Bags, inconsequential as they seem, have been fundamental to the development of human civilization the world over. They provided and continue to provide one of the simplest means of transporting smaller items without carrying them around in our hands. The simple and ancient bags and pouches have now evolved and branched into many different forms. Modern bags are made from an ever-widening range of materials such as leather, canvas, and cotton. Their designs, too, range from simple bags to those with elaborate designs and embellishments. The best sewing machine for bag making is loaded with features that make the creation process more efficient.
Below, we take a deep and critical look at ten different sewing machines. We analyze their features and builds to help you find out which machine will be the best choice and boost and supplement your productivity.
Best Sewing Machine For Bag Making
Table of Contents
1. SINGER 7258 100-Stitch Computerized 76 Decorative Stitches
The 7258 from Singer is a computerized sewing machine popularly known as the Consumer’s Digest best buy award recipient. It has a durable exterior and interior build and gives a powerful performance. With an average sewing speed of 750 stitches per minute, this machine is fast enough to get you through your projects promptly. This speed is adjustable to your preferred setting using an automatic slider. This adjustment makes it easier to use for beginners. It also features 100 stitch options from decorative to basic and stretch stitches. There are also multiple styles of buttonholes included in the stitch options.
The bobbin loading on this machine is a top drop-in system, which makes inserting the bobbin easy. The transparent cover also makes monitoring the thread supply convenient, and you can replace it when needed so that it does not run out as you work. When winding thread around the bobbin, it will automatically stop when full this you never need to worry about overfilling a bobbin. Threading this machine is quite easy as there is an inbuilt needle threader, so you do not need to frustrate yourself trying to get it done. Instructions on how to use this feature are printed on the machine for further convenience.
The programmable needle up/down feature is also another great feature of this machine that allows you to set the needle’s position when you stop sewing. You can therefore rotate your fabric and continue working with the same precision. There is also a free arm on this machine for sewing areas such as collars, tube-shaped pieces, and other tiny spaces.
Summary of Key Features
- 100 integrated stitch options
- It comes with ten presser feet
- LCD screen
- A top sewing speed of 750 stitches per minute
- A top-loading bobbin system
Pros
- Memorizable needle up/down
- Extra-high presser foot lifter
- Twin needle capability
- Speed control feature
- 13 needle positions
Cons
- Presser foot pressure is not adjustable
2. Juki HZL-DX Series Sewing Machine HZL-DX5
Built for precision and convenience, the Juki HZL-DX5 is a powerful machine that is loaded with features to deliver high-quality finishes. Its powerful motor allows it to sew at a top speed of 1,050 stitches per minute, which sees you blazing through straight stitches. Pressing and holding the needle up/down button will allow you to sew slower when you are inching around corners or perfect intricate detail. One hundred eighty-five stitch patterns come with this machine, as well as three fonts. These options will expand the range of projects you can undertake and make your options near limitless.
The foot pressure can be adjusted to reflect the fabric type you are sewing and lowered for thinner, more delicate fabrics. This adjustment also helps in achieving matching of the top and bottom fabric and thread tension. You can also use the knee lift lever to lift the presser foot when dealing with thick/multi-layered fabrics so that you don’t need to get your hands away from your work. If you plan to sew more creative patterns, you can drop the feed dogs for free-motion sewing. The feeding mechanism is another great unique feature of this machine. This machine uses the box feed mechanism, which stays in contact with your fabrics for longer and results in smooth fabric feeding. This mechanism provides even sewing through thick fabrics, no fabric shrinkage in thin fabrics, and consistent, neat stitches.
If you plan to work on a larger project, an extension table can be attached to this machine to increase your working area. The automatic features on this machine that increase convenience include thread trimming and needle threading.
