9 Best Handheld Sewing Machines – Shorter Training Period and Great Efficiency

By
Marilyn Grant
Marilyn Grant
Writer
Marilyn knows how to present the dullest topic in an interesting and easy-to-read way. When she’s not teaching English Literature at a local school or writing for our site read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Julie Flores
Julie Flores
Expert Consultant
Julie owns a shop specializing in sewing equipment and accessories. No wonder she knows everything when it comes to technical specifications of practically anything we revie read more
Last updated: September 01, 2023
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Would you like to keep everything under control, not be caught off guard, and get ahead of the curve when it comes to sewing? Then you need to get one of the best handheld sewing machines.

The idea of ​​the sewing machine is already a few centuries old. However, while you may still be familiar with the same model from your grandmother, there are now hand sewing machines that can take over most of the work of its big brothers. They come at a lower price, offer their users a shorter training period, and great efficiency.

These machines are portable, allowing you to travel with them, and sew on the go while achieving excellent results in any garment arrangement. The best models have low weight, can be operated manually or electronically, are adaptable to all fabrics, are small in size, resistant to dust and shocks and the vast majority come with many sewing accessories. And with all that being said, the SINGER 01663 gets our Editor’s Choice nomination.

Quick Summary

  • Editor's Choice: SINGER 01663
    "As expected, the Singer model is simply fun to work with. It’s an extremely practical and very functional sewing system, perfect for small jobs."
  • "This machine has a very sharp needle and 2 speeds that makes it possible for working on the vast majority of fabrics."
  • "Its small size of 4.33 x 4.72 x 2.76 inches and light weight makes it to be easily slipped into a suitcase or bag."
  • "Operating mechanically, this handheld device weighs just 218 grams, and comes with the set of 40 useful accessories."
  • Best Mechanical Model: Spring Come Hand Sewing Machine
    "This is a lightweight mechanical device with a weight of 309 grams and a maximum sewing thickness of 1.8mm."
  • "Both thin and thick fabrics are supported, a threading aid is provided and there is also a replacement needle."
  • "Safe to use, beautiful and compact in design, this is perfect for introducing kids to the art of sewing."
  • Best Japanese Product: ZEROTONE Handheld Sewing Machine
    "The ZEROTONE is ideal for all types of fabrics, from silk to wool, curtains, hems, and more and offers premium Japanese quality."
  • "This model can be used to work on many types of fabrics, of different textures and thicknesses."

Top 9 Handheld Sewing Machines Review 2024

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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8560 people in the past 30 days
9.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.7
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.6
9.8
1
Editor's Choice

SINGER 01663

Features
  • Power source: 4 AA batteries, 6V power supply
  • Fabric’s thickness: ≤1.8 mm, lightweight fabrics
  • Speeds: 1
  • Weight: 13.28 oz
  • Dimensions: 8.25 x 2.63 x 2 inches

From a giant in the manufacture of excellent solutions for sewing, we have the Singer 01663. Emphasis is on portability with this device. Hence, you can carry out arrangements and seams in different types of fabrics such as denim, wool, silks, and even leather. This machine operates using 4 AA batteries.

It’s a very compact and light hand sewing machine since it only weighs 376 grams. It is perfect for sewing curtains or your clothes without having to remove them from their place and it also allows you to be able to work through a 6-volt adapter.

It’s a reliable and economical solution for any type of eventuality and for small jobs where you can give your traditional sewing machine a well-deserved rest.

    What are our favorite features?
  • As expected, the Singer model is simply fun to work with. It's an extremely practical and very functional sewing system, perfect for small jobs while not overloading normal tabletop and craft machine with work. It is very outstanding since it allows you to sew felt or paper in a simple and fast way.
    What could be better?
  • If you disregard the pleasant feel and the really good workmanship, one thing stands out above all with the Singer model: the typical Singer prices, which simply show that you are also paying for a brand name.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5852 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.1
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.5
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.3
9.6
Features
  • Power source: 4 AA batteries, USB cable
  • Fabric’s thickness: ≤1.8 mm, clothing, curtains, or crafting
  • Speeds: 2
  • Weight: 13.4 oz
  • Dimensions: 10.08 x 5.47 x 5.08 inches

The Amazing Creations Handheld Sewing Machine is a very high-quality model that will allow you to have a good sewing experience if your main objective is to make small arrangements. It is a fairly powerful model to be hand-held, although some jobs such as denim sewing or patching that the machine cannot undertake.

