According to a report, more than 1m women have taken up sewing in the last five years alone. The report further explains that the sheer number of people taking up this hobby shouldn’t come as a surprise given the fact that almost 7.7m women worldwide choose to stitch their clothes.
But what if your room doesn’t have enough space to install a bulky sewing machine?
Don’t worry; you can go for a portable machine.
Seems interesting?
Perhaps that’s why the search for the best handheld sewing machine was so difficult for us. With more and more people for these machines, new manufacturers have arrived to fill the gap. Their entry may have placed a bottom pressure on prices, but it has made pinpointing one model extremely difficult.
Contents
- 1 Top Handheld Sewing Machines of the Year
- 1.1 Neala Portable Lightweight Handheld Sewing Machine
- 1.2 KPCB Handy Stitch Mini Sewing Machine
- 1.3 Dutison Handheld Sewing Machine
- 1.4 Shendian Mini Sewing Machine
- 1.5 Haitral Handheld Sewing Machine
- 1.6 Donyer Power Electric Sewing Machine
- 1.7 Golden Maple Cordless Electric Sewing Machine
- 1.8 W-Dragon Cordless Handheld Sewing Machine
- 1.9 Jeteven Cordless Handheld Sewing Machine
- 1.10 Singer 01663 Stitch Sew Quick Portable
- 2 How to Choose the Best Handheld and Portable Sewing Machine
- 3 Conclusion
Top Handheld Sewing Machines of the Year
After learning this lesson the hard way, we adopted a different approach. Instead of going from one website to the other, we visited seven garment factories, interviewed a dozen users of this sewing machines, and read innumerable reviews of their recommendations.
What did we get from all this effort? Ten of the top handheld sewing machines on the market compared.
Neala Portable Lightweight Handheld Sewing Machine
- Weight: 2.5 pounds (shipping)
- Dimensions: 7.9 x 7.6 x 5 inches
- Speed options: Two
- Power modes: Battery powered and adapter
- Special feature: Dual-power modes
The Neala portable handheld sewing machine is one of the best handheld sewing machine on the market. It is a portable unit that is compact enough to fit inside a bag and is equipped with two-speed settings to prove its utility to beginners and professionals alike.
Furthermore, you can power this machine either via batteries or by connecting its adapter to the nearest power outlet. Its workspace area has been brilliantly illuminated with LED lighting function to not only improve your stitching quality but also reduce the strain on your eyes.
On top of everything else, Neala has made the bottom line as well as the upper thread of this machine double-threaded. Perhaps that’s why it lets you sew a wide range of fabrics like handbags, sheets, lunch bags, pillow dolls, and more.
- Double-speed
- Two power modes
- 6-months return warranty
- Suitable for embroidery and quilting.
- The power adapter isn’t in the package
KPCB Handy Stitch Mini Sewing Machine
- Weight: 2.73 pounds
- Dimensions: 8.6 x 3.5 x 6.9 inches
- Speed options: Two
- Power modes: Battery and adapter
- Special feature: Automatic bobbin rewinding
In comparison with the Neala portable sewing machine, we found the KPCB Mini machine performing better on at least two counts. First, not only does this tool provide its adapter in the package, but the same is also UL/ETL/CE certified to ensure its safety.
Secondly, juxtapose the dimensions of both these products, and you’d realize that the extension table of the KPCB makes it easy to handle wider a fabric. Also, this machine lets you regulate its speed using the foot pedal so that you can use both the hands to concentrate on sewing.
The presence of a cuff slot beside the table makes it easy to sew pants and sleeves. You may also like the fact that this equipment can draw its power not only from the external power supply but also from the built-in AA battery. Though what you won’t like is that the batteries aren’t supplied in the package.
- Automatic bobbin rewinding
- Comes with an extension table
- The adapter is UL/ETL/CE certified
- No batteries in the package
Dutison Handheld Sewing Machine
- Weight: 0.75 pounds
- Dimensions: 8.9 x 5.5 x 2.1 inches
- Speed options: Two
- Power modes: Battery and adapter
- Special feature: Wide fabrics’ support
Of the handheld sewing machines that we have discussed thus far, the Dutison brand is the newest entrant to the market. Still, despite its nascent age, this machine has all the features to give a stern competition to models that preceded it. This machine is suitable for daily mending and basic stitches.
Think we’re exaggerating? Then you must check out the flat edge and automatic moving features of this product. Both of them allow the fabric to seamlessly come off the workspace as you’re done stitching it – thereby ensuring stitch quality on that final strip of fabric.
Lastly, in contrast to the machines that we have reviewed thus far, the package of this product comes pretty loaded. It contains ten safety pins, nine bobbins, needle threader, two sewing needles, a scissor, and even a measuring tape. Oh, and there’s the instruction manual there too.