Summary of Key Features
- 185 built-in stitches
- Box-feed fabric feeding mechanism
- A top sewing rate of 1,050 stitches per minute
- Drop feed capable
- Three fonts
Pros
- Fast sewing speeds
- Automatic needle threading
- Expandable sewing area
- Easy to set up and use
- Knee lifting lever
Cons
- The needle threading function performs inconsistently
3. Janome 4120QDC Computerized Sewing Machine
The 4120QDC is a machine built for precision, efficiency, and convenience by Janome. It comes packed with 120 built-in stitches and a built-in alphabet, which give you near endless possibilities when it comes to using them creatively. With a weight of 22.4 pounds, this machine is heavy enough to remain sturdy when sewing and has a relatively large working space that makes it ideal for working on larger projects. A top-loading bobbin also makes rethreading this machine very easy, with the clear cover making it easy for you to monitor the thread supply.
This machine sews at a maximum rate of 820 stitches per minute, which is not very fast compared to other sewing machines, but it will promptly get through your projects. A speed control slider will also allow you to adjust the speed to reflect your needs better. This feature will prove useful for beginners and those looking to do precision work. The stitches produced are neat and consistent, and their dimensions can be adjusted to get your desired results—the maximum stitch width and length of 7mm and 5mm, respectively.
The memorized needle up/ down feature, which you can set before you sew, is another great feature. With the 7-piece feed dog, the fabric movement is smooth, and you will not experience any bunching of the fabric. Other built-in features that make this machine easier to use include the needle threader and the thread cutter, saving you a lot of time and frustration.
Summary of Key Features
- 120 integrated stitches
- Three alphanumeric fonts
- LCD screen
- 7-piece feed dog
Pros
- Memorized needle up/down
- Extra-high presser foot lift
- Built-in needle threader
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Adjustable stitch dimensions
Cons
- Not easily portable
4. SINGER Heavy Duty 4411 Sewing Machine
Singer machines have a global reputation for producing high-performance, reliable machines, and 4411 is the embodiment of this. This heavy-duty, mechanical machine is built to last. Its powerful motor is evidenced by the fast sewing speed of 1,100 stitches per minute, which can allow you to blaze through your projects and get started on new ones- increasing your productivity. There are also 11 integrated stitches in this machine, including a 4-step buttonhole. This buttonhole may prove inconvenient or difficult to use as it requires multiple steps.
Even at the relatively lightweight of 14.5 pounds, this machine has a sturdy build and will remain stable as you sew. Its heavy-duty build also allows it to sew through fabrics of different thicknesses easily. The company claims that it has a 60% more powerful motor than other similar machines. This machine’s stitch quality is excellent, and the stitches are neat, consistent, and with the right tautness.
One unfortunate feature of this machine is the lack of an automatic needle threader, which would have saved a lot of time and effort but should not provide a serious challenge if you are an experienced sewer. This machine’s functionality is also expandable using the four presser feet in the accessory package (all-purpose, zipper, buttonhole, and a button foot). The free arm option is also great when sewing tube-shaped pieces, and removing the extension table will allow you to access the free arm on both sides.
Summary of Key Features
- 11 integrated stitches
- Three needle positions
- A top sewing rate of 1,100 stitches per minute
- Four included presser feet
- Free arm for hard-to-reach areas
Pros
- Fast sewing speeds
- Drop feed capable
- Easy-to-load bobbin
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Inbuilt thread cutter
Cons
- 4-step buttonhole
- No automatic needle threading
5. Brother CS7000i Sewing and Quilting Machine, 70 Built-in Stitches
The Brother CS7000i is Brother’s upgrade to the popular CS6000i, with several new features. This machine has 70 integrated stitches, which is ten more than offered by the CS6000i. Among them include quilting and decorative stitches and seven styles of one-step auto-size buttonholes. This wide variety allows you the creative freedom to express your ideas. Two buttons underneath the LCD screen allow you to choose the stitch number, with the stitches displayed in front of the machine for easy reference. Stitch dimensions can also be adjusted easily from the front panel.
This machine’s maximum sewing rate is 850 stitches per minute, which is decent though slower than other machines within a similar range. Suppose you are a novice who is not accustomed to working at fast speeds, or even an experienced sewer looking to do precise and intricate detail. In that case, you will appreciate the feature that allows you to adjust the sewing speed. This adjustment can be made using a speed controller. The automatic needle threading function is also a great bonus and will save you a lot of time and effort.
The accessory package is also quite generous and will prove useful in making the machine easier to use and expanding its functionalities. Among them are the ten presser feet from the zipper and zigzag to walking, monogramming, and overcasting.
