In modern society, it’s obvious we usually buy available clothes from local stores, clothing outlets, or famous brands on the street. It’s because you don’t have time to make clothes on your own, your lack of experience or that you’re just not a skillful person.
However, there’s always going to be times when you need to repair a garment, fix a worn-off coat, or add a cute little additional pocket to your kid’s clothes.
Whatever reason it is, choosing a professional intermediate sewing machine these days can be extremely stressful and challenging.
There’re hundreds of options available in the market. And Amazon is overflowing with products from reputable brands and also from lesser-known manufacturers. I mean, where do we even begin?
Not to worry, you’re in the right place. Research is the core, and I’ve gathered my research and experiences to give you some reviews on the best sewing machines out there that I’m sure one of them will suit your needs.
What are the factors you need to consider before buying an intermediate sewing machine?
- Price
- Feature
- Suitability for intensive uses
- Convenience
These are all 4 criteria to weigh heavily onto your decision on which sewing machine to purchase, besides from your individual specific needs or interests.
Without further ado, let’s go through some essential details of these 12 best intermediate sewing machines and take notes on what’s best for yourself.
Table of Contents
What Are Best Sewing Machines for Intermediate Sewer?
So, before reaching any further, take a quick look at this shortlist of options I’ve summed up below to check out which one fits your own needs, standards and some features you might want to take deeper consideration.
- Best of All – Brother CS6000i Sewing and Quilting Machine
“Praised by customers, wide variety of features, quiet, fun and lightweight” - Best Low-Budget – Brother XR3774 Sewing Machine
“Qualified, low-budget, easy-to-use, versatile functions, enjoyable, compact” - Best Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine – Sailrite Heavy-Duty LS-1 Sewing Machine
“Heavy-duty work, thick layers of clothes easily, soft leather, big and strong build” - Best Sewing Machine for Versatile Features – SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960 Sewing Machine
“Well-built, large section of stitches, free arm, extra high speed, elegant design, fast and easy sewing” - Best Computerized Sewing Machine – Janome DC5100 Sewing Machine
“Modern design, computerized memory storage, LCD screen, perfect for beginners or intermediate sewer” - Best Mechanical Sewing Machine – Janome HD3000 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine
“Mechanical machine, extra high pressure foot left, thick layers of canvas, strong and sturdy.” - Best Modern Model of Sewing Machine – Brother PC420PRW Computerized Sewing Machine
“Elegant design, high speed, speed control slider, variable stitches functions, LED workspace lighting system.” - Best Powerful Motor Sewing Machine – SINGER Heavy Duty 4423 Sewing Machine
“Easy-to-use, versatile machine, has all features and accessories, powerful motor, a true workhorse, thick layers of clothes, low noise.” - Best Cast Aluminum Sewing Machine – Janome HD1000 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine
“Strong cast aluminum body, free arm, automatic needle threader, set of full accessories, great power, long-lasting.”
Best Intermediate Sewing Machines Comparison Table
Here in the table below, I have summed up the list of best intermediate sewing machine to buyalongside with their main features, sizes and weights.
You can clearly see some of the most important differences between them to easily figure out which one fits your needs the most to consider before making a purchase. Now, let’s take a quick look!
Top 15 Best Intermediate Sewing Machines Reviews
It’s time to get into the most exciting part of this article, which I know you’ve been waiting for. The specific reviews of each and every hottest intermediate sewing machine, all of their features, specifications and some highlights on their details. Let’s dive in!
Brother CS6000i Sewing and Quilting Machine
(Best of All)
This sewing machines has been praised as the best choice from customers for years now.
With a detachable wide table, a brightly lit sewing area and adjustable sewing speed system, this one is very suitable for large scale sewing or quilting projects.
It’s also quiet, fun and lightweight for using at home, work or taking to classes with your fellows without any trouble at all.
This machine will last you for years, it’s a great value for your money that helps you with to fix simple stitches as well as more intricate projects like sleeves, pant legs or other complex clothing patterns.
I would highly recommend this incredibly reliable sewing machine for anyone from a beginner to an intermediate sewer with more advanced skill and experiences.
