Trends in fashion have always influenced other artistic areas in one way or another. Central to the fashion ecosystem is the fashion design students—the budding designers of tomorrow. And to a fashion design student, their sewing machine is arguably one of the most important tools they need. It is this machine that breathes life to designs that previously lived only in mind or on paper. To achieve the perfect representation of a design, you will need the best sewing machine for fashion design students. The right sewing machine is the best cap for a fulfilling creative process.
Sewing machines today have undergone an evolution of epic proportions. No longer do you have to labor over tasks such as needle threading, bobbin winding, and thread selection, to mention a few. You can choose a computerized machine with automated features that suit your specific needs. We take a deep delve into 10 of the best sewing machines for fashion design students.
List of The Best Sewing Machine for Fashion Design Students
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Brother XR9550PRW Sewing and Quilting Machine
The Brother XR9550PRW is a collaboration between Project Runway and the Brother company to inspire people to create runway-worthy projects. This limited-edition machine is an update of the XR9500PRW and is packed with features to attract even the pickiest fashion design student. There are 165 stitch functions in this machine, with 55 alphanumeric stitches, zigzag, straight, decorative, heirloom, overcasting, elastic, and eight automatic one-step buttonholes. Selecting the stitches is quickly done on the LCD screen, where you can also set their size.
Changing the presser feet on this machine is as easy as pressing a lever and snapping on a new one. Brother provides eight presser feet for this machine. If these aren’t enough, the machine is low-shank, and you can use any other compatible feet you have. Bobbins are wound automatically and are loaded into the machine by dropping in the top into the bobbin case. If you want to get into quilting, there is a spring-action quilting foot for free-motion quilting.
Summary of top features
- 110 built-in stitches
- A sewing speed of 850 stitches per minute
- Eight presser feet includes
- One monogramming font
- LCD screen
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy to set up and use
- Automatic needle threading
- Automatic bobbin winding
Cons
- Manual thread cutting
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Juki TL-2010Q 1-Needle, Lockstitch, Portable Sewing Machine
The Juki TL 2010Q1 is a lockstitch sewing, single needle machine with dimensions of 25.7x14x18 inches. It has a working area of 23 inches, supplemented with an auxiliary table if you need extra space. If you are a novice, you should have no problem using the Juki TL-2010Q1. Setting it up and using it is easy, and it comes with a detailed manual. The LCD screen and the controls are highly intuitive, so the learning curve is easy.
With a sewing rate of 1,500 spm, you can blaze through all your projects and get started on more. Sliding speed control helps you slow down if you need a lower speed to sew with speeds as low as 200 stitches per minute. The presser foot’s pressure is adjustable, so you can sew through fabrics of different thicknesses and match the top and bottom fabric correctly. With the automatic needle threader, thread trimmer, and easy bobbin replacement, this machine is a dream for anyone looking to produce high quality work consistently.
Summary of top features
- Sliding speed control
- Sewing rate of 1,500 stitches per minute
- Automatic thread trimmer
- Knee-lifter lever
- Automatic needle threader
Pros
- Good stitch quality
- Sturdy build
- Has speed control mechanisms
- Easy to set up and use
- Even feed foot
Cons
- Only sews straight stitches.
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SINGER | Quantum Stylist 9960 Computerized Portable Sewing Machine
With 600 stitch applications, the Singer Quantum 9960 is a beast among its peers. Out of these 600, 12 are utility stitches, 91 sewing stitches, 34 decorative stitches, 13 buttonhole stitches, and 450 letters, number, and character stitches. The possibilities and sewing options are infinite. Keeping track of such a large number of applications has also been taken into consideration. There is a reference chart on the top of the machine to choose the one you need quickly.
The Singer Quantum 9960 has a maximum sewing speed of 850 stitches per minute, which is quite decent at that price point. If you want to slow down when dealing with thick fabrics or any other reason, there is a slider bar that helps you control the speed. In contrast to many other machines, the Singer 9960 uses a box feed motion mechanism. This feed mechanism provides a more consistent fabric feeding that is seamless since the feed dogs always have equal contact with the fabric and the presser foot.