Summary of Key Features
- 70 integrated stitches
- Ten included presser feet
- Backlit LCD screen
- Drop-in top bobbin
Pros
- Automatic needle threader
- Expandable working area
- Adjustable sewing speed
- Easy bobbin loading
- One-step buttonholes
Cons
- Inconsistent needle threading
6. Janome JW8100 Fully-Featured Computerized Sewing Machine
The JW8100 is a cutting-edge piece of sewing machine loaded with features that make your sewing process more enjoyable and efficient. It has 100 built-in stitches, including 27 for general purpose sewing, 18 for quilting, 27 heirloom, and 28 decorative stitches. Among these stitches are seven auto buttonholes to create exact sized buttonholes quickly. Selecting these stitches has also been made easier. This machine features a backlit LCD screen that allows you to preview and select your stitches using the navigational buttons.
If speed is a feature that you especially value as you work, this machine is just right. It works at a top speed of 1,000 stitches per minute so that you can blaze right through your projects. If you desire to work at slower speeds, a speed control slider allows you to slow down to your comfortable speed. With the seam ends being especially vulnerable points, a reverse stitch function is nearly invaluable. The JW8100 has a reverse button for you to backstitch and reinforce your seams to prevent unraveling.
An extra-wide extension table is another great bonus that comes with this machine. You can sew larger projects more comfortably with this feature. Another feature in this machine that allows you to express your creativity freely is the drop feed feature. This feature allows you- as the name suggests- to lower the feed dogs and sew the pattern that you would like to see freely. An auto declutch bobbin winder in this machine eases the bobbin winding process and stops winding the thread once the bobbin is full.
Summary of Key Features
- A top sewing speed of 1,000 stitches per minute
- 100 integrated stitches
- Top-loading bobbin
- Backlit LCD screen
- 7-piece feed dog mechanism
Pros
- Fast sewing speeds
- Adjustable sewing speeds
- Reverse stitching feature
- Expandable working space
- Drop feed feature for free-motion sewing
Cons
- Does not have an inbuilt thread cutter
7. Heureux Sewing Machine Computerized and Quilting Z6
While the Heureux brand may not be as popular as other sewing machine brands, their machines pack a powerful punch, and the Z6 is no exception. From its build to the exterior and smaller features, this machine is loaded with great features. It is built from a heavy-duty interior metal frame, which makes this machine very durable and sturdy. The exterior build is also not flimsy, and the parts are crafted to last. Despite this, this machine has relatively lightweight at around 11.6 pounds, making it easily portable. Therefore, it is an ideal choice for anyone who will need to move the machine around, such as a student carrying it to class and back.
The Z6 has 200 integrated stitches. These stitches include eight different auto-size buttonholes, basic, stretch, decorative, and 100 alphanumeric stitches, among others. You can also easily select your stitches from the well-lit LCD and preview your selection before sewing. The bobbin loading system is a drop-in top one, which is faster to load and more comfortable for beginners due to the easy accessibility. Rethreading the machine is, therefore, faster. The clear cover also adds more convenience as you can monitor your thread supply and replenish it before you run out completely.
The accessories that are included with this machine are also quite generous and adds many other functionalities to this machine. These accessories include the extra feet, instructional manuals, and a dust cover. This machine does not limit your sewing to light fabrics. You can sew heavy and thick materials comfortably due to the strong motor and build of this machine.
Summary of Key Features
- 200 integrated sewing stitches
- Drop-in top bobbin
- LCD screen
- Weighs 11.6 pounds
Pros
- Brightly lit LCD screen
- Multiple integrated stitches
- Twin needle capability
- Automatic needle threading
- Easy loading bobbin
Cons
- This machine works noisily
8. Janome Horizon Memory Craft 9850
The Janome Memory Craft 9850 is also a dual-purpose machine that gives you creative license to create your designs. It is loaded with features for embroidery and sewing that make your work that much easier. The sewing features included in this machine are the 200 integrated stitches, including six styles of one-step buttonholes. These stitches range from decorative to stretch and general-purpose to allow you to work on a wide variety of projects. The maximum stitch length and width of 5mm and 9mm, respectively, are adjustable, allowing you to create exact stitches for your design.