Key Features
- 60 build-in stitches
- 9 presser feet
- Has buttonhole, overcasting, monogramming, zigzag, zipper, blind stitch, button fitting, walking, and spring action quilting foot
- Suitable for large scale sewing or quilting projects
Product Specifications
| Brand | Brother |
| Dimensions | 16 x 6.7 x 11.4 |
| Weight | 13 |
| Stitches | 60 |
| Automatic needle threader | Yes |
| LCD Screen | Yes |
| Warranty | 25-year limited warranty |
Watch overview video here:
Brother XR3774 Sewing Machine
(Best Low-Budget Sewing Machine From Brother Corporation)
Coming from the Brother International Corporation, a company prestigious for their high standardized and affordable sewing machines and accessories, there’s no doubt this one is on top 60 of Amazon’s best seller rank in this category.
If you’re already skilled with sewing and embroidering, this machine is just perfect for its versatile functions. But if you’re a bit inexperienced, this will also help you to learn how to sew properly as well because it’s very easy-to-use.
Another important thing to note is that if you’re looking for a qualified sewing machine with a wide table for some big scale projects but you have kind of low budget, you should definitely consider this one because it’s the least expensive one out of Brother’s variety of product with such features.
This sewing machine is also enjoyable for its user-friendliness, lightweight and even though sometimes make a few skipped stitches at the beginning, it still got more than 80% of 5 stars rank on Amazon.
Key Features
- 37 stitches
- 8 sewing feet
- Has accessories: buttonhole, zigzag, zipper, blind stitch, narrow hemmer, button sewing and quilting feet for innovative projects
- Bright sewing section
Product Specifications
| Brand | Brother |
| Dimensions | 17.5 x 7.6 x 14.6 |
| Weight | 15.87 pounds |
| Stitches | 37 |
| Automatic needle threader | Yes |
| LCD Screen | Yes |
| Warranty | 25-year limited warranty |
Watch video of overview here:
Janome Jem Gold 660 Sewing Machine
The Janome Jem Gold 660 Sewing machine is notable for its lightweight and portability that could be transported anywhere so easily.
It’s also tagged along with different standardized accessories including Bobbins, Extra needles, a Screwdriver, an Overedge Foot, Sliding Buttonhole Foot.
This machine works just fine for you as a beginner to learn the first steps and even better if you’re going for some extra challenging stitches as a real professional seamstress.
The Janome 660 wins the hearts many customers for being worth such a lifelong investment because of its capability, reliability and the smooth of its work that has been proven by many customers’ reviews on online platforms.
Key Features
- 8 build-in stitches including 2 Stretch stitches and Utility stitches
- 4 Step-Buttonhole
- Has a dial button on the side
Product Specifications
| Brand | Janome |
| Dimensions | 16.5 x 13.1 x 9 |
| Weight | 14.25 pounds |
| Stitches | 8 |
| Automatic needle threader | Yes |
| LCD Screen | No |
| Warranty | 25-year limited warranty |
Watch a video of overview here:
Sailrite Heavy-Duty LS-1 Sewing Machine
(Best Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine)
If you’re an intermediate sewer looking for a sewing machine that can handle basic work for home projects and heavy-duty work with thick layers of clothes or fabric materials then this one is probably the one for you.
You’ll be completely impressed with just how much this machine can do so easily through heavy materials such as thick fabrics, denim and heavy canvas (which the Manufacturers say they can go through as much as 10 layers of thick canvas) and satisfy you just as fine with soft leather and chiffon fabric.
One tiny minus point for this one is it’s pretty much heavy to carry outside as with the weight of 55 pounds (equals the weight of a small kid) and doesn’t come with a light like many other sewing machines.
But overall, most customers say this is a perfect sewing machine that pleased their tastes so much that this is even currently out of stock.
Key Features
- Extra wide presser foot
- Built-in piping tunnel
- 3/8” foot lift
- A variable stitch length up to 6 mm
- Can offer up to twice the power
Product Specifications
| Brand | Sailrite |
| Dimensions | 18 x 16.5 x 14 |
| Weight | 55 pounds |
| Stitches | Straight stitch |
| Automatic needle threader | Yes |
| LCD Screen | No |
| Warranty | 5-year limited warranty |
Watch a video of overview here:
Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 Sewing Machine
(Best Sewing Machine for Versatile Features)
From the prestigious Singer corporation, the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 comes with a bunch of versatile features for all of your sewing purposes.
This one is so easy-to-use for its and a high speed to provide the capacity to sew fast to save your time, straight and easy as well as more advanced stitches for an intermediate sewer.
Lots of convenient features are also included in this machine like an automatic needle threader, automatic tension, drop-in bobbin system, extra high presser foot, a free arm and other bonus accessories to come in hand.
A well-built machine like this is my recommendation for you if you want a Singer sewing machine that has elegant design, lightweight and the ability to sew basic and complex projects of clothes.
Key Features
- Large selection of stitches, including basic, stretch and decorative stitches
- Fashion sewing, quilting, home decor and crafting projects
- 600 built-in stitches including 13 styles of buttonholes
- Speed: 850 stitches-per-minute
Product Specifications
| Brand | SINGER |
| Dimensions | 17.2 x 8.2 x 12 |
| Weight | 20 pounds |
| Stitches | 600 |
| Automatic needle threader | Yes |
| LCD Screen | Yes |
| Warranty | 25-year limited warranty |
Janome DC5100 Sewing Machine
(Best Computerized Sewing Machine)
This sewing machine has a modern design and all the function for your sewing that you might need for a home decor, scrapbooking, garment sewing, or even quilting.
Now let’s get to the interesting part. As you’ve seen this is basically a computerized sewing machine, which mean it has memory storage – a fun and convenient feature that helps you to store up to 50 stitch patterns you wish to save. You can save time if you want to arrange the same pattern again with this machine because it has got it for you already with no work at all.
Little cons from this machine is that its build quality is not very good and the bobbin case can pop out of its position sometimes.
This machine is ease-to-use both for a beginner and an intermediate sewer with more skill and complicated projects to pursue with a taste of modernity.
Key Features
- 167 built-in stitches
- 5 one-step buttonholes
- LCD screen with touchpad as a modern technology device
- Has memory storage
Product Specifications
| Brand | Janome |
| Dimensions | 22 x 18 x 12 |
| Weight | 27 pounds |
| Stitches | 167 |
| Automatic needle threader | Yes |
| LCD Screen | Yes |
| Warranty | 2-year limited warranty |
Watch a video of overview here:
Juki HZL-F300 Sewing Machine
This one is an intermediate sewing machine with lightweight material yet some impressive functions for you to take under consideration.
With a fair wide table for optional choice, you can handle a large project with thick fabrics and it works perfect stitches on kaki, jeans or canvas…
The presser foot can be modified as per the stitch requirement and either lifted to 12mm by the lever or lowered, the speed can be varied too, from 80 stitches/min to 900 stitches/min depends on the purpose of uses.
Also manufactured with an electronic memory storage, it can save up to 70 stitched patterns in one folder and that’s a huge number for a sewing machine.
This one solid, quiet, easy and reliable machine comes with reasonable price for sale and can make you fall in love with it just as it’s doing with so many other customers and users in America.
Key Features
- 106 stitch patterns
- 3 fonts for use
- 16 Automatic electronic sensor controlled buttonholes
- Automatic needle threader
Product Specifications
| Brand | JUKI |
| Dimensions | 17.5 x 8.3 x 11.4 |
| Weight | 30.3 pounds |
| Stitches | 106 |
| Automatic needle threader | Yes |
| LCD Screen | Yes |
| Warranty | 5-year limited warranty |
Watch a video of overview here:
Janome HD3000 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine
(Best Mechanical Sewing Machine)
If you need an affordable mechanical sewing machine to handle thick layers of canvas or to breeze through fabrics smoothly with no problem, then you might want to consider this Janome HD3000 sewing machine.
This machine is so strong and sturdy that particularly has metal gears which make it even more rugged and can last longer than a sewing machine that has nylon gears.
Also, the little accessories that comes along including empty bobbins, different feet, screwdrivers, lint brushes… helps you with you creative work on denim, fabric or canvas and nylon webbing.
Janome HD3000 is one of the toughest heavy-duty sewing machines available on the market and I highly recommend this one if you need to handle heavy clothes projects with a sewing machine that’s sturdy, affordable and worth a long period investment.
Key Features
- A build-in needle threader
- 18 stitches along with one-step butthole
- An extra high pressure foot left
- Non-computerized
Product Specifications
| Brand | Janome |
| Dimensions | 10 x 19 x 15 |
| Weight | 23 pounds |
| Stitches | 18 |
| Automatic needle threader | Yes |
| LCD Screen | Yes |
| Warranty | 25-year limited warranty |
Watch a video overview here:
SINGER 5532 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine
This one is another product from the Singer Corporation that has amazing advanced features and super fast sewing stitches for professional sewing with a fairly affordable price.
The heavy metal frame ensures that the sewing machine remains still and stable for skip-free sewing and the stainless steel bedplate provides smooth feed for even sewing that gives you full convenience while on the work.
An amazing feature about this machine is that it’s designed for the US and Canadian citizens particularly so it requires a voltage of 110V to function and doesn’t consume much electricity. So if you’re crafting or sewing a lot, don’t worry about the electricity bill going too high.
Even though the needle threader can sometimes be stubborn according to some users, this sewing machine is overall loved and recommended by many customers and me too. (It’s currently out of stock)
Key Features
- 32 built-in stitches
- 1 fully automatic and 1-step buttonhole
- The stitches include 6 basic stitches, 7 stretch stitches and 18 decorative stitches
- High sewing speech that can reach up to 1,100 stitches per minute
Product Specifications
| Brand | SINGER |
| Dimensions | 15.5 x 6.2 x 12 |
| Weight | 16.9 pounds |
| Stitches | 32 |
| Automatic needle threader | Yes |
| LCD Screen | Yes |
| Warranty | 25-year limited warranty |
Watch a video of overview here:
Brother PC420PRW Computerized Sewing Machine
(Best Modern Model of Sewing Machine)
If you’re looking for a sewing machine with modern and elegant design and has decent functions at the top of the market then this PC420PRW model is just the right one for you.
This is a high-speed machine, it can reach about 850 stitches per minute, but you don’t want to mess up your garment, change the speed by the speed control slider. The work can also get easier because of the metal frame construction, with ease-to-use LED display for stitches selection and dual LED workspace lighting system.
Even though sometimes the needle on this one can be tricky to position and the tension needs some adjustment, the machine works overall flawlessly and so nice, I can assure you that this is still one of the best sewing machine for a great price.
Key Features
- 294 build-in stitches including utility stitches, satin stitches, decorative stitches and cross stitches
- High-speed sewing stitches
- Speed control slider
- LED workspace lighting system
Product Specifications
| Brand | Brother |
| Dimensions | 17.3 x 7.9 x 11.4 |
| Weight | 26 pounds |
| Stitches | 294 |
| Automatic needle threader | Yes |
| LCD Screen | Yes |
| Warranty | 25-year limited warranty |
Watch a video of overview here:
SINGER Heavy Duty 4423 Sewing Machine
(Best Powerful Motor Sewing Machine)
The Singer Heavy-duty 4423 sewing machine is an easy-to-use and a versatile product to take into consideration when it comes to making garment alterations or working on a new project with fabric or scratch.
With a heavy duty metal frame, a stainless steel bed plate and super powerful motor, this machine is considered to be a true workhorse.
It can sew through thick layers of heavy weight fabrics, canvas or denim just as well as through thin leather jackets without an issue. However, much thicker layer of cloth might damage the machine.
Overall, this machine is impressive for its easy using, low noise and a really affordable price if you want to invest in a high speech and powerful motor sewing machine for yourself.
Key Features
- 23 built-in stitches including 6 basic stitches, 12 decorative stitches and 4 stretch stitches
- 4 presser feet
- Maximum speech of 1,100 stitches per minute
- Powerful motor
Product Specifications
| Brand | SINGER |
| Dimensions | 15.2 x 6.2 x 12 |
| Weight | 17 pounds |
| Stitches | 23 |
| Automatic needle threader | Yes |
| LCD Screen | Yes |
| Warranty | 25-year limited warranty |
Watch a video of overview here:
Janome HD1000 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine
(Best Cast Aluminum Sewing Machine)
Right from the name of this machine, we can tell that it’s designed to handle thick and tough clothes very well. And because it’s made of aluminum, it’s naturally strong and sturdy for sewing efficiency.
In addition, this one has a free arm, an automatic needle threader and a hard-sided cover to keep your machine clean from dirt when not in use and make your work more comfortable.
The strong cast aluminum body is specifically impressive because it helps the machine last for a very long time with great power and no disturbances at all.
