Feature-Rich Sewing Machine
Now we get to something with a higher price tag and far more features. The Brother CS6000i, while comprehensive, is still an excellent beginner’s machine. It is easy to set up, with an automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin, and an LCD screen with simple controls. Beginners can get used to simple techniques, then move onto fancier work with 60 built-in stitches and 8 sewing feet.
This computerized machine is perfect for beginners, quilt makers, and those who want the options to develop skills.
Pros
- Automatic needle threader
- 60 built-in stitches and 8 sewing feet
- Computerized controls
- Fast
- Free-motion arm
Cons
- Not tough enough for very thick, heavy-duty fabrics
Singer 9960 Quantum Stylist Sewing Machine
At number six, we’re getting into more serious territory, with a more serious price tag. The Singer 9960 Quantum Stylist is a computerized model with 600 built-in stitches and 18 presser feet for multiple sewing options. The digital screen and control buttons are simple to use once you get the hang of it (with the manual and YouTube videos at your side). You get plenty of extras and tools which you can store neatly in the built-in drawer for a clutter-free workspace and easy portability. This machine is pleasantly tough and can sew through thicker fabrics such as denim, so your options are vast.
We recommend this for people with a large budget and an ambitious set of sewing projects on the horizon. It’s a great step up from a total beginner machine but is still excellent for newbies to learn the basics on.
Pros
- 600 built-in stitches
- 13 sewing feet
- 5 sewing fonts
- Automatic thread cutter
- Can handle thick, tough fabrics
Cons
- It is expensive for a reasonably simple machine
Janome HD1000B Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine
The Janome HD1000B is a sleek black machine with a sturdy metal casing to last. It’s a reasonably simple machine with only 14 built-in stitches, so it’s a great option for beginners with a little extra budget. The manual controls are very easy to use (the manual is helpful, too!), and setup is easy with an automatic needle threader. Impressively, the powerful motor can handle tough fabrics so your fashion and homeware creation options are vast. You can easily free-sew with this machine, and find everything you need in the packed accessory drawer.
This would suit anyone looking for a reasonably affordable sewing machine that will last. Plus, if you’re not looking for oodles of stitches and features, but you want a simple setup and free sewing options, even better.
Pros
- Durable metal casing
- Attractive black aesthetic
- Free arm
- Plenty of basic accessories
- 3 sewing feet (zipper, buttonhole, and hemmer)
- Easy-to-use manual controls
Cons
- Only 14 stitches
Brother XR3774 Sewing and Quilting Machine
At number eight, another affordable model from Brother, with manual controls in dial form. The XR3774 is an attractive machine (with sweet floral detailing) with 37 stitches and 8 sewing feet. You can achieve a buttonhole in one step, try some fancy stitches, and practice flawless zippers. The setup is easy, even for beginners, with a drop-in bobbin, automatic needle threader, and jam-resistant bobbin. Plus, you can get your quilting game going with the wide table and quilting foot.
This pretty machine is ideal for beginners, while still providing plenty of options for growth and skill development.
Pros
- Easy to set up
- Wide table and a free arm for quilting
- One-step buttonholes
- 8 sewing feet
- Great for beginners
Cons
- The speed can be a little tricky to control
Brother Serger 1034D Sewing Machine
Now for something slightly different, a thread serger (also known as an overlocker). While it may seem daunting to the beginner, this machine is actually really simple to set up and use. It features 22 built-in stitches and two sewing feet so you can create pro-looking garments and homewares. This is a ¾ thread serger, which is pretty decent for a low-to-mid range serger suitable for beginners. Plus, it has differential fabric feed options for all kinds of fabrics, even thin and stretchy varieties. This is great for budding fashion designers and costume makers starting out.
Pros
- ¾ threads
- Differential fabric feed
- Free-arm for sewing sleeves and collars
- Easy to use and beginner-friendly
- Works on thin, gauzy, or stretchy fabrics
- Color coding for easy operation
- 2 sewing feet
- Soft cover
- Fast speed (1300 stitches per minute)
Cons
- Quality isn’t as durable as other models
Brother GX37 Lightweight Sewing Machine
At number ten, another Brother model, the GX37. An affordable and lightweight sewing machine with 37 stitches and 6 sewing feet for versatile creations. This is another beginner-friendly model that’s perfect for the newbie who wants to develop into a more seasoned sewer with one machine. It’s easy to set up, with a drop-in bobbin and auto needle threader, and an easy dial for selecting your stitch. All you need to do is experiment with the tension and how it works with different fabrics, watch the included DVD, and away you go.
An affordable beginner’s machine with plenty of options for growth.
Pros
- 37 stitches
- 6 sewing feet
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Automatic needle thread
- Easy drop-in bobbin
- Free arm for quilting and cuffs
- 1-step buttonhole
Cons
- No adjustable pressure foot pressure
Singer M1500 Sewing Machine
Last but not least, the Singer M1500, a very affordable and simple model perfect for total beginners. This tidy machine only has 6 stitches, but that’s plenty if you’re just starting your journey with sewing machines. It features a 4-step buttonhole, LED light, and a free arm for quilts and cuffs. This isn’t a heavy-duty or fast machine, so it’s best suited to simple fabrics and gentle sewing projects to build your skills.
A great first machine for young sewers who will eventually move on to a more sophisticated and hardworking machine.
Pros
- Great for beginners
- Easy to choose stitches
- Easy to set up
Cons
- Thread prone to getting stuck
- Needles prone to breaking
What to Consider When Buying a Sewing Machine
Your ability and planned projects
Your sewing machine needs to match your abilities and your goals as a sewer. For example, you might be a newbie looking to simply practice your skills and create some simple items. Or, you could be a more experienced sewer looking to make clothes for your family, or homewares.
For beginners with small projects in mind, a cheaper model with a decent range of features (without confusing bells and whistles) ideal. The Brother XM2701 would be great. For seasoned sewers with loftier goals, choose based on fabric abilities and features to give you a vast range of options. This may mean upping your budget a little, but the payoff (perhaps literally, if you can sell your wares!) will be worth it.
Features that allow you to grow your skills
You may be a total beginner now, you won’t be soon! While cost-effectiveness and simplicity are important, as previously stated, so is flexibility. Choose a model that has the ability to grow your skills.
For example:
- A wide table and open arm for quilting
- Multiple buttonhole features (and a buttonhole foot)
- A font feature for labelling clothing
- Plenty of stitch options
- A strong motor for sewing heavier fabrics and more layers
- A sturdy construction for durability and heavy usage
Setup and Controls
Take care to understand the setup requirements and controls so there are no surprises. For a beginner or someone wanting a simple process, look for:
- Automatic needle threader
- Drop-in, tangle-free bobbin
- Automatic thread cutter
- Clear stitch choice
- Intuitive screen and button controls when choosing computerized machines
- A comprehensive manual or instructional DVD
Extra accessories
Be clear on what your machine comes with and what you may have to purchase separately. Most machines come with the basics such as bobbins, needles, seam rippers, and a few extra feet.
Cleaning requirements
A sewing machine requires cleaning to remain functional for long periods of time. While it can be a bit of a nuisance, it’s got to be done. All kinds of dust, lint, and oily residue can gather inside your machine, eventually causing issues. Cleaning your machine generally requires small brushes, oil, and a whole lot of taking pieces apart and putting them back.
Make sure your chosen model is easy to disassemble, and even better, comes with free servicing.
Conclusion
Now that your options have been narrowed down to the eleven best sewing machines in Canada, you can find the best to suit your plans. We love the Singer 4423 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine, but the Janome 3160QDC is a close second. Good luck with your sewing adventures!