- Sews a wide range of fabrics
- Accessories-loaded package
- Backed by Money Back Guarantee
- Suitable for diy crafts, to fix hem, drapes
- Slightly pricey
Shendian Mini Sewing Machine
- Weight: 3.22 pounds
- Dimensions: 11.8 x 9.8 x 5.6 inches
- Speed options: Two
- Power modes: adapter
- Special feature: Dual-speed options
The Mini Handheld Sewing Machine outperforms its counterpart from Dutison on at least two counts. First, this machine comes with a metal hook tip which gives you the freedom to sew on thick fabrics. Second, the same hook tip reduces the instances of machine failure by keeping wear at bay.
You won’t have any problems while replacing the bottom bobbin. Its large spool doubles as a rewind device, which you can use to easily swap the spent bobbin with a new one. Hence the reason why girls as young as 7-years-old can easily use this handheld machine.
One area where we think this product could have done better is the instructions. They aren’t as good as the ones you see in normal instructional manuals, with the result that whether you like it or not, you’d have to repeatedly consult the included teaching video if you’re a beginner.
- Two-speed control
- Metal hook prevents tear
- Cuff slot for sewing sleeves
- Instructions could have been better
Haitral Handheld Sewing Machine
- Weight: 2.5 pounds
- Dimensions: 7.9 x 7.6 x 5 inches
- Speed options: Two
- Power modes: Power Adapter or Batteries
- Special feature: LED light and cutter
Of all the handheld machines brand we have reviewed thus far, not many follow the lead of this model by offering a thread cutter and light in their package. While the former makes this unit suitable for a wide range of fabrics, the latter protects you from unnecessary eye strain.
Furthermore, if you’re a beginner, we recommend that you select the slower of the two-speed options – as that would allow you to make fewer mistakes as you learn the ropes. Experts, however, can sew at full speed by turning the speed knob to maximum.
Equally useful is the fact that you can operate this model BOT by a foot pedal or hand sewing. The presence of teaching video and instructions in its package means that you don’t have to consult the company’s website to know more about operating this unit.
- Has a thread cutter
- Comes with a teaching video
- Sews a wide range of fabrics
- Foot pedal doesn’t always respond well
Donyer Power Electric Sewing Machine
- Weight: 5.4 pounds
- Dimensions: 9.4 x 9 x 5.6 inches
- Speed options: Two
- Power modes: Power Adapter and Batteries
- Special feature: Adjustable stitch length
What is it that sets apart this product from those mentioned above? Its package contains more content on its own than the rest of them combined. You get a built-in needle threader, 12 preset stitch patterns and two-speed options to perform all your daily sewing tasks and small projects with aplomb.
Then come the high-quality metal bobbins. Most machines you see on the market have at least one and at most 3,4 bobbins. The Dilib handheld machine hits the ball out of the park by offering twice that number – thereby justify its expensive price tag.
Lastly, to make sure you don’t end up misplacing your gear during sewing, the facility for accessory storage has been provided on its board. Throw into the mix its 1-year limited warranty, and you won’t be able to find much wrong with this unit.
- 12 preset stitch patterns
- Built-in needle threader
- Adjustable stitch length
- Pricey
Golden Maple Cordless Electric Sewing Machine
- Weight: 0.6 pounds
- Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 2.4 inches
- Speed options: Two
- Power modes: Power Adapter and Batteries
- Special feature: Compact design
The Golden Maple machine is different from the Donyer in at least two areas. This model comes pre-threaded, which means you won’t have to do much to get it up and running. Also, while the previous handheld machine required 3 AA batteries, this one requires four of them.
Apart from that, you won’t have to work extensively to get this model up and running. All you have to do is follow a four-step approach, starting from picking the thread from the attached spool. Follow it up by threading the needle and then pull the thread to get optimum tension. Finally, once you’re sure that the thread has attained your desired tension, just wrap it up by tying a knot at the front end.
This process might read as if it would take a lot of time, but as our personal experienced told us, it shouldn’t take more than a few minutes.
- Easy operation.
- Compact design
- Makes stitching a cinch
- Not for big fabrics
W-Dragon Cordless Handheld Sewing Machine
- Weight: 0.58 pounds
- Dimensions: 9.1 x 3.2 x 2 inches
- Speed options: Single
- Power modes: Power Adapter and Batteries
- Special feature: Safety lock
As far as its size is concerned, there isn’t much differentiating the W-Dragon from the Golden Maple sewing machine. Both these units are compact, lightweight and easy to carry – which is why they are ideal for beginners and children. This is the great choice for a lightweight sewing machine from our list.
Luckily, the similarities stop right there. The fact that this is a single-thread machine means it cannot deal with fabrics thicker than 1.8mm. That size-range limits the utility of this model to pet clothes, doll dresses, pillow covers, and jeans.
