Denim has metamorphosed from industrial workwear to play clothes to high-end fashion and a combination of all these and that’s down to it’s extreme durability. To get the best results when sewing denim clothes, you will need the best sewing machine for denim.
Machines that can work with these heavy textiles have specialized features for just this purpose, ensuring the highest possible level of work. This article takes a comprehensive look at ten machines that will work efficiently and consistently on your canvas and denim projects.
Table of Contents
What Is Denim?
Denim is a type of fabric that is made from cotton yarns that are woven together in a twill pattern. Denim is characterized by its diagonal ribbing, indigo color, and durability. Denim is one of the most popular and versatile fabrics in the world, as it can be used to make various types of clothing, accessories, home decor, and art.
Denim has a long and rich history that dates back to the 17th century. Denim was originally produced in the French city of Nimes, hence the name “de Nimes” or “denim”.
Denim was also produced in Italy, where it was called “jean” after the city of Genoa. Denim was initially used as a workwear fabric for sailors, miners, farmers, and soldiers.
Denim became more fashionable and widespread in the 19th and 20th centuries, thanks to the invention of jeans by Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis, and the influence of Hollywood stars, rock musicians, and youth subcultures.
Denim is a diverse and dynamic fabric that can be classified into different types, such as:
- Raw Denim: Raw denim is denim that has not been washed or treated after dyeing. Raw denim has a dark and stiff appearance, and it can fade and develop unique patterns over time with wear and wash.
- Sanforized Denim: Sanforized denim is denim that has been pre-shrunk using a mechanical process. Sanforized denim has a softer and smoother appearance, and it can prevent shrinking and distortion after wash.
- Selvedge Denim: Selvedge denim is denim that has been woven on a shuttle loom using a continuous yarn. Selvedge denim has a clean and tight edge on the fabric’s sides, which can prevent fraying and unraveling.
- Stretch Denim: Stretch denim is denim that has been blended with elastane or other synthetic fibers. Stretch denim has a flexible and comfortable fit, and it can enhance the shape and movement of the wearer.
- Colored Denim: Colored denim is denim that has been dyed with different colors other than indigo. Colored denim has a vibrant and varied appearance, and it can create different moods and styles for the wearer.
List of Best Sewing Machine for Denim
- Juki HZL-F600 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine
The Juki HZL-F600 is a computerized sewing machine that is the perfect blend of convenience, efficiency, and power. With 225 stitches, there is no limit to the variety of projects that you can take on.
From decorative stitches to basic utility stitches, you can freely express your creativity. Selecting one of these stitches is simply done by typing in the name using the keyboard and searching. You can then view the selected stitch on the machine’s LCD screen.
If you feel that the working space provided is not enough for you, there is an extendable surface of 8×12 inches that comes with the machine and can be snapped on.
The HZL-F600 features the box-feed mechanism, which prevents your fabric from shifting around when sewing and provides smooth movement.
Other features that make this machine a great choice include the knee lift lever- to lift your presser foot when working with thick/multi-layered fabric, a needle threader to push the thread through the eye, and the relatively quick sewing speeds of 950 stitches per minute.
Summary of Key Features
225 stitch options
- Box-feed feeding mechanism
- Four lettering fonts
- Expansive working area
- Large LCD screen
Pros
- Expandable working area
- Multiple stitch options
- Numerous accessories included
- Quick sewing speeds
- Easy stitch selection
Cons
- Pricy
- Brother PQ1500SL Sewing and Quilting Machine
The Brother PQ1500SL is distinguished from others in its class as a genuine powerhouse and one of the best sewing machines for canvas and denim.
This mechanical, semi-industrial sewing machine has a powerful motor that allows it to sew at speeds of 1,500 stitches per minute, which is fast enough to finish your projects and promptly move on to another one.
One downside to this is that there are no automated controls to regulate these high speeds, making it more suitable for intermediate and expert-level sewers.
The adjustable presser foot pressure also makes it suitable for thicker fabrics as the pressure can be adjusted accordingly. Automated features that provide convenience to this machine include a thread cutter to snip the upper and lower threads and a needle threader, which is great if you lack dexterity or good vision.
Another distinct feature of this machine is the unusual pin feed mechanism. This feeding system is preferable when working with thick and multi-layered fabrics as it ensures seamless movement.