Summary of top features
- 13 presser feet included
- 600 stitch applications
- A sewing rate of 850 stitches per minute
- Drop-in bobbin loading
- Add-on extension table
Pros
- Numerous stitch applications
- Portable
- Twin needle setting
- Relatively affordable
- Automatic needle threader
Cons
- The presser foot pressure is not adjustable
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Brother SE600 Sewing and Embroidery Machine
If you are interested in embroidery and sewing, then the Brother SE600 is the machine for you. This dual-purpose machine is an upgrade of the SE400 from Brother and is a popular model. The SE600 comes with 103 built-in stitches, which will allow you to work on diverse projects and fabrics of different thicknesses. If you want to do embroidery, there are 80 built-in embroidery designs with this machine. You can add your personal or downloaded designs to the machine’s internal memory via a USB 2.0 port.
The 3.7’’ LCD touchscreen is easily viewable, and you can adjust the designs to your desired specifications. Changes such as the thread color are and previewing the final design are done simply. You can also use LED lights to light your work area when it grows dim, so you don’t have to stop working.
Summary of top features
- 103 built-in stitches
- Six lettering fonts
- 80 embroidery designs
- Seven sewing feet included
- Automatic needle threader
- Drop-in top bobbin
Pros
- USB connectivity
- Portable
- Affordable
- Automatic needle threading
- Can be used for sewing and embroidery
Cons
- Small embroidery area
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JUKI TL-2000Qi Sewing and Quilting Machine
The JUKI-TL 2000Qi is a one stitch machine that is great for quilting and other sewing functions. Despite having only one straight stitch, other features in this machine make up for this. The TL-2000Qi operates at a maximum speed of 1,500 stitches per minute, which is well above average. This speed will enable you to finish any projects you are working on quickly and move on to the next. If you want to slow down and be more precise, a microcomputer in the machine adjusts the speed.
The automated features included in this machine include needle threading, which is excellent if you are not dexterous or have low vision, and a thread cutter trims the upper and lower thread. A working area of 23” is another reason to invest in this machine. You can efficiently work on larger projects, and if space is still not enough, a flatbed extension table is included when you purchase the machine.
Summary of top features
- A maximum stitch length of 6mm
- Knee-lift lever
- Automatic needle threader
- Automatic thread trimmer
- Speed control feature
Pros
- Fast sewing speeds
- Automatic needle threader and thread trimmer
- Well-lit working area
- Extendable working space
- Sturdy and durable
Cons
- It only has a straight stitch.
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Brother SE625 Combination
Brother SE625 is another machine that offers sewing and embroidery functionality. It comes with 280 embroidery designs; 80 are built-in, and 200 on CD. You can also use the USB port to transfer personal or downloaded designs to the machine. The SE625 is equipped with 103 stitches for various sewing projects and has a hoop area of 4×4 inches. Automated features make this machine easy to use, with an automatic needle up/down position, thread cutter, and needle threading.
The machine stops when you are low on the bobbin (which is loaded by dropping in the top and is jam-resistant), and there is an automatic bobbin winding function. The package comes with seven presser feet and a seven-point feed dog for seamless movement of the fabric.
Summary of top features
- 280 embroidery designs
- Seven presser feet included
- 7-point feed dogs
- 3.2’’ touchscreen display
- 103 stitches
Pros
- LED-lit working area
- Reasonable price
- Convenient and easy to use the LCD screen
- Easy to set up and use
- USB connectivity
Cons
- Most parts are made of plastic
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Brother CS5055PRW Sewing Machine, Project Runway
Also, a Project Runway limited-edition, the Brother CS5055PRW, provides you with all you need to create high-end fashion pieces, all at an affordable price. This machine has a smaller footprint and can be kept easily in a small place and moved from place to place. With 50 stitches, including ones for garment construction, quilting, heirloom, and decorative ones, there is no limit to the projects you can carry out. A stitch chart is printed right on top of the machine for timely referral and then easily selected on the informative LCD screen.
