There’s a sense of great satisfaction that comes with sewing on your own, especially if you do so for kids’ clothing. Whether for business or as a leisure activity, sewing for children has gained popularity and become more important than ever, as it plays a key role in nurturing childhood development and growth. This write-up entails the best sewing machine for children clothes that does a superb job resulting in elegant outfits.
This read will help you identify the best sewing machine for making leggings, rompers, jumpers, newborn tops, mittens, bath towels, overskirts, raincoats, summer shirts, pajamas, shorts, and baby dresses.
You can also sew clothing accessories for kids such as bow ties, tote bags, fabric headbands, scarves, winter caps, sling bags, among others.
These machines will also help you mend torn pieces of clothing, defective zippers, fallen buttons, undone hems, and many other simple fixes; this will help you cut on repair costs and give durability to the clothes.
Another bonus to buying the best sewing machine for children’s clothes is that you can introduce your kids to the sewing realm by teaching them using your machine.
Children feel elated and loved when they don colorful, matching clothes that make them look stylish; such kind can only be made when you use the best sewing machines. Continue reading below, and you will get the best offers available in the market.
Best Overall: SINGER | Quantum Stylist 9960 Computerized Portable Sewing
SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960 is a gem among sewing machines that produce a high degree of precision on your decorative stitches.
The stitches’ quality is of a high standard as the machine sews beautifully to match other models that cost way more. The selection and editing of decorative stitches are simple and intuitive.
Not every stitch can be elongated or made wider to the same extent, but it is easy to tell what you can and cannot do once you see it on the screen.
Considering this capability, you have way more than the 960 stitches advertised.
Many stitches can be flipped or rotated, so you could stitch a line of left-facing triangles next to a line of right-facing triangles or run some lines of straight stitches in between for a cuff, and the results are perfect because you can edit precisely where each stitch starts and stops.
With this wide selection of stitches, even the simplest garment can be embellished with embroidery to make it look amazing.
The hand quilting-look stitch combined with the walking foot offers a feature usually found on only high-end machines. By following the manual’s directions and making the necessary tension adjustments, the result is quite impressive.
It has 600 built-in stitches, including 5 alphanumeric fonts and 13 automatic 1-step buttonholes. This machine is computerized with an LCD screen that lets you view and select stitch designs, stitch length, and width.
This sewing machine’s dimensions are 17.25 x 8.25 x 12 inches, and it weighs 20lbs; plus, it comes with a 25-year limited warranty.
I’d like to point out that this machine uses size 15 bobbins, not 15J. The difference is slight, but if you use the wrong bobbins, you will mess up your work; and consider using Singer brand bobbins, and not cheap copies, which are not the same size.
Pros
- Singer’s touch screen is superior, as it is not only a color screen but also much clearer
- It has a high degree of precision that you can bring to bear on your decorative stitches
- The selection and editing of decorative stitches are simple and intuitive on this machine.
- In this machine, many stitches can be flipped or rotated
- It has advanced editing capabilities; you can edit precisely where each stitch starts and stops
- With a wide selection of stitches on this machine, even the simplest garment can be embellished with embroidery
- The options this machine offers, combined with the wonderful threads widely available to machine embroiderers, make fashion sewing exciting in a whole new way.
- The hand quilting-look stitch combined with the walking foot offers a feature usually found on only high-end machines
- SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960 has a pretty good manual (written in English, French, and Spanish).
- It is a high-quality machine with so many awesome stitches and features for such a low price, with free shipping.
Cons
- You cannot use the quilting bar with the walking foot
- It does not have a knee lifter.
Best for Beginners: Juki HZL-F600 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine
Juki HZL-F600 is your perfect fit if you are new at sewing children’s clothes. Not only that, because the features on this machine allow you to go from garment sewing, hemming, and mending to household sewings like curtains and drapes, to quilting smoothly.
The transition from one function to the other is flawless. This machine is quiet compared to base level machines. There are two LED lights in the lighting, one over the needle and one over the surface. The sewer comes with an array of stitch designs: 255 sewing patterns and 4 fonts.
Juki HZL-F600 has a wide LCD screen (33mm by 66mm) to enable easy visualization and selection of stitch designs, and 16 unique buttonhole stitches.
This machine’s working surface is large and wide (12″ long x 8″ wide) to give you more room to execute larger projects. It also has a self needle-threading system and an automatic thread cutter.