You also get a thread control knob on the right-hand side of the machine. It also won’t leave the bobbin hanging on its own by protecting it with a holder. Also, since the battery area is front-facing, you can easily swap the existing batteries with the new ones.
- Has a safety lock
- Equipped with a bobbin holder
- Comes with presser feet
- Not for thick fabrics
- Affordable
Jeteven Cordless Handheld Sewing Machine
- Weight: 0.68 pounds
- Dimensions: 8.7 x 3.5 x 2 inches
- Speed options: Single
- Power modes: Power Adapter and Batteries
- Special feature: Package
Although we don’t like plastic for obvious reasons, the meager price at which this model is available has left us with no reason to complain. And it isn’t that the above mentioned W-Dragon was made of stainless steel – as most handheld sewing machines have plastic as their MOC.
Since you can take it anywhere you want, this machine lets you sew hanging curtains and drapes without forcing you to take them down. You can even repair the bedding without stripping your bed – as well as repair clothing without having to take it off.
Add to the equation its compatibility with both AA batteries and external power via an adaptor (not included in the package) and its manufacturer providing this model with a 100% money-back guarantee, and there aren’t many faults you can find with this unit.
- Package contains lots of accessories
- Comes with a 100% money-back guarantee
- Performs admirably on silks, leather and denim
- Made of plastic
Singer 01663 Stitch Sew Quick Portable
- Weight: 0.8 pounds
- Dimensions: 9 x 2.2 x 7.5 inches
- Speed options: Single
- Power modes: Batteries
- Special feature: Single thread feed
What is it that separates the Singer 01663 Stitch Sew from other machines in this review? Not much in terms of features, if we are to be honest with you. It boasts the same plastic construction as most other models, doesn’t provide batteries in its package and the machine works best on lightweight fabrics.
Why, then, should you invest in this sewing machine and not the other ones you saw above? Its cheap price tag is undoubtedly a huge attraction. But the best thing about this unit is its portability. With its meager weight of 12.8 ounces, you won’t have any problem carrying it anywhere.
Lastly, if you’re feeling that the connected needle isn’t up to the task, you can replace it within a minute. Simply loosen the fixing screw, push out the installed needle and replace it with a new one. That’s it; you
- Competitively priced
- Single thread feed
- Includes thread spindle
- Made of plastic
- Stitches are not strong
How to Choose the Best Handheld and Portable Sewing Machine
There are few features that determine the best handheld sewing machines out of so many options. So here we go.
Type of the sewing machine
The two types of handheld sewing machines available are: mini and portable. The former type is recommended for those of you whose sewing tasks are less complicated and take less time. It fits in most bags and is relatively easy to carry.
As for portable sewing machines, they are the ones for heavy duty tasks. You can transfer them from one place to the other (hence the term ‘portable’ in their name), and they also provide more features to help you perform difficult sewing jobs.
Power source
As far as their power source is concerned, one can neatly categorize these machines into two-types: manual and battery-operated. As you might guess, manual handheld machines are for those of you who turn to sew as a hobby and use it once in a while.
The reverse is true for battery-operated models. Since they are powered, these products are equipped with better features and therefore allow you to perform heavy-duty tasks. Hence the reason why professionals opt for battery-operated units.
Sewing speed
Whether you end up selecting a manual or battery-operated model, the sewing speed will be determined by how powerfully you press the pedal. That doesn’t mean, however, that the same sewing speed will serve both the beginners as well as the professionals well.
Provided you’re a beginner, you might want to choose a machine with a controlled high-speed limit. Since you are learning the ropes, operating the machine at a slow speed will reduce the chances of any irredeemable mistakes. Professionals can go as high as their expertise permits them.
Worth-having features
During our search for the best sewing machines, there were many powerful features that experts recommended us to look for in our model. They include:
- Tension Control: This feature lets you adjust the tension of the thread based on the thickness of the fabric.
- Multi-fabric compatibility: Provided you’re going to use your machine for commercial purposes, it should be capable of sewing multiple fabrics.
- Built-in adapter: Assuming that you aren’t going to move around with your machine, it’s better to have a built-in adapter in its package.
- Dual-power options: There are some machines in this review that can be powered by both power adapter and AA batteries.
Conclusion
Given the fact that the market is inundated with handheld sewing machines, choosing one that actually meets your requirements – and doesn’t only have a brochure which claims that it would – is very difficult. Hence the reason why you should be feeling lucky that we have now narrowed down your search to the top ten models on the market. Most of the handheld sewing machines are inexpensive; so, price won’t be an issue. Juxtapose their reviews with your requirements, and you can easily get a model that works for you!
I do not want to buy sewing machine or any sort I’m looking for airtailor to get my Tailoring done online.
Hello, This is not a tailoring service. This is a simple sewing machine infomation blog. Thanks