However, it has a very sharp needle that makes it possible for working on the vast majority of fabrics. The machine works electronically via a USB cable and uses four AA batteries.

It can see clothing, paper, and crafting materials.

    What stands out?
  • It has a case with a large number of accessories and spools of thread. We also like the fact that the speed is adjustable in two levels.
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • One of the few problems we found with this device is that at first, it is difficult to learn to thread the needle. Also, it is a bit heavy for a handheld device and could be lighter.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6202 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.3
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.5
9.6
Features
  • Power source: manual
  • Fabric’s thickness: ≤1.8 mm, clothing, curtains, or crafting
  • Speeds:
  • Weight: 7.8 oz
  • Dimensions: 4.33 x 4.72 x 2.76 inches

This Amazing Creations mini sewing machine is a travel model that you can take anywhere without any problem. It’s a manual seeing machine with a weight of just 7.8 ounces. Its small size of 4.33 x 4.72 x 2.76 inches and light weight allow it to slip easily into a suitcase or bag.

On the performance side, this mini manual sewing machine can be used on many materials: silk or even wool. You can therefore use it to sew many textiles, even the delicate ones. You can also use the manual sewing machine to sew hung curtains. However, the tool cannot sew fabrics that are thicker than 1.8mm. It also cannot be used on thick or hard fabrics like denim.

Regarding its operation, this mini sewing machine doesn’t work with batteries or electricity. It can only be used manually.

    What do we love it for?
  • What we like, and which its users will enjoy, is its lightweight and simple design. It can be used on many materials and it is easy to use.
    What were we disappointed with?
  • The device cannot be used on hard and thick fabrics.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9611 people in the past 30 days
8.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.7
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.6
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.7
8.8
Features
  • Power source: manual
  • Fabric’s thickness: ≤1.8 mm, suitable for fabrics, silk, wool, etc., allows making handkerchiefs, aprons, gloves, craft, and patchwork
  • Speeds:
  • Weight: 7.7 oz
  • Dimensions: 4.3 x 3 x 1.57 inches

In addition to the models from Spring Come and Amazing Creations, one of the best manual handheld sewing machines is the Mudder Handheld Sewing Machine.

It’s a completely convincing machine in terms of what’s included in the set and the price-performance ratio. To achieve this result, it offers mechanical operation, a maximum sewing thickness of 1.8mm, a threading aid, a weight of just 218 grams, and 10 bobbins. It can also handle yarn, has a long stick, four rolls of thread but doesn’t have the manual option to adjust the speed levels.

And due to the lack of batteries, it is also noticeable that this model is significantly lighter than its peers at just 7.7 ounce.

    What stands out?
  • This model was especially convincing in terms of its price-performance ratio. It is not just cheap but also delivers decent performance.
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • The low price results in a construction that could well be better. Specifically, this means that you have to assume that you will find gaps and unevenness in this model.
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9676 people in the past 30 days
8.5
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.0
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.1
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.3
8.5
5
Best Mechanical Model

Spring Come Hand Sewing Machine

Features
  • Power source: manual
  • Fabric’s thickness: ≤1.8 mm, suitable for light fabrics
  • Speeds:
  • Weight: 10.9 oz
  • Dimensions: 6.54 x 6.3 x 4.13 inches

Finally, with the model from Spring Come, we have the best mechanical mini hand sewing machine. Although it’s only suitable for light fabrics, the device remains lightweight at 309 grams and a maximum sewing thickness of 1.8mm, without being able to offer the manual option for speed regulation.

This model does everything right in terms of basic sewing performance, i.e. the clean sewing of seams. The seams are of very good quality and the handling is also kept very simple, which does not require any time to get used to. With it, even beginners can quickly start sewing than they can imagine.

Although it’s a bit expensive than the Mudder model, however, with 54 accessories, it’s definitely worth the money.

