Wish List: Sewing Machines for Kids



If Sewing Machine 2:  Lessons in Machine Sewing is on your child's holiday list, then you might need to get a sewing machine too.  Here is our tried and true advice on purchasing a machine for a young sewer.

* Buy a real sewing machine!  Don't be seduced by a "kid's sewing machine" that is essentially a toy.  These machines aren't worth the $19.99 they cost and will just cause frustration.  Trust me, I've experienced many a melt down at camp with these machines.  Those little "mending" machines don't work either.

* Look for a machine with a drop in bobbin. These machines are MUCH easier for a kid to operate.

* Keep it simple.  Don't worry about all the bells and whistles for a first machine.  Just get your basic model that is simple to operate.


 What age for a sewing machine?  I got my daughter a machine for her sixth birthday.  Most machines say ages 7 and up.  You know your child.  If they understand the concept of sewing and have been hand sewing for awhile and are responsible, then a machine will help to expand their sewing skills and creativity.

If you purchase a machine for a young sewer, don't forget to add some cute fabric and a few spools of thread to get started!
So, what do we recommend here at Sewing School?  If you've been with us for awhile, you'll know my love of the Janome Sew Mini when sewing with kids.  From my experience, it's the best starter machine for kids.

Pros:
*A real machine, but it sews slowly so it's safer for little hands.  Simple and easy - just what a new sewer needs!
*Great size, lightweight.  Easy to store and doesn't take up too much room.
*Nice price.  I always buy mine when they go on sale at Hancock's.
*Drop in bobbin and nice selection of stitches.
*Sews up little projects with ease.

Cons:
* Doesn't last forever, which is fine if you only want it for a starter machine.
*No zipper foot.
*It's hard to sew through multiple layers of fabric or fleece.
*It's a starter machine.  This wouldn't be the machine I would recommend for an adult or a kid over the age of 10.  Purchase a full-sized machine instead (see the tips for buying a machine at the top of this post.)

I hope this helps!  I've had so much fun machine sewing with kids.  A machine really opens up a world of possibilities for kids and sewing!

*This post is an edited version of one I did last year.  I was going to write a new one, but why when the info is still the same?!

No comments: