Upholstery has played and continues to play an essential role in the interior design of not only indoor furniture but also automotive furniture. With the right technique and material, you can convey understated elegance, opulence, or simple utilitarianism. Upholstery is also not limited to leather, commonly assumed, but can be done with various fabrics from canvas to dacron to vinyl. For the best results, the best sewing machine for upholstery is required. Investing in the right machine will ensure that you produce the best possible upholstered work.
Now, if you already have a sewing machine, you may be asking yourself, why not just use that? But auto upholstery machines have been fine-tuned to the specific task of upholstery and all its nuances.
The little details matter, and to produce the best work, you will need to use the right tools correctly. Below is a comprehensive analysis of 10 auto upholstery machines to help you make the best choice.
Table of Contents
What Is Upholstery?
Upholstery is the process of issuing furniture moreso seats, padding, springs, webbing, and fabric or leather covers. Upholstery can also refer to the materials used to upholster furniture, such as fabrics, threads, nails, and buttons. Upholstery can enhance the comfort, appearance, and durability of the furniture.
Upholstery has a long and rich history that dates back to ancient times. The upholstery was originally used to decorate and protect wooden furniture, such as chairs, sofas, and beds.
The upholstery was also used to create cushions, curtains, wall hangings, and carpets. Upholstery evolved over time with different styles, techniques, and materials influenced by various cultures, regions, and periods.
Upholstery is a skilled craft that requires knowledge, tools, and materials. Upholstery can be done by hand or by machine, depending on the type and size of the furniture and the design and quality of the upholstery.
Upholstery can be done by professionals or amateurs, depending on the level of expertise and experience. Upholstery can be done for various purposes, such as repairing, restoring, or customizing furniture.
Upholstery is a popular and versatile craft that can be enjoyed by anyone. Whether you want to create something new or old, simple or complex, traditional or modern, upholstery can help you express your creativity and style.
What Equipment Do You Need for Upholstery?
To do upholstery, you will need some basic equipment, such as:
- A Work Table: A work table is a flat surface where you can place your furniture and your upholstery materials. It should be sturdy, spacious, and comfortable to work on. You can use a regular table or a specially designed upholstery table that has features such as adjustable height, storage drawers, or wheels.
- A Measuring Tape: A measuring tape is a tool that helps you measure the dimensions of your furniture and your upholstery materials. It should be flexible, accurate, and easy to read. You can use a regular measuring tape or a tailor’s tape that has markings for inches and centimeters.
- A Pair of Scissors: A pair of scissors is a tool that helps you cut your upholstery materials, such as fabrics, threads, or stabilizers. It should be sharp, durable, and comfortable to hold. You can use a regular pair of scissors or a pair of upholstery scissors that have longer blades and curved tips.
- A Staple Gun: A staple gun is a tool that helps you attach your upholstery materials to your furniture using metal staples. It should be powerful, reliable, and safe to use. You can use a manual staple gun or an electric staple gun that has features such as adjustable pressure, safety lock, or LED light.
- A Hammer: A hammer is a tool that helps you drive nails or tacks into your furniture to secure your upholstery materials. It should be heavy, sturdy, and easy to swing. You can use a regular hammer or an upholstery hammer that has a magnetic head and a claw end.
- A Seam Ripper: A seam ripper is a tool that helps you remove stitches or seams from your upholstery materials. It should have a sharp point and a hook that can cut and remove threads. You can use a regular seam ripper or an electric seam ripper that has features such as speed control, LED light, or ergonomic handle.
Best Sewing Machine for Auto Upholstery
- SINGER | Quantum Stylist 9960 Computerized Portable Sewing Machine
With 600 stitch applications and a large selection of stitches, the Quantum 9960 is an excellent sewing machine if you are looking to do decorative pieces. Among these are 450 letters, characters, and number stitches in 5 fonts that open new possibilities. The heavy-duty metal frame also makes it a suitable option for working on upholstery.
The working area can be extended by using a table extension to work on larger projects, and the speed of 850 stitches per minute should allow you to finish a decent amount of work.
The bobbin is loaded by dropping in from the top for easy rethreading and has a transparent cover to assist you in monitoring the thread supply.
If you want to sew two rows of stitches that match exactly, then this machine is just for you with its twin needle setting. And if the thought of all those stitch applications feels overwhelming, there is a reference chart on the machine for quick confirmation.
Summary of Key Features
- 13 one-step buttonholes
- 600 stitch applications
- Speeds of 850 stitches per minute
- 13 presser feet included
- Five alphanumeric fonts
Pros
- LED-lit working area
- Affordable
- Twin needle settings
- Decent speeds
- Automatic needle threader
Cons
- Presser foot pressure is not adjustable
- Juki TL-2010Q 1-Needle, Lockstitch, Portable Sewing Machine
The Juki TL-2010Q1 is a sewing and quilting machine built with precision in mind. With dimensions of 25.7x14x18 inches and weighing in at 25.4 pounds, this machine is just light enough to be easily portable while also being heavy enough to offer stability when sewing.
The arm and bed of this machine are constructed of aluminum die-casting making it durable. With maximum sewing speeds of 1,500 stitches per minute, you will blaze through all your projects at top speed.
But if you want to do more precise work, the speed control mechanism controlled by a microcomputer allows you to sew at low speeds.
Automated features on this machine include the thread trimmer, which is done through a button on the machine to trim the top and bottom bobbin threads, and the needle threading, which makes eye strain when doing it manually a thing of the past.
The presser foot’s pressure is adjustable to suit the fabric you are working on by turning on the machine’s controller. To allow you to continue working when you need to lift or lower the presser feet, you can raise the knee lifter lever by up to 12mm.
Other great features that come with the 2020Q1 are the easy bobbin replacement, the adjustable thread tension, and the extension table for your larger projects.
Summary of Key Features
- Sewing rate of up to 1,500 stitches per minute
- Sliding speed control
- 6mm stitch length
- Automated bobbin winding
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
Pros
- Quick sewing speeds
- Extra space due to the auxiliary table
- The speed can be adjusted manually
- Automatic thread trimmer
- Needle position control works well
Cons
- The LED light is not bright enough
This heavy-duty machine is perfect for sewers who plan to work on thicker and tougher fabrics such as leather, denim, and upholstery fabrics. The 4411 is capable of speeds of 1,100 stitches per minute is stable, and produces high stitch quality even at top speed.
This machine’s bobbin system is easy and quick as it is loaded by dropping in the top. The bobbin is covered by a transparent cover for easy monitoring of the thread supply and quick rethreading when it runs out.
The 4411 has 11 stitches; 6 are essential, one buttonhole, and four decorations. It also has a 4-step buttonhole, which requires you to go through many steps, including measuring out the buttons’ dimensions severally.
However, it compensates for this with its 60% stronger motor, as Singer claimed, making it a real workhorse. The presser foot’s pressure is adjustable and extra-high to give more clearance when working through multiple fabric layers.
Summary of Key Features
- 11 integrated stitches
- A sewing rate of 1100 stitches per minute
- 69 stitch applications
- Four presser feet included
- Heavy-duty metal frame
Pros
- Three needle positions
- Fast sewing rates
- Top bobbin loading with clear cover
- Provision for mounting
- 25-year warranty
Cons
- Few built-in stitches
- 4-step buttonhole
The TL-2000Qi from Juki is a semi-industrial grade powerhouse designed for sewers who have heavy workloads and large projects in mind and is among the best sewing machines for upholstery.
The heavy-duty metal frame makes for a sturdy, durable machine, and with top speeds of 1,500 stitches per minute, you can power through your projects like never before.
A beginner will appreciate that all the stitches offered are straight, taking away the choice between multiple stitches from your hands and allowing you to focus on your work.
The high speed of this machine shouldn’t be a deterrent. The speed adjustment is controlled through a microcomputer. Therefore, you can shift to lower speeds when working on delicate fabrics or need precise and careful stitch placement.
There will be no need to sacrifice accuracy at the altar of speed. The automatic features included in this machine include needle threading and thread trimming.
Summary of Key Features
- 1,5000 stitches per minute
- Automatic needle threading
- Automatic thread cutter
- Knee lever
- LED lights
- Extendable table
Pros
- Fast sewing speeds
- Extendable working area
- Automatic thread cutter and needle threader
- Well-illuminated working space with LED lights
- Semi-industrial grade, hence sturdy and durable.
Cons
- Only one stitch type
From Janome (the company that pioneered bringing sewing machines into the home) comes the HD 1000-aa mechanical heavy-duty sewing machine perfect for beginners and all other level sewers.
It has an aluminum frame and weighs 22.4 pounds making it relatively easy to move around and stable enough not to move when working. The extra-high presser foot lifter allows you to work with thicker/multiple fabric layers though the pressure is not adjustable. Three presser feet are included with this machine.
The bobbin is loaded in the side of this machine, which is unconventional and may take some getting used to; and is not readily accessible. The storage compartment can be removed and transformed into a free arm for tiny sewing spaces such as sleeves, cuffs, and pant legs.
The HD1000 comes with 14 integrated stitches and a 4-step buttonhole, with maximum stitch width and length of 5mm and 4mm, respectively.
Summary of key features
- 14 integrated stitches
- Automatic needle threader
- Heavy-duty aluminum frame
- 25-year warranty
- Free arm for cuffs and sleeves
Pros
- Extra-high presser foot
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Lightweight and portable
- User friendly
- Durable and sturdy build
Cons
- The custom bobbins jam sometimes
- 4-step buttonhole
This semi-industrial workhorse will carry through any upholstery and quilting project, no matter how tough. It has several automated features that make using this machine a quick and efficient process.
The built-in needle threader keeps you from straining your eyes, and the thread cutter trims the upper and lower thread from your bobbin neatly. You can easily manage the thread’s tension using a dial on the PQ1500SL to prevent loops and wrinkles in your work.
The speed on this machine is impressive, and at 1,500 stitches per minute, you will blaze through your work. Despite these high speeds, there are no features for automatic speed control, which may be a drawback.
The stitch variety offered is also not that wide. One of this machine’s genuinely unique features is the pin feed mechanism, which ensures smooth fabric movement when you are working with multiple layers. The drop-in top bobbin loading is also quick and makes for easy rethreading.
Summary of Key Features
- Integrated needle threader and thread cutter
- Sewing speeds of 1,500 stitches per minute
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Pin feed mechanism
- Drop-in top bobbin loading
Pros
- Works quietly
- Quick sewing speeds
- Automatic threader and thread cutter
- Great value for money
- Sturdy and durable
Cons
- It only has straight stitches.
The Singer 4423 is genuinely the sewing and upholstery machine for beginners. This heavy-duty, mechanical machine has a heavy-duty metal interior frame and a stainless-steel bed frame that makes it a real workhorse.
It can sew through thick fabrics and delicate fabrics such as silk, chiffon, and rayon. The Singer 4423 has 23 integrated stitches, which is not overwhelming for beginners, and an automatic needle threader keeps you from straining and getting frustrated.
This machine has a fully automated one-step buttonhole, which helps you quickly sew a buttonhole in one step. The bobbin is loaded into the machine by dropping from the top to make rethreading the machine easier. Three needle positions can be changed depending on the project you are working on to achieve precise stitch placement.
Summary of Key Features
- Heavy-duty metal frame
- Sewing speeds of 1,100 stitches per minute
- Automatic needle threader
- 97 stitch applications
- Automatic one-step buttonhole
- Top loading bobbin
Pros
- Delivers quality stitches
- Easy to use
- Lightweight and portable
- Extra-high presser foot lifter
- Easy to insert the bobbin
Cons
- Difficult to control the sewing speed
The Brother company is not new to the sewing scene, and the ST371HD is an excellent option in their line of heavy-duty sewing machines. This mechanical machine is straightforward to set up and use and comes loaded with features to handle a wide variety of options.
6 Snap-On presser feet come with this machine; buttonhole, zipper, blind stitch, button sewing, spring action zigzag, and non-stick feet. These feet also have an extra high lift that makes sewing through multiple fabrics convenient.
The 37 built-in stitches that come integrated into this machine will be adequate to sew most projects without presenting an overwhelming choice for a beginner.
The stitching speed of 800 stitches per minute is also moderately fast and can quickly get you through your projects. There is also an automatic needle threader, a drop feed option for free-motion sewing (a free arm option), and a top drop-in bobbin, making rethreading simple.
Summary of key features
- 37 built-in stitches
- Six sewing feet included
- Drop-in top bobbin loading
- Sewing rate of 800 stitches per minute
- Built-in handle
- 25-year limited warranty
- Automatic needle threader
Pros
- Affordable
- Neat, consistent stitches
- Easy to use
- Rubber base to keep the machine static when in use
- Durable
Cons
- No up/down needle button
Janome HD 3000 is also an excellent choice for anyone looking to buy the best sewing machine for auto-upholstery. Its heavy-duty aluminum frame makes it suitable for working with thick and chewy fabrics such as leather and canvas.
The presser feet’s presser can easily be adjusted whenever you are working on materials of different thicknesses and can help match the top and bottom fabrics and the size of the stitches.
There are 18 built-in stitches with this machine and a one-step buttonhole, which is done quickly in one step. The bobbin is loaded by dropping in from the top, making rethreading quick and convenient.
The maximum stitch width is 6.5mm and the length 4mm, both of which are adjustable using sliders on the machine’s front. Though this machine’s speed is not the best, it is quick enough to make sure you finish your projects on time.
Summary of Key Features
- A sewing rate of 860 stitches per minute
- 18 integrated stitches
- Stitch length and width of 6.5mm and 4mm
- One-step buttonhole
Pros
- One-step buttonhole
- Adjustable presser foot tension
- Drop-in top bobbin loading
- Easy maintenance
- Multiple accessories
Cons
- A bit noisy when sewing light fabrics
The Juki DDL-8700 is an auto upholstery machine whose most impressive feature is the incredible sewing speed. At top speeds, you can sew at 5,500 stitches per minute, which is phenomenal.
If you don’t need all this speed, then there is a knob that allows you to set your desired level’s speed. The DDL-8700 also comes with a Servo motor, which uses less power and works incredibly quietly to avoid annoying noise.
This machine was designed to sew through light to medium thickness fabrics, and the manufacturer has stated that it wasn’t designed with thick and heavy fabrics.
So you should be okay if you plan to work on light fabrics such as tents, though users have reported working on heavy fabrics with no problem.
It is also a pretty large machine when assembled and will require a dedicated space to hold it comfortably. In the arena of straight stitch, fast sewing machines, the JUKI DDL 8700 comes out on top.
Summary of Key Features
- Speed of 5500 stitches per minute
- Quiet servo motor
- A maximum stitch length of 5mm
- Dimensions of 48x20x48 inches
Pros
- Super-fast speeds
- Quiet motor
- Sturdy and durable
- Good stitch quality
- Easy to use
Cons
- Does not work well with thicker fabrics
Best Sewing Machine for Upholstery Buyer’s Guide
Here, I’ll be looking at some of the most important aspects of these sewing machines that you need to know to ensure that you land the very best products in the market.
Why Should You Buy Upholstery Sewing Machine?
If you already own a sewing machine, you may not feel the need to purchase another machine for auto upholstery. But an auto upholstery machine has some essential differences that make it the perfect choice for upholstering, which include:
- Speed
Auto upholstery machines are significantly faster than regular sewing machines. A comparison of these two machines shows that working with an auto upholstery machine is guaranteed to enable you to finish your projects quicker and offer you the flexibility of working on more significant projects
- Versatility
The unique features that are found in upholstery machines make them more versatile than other sewing machines. You can try various projects with your machine while also working on a range of materials.
- Heavy-duty
Most auto upholstery machines are semi-industrial workhorses with powerful motors to help you power through your projects. They are designed for heavy use with thick, tough fabrics and are made durable through all this use.
Features to Consider When Buying an Auto Upholstery Sewing Machine
- Fabric
You will need to take into careful consideration the material you plan to be working with the most before settling on an auto-upholstery machine. Will you work on thicker and tougher fabrics?
If so, invest in a heavy-duty model, whose motor and features are made with that in mind. Select a machine whose presser foot has an extra lift and adjustable pressure.
To be safe, it’s always a good idea to pick one of the best sewing machines for upholstery that can handle most fabrics, not to limit yourself and be better prepared if your focus later changes.
- Warranty
While this is important in all sewing machines, it is especially critical for auto upholstery, where you will more often than not deal with tough fabrics.
Read the terms in your warranty contract carefully and find out what will happen if a part breaks down and you need a repair or the machine malfunctions. Typically, most sewing machine companies will offer a 2-year warranty for electrical components and one year to repair the mechanical parts.
Buying from a recognized brand may be a smart choice as you are assured of the availability of repair centers, spare parts, and accessories. But all this will be rendered useless if you do not have proof of purchase. So, make sure you keep your receipt safe after the purchase.
- Size
If you want to move your machine occasionally or maybe store it after you are done working, you will not want a machine that takes extra hands to move and is too large to be stored conveniently. Choose a machine whose size is adequate for you. However, if you plan to work on more extensive projects, you can easily choose a large machine and even one with an extension table.
- Research and Test
Research is the golden rule whenever you plan to make a considerably costly purchase, and an auto upholstery machine is no different. Go to sewing machine exhibitions and see the choices that are open to you.
Read customer reviews online and talk to any friends who are in the auto upholstery community. Lastly, try the machine out. Most shops and expos will allow you to take it for a spin. Have small pieces of different fabrics to see how well the machine handles them.
Final Thoughts
The best investment a worker can make is in the tool of their trade. Using the right tools correctly increases productivity and truly makes work easier. Choosing the best sewing machine for upholstery will not only help you produce the best possible work you can, but it will also enable you to do so more efficiently and consistently.
Think about which features are the most important to you in an auto upholstery machine and then move from there. Are you looking to buy a heavy-duty machine that can sew through all fabric thicknesses? Or is your focus more on speed and ease of use? No matter your choice, there is a machine for your specific needs.
Every community and individual that has ever existed has grown by sharing. So, look for an upholstery community or group near you and join them. You will get invaluable tips and insider knowledge that will make your upholstering experience not only successful but also fun.