Summary of Key Features
- Top sewing speeds of 1500 stitches per minute
- Automatic needle threader
- LED-lit workspace
- Straight stitches only
- Pin feed mechanism
Pros
- Quick sewing speeds
- Works quietly
- Easy maintenance
- Sturdy and durable
- Adjustable presser foot tension
Cons
- It only has straight stitches.
Singer Quantum 9960 is one of the company’s more popular machines. This computerized machine has a heavy-duty metal frame and weighs around 20 pounds.
It is sturdy, durable, and reliable when it comes to heavy-duty sewing fabrics. It has an LCD screen where you can display and select the stitch dimensions and patterns clearly before use.
There are 600 stitch applications on this device, and these are easily navigated using a reference chart. Although this machine is computerized, you cannot import designs to it, say using a USB port.
Threading this machine is exceptionally easy with the automatic needle threader, which Singer claims will take 6 seconds. The machine also comes with printed instructions that show you how to thread the machine easily.
The bobbin loading system is also very convenient. After dropping in from the top, there is a clear cover so you can monitor the thread supply easily to ensure it doesn’t run out as you work.
Summary of Key Features
- 600 integrated stitches
- Top sewing speeds of 850 stitches per minute
- Automatic needle threading
- Needle up/down button
- 13 styles of buttonholes
Pros
- Twin needle functionality
- Comes with several accessories
- Automatic thread cutter
- Stitch editing capability
- Decent speeds
Cons
- Non-adjustable presser foot pressure
Whether you plan to sew garment designs, quilts, or clothing, the 7318 will work great for you. This mechanical sewing machine is an excellent option for anyone who wants to sew but is not interested in a computerized model.
With a selection of 18 stitches, a beginner has all the necessary stitches without being provided with an overwhelming choice. Among these is a four-step buttonhole that may prove inconvenient for some people.
The bobbin loading system is a drop-in top, and the transparent cover helps you gauge your thread supply, so you do not have to stop in the middle of a project.
Even with the sturdy metal build and heavy-duty capabilities, this machine can be moved relatively smoothly for travelers or anyone who does not have a dedicated sewing space.
It is also sturdy enough to stay stable when you are sewing. The Magnolia 7318 takes up a lot of the frustration and complexity that makes most machines challenging to use, and setting up and using this machine is pleasantly simple.
Summary of Key Features
- 18 built-in stitches
- Dial stitch selection
- Top-loading jam proof bobbin
- Top speeds of up to 830 stitches per minute
Pros
- Sturdy and stable
- Convenient bobbin loading
- Free arm for tiny sewing spaces
- Extra-high presser foot lift
- Compact and portable
Cons
- 4-step buttonhole
- No automatic needle threader
Also, Singer, 4423 features the same outstanding performance and high-quality work that has come to be expected from the brand. The powerful motor will enable you to work at a top speed of 1,100 stitches per minute, which is relatively fast compared to other similar machines.
The bobbin is loaded by dropping in from the top, and there is also a transparent cover to monitor thread usage. Changing the bobbin to rethread the machine is also quite simple.
There are 23 integrated stitches on the 4423, including 12 decorative, six basics, four stretch, and one automated one-step buttonhole- which creates exact holes for your buttons in one step.
This machine’s fully metallic interior frame gives it the suitability needed to work on thick fabrics such as canvas and denim. Sewing of small areas such as pant hems, sleeves, and collars, is also possible due to the free arm, and the automatic needle threader will save you the frustration of trying to thread a needle.
Summary of Key Features
- Top speeds of 1100 stitches per minute
- One-step buttonhole
- Three needle positions
- It has a free arm for pant hems, cuffs, and sleeves.
- Automated needle threading
- 23 integrated stitches
Pros
- Automated one-step buttonhole
- Extra-high presser foot lifter
- Adjustable stitch length
- Easily portable
- Fast sewing speeds
Cons
- The speed is difficult to control
Brother is another big name in the sewing world, and their XR3774 is a feature-rich machine that is still user friendly and accessible to all skill levels. It is a particular right choice if you are looking to do some quilting and sewing.
The XR3774 offers a selection of 37 stitches, from which you can easily choose one using the dial. The maximum stitch length and width for this device are 4mm and 5mm, respectively.