The top-loading bobbin system makes for easy rethreading of the machine, and the 7-piece feed dog makes for smooth fabric feeding to prevent and to a bunch of the fabric. The stitches produced are also neat and consistent. The foot pressure can be adjusted to reflect the thickness of the material you are working with, and the drop feed feature allows for free-motion sewing. Other sewing features that make this machine incredible include the 1,000 stitches per minute, which is adjustable, the memorized needle up/down, and the built-in thread cutter and a needle threader.
For the embroidery enthusiast, the features included in this machine include the 175 inbuilt designs, which can be supplemented using the USB port. These designs can be edited, i.e., duplicated, flipped, resized, and combined to fit your specific needs. The maximum embroidery sewing speed is 800 stitches per minute, and this machine also provides a monogramming function.
Summary of Key Features
- 200 integrated stitches
- Six designs of one-step buttonholes
- 175 integrated embroidery designs
- 7-piece feed dog
- Drop feed for free-motion sewing
Pros
- Memorized needle up/down
- USB connectivity
- Smooth fabric feeding
- Monogramming function
- Free arm for hard to access areas
Cons
- The machine is costly
9. Brother SE600 Sewing and Embroidery Machine
A dual-purpose machine- the SE600 pays for itself multiple times over in the value it offers. It is an excellent option for the sewer also looking to get into embroidery. It has 80 embroidery designs built into it and 103 sewing stitches. These figures can be expanded infinitely using the USB port. You can now download as many designs as you would like and transfer them to the machine. Apart from the sewing stitches and embroidery fonts, this machine boasts six embroidery fonts that you can use to personalize the project you are working on and for monogramming if you are so inclined.
The top sewing rate for this machine is 710 stitches per minute, which, while not being the fastest, is quite decent and can see you complete your work promptly. This speed can be reduced and set to a preferable figure using the speed control slider, which makes up for the lack of super-fast speeds. This adjustability makes it great for novices and those who want to sew slower to get intricate details. You can also create the exact designs you want by adjusting the stitch width and length using the LCD screen.
For those who plan to do embroidery using this machine, it has an embroidery hoop of 4”x4”, a decent enough size. Other features included in this machine that increase the convenience are the automatic needle threading, which saves a lot of time and effort, a start/stop button that eliminates the need for the foot pedal, and the free arm for sewing hard to reach areas such as the collars, cuffs, sleeves, and hems.
Summary of Key Features
- 80 integrated embroidery designs
- 103 built-in sewing stitches
- 4’’ x 4’’ embroidery area
- Color touchscreen
Pros
- Automatic needle threading
- Adjustable sewing speed
- USB connectivity
- Adjustable stitch dimensions
- Well-lit working space
Cons
- The relatively small embroidery field
- The presser foot pressure is not adjustable
10. Janome HD3000 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine
The Janome HD 3000 is often lauded as a market leader in heavy-duty sewing machines. Its build and features are geared to making this machine durable and sturdy. It has a heavy-duty metal interior build and well-crafted exterior features that will see you use this machine for a long time to come. There are also 18 built-in stitches in this machine, which offer a nice variety to work with. Among them is an ones-step buttonhole that sews exact-sized buttonholes in one quick step. The reference chart on the cover of this machine makes referral easier, and the selection dial makes the process of choosing a stitch to use more convenient.
With a 5-piece feed dog, this machine’s fabric feeding is smooth, and you will not experience bunching up the fabric or loops in the stitches. This machine is also built to sew through fabrics of different thicknesses. The presser foot pressure can be adjusted depending on the nature of the material, and its extra height makes it suitable to deal with the multi-layered fabric. These presser feet are Snap-On, which makes it easy to change whenever you need different functionality.
Sliding off the storage compartment will allow you to access the free arm, which is invaluable when sewing sleeves, cuffs, collars, and other hard to access areas. The bobbin loading system is a top drop-in one that makes for quick rethreading, and with a transparent cover, the thread supply can be monitored, and the required action is undertaken. All this, coupled with the generous accessory package, makes the HD 3000 an excellent choice for those looking for a durable workhorse.
