Best Mini Sewing Machines – Top Picks for Cheap, Small Sewing Machines

Mini sewing machines are small lightweight sewing machines that are usually under 5 lbs. and pretty inexpensive. These sewing machines are cheap and very small, which makes them easily portable.

They look like toys but they can actually handle real sewing projects. Keep in mind that these are meant for very light and simple sewing – we’re talking just a couple layers of fabric. They are not going to be used for any kind of heavy-duty sewing or thick fabrics. Most people use for traveling or just to have a simple machine at home for basic sewing.

These might be a good option for a kids sewing machine if you have a child who is interested and you don’t want to spend a lot of money on something they may lose interest in.

Because of the size and cost, a mini sewing machine is not going to have most of the high tech convenience features that a full-size machine will have, though a couple of the machines featured here have a few bells and whistles.

With that said let’s take a look at some top selling mini sewing machines.

Amado Portable Sewing Double Speed Mini Sewing Machine

This mini machine weighs less than 2 pounds so it is definitely tiny. [easyazon_image align=”right” height=”160″ identifier=”B06Y2CJMWD” locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/wp-content/uploads/51stVw3DKeL.SL160.jpg” tag=”sewsavvy-20″ width=”160″] It is the smallest and cheapest of the machines reviewed here and definitely the most simple.

Owners of this machine were pleasantly surprised at the quality of the[easyazon_link identifier=”B06Y2CJMWD” locale=”US” nw=”y” tag=”sewsavvy-20″]Amado Portable Sewing Machine[/easyazon_link] and said it does a very good job when sewing even a few layers of fabric.

Features:

Can be run on batteries of plugged into a way.
There is a foot pedal so you can control it manually.
Variable speed options – high and low speed
Comes with an easy-to-read and well laid out manual

Overall this little machine is a great option if you truly want something small and portable yet strong enough to actually do some real sewing. You’re getting a simple machine that does a simple straight stitch.

Michley LSS-505 Lil’ Sew & Sew Multi-Purpose Sewing Machine

This [easyazon_image align=”right” height=”145″ identifier=”B0021L9322″ locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/wp-content/uploads/41rtKbteNL.SL160.jpg” tag=”sewsavvy-20″ width=”160″] machine weighs a couple pounds more than the previous machine and looks more like a mini small version of a traditional sewing machine. The [easyazon_link identifier=”B0021L9322″ locale=”US” nw=”y” tag=”sewsavvy-20″]Michley LSS-505[/easyazon_link] mini machine has some nice features and costs less than $50.

Features:

8 built-in stitch patterns
Variable speed control
Automatic thread rewind
Includes 2 thread spools, 2 bobbins, needle, threader, foot pedal, and AC adaptor

Like most mini sewing machines this is recommended for basic fabrics and lightweight sewing. If you need to sew thicker fabrics like denim or draperies, or if you need a heavy-duty sewing machine, then this is not a good choice for your needs. It is a good choice if you are truly a beginner and want to try out sewing.

My only concern with this machine is this quality. Many reviewers expressed frustration with the short life of this machine and some wished they had spent just a bit more to get something better.

NEX Sewing Machine Free-Arm Crafting Mending Machine

This mini sewing machine is [easyazon_image align=”right” height=”160″ identifier=”B0151DMY1S” locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/wp-content/uploads/41DGGwOQHL.SL160.jpg” tag=”sewsavvy-20″ width=”160″] definitely cute with its white and pink color scheme and it weighs just under 5 lbs. [easyazon_link identifier=”B0151DMY1S” locale=”US” nw=”y” tag=”sewsavvy-20″]The Nex Sewing Machine[/easyazon_link] has some nice features like built-in stitches, a thread cutter, and this is the first of the mini sewing machines in this article that has an automatic buttonhole feature.

Features:

12 built-in stitch patterns
One 4-step automatic buttonhole
Foot pedal and variable speed control
Built-in handle for easy portability
Can be operated of 4 AA batteries
Adjustable stitch length and zigzag width

One reviewer bought this machine when she was looking for a lightweight machine that could be taken on trips and was capable of handling all the normal tasks of clothing construction and be operated with batteries on camping trips. She said she was surprised at how well this machine worked considering its size and weight.

Overall another good choice for an inexpensive basic and small machine. Keep in mind that if you think you might outgrow this machine over time, with just a slightly bigger budget you could still stay under $100 and get a better sewing machine that will last for years as you expand your sewing skills.

Janome Turbo Teal Basic Sewing Machine

This [easyazon_image align=”right” height=”160″ identifier=”B00EA08LBG” locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/wp-content/uploads/51BHEAjvyL.SL160.jpg” tag=”sewsavvy-20″ width=”160″] is the first of our mini sewing machines by a well-known major brand. Janome is known for its quality and cutting-edge technology and has machines that can cost over $1,000. The [easyazon_link identifier=”B00EA08LBG” locale=”US” nw=”y” tag=”sewsavvy-20″]Janome Turbo Teal sewing machine[/easyazon_link] has the most features of the ones reviewed here and costs the most out of the four, but still respectively under $70.

Features:

Ten stitch options.
Straight, ZigZag, Multi-Stitch ZigZag, Crescent / Scallop Stitches.
Top loading bobbin system with clear cover.
Presser foot with finger guard (perfect for kids)
Left and center needle position.
Adjustable tension.
Reverse lever.
Free arm.
Extra-high presser foot lift.
Push-pull bobbin winder system.

Weighing in at only 5 lbs the Janome Turbo Basic Sewing Machine is easily portable and perfect for sewing on the go. It is pictured here in teal but this model actually comes in over a dozen fun colors, which is also why I reviewed it as a perfect kids sewing machine, but also great for adults who want something in a bright color.

Final Word on Mini Sewing Machines

Overall mini sewing machines are great depending on your need – f you want a simple inexpensive machine to have around the house for mending or other lightweight projects; or if you need something portable that can be operated on batteries; or if you are truly a beginner and want to spend a small amount of money to try sewing.

If you think you’ll be using this often and will outgrow it, you may want to consider spending just a little bit more – even another $30 to $50 would get you a higher quality machine with more features and will last for years. See my reviews for sewing machines under $100 and also some additional lightweight full-featured machines for more information and comparison.