Key Features
- 14 build-in stitches which include utility stitches, stretch stitches
- Easy-to-use buttonhole
- Comes with a set of accessories for you to create innovative designs of clothing
- Free arm and automatic needle threader
Product Specifications
| Brand | Janome |
| Dimensions | 18.2 x 8.5 x 15.2 |
| Weight | 21.8 pounds |
| Stitches | 14 |
| Automatic needle threader | Yes |
| LCD Screen | Yes |
| Warranty | 25-year limited warranty |
Watch a video of overview here:
Buying Guides
Still hesitating to make a final decision on which one to buy? Don’t worry, we’ve got you. Buying a new machine is like placing a life-long investment, you need to understand it enough to trust you purchase is right. Here are a few guides for you:
1) What Exactly Type of Sewing Machine Do You Want?
There’re overall 4 types of sewing machines on the market to offer:
- The mechanical model (most basic choice, not powered by electricity, requires much physical work but long-lasting)
- The electronic model (equipped with one motor electronically, great range of stitches pattern and functions)
- The computerized model (advanced features like LCD, LED, touch screen display, versatile investment, save time with memory storage)
- The over locker model (has fewer function, higher speed, used for professional projects)
2) Which Brand Do You Want to Buy From?
Undoubtedly, SINGER has always been the most prestigious manufacturers for household equipment like sewing machine.
However, there are much more other brands to pay attention to on the market, some produce the finest sewing machines are Brother, Singer, Janome, Pfaff, and Juki. Their products ranges from hundreds of dollars to thousands.
3) Carefully, How Much Is Your Budget?
Technically, you get what you pay for.
An expensive sewing machine tend to be better in quality, functions, features and more long-lasting. And if you want to make a life-long investment in a reliable machine, don’t be afraid to spend it on a decent one rather than buy a cheap machine and repeatedly have to repair it.
FAQs
My Top Pick
My top pick is the Brother CS6000i Sewing and Quilting Machine which is the best of all above for its impressive features like a wide variety stitches, large detachable table and adjustable speed system that can be easily operated and also an aesthetic appearance, light weight and low noise. These advantages have won the heart of customers for years now.
I hope my blog has given you some helpful information to know about the best intermediate sewing machine. Now, it’s your turn to make the purchase that you’re going to enjoy and love spending time sewing with it.
If you find our blog helpful, make sure to like and share this to your friends and family. If you have any further questions, feel free to comment down below or contact us, we’ll try our best to give you the answer, thank you and have a nice day.
I’ve been on a number of affiliate blogs that are helpful, as is this one. I appreciate the breakdown of type of machine. Unfortunately, I’m still having trouble finding a good fit. A good number of reviews are from people who are sewing masks and are either beginners or haven’t sewn in 30 years. My skills are that of a solid intermediate to advanced (not pro). I sew on organza and leather. I bought a Brother in 1988 – used! – and it was still truckin’ but I’m tired of fighting with the tension knob. I’m suspicious of computerized machines. I don’t embroider or quilt. I make theatre costumes and clothing. Seems that the heavy duty machines (Singer 4423 and 4432) don’t have a basting stitch — who knew? So now I’m concerned that some machines won’t have a basting stitch. One of the recommended Brother machines has known problems with the tension, so that scares me right away. My price range would preferable be under $400. I’m sorry to say, however, that I still can’t find a good machine for my needs — which are not tremendous. LOL! Guess I need to keep looking. Thanks for the info. 🙂
Dear Roxanne,
Thank you for your comment!
If you’re looking for a mid-level sewing machine, Janome HD3000 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine makes a great choice. It’s a mechanical model.
You mentioned that you’re not into computerized machines so this one meets your needs. It’s a powerful and durable sewing unit WITH a basting stitch.
Also, it’s within your budget. You can find this model for about $450. I would also suggest a unit by Brother. It’s the Brother XR3774. And it’s budget-friendly.
And also has a basting stitch. You will get a 25-year limited warranty, 37 stitches, and other nice features. Consider Janome HD1000 as well. It’s a durable unit.
It’s one of Janome’s most popular models. You will get 14 stitches, automatic needle threader, a free arm, and a bunch of other useful accessories for your tasks.
Hopefully, my suggestions can help you make a wise choice.
Loves,
Sara
Sorry but I’m baffled at these choices. Especially your #1 pick. The throat is TINY. How can you quilt with this?
Hi,
Thank you for your comment.
The Brother CS6000i is one of the most popular sewing and quilting machines on the market with a good reputation. However, it’s not the best quilting machine for sure!
If you’re looking for quilting machines with a large throat space, check my best quilting machine reviews. These choices are based on versatility, features, and price value.
Have a wonderful day and stay safe.
Love, Sara.