Buying a mini sewing machine is a great way to try sewing without initially having to spend too much money. Due to their simplicity, small form factor and ease of use they are perfect for beginners and kids alike. In addition, they also make for a good back up sewing machine for the experienced sewer if you need to complete a small sewing tasks or as a temporary machine if your main sewing machine breaks down. However, if you are looking to get a sewing machine to complete several sewing projects on we truly recommend you getting a compact sewing machine instead, as these mini ones won’t be very durable or able to tackle all types of fabric.
In this guide to the best mini sewing machines we will be going over everything you need to know for when choosing a portable mini sewing machine. We will cover their advantages and list the disadvantages along with any useful information that can help you find the one that best suits your sewing needs.
For kids we have a more indepth post of the Best Sewing Machines For Kids that we recommend if you are buying a machine for a younger user. Or if you are looking for a beginner machine check out Best Sewing Machine For Beginners.
Best Mini Sewing Machines
You can compare my top 4 recommendations for 2024 in the table below.
Best Mini Sewing Machine Reviews
1) The 12 Stitch Multi-Function Sewing Machine
The 12 Stitch Multi-Function Sewing Machine mini sewing machine from WENMILY is one of the most popular models in the UK and it has very positive feedback from previous buyers. This is hardly surprising as this multi-purpose sewing machine is packed full of features and has a price tag that makes it hard to overlook.
It comes with 2 speed settings, high and low with the lower speed setting coming in handy for precise stitching. The double thread works well with the higher speed setting and produces consistently neat, straight and firm stitches.
In total there are 12 built-in stitches providing enough functionality to cope with most small sewing tasks around the home. This machine can seam, hem has a freearm for sewing cuffs and trouser bottoms as well as an overlock function. In addition the reverse sewing function is great for reinforcing seams to eliminate loose ends.
Another positive feature are the two different power modes. This model can be plugged in to the mains or be run off 4 AA batteries. This makes it a good choice for a portable sewing machine as it can literally be used anywhere and is of course super easy to move with its small weight.
As you can see the Uten mini portable sewing machine is a versatile machine with great functionality for many sewing tasks. It is one of the more reliable options and comes highly recommended.
2) KPCB 201 Sewing Machine with Extension Table
The KPCB Mini Sewing Machine is another very popular choice and like the previous model it also has excellent customer feedback from buyers on Amazon.
The most notable feature of this model that separates it from the previous one is the addition of a large extension table. This makes it far more practical for when sewing large pieces of fabric. Furthermore it also helps with providing a more stable working surface. Another positive feature is the cuff slot which makes sleeve work ever so easy.
Additional features include the two usual speed settings that you tend to get with all mini portable sewing machine as well as two different power sources. In terms of stitches there is definitely room for improvement as it is rather limited when compared to other available models. That been said this is the most affordable machine in my top 5 list and best suited for those on a limited budget.
One thing I will say about this sewing machine is that you will be pleasantly surprised with what it can do. It is suitable for many different types of fabric and offers good stitch quality. On the downside there is no reverse stitch function.
3) Wenmily Sewing Machine for Beginners
One of the more robust and versatile models out of all mini sewing machines available is this one by Wenmily. It can be used for most sewing projects including altering and making clothing as well as for quilting and home decor. Some of you may find it hard to believe that this small sewing machine is capable of sewing through five layers of fabric.
In total it comes with 12 stitch patterns, which is about as good as it gets with a mini model. Comes with two speed settings and it features reverse stitching and there is also the ability to sew buttonholes. The automatic bobbin winding function and thread cutter are features that you don’t get with many other machines.
Weighing in at 2 Kg this is one of the heaviest models in my recommendations. This is still relatively light when compared against a normal sewing machine and should be seen as a good thing. Heavy sewing machines tend to be made from more metal components and have less plastic parts.
One thing I really like about this machine is the overall ease of use. It doesn’t take too long to get to grips with the various settings and would make a good sewing machine for a beginner. In addition it is well-suited for basic sewing tasks around the home which should appeal to the more experienced sewer on the lookout for a portable sewing machine.
4) Mini Sewing Machine from HomHou
This model by HomHou is extremely lightweight weighing in at only 1.2 Kg. If you are looking for a portable and compact sewing machine it doesn’t get much better than this. With a large extension table, built in sewing light and a deep U-shape design sewing pants, sleeves and large pieces of fabric is hassle free with this machine.
Capable of sewing with 2 threads and with the correct tension adjustment it is possible to produce consistently strong and firm stitches.
Other positive features include the built-in winding pole and spool assist to rewind the bobbins when you turn on the machine.
Are mini sewing machines good for kids?
If your kids are interested in learning to sew we would recommend you get a “real” mechanical sewing machine with a compact form factor instead of a mini one. They may seem like good choices to start with, however these machines may break easily and will give you issues with skipped stitches, tangling and constant unthreading. Making what should be a fun new hobby something cumbersome. If you want to check out some of our recommendations on machine that can be good for kids, read our post Best Sewing Machines For Kids.
Are mini sewing machines worth it?
If you are looking for a cheap machine for some very basic sewing then a mini sewing machines can be good. However, mini sewing machines are not as durable as regular sewing machines, won’t be able to handle many types of fabric, especially thicker ones. Since they are very cheap sometimes their quality can be questionable and you may encounter skipped stitches, tangling and unthreading while sewing with it. Our recommendation would instead be to get a basic regular sewing machine, some good options can be found here: Best Sewing Machine For Beginners.
Final Words
Although mini sewing machines do have their limitations there is still a good number of reasons to invest in buying one. Due to their lightweight and small size they are extremely portable and with many models having two power sources they can be used anywhere. Another advantage is that they are very affordable with most models costing less than £50. In my guide I have included the mini sewing machines that I think represent the best value for money.
Hi can you recommend any books, pdf documents and online tutorials to learn how to use the model with purple buttons (and the others) on your website please?