If you would like to quilt, this machine comes with a large working area which can be expanded using a quilting table. You can also drop the feed dog if you want to practice some free-motion quilting.
Brother offers several accessories with this machine, including several presser feet. At its price point, this machine offers excellent value in terms of ease of use and performance.
Summary of key features
- 37 integrated stitches
- Top sewing speeds of 800 stitches per minute.
- Maximum stitch length and width of 4mm and 5mm
- Extendable working area
- One-step buttonhole
Pros
- Free arm option
- Effective bobbin loading
- 8 included sewing feet
- Large working space
- Well-lit working area
Cons
- Non-programmable needle up/down position
If you are still not ready to move to computerized machines but would still like a reliable sewing device, the Janome HD 3000 is an excellent option. This heavy-duty machine has a sturdy metal frame and a strong motor that makes it perfect for tough fabrics.
The machine is sturdy and stable when working, so you don’t need to worry about stitches quality. It can also sew with speeds of 860 stitches per minute-which is impressive in its class- and works quietly.
The seam ends are always more vulnerable to unraveling, and the HD3000 tackles this problem well with a reverse stitch function. This function will allow you to reinforce those ends. The automatic needle threader and thread cutter also make working with this machine much more efficient.
Summary of Key Features
- 18 built-in stitches
- Maximum stitch width and length of 6.5mm and 4mm
- Adjustable stitch dimensions
- 7- piece feed dog
- Top speeds of 860 stitches per minute
Pros
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Extra-high presser footlift
- Free arm for small spaces
- Reverse stitching function
- Easy to use
Cons
- The needle can only shift to the right
- SINGER 7258
The Singer 7258 won the Consumer’s digest best buy awards for a reason. At its price point, it is loaded with features that make this machine an absolute steal.
This machine has 100 stitch options ranging from 9 basic stitches, 76 decoratives, seven buttonholes, and eight stretch stitches for all your sewing projects.
The stitch controls that come with this device are also highly refined, and you can adjust the length and width to suit your fabric, such as a tighter stitch when working with rigid materials such as denim.
You can also program the up/down needle position, i.e., when you want to remove the fabric and down when turning the fabric for precise stitches.
The performance of this machine is excellent. It runs smoothly and produces excellent stitches without producing too much noise. The bobbin is loaded by dropping-in the top and is jam-proof, while the clear cover makes monitoring your thread supply easy.
The electronic speed control, automatic needle threader, and multiple needle positions are just some of the reasons this is an award-winning machine.
Summary of key features
- 100 stitch options
- One-step buttonhole
- Ten presser feet included
- LCD screen
- Drop-in bobbin loading
Pros
- Automatic needle threading
- Extra-high presser foot lifter
- Twin needle capability
- Drop-in bobbin with clear cover
- Programmable needle up/down
Cons
- Presser foot pressure is automatic but not adjustable
- Brother ST371HD Sewing Machine
The Brother ST371 is known in the sewing world as a heavy-duty workhorse. It comes with 37 built-in stitches, including zigzag, decorative, zipper, blind, buttonhole, and other stitch types.
This variation will allow you to work on different project types quickly. These stitches can easily be selected by turning the dial to the right number. The 800 stitches per minute sewing speed will prove enough for most hobbyists and allow getting through your work in good time.
To thread your needle, all you need to do is push a lever, and the machine will get the thread through the eye. The jam-resistant bobbin is loaded through top dropping and is easy to remove for quick rethreading, while the free arm option allows you to sew cuffs, sleeves, collars, and tiny spaces.
This machine’s accessory package is quite generous and includes several presser feet, which are easy to attach and can be adjusted for extra height when dealing with thick fabrics.
Summary of key features
- 37 integrated stitches
- Automatic needle threading
- 800 stitches per minute sewing speed
- Drop-in top bobbin
- Free arm sewing for small spaces.
Pros
- Steady and durable
- High-quality stitches
- Drop feed for free-motion sewing
- Easy maintenance
- Affordable
Cons
- No up/down needle button.
- Janome Industrial-Grade Aluminium-Body HD1000 Black Edition Sewing Machine
The Janome HD 1000 BE (Black edition) is, as its name suggests, the black variant of the Janome HD 1000. It has many of the same fantastic features featured in the HD 1000 with some slight differences.