The seven one-step buttonhole styles that come with this machine are sized precisely to your buttonhole and sewed all in one step. The automatic needle threader pushes the thread through the eye with a touch of the lever, which is an excellent feature if your fingers lack the dexterity or you have poor eyesight. Other great features that come with this machine include more straightforward and faster bobbin winding, an efficient and seamless feed system, and multiple accessories.
Summary of top features
- Automatic needle threader
- 50 integrated sewing stitches
- Lightweight and portable
- LCD screen
- 87 stitch functions
- Drop-in top bobbin loading
Pros
- Affordable
- One-step buttonholes
- LED-lit work area
- Twin needle stitching
- Seamless feed system
Cons
- The plastic thread holder is not durable.
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Brother Sewing and Quilting Machine, CE7070PRW
The CE 7070PRW is yet another result of the collaboration between Brother and Project Runway. Weighing in at 16.4 pounds, this model is heavy enough to be sturdy and stable as you sew and lightweight enough to be easily portable. This model comes with a complete working area that will allow you to maneuver your larger projects easily. LED lights well light the work area to keep on working even in low light conditions.
At the touch of a lever, this machine will push your thread through the eye of the needle, saving you from suffering eye strain. Seventy built-in stitches come with this machine, including specialty, elastic and decorative stitches. Couples with the 110 stitch functions, this machine gives your creative side free rein. If you occasionally have trouble sewing in a straight line, there are markings imprinted on the needle plate that will guide you and allow you o keep your fabrics at the right distance from the needle. The faster bobbin winding, stitch reference chart, and elegant, effective one-step buttonholes are just other great features included in this machine.
Summary of top features
- 70 built-in stitches
- 110 stitch functions
- Seven included presser feet
- Automatic thread cutter
- Drop feed system
Pros
- Fast sewing speeds
- Easy bobbin winding
- Needle plate markings
- 25-year limited warranty
- Multiple accessories
Cons
- No speed controls
- Dim LCD screen
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Janome 8077 Computerized Sewing Machine
Janome is a famous name in the sewing world and is often credited as one of the pioneers of bringing sewing machines into the home. 8077 is a versatile machine with lots of great features while remaining easy to use. This machine offers 30 built-in stitches, which include garment construction, quilting, and decorative stitches. Six one-step buttonholes make different styled, precisely measured buttonholes in one quick step.
The 8077 also has an automatic bobbin winder that winds the thread neatly and quickly and is jam-proof. It is easy to load and unload for quick rethreading and has a transparent cover so you can monitor the thread supply. The maximum stitch width of 7mm in this machine is adjustable, and with the 15 needle positions, you can place your stitches as precisely as you want them. The up/down needle position will let you choose what position the needle will stop whenever you stop sewing. If you want to sew tiny spaces, there is a free arm that is great for free-motion sewing.
Summary of top features
- Automatic bobbin winder
- Automatic needle threader
- 30 built-in stitches
- Six one-step buttonholes
- Drop feed dogs
Pros
- Maximum stitch width of 7mm
- Automatic needle threader and bobbin winder
- Drop feed dogs
- 15 needle positions
- Good stitch quality
Cons
- No automatic thread cutter
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SINGER | Confidence 7363 Electronic Sewing Machine
The Singer Confidence 7363 is true to its name; it gives you the confidence to produce high-quality pieces. There are 30 built-in stitches for clothing construction and decoration, among other functions. The 7363 has two fully automatic one-step buttonholes, which stitches perfectly sized holes all in one step. Five presser feet are included with this machine: an all-purpose foot, a buttonhole foot, a blind hem foot, a satin foot, and a zipper foot. These feet are easily changed by snapping them on.