The machine is fast with top speeds of 900 SPM that could be adjusted to low speeds of 80 SPM. It can also sew through thick or multiple layers, including denim.
The quilt guide gives the feeding system high precision, and the two LED lights illuminate the working area for better visibility in dim rooms or when working on darker fabrics.
This sewer is covered by a 5 years mechanical warranty, 2 years of electronics, and 3 months of repair on defects in parts.
Post scriptum information on warranty:
The buyer must fill out and mail the Juki warranty registration card that comes with the machine and keep all original packing (box and manuals) to be granted the Juki manufacturer’s warranty.
Pros
- The transition from one function to the other is flawless.
- Juki HZL-F600 is quiet compared to base level machines.
- The machine is intuitive and easy to set up and operate right out of the box.
- its bobbin winder fills a smooth, tight, even bobbin and has an independent bobbin motor, so there is no need to stop sewing for bobbin filling. (bobbin winder is a separate motor, you don’t have to disengage the main motor to wind a bobbin)
- It has a free motion quilting foot that is so well designed and makes FMQ a breeze.
- It’s very sturdy; this machine is tough and will go through multiple thick fabrics without a hitch.
- The machine’s work surface is HUGE and very comfortable, and the table extension makes it even bigger if needed.
- Juki HZL-F600 has intuitive controls and a good manual that is easy to navigate and understand
Cons
- It doesn’t have a template foot for use with ruler work
Buying Guide for Sewing Machine for Children Clothing
Before you purchase any sewing machine, have some background information on several of these machines. When you are armed with this knowledge, you’ll have a better understanding of what you need, and you’ll never get mixed up on which machine to pick.
Buying the wrong machine will waste your time and resources when you attempt using it, and you’ll miss out on the opportunity to be served well by the right machine.
In that regard, I’ve dedicated the next portion of this article to advise you what to look out for when searching for the right machine to sew excellent children’s clothes.
What to Consider When Buying Sewing Machine for Children’s Clothes
- Durability
I cannot emphasize this enough, but customers will always appreciate durable machines, as it is among the high-ranking properties of a good machine.
It is advantageous because it enables you to benefit fully from what you spent procuring the machine in question. You can also pass down your durable sewing machine to subsequent generations as an inheritance for continued use.
The sewing machines discussed in this review are highly durable. For example, Janome HD3000 has several parts made of aluminum to give it a sturdy build; plus, it comes with a hard plastic cover to protect it from external damage.
- Pocket-friendly/ Price
The advent and constant progress of technology have led to first-rate sewing machines at affordable price ranges.
The sewing machines highlighted in this article are cheaper and more effective than the traditional ones, courtesy of priceless creativity from the brands involved.
- Warranty
Highly reputable brands make the sewing machines explored in this article. The machines are covered with warranties to give credence to their authenticity, mostly 25 years for chassis, 1-year parts and labor, and 2 years electronics. It is an assurance that the products are devoid of defects and are of the highest standards.
- Easy of Use
The construction of a good machine needs an approach that is customer-oriented to improve the ease of use. A sophisticated sewing machine will stress the user, who may ultimately abandon it.
On the other hand, a user-friendly sewing machine boosts the operator’s confidence when interacting with it. The machines above are built in the simplest manner possible to give you comfort during operation, and they also come with a user manual and instructional DVD for graphic illustrations. All these are done in your best interest for better results.
- Fast/High sewing rate
Other Factors to Consider When Buying Sewing Machine for Children’s Clothes
- Stitch rate
The speed of a sewing machine is measured in terms of stitches per minute. The stitch rates vary from one machine to another, with industrial quilters having a higher stitch rate than their non-commercial counterparts.
If you intend to sew children’s clothes commercially, it is paramount that you go for a high-speed machine such as JUKI TL-2000Qi (1500 SPM); those intending to sew on a smaller scale can opt for a machine with a lower stitch rate.
It’s also important to note that the speeds can be adjusted using speed controls for computerized machines or using the treadle for mechanical machines such as Janome HD1000.
- Computerized vs Mechanical
This article features both computerized and mechanical sewing machines. The computerized versions have a host of controls to issue commands at the touch of buttons.
They are also more advanced technologically to adapt to changing times. A good example is the Brother HC1850 that has an LCD screen for stitch selection.
Mechanical sewing machines are also advantageous in their own right. They are cheaper and easier to operate owing to their simplicity of construction.