It comes integrated with 14 stitches, which can cover most of your sewing projects while not being overwhelming. One of these stitches is a 4-step buttonhole, which is less convenient than a one-step buttonhole as you must do it in multiple steps.
This machine’s free arm is detachable, useful when sewing tiny areas such as sleeves, cuffs, collars, and the hems of pants. There is also a reverse lever when you want to reinforce your seams to make sure they do not unravel.
An automatic thread cutter in this machine works to trim the upper and lower threads while the thread tension control allows for neat, consistent stitches.
Summary of key features
- 14 integrated stitches
- Aluminum frame and exterior
- Automatic needle threading
- 3-piece feed dogs
- Reverse stitching lever
Pros
- Extra-high presser foot lifter
- Steady and durable
- Automatic thread cutter
- Reverse stitching
- Easy to use
Cons
- 4-step buttonhole
Best Sewing Machine for Denim Buyer’s Guide
In this section, I will walk you through various aspects of sewing a denim and what to look for whenever you are shopping for a sewing machine for this project.
Why You Should Buy the Best Sewing Machine for Denim
- Durability
Heavy-duty machines for sewing thick fabrics are built to endure. They will have a metal interior frame as well as exterior parts that are sturdy and strong. The best sewing machine for canvas and denim will be sturdy, stable, and take you through several long years.
- Versatility
While these machines are marketed as the best machines for heavy-duty work, this does not mean they are isolated in this task. With the right accessories and parts, heavy-duty sewing machines perform perfectly well when working with other fabrics. If anything, their sturdier builds give them more lasting power.
- Reliability
Purchasing the best sewing machine for canvas and denim will ensure that you get a specially suited-machine for these tough fabrics. Consequently, these machines will come with parts and accessories such as feet and needles to ensure you get the best possible results.
Consideration When Shopping for the Best Sewing Machine for Denim
- Motor power and build
Canvas and denim are heavy-duty materials, and any sewing machine you use will need to have sufficient motor power. Most heavy-duty machines are built with a powerful motor with the purpose of sewing thicker materials in mind.
The motor coordinates the movement of the fabric and needle and drives the needle through the fabric. A powerful motor will result in better, higher quality stitches and will not wear out quickly.
To ensure your machine’s durability, look for a machine whose internal frame is made from metal and whose exterior though not fully metal, does not have any flimsy or weak-looking parts. The sturdier the sewing machine, the more stable and better it will perform when sewing.
- Feed dog system
The feed dog is the mechanism that feeds the material under the needle. The feed dogs work together with the presser foot to ensure the smooth passage of the material and, therefore, high-quality and consistent stitches.
Feeding mechanisms such as puller and differential feed systems help to move your canvas or denim smoothly. Most of the heavy-duty sewing machines feature a three-point feeding mechanism.
- Speed
Unlike other fabrics where you sometimes put the maximum speed and rush through your work, you will likely need to work slower for more precise work on canvas and denim.
Therefore, a speed control mechanism is required. Select a machine that can work at high speeds but whose sewing rate can be regulated when needed. This regulation can be made by a speed control slider or a microcomputer in the machine.
- Special purpose feet
A special-purpose foot is crucial to achieving smooth movement of the material when sewing canvas and denim. The most popular foot for sewing these materials is the walking foot, which grips the material properly and feeds it evenly. You can also purchase other feet that are specially listed as being for canvas or denim.
Since these two materials are also thick, invest in a machine that has an extra-high presser foot lifter so that you can lift the foot high enough for smooth movement. A presser foot whose tension is adjustable is also necessary.
Final Thoughts
Long gone are the days when sewing through thick fabrics meant frustration and more broken needles than you can count. With the best sewing machine for denim, you can make short work of all your heavy-duty projects.
They come with special equipment such as thicker, stronger needles, specialty feet, and strong thread that will ensure your project is a resounding success.
As mentioned above, it is also crucial to check for other details, which might look negligible but will make your process more efficient.
After conducting your research and reading up on customer reviews on the product, try using the machine at exhibitions and shops to ensure it is the absolute right fit.
Ensure the product has a warranty for repairs, labor, and parts so that you can have support for your machine if you need it and keep your receipt safe. And after you choose the best machine for you, sew away.