With 13 needle positions and the adjustable stitch length and width, you can tackle just about any design and place your stitches exactly where you want them at your preferred size. The stitches produced by the 7363 are neat and consistent, and with the automatic thread tension, you can make sure all your stitches are stable. Together with the drop and sew bobbin system and the 25-year warranty, you can continue to enjoy this machine for a long time to come.
Summary of top features
- Automatic needle threader
- 30 built-in stitches
- Extra-high presser foot lifter
- Sewing speeds of 750 stitches per minute
Pros
- Automatic needle threader
- Heavy-duty, durable frame
- Well-lit working area
- 25-year limited warranty
- Free arm for free-motion sewing
Cons
- The machine is noisy.
The Buyer’s Guide
In this buyer’s guide section, I’m going to discuss some of the most important aspects of this kinds of sewing machines so that you go to the market confident of landing the best machine. Read on for more…
Why You Should Buy the best Sewing Machine for Fashion Design Students
- Designs
Most of the best sewing machines for fashion design students come incorporated with multiple designs, stitches, and stitch applications. Machines that, for example, have embroidery designs sometimes offer hundreds of designs you can choose from and the opportunity to transfer more to the machine. Multiple stitches will allow you to sew several designs with multiple variations.
- Reliability
As a fashion design student, you will probably work on a vast array of different materials, from severe and thick fabrics such as leather and jeans to lighter fabrics like silk and chiffon. You will need a machine that can work through different materials reliably for your different projects.
- Room for Growth.
As you continue sewing, your skills will continue to improve. As much as you need a machine that matches your comfort level, the best sewing machine for fashion design students will be comfortable to use at your level while also offering room to learn new skills at a comfortable pace.
Features to Consider When Buying the Best Sewing Machine for Fashion Design Students
- Skill level
Are you a complete novice, a confident beginner, or an advanced sewer? Or, are you at an intermediate level. Matching a sewing machine to your skill level and experience will allow you to work efficiently. A professional machine may be too difficult for you to use and result in sloppy, incomplete, or late work if you are a novice. If you are a professional, an elementary machine may cause you needless frustration. Choose a machine with features that you are sure you can handle comfortably.
On the other hand, even as you choose a machine within your skill level, make sure that you can still use the machine even as your skills increase so that it does not become redundant.
- Accessories
Think long about which accessories you feel you will need the most in a sewing machine. One of the essential accessories that come with a sewing machine is the feet. A presser foot is an attachment that holds the fabric down under the needle as you sew. Several presser feet add functionalities to your sewing machine besides the standard straight stitching. They can also make your sewing process easier and faster. More presser feet are always an excellent addition for a sewer. You would be better off getting a machine on which you can use any other compatible presser feet.
Look at the accessories offered by each machine and choose the one that works best for you.
- Speed Control
Speed control features are a necessity for any fashion design student, whether novice or expert. As much as sewing at breakneck speeds has its moments, there are also times when you will want to go slower for precision work. Choose a machine that allows you to set the speed you are most comfortable with at the time.
- Automated features
A machine with automatic features is a lot easier to use and saves you so much more time and effort. Automated features that you should look out for in a sewing machine include; needle threading- to avoid the frustration of passing the thread through the eye, thread cutting, cutting the upper and lower thread, and bobbin winding.
Final Thoughts
Machines make work easier. As a fashion design student, your sewing machine will become one of your closest companions. You will work on your machine for significant amounts of time. Therefore, you will need a machine that is tailored to your specific needs, reducing the effort you need to make while maximizing the results. The best sewing machines for fashion design students do just that. They complement your creative process and increase your productivity.
And you need not settle for less or for a machine you feel is not for you. There are tons of machines you could choose from whose specifications appeal to you the most. Attend exhibitions and shows and keep an eye out for the best machines. With the perfect machine for you, you will be able to bring designs that only lived in your imagination and sketchbook to glorious life.