- Brand
Brand, as it were, is the company that makes the sewing machine. Some companies have a rich legacy of manufacturing reliable, durable, and highly efficient products. The machine brands highlighted in this piece are first-rate and backed by excellent servicing and customer care.
- Presser Feet and Special Attachments
A presser foot holds down the fabric as it is fed into the sewing machine for stitching. Most machines come with the most basic presser feet ( zipper foot and all-purpose foot).
The machines discussed here come with additional specialized feet designed for particular projects. For instance, if you intend to quilt or use spongy material, you need a machine with a walking foot for free-motion quilting.
For decorative stitching, you need a machine with a satin foot, and for leather material, the presser foot should be made of Teflon or non-stick material. Other types of special feet include darning foot, blind hem foot, overcast foot, and buttonhole foot.
- Portability
Portability, in this case, is the movability or mobility of sewing machines. If you change work locations habitually, there is no point going for a heavy machine that is difficult to move around; you can settle for a lighter model such as Brother SE400 (13.4 pounds).
If you’re not inclined to move between work locations, a heavier machine-like JUKI TL-2000Qi will serve you well.
- Price
A machine’s cost is one of the first things a prospective buyer will look at before purchasing the product. It is a basic concept of budgeting that is characteristic of every client as it enables you to determine whether you can afford it or not.
Best Brother sewing machines for quilting highlighted in this article are priced at an affordable range, and every bit of their output is worth the cost.
Other Best Sewing Machines for Children Clothing
They include:
Brother Sewing and Quilting Machine, CS6000i
Brother CS6000i is a perfect quilting machine for beginners at an entry-level price. When you are a novice, it is unwise to splash a lot of money on a high-end machine that you cannot operate with your little expertise. Thus, in my judgment, this is one of the best machines if you are starting, and here is why:
Firstly, this machine comes with 60 built-in stitches, including 7 quilting, 6 looms, 20 clothing, 7 auto buttonhole, and 20 decorative styles.
Hence, you can use this machine not only for quilting but also for other purposes like garments and general sewing. A simple LCD screen indicates the current level of sewing and has a selector for stitches.
The stitching rate of CS6000i is 850 SPM, and the tuning button can regulate that for easy threading. This quilter also uses automatic threading and a bright LED light that makes it easier to sew in poorly-lit rooms and dark fabrics.
The bobbin winding system is also ultra-efficient and effortless. Lastly, the extended table gives enough room for you to quilt on large projects.
To get exquisite results, you need an excellent machine at the outset, and CS6000i delivers just that.
This machine is so easy to thread once you get the hang of it. Initially, you have to take your time and get to know the machine, and you will ultimately be able to fill a bobbin in 60 seconds and thread in 10 seconds.
Pros
- It’s user friendly and comes with complete instruction manuals in English and Spanish.
- This machine is so easy to thread once you get the hang of it.
- Brother CS6000i has an automatic buttonhole maker that is easy and fun to use.
- It’s excellent value for your money as it will last you through many projects; beginner, intermediate, or advanced.
- Brother CS6000i is lightweight in design for improved portability
- Push-button controls (start/stop, reverse & speed) of CS6000i quilter are so convenient; therefore, you don’t have to use the pedal.
Cons
- It does not work well with thick fabric like denim
- The machine has tension issues
Best for Fashion Sewing: JUKI TL-2000Qi Sewing and Quilting Machine
The JUKI TL-2000Qi will make an excellent purchase if you seek to make fashion products like kids’ clothing, bags, and fancy quilt pieces.
The machine is customer-oriented and does not wobble to the point of bouncing around your workspace during operation. It is strong enough to sew canvas and has a sturdy build to handle mechanical stress.
This machine is fast as it can achieve a maximum quilt rate of 1500 SPM, which will help you save on time. Its dimensions are 17.8 x 8.6 x 13.8 inches with a weight of 37.8 pounds, and it’s treadle-powered.
There are so many machine models at various prices that look similar to JUKI TL-2000Qi. As a point of caution, their inside is not the same as this machine! Juki, by far, makes the best sewing machines internally and externally, and this particular model has 6 oil ports; most new machines have none.
To benefit fully from JUKI TL-2000Qi, you need to use it properly. I will enlighten you on some of the prerequisites that must be achieved for this machine to perform as intended: First off, this is a full rotary hook machine, and the top thread tension and bobbin tension (manually adjusted on the bobbin case) must be exact, or it will not sew properly.