Summary of Key Features
- 18 integrated stitches
- 5-piece feed dog
- One-step buttonhole
- Adjustable stitch dimensions
- Top-loading bobbin
Pros
- Reverse stitch function
- Built-in needle threader
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Extra-high presser foot lift
- Drop feed capable
Cons
- Manual tension adjustment
The Best Sewing Machine For Bag Making Buyers Guide
After deciding to invest in the best sewing machine for bag making, then comes the tough part, settling on and purchasing the machine. With so many sewing machines on the market, choosing one can be an overwhelming and frightening task. The buyer’s guide below seeks to make this process a lot less terrifying.
Why Should You Buy The Best Sewing Machine For Bag Making?
- Reliability
Sewing machines for bag making will have a sturdy and durable build that will see you using the machine for years to come. They have heavy-duty interior builds and exterior parts that are not flimsy and constructed with care.
- Precision
Sewing machines used to make bags are loaded with several features attuned to this specific task. These small details are what make your project a success and increase your performance.
- Speed
Semi-industrial machines are built with strong motors that see them work at high speeds. If you are a professional at making bags, then the best machine will see you finish your work promptly, embark on new projects, and increase your productivity.
What to Consider Before Buying the Best Sewing Machine For Bag Making?
- Heavy-Duty
When making bags, you are likely to encounter thick and tough material or be required to sew through multiple layers of fabric. Therefore, you will need a machine whose build is sturdy enough to handle these materials admirably. Look for a machine whose interior frame is made from heavy-duty metal and one that has a powerful motor. This strength will enable it to punch through heavy fabrics without a problem and keep the machine steady when sewing.
While portability may also be of great importance, you may want to choose a not so lightweight machine. A heavier machine will remain sturdy and when sewing heavy fabrics with minimal to no vibrations.
- Presser foot
The presser foot adds a host of other functionalities to an otherwise standard-use machine. The presser foot that is being used also plays a role in determining the fabric movement and stitch quality. Feet such as walking foot are more convenient and produce better results when working with thicker fabrics.
Apart from the type of presser feet, other presser feet feature to determine its effectiveness. Look for a machine whose presser foot pressure can be adjusted. Such a machine will allow you to choose the exact pressure you want it to exert on the fabric, depending on the type of fabric you are sewing. The presser foot lift is also another important feature. Lifting the presser foot allows you to fit thick/multi-layered fabrics under it.
- Working space
The best sewing machine for bag making will have adequate space for you to work comfortably. Check the bed size and the throat width of any prospective machine to determine if it fits your specific needs. Apart from the flat area around the needle that you will need to put the fabrics, ensure enough space to rest your hands on as you hold the fabric. A larger throat width also makes maneuvering the pieces you work on easier to achieve the end goal faster and more effortlessly. Most machines also come with an extension table to join with the machine for a much larger working space.
Plan for the future when buying a sewing machine. A good rule of thumb is always to go a few sizes higher than you think you need. The projects you undertake in the future could evolve, and this machine will evolve with you, remaining relevant.
- Free arm
Apart from being useful in garment sewing, the free arm feature also has practical applications when making a bag. Most sewing machines allow you to access the free arm after removing the storage compartment. When sewing a bag, one place this feature can be used is when top-stitching around the bag’s top.
Final Thoughts
Benjamin Franklin once quoted that the best investment was in the tools of one’s trade. Truer words have never been spoken. The right tool will improve the way you work and allow you to become infinitely more productive. With the best sewing machine for bag making, your work producing reliable and aesthetically pleasing bags will be more effortless yet yield better results. These machines provide an efficient way of working that provides the sewer with many benefits.
But all this will not just happen with the right machine. For the best results, these machines must be used in the right way and by skilled workers. If you are a beginner at sewing, you will need to learn and understand the craft. Talk to experienced sewers near you or join a sewing community. These are avenues that will allow you to grow your skill in leaps and bounds. If you are an experienced sewer with tons of expertise, remember that learning never stops. You can still learn new and exciting ways of doing the same old process you follow and sewing hacks to make sewing more fun!