The Best Hand Sewing Machine: Shopping Guide and Recommendations (02/23)

Who hasn’t experienced it, a small hole in the blouse or a tear in the trousers. But do you have to get the heavy sewing machine out of the cupboard? With the hand sewing machine, small sewing jobs can be done quickly and easily. The otherwise rather stiff work at the table can also be done comfortably on the sofa.

With our comprehensive hand sewing machine test 2023, we want to help you find your way around. You are sure to find the ideal hand sewing machine for you with our comparisons. We have compared electric and manual hand sewing machines and shown you the respective advantages and disadvantages.

Summary

• Hand sewing machines are lightweight mini sewing machines that can be used to do simple sewing jobs. Sewing clothes, curtains or even cushion covers can be done comfortably on the sofa.
• Thanks to their light weight and easy transport, hand sewing machines are practical travel companions for quick repairs. They fit in your handbag or backpack, for example.
• The small and practical household appliance is an ideal alternative to the large, rather expensive and heavy conventional sewing machines. Especially recommended for sewing beginners.

The Best Hand Sewing Machine: Our Picks

Buying and evaluation criteria for hand sewing machines

Which hand sewing machine suits me best and which one should I buy? In the next section we will show you which aspects you can use to choose the right hand sewing machine for your needs.

The criteria you can use to compare hand sewing machines include:

• Operation
• Ease of use
• Stitch types
• Maximum fabric thickness
• Thread tension
• Handiness

In the next sections we will go more into the criteria.

Operation

If only very short and rather small jobs are to be done, such as patching a hole or lifting trouser legs, then the cheaper variant, the hand-operated machine, is sufficient.

However, if there are larger projects to be done, such as sewing curtains or altering garments, then a motor-driven hand sewing machine may be more practical. The even rhythm of the motor makes it easier to sew straight ahead.

In general, electric hand sewing machines are more comfortable. So if you want to sew regularly, a hand sewing machine with a motor will suit you. Otherwise, sewing could turn out to be weight training.

If you have decided on an electric high-speed embroidery machine, you only need to consider whether it runs on batteries or requires a mains adapter. For travel purposes, cordless devices, i.e. battery-powered hand sewing machines, are the better choice.

Ease of use

For beginners in particular, easy and clear operability is a great relief. If you are used to a large sewing machine, you should be able to find and use the various functions just as quickly.

Practising is part of the job, even with a hand sewing machine.

Even for people who have never used a sewing machine before, the hand sewing machine should be easy to operate. A clear layout of the machine and clear instructions can save a lot of trouble.

You can also find out which hand sewing machine is right for you by watching YouTube videos, reading online instructions or reading testimonials. If you are not sure, you can check whether the machine is easy to understand.

Stitch types

Not every manual sewing machine is the same and has the same programmes. With a manual machine, it is clear that there is the straight stitch. An electric embroidery tool, on the other hand, may have several sewing programmes.

Here, too, the question is for what sewing you want to use your hand sewing machine. All machines are designed for straight stitches. Additional stitches such as zigzag or for buttonholes are also basic functions that are practical for regular use.

With these basic programmes, many sewing tasks can already be carried out. Depending on the use, a backstitch or sewing in reverse could still be advantageous.

Here is a short list of different programmes:

• Forward and backward sewing
• Zig-zag stitch
• Automatic button sewing
• Automatic unwinding
• Lighting
• automatic thread tension
• practical threader

Read the specifications of the hand sewing machine carefully. Make sure you have the stitches and programmes you need for your sewing projects.

Maximum fabric thickness

For some, the small machine may seem fragile. However, these mini sewing machines can withstand more than some people think.

However, to ensure that the right hand sewing machine is used for individual sewing projects, the maximum fabric thickness must be taken into account when buying. This is often indicated as: for thin fabrics, medium fabrics, thick fabrics or from to.

If it is already clear that you will often be working with thicker denim or even leather, then it is important that these fabrics also fit under the presser foot. The presser foot should be raised sufficiently so that the fabrics fit under the presser foot.

Alternatively, thin fabrics such as silk or synthetics should be able to be clamped with the presser foot.

Thread tension

If you are still a pioneer in the sewing jungle, you can use a hand sewing machine with automatic thread tension. However, it should always be possible to adjust the tension manually.

Automatic settings are handy for different projects with different fabrics. This way you don’t have to constantly read the thread tension.

Handiness

All hand sewing machines are characterised by their light weight. This means that the lightweight mini version of a sewing machine is quickly preferred for smaller jobs.

The lighter the machine, however, does not mean the better. Every person is different. For some, the lighter the machine, the more practical it is. For others, the lighter the machine, the more practical it is, while for others, the lighter the machine, the more practical it is.

The design of the mini sewing machine is also important. Does it fit ergonomically in the hand? Does the size fit the palm of your hand? Especially if you want to buy a hand sewing machine for children, it should be easy to handle for small hands.

Guide: Frequently asked questions about hand sewing machines answered in detail

In the following guide we want to answer the most important questions about hand sewing machines. We have selected the questions for you and will answer them shortly. After reading our guide, you will know all the basics about hand sewing machines.

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