Second, the needle must be the correct one for the job. Third, the presser foot must be adjusted to move the material adequately without binding or slipping.
You must also have multiple bobbin cases if you use different bobbin thread weights to avoid continual bobbin tension adjustments. When all of the above are met, the machine will sew perfectly, and it will be like a dream come true for you.
Pros
- It is a truly heavy-duty straight stitch machine
- The machine has a very sturdy build (which means it does have some weight), which makes for incredibly smooth sewing
- The table of JUKI TL-2000Qi stays completely still with minimal noise even when you sew at high speeds.
- This machine comes with great customer service and support to back it up.
- The knee lifter lever of JUKI TL-2000Qi is a time saver
- It has a thread trimming system that works efficiently; you can start right away again, even when the bobbin thread is invisible after trimming.
- This machine’s automatic thread cutter is a great time saver when sewing many small pieces
- JUKI TL-2000Qi is simple to use and stitches beautifully
Cons
- It does not have a speed control
- The needle threader is a bit tricky to get the hang of
- Since the Juki is a semi-industrial machine, you need to oil it regularly
Best for Heavy Sewing Work: SINGER Heavy Duty 4411 Sewing Machine, Medium
SINGER Heavy Duty 4411 is an ideal machine for its cost. It can sew denim, canvas, and folded multilayered seams with no problem; this means that there’s very little it can’t handle.
It is made up of a metallic interior frame and a strong steel bedplate. The machine has a powerful motor giving it a high sewing speed of up to 1100 SPM for faster operation.
For convenience, it features a drop feed for button sewing, a top drop-in bobbin, an adjustable presser foot, and a built-in 4-step buttonhole.
Its uniquely powerful motor enables it to sew through thick and heavy fabrics with little effort. With this machine, you can adjust the presser foot pressure depending on your fabric’s heavy or light make.
The internal workings, gears, and parts of this machine are mostly made of cast metal (aluminum, zinc, or their alloy), the shafts are polished steel, and the bearings are made of bronze for improved durability. You can rest assured this machine will outlast any of your household items.
Its dimensions are 15. 5″ L x 6. 25 “W x 12 “H and weighs in at 14.5lbs. It is also treadle powered and covered by a 25-year limited warranty.
The machine is easy to thread, and the bobbin fills easily. However, when filling the bobbin, go at a medium pace, as going too fast on this machine fills the bobbin unevenly. It is a powerful machine that serves well and if you’re planning on doing heavy-duty work with it, consider the following needles:
Leather: Singer Leather Machine Needles
Denim: Singer Denim Machine Needles, Size 100/16, 3-Pack
Universal heavy duty (thick materials): Singer Heavy Duty Machine Needles, Size 110/18, 3-Pack
I will strongly encourage purchasing a walking foot if you intend to sew multilayered or lightweight material with this machine.
Pros
- This machine sews through folded multi-layer seams with no problem
- Its speed is great and makes the job easy to finish in a short amount of time
- It’s a great sewing machine for heavy-duty work; it sews through leather and canvas, sometimes many layers thick.
- SINGER Heavy Duty 4411 is relatively quiet
- This machine is a great value for what it does.
- It is equipped with a powerful motor that easily tackles heavyweight materials.
- SINGER Heavy Duty 4411 comes at a low price.
- The machine’s sewing quality is marvelous.
- Clear cover over the bobbin system of this machine allows you to see when you’re running out of thread
- SINGER Heavy Duty 4411 has a quick-change lever that lets you swap between presser feet by just a snap.
Cons
- Tricky to do straight stitching as the needle will not center for straight stitching
- No Automatic Needle Threader
Conclusion: Sewing Machine for Children Clothes
On final thoughts, I would like to reiterate that it is essential to have the best sewing machine for children’s clothes. Good machines are fast and lead to increased productivity as you can do more work in a short while.
The machines highlighted above are also safer than older models because they have safety features installed in them to minimize injury risk.
The metallic reinforcements give them the much-needed longevity for long-term use. Invest by buying one of these sewing machines, and you’ll be rewarded exponentially soon enough.
On a personal note, I’ll go with the Juki HZL-F600 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine taking into account its versatility of use, cost, and technologically-oriented features. Feel free to decide which machine best suits you based on the above extensive analysis.