    What do we love it for?
  • What we like most about the machine is its pack of accessories. It is complete and extensive.
    What were we disappointed with?
  • This model is comparatively expensive for a manual machine.
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5697 people in the past 30 days
8.4
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
7.9
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.1
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.3
8.4
Features
  • Power source: 4 AA batteries, 6V power supply
  • Fabric’s thickness: ≤1.8 mm, suitable for fabrics, clothing, silk, wool, hem, curtains, perforations, etc.
  • Speeds: 1
  • Weight: 2 oz
  • Dimensions: 8.26 x 2.36 x 1.18 inches

Right at the front of our best hand sewing machine review is the Charminer Mini hand sewing machine. The machine is operated electronically and works with four AA batteries. It has a maximum sewing thickness of up to 1.8mm. Both thin and thick fabrics are supported, a threading aid is provided and there is also a replacement needle. Also, you can use thread, there is a lock button and no speed settings. It weighs 230 grams.

The Charminer Mini hand sewing machine can produce a decent performance with good, tear-resistant seams that are definitely worth seeing. Also, the price is attractive, as it is not above the usual market range and should therefore be affordable for most households.

This model unfortunately does not offer any speed levels to be able to offer an easier sewing experience.

    Why are we impressed?
  • According to our testers, its comparatively low weight is more than just competitive for a model with batteries, which can bring the model even further in terms of portability.
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • In contrast to the positive aspects, it was noticeable that the processing of the white plastic housing could be better at the corners and edges. There are always bumps that can even be perceived as unpleasant in the long run, which is a minor setback for the otherwise very convincing model from Charminer.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7965 people in the past 30 days
8.4
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.1
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.2
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.1
8.4
Features
  • Power source: 4 AA batteries, 6V power supply
  • Fabric’s thickness: ≤1.8 mm, suitable for fabrics, silk, canvas, denim, leather
  • Speeds: 1
  • Weight: 14.5 oz
  • Dimensions: 9.65 x 2.95 x 1.38 inches

The SoulLife mini sewing machine is a super simple handheld machine. It can be operated with one hand and allows a series of arrangements to be made on lightweight fabrics up to 1.8 millimeters thick. It is a battery-powered machine that is very useful in daily work.

Although it’s heavier, it’s still very compact. It weighs 14.5 ounces, that is, 411 grams, and measures 9.7 x 3.0 x 1.4 inches. It comes with several accessories that make it easy to do many jobs. It is ideal for children who want to start sewing. Its safe operation allows them to operate it without any risk of accidents.

    What makes it special?
  • Its safe, beautiful and compact design makes it perfect for introducing kids to the art of sewing, and children love to use it. They'll be able to play while they learn.
    What cons did we find?
  • The speed could be adjustable. It could also be lighter.
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5866 people in the past 30 days
9.4
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.0
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.0
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.9
9.4
8
Best Japanese Product

ZEROTONE Handheld Sewing Machine

Features
  • Power source: 4 AA batteries, 6V power supply
  • Fabric’s thickness: ≤0.08 mm, suitable for all kinds of fabric, clothing, silk, wool, hem, curtain, perforation, etc.
  • Speeds: 1
  • Weight: 9.6 oz
  • Dimensions: 2.5 x 8.2 x 1.3 inch

This small sewing machine from ZEROTONE is one of the best sellers online. The reasons are because it has an excellent price/quality and performance ratio. It is a portable, practical machine with a beautiful design, with incredible functionality for professional and home work.

It weighs just 272 grams and measures 2.5 x 8.2 x 1.3 inches in dimensions, which makes it ideal to carry in your purse, travel suitcase, or in your sewing kit. It is a machine that can sew adjustable seams very quickly and can be operated with one hand with the push of a button.

On the other hand, it allows working on a large number of fabrics. It can work on curtains, wedding dresses, and other delicate fabrics as it is not aggressive with soft fabrics. It is a machine that can be used equally by professionals and amateurs.

    What makes it stand out?
  • The machine is ideal for all types of fabrics, from silk to wool, curtains, hems, and more.
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • It has no adjustable speed setting. It comes in just one-speed level.
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 3297 people in the past 30 days
9.2
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.1
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.8
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.7
9.2
Features
  • Power source: 4 AA batteries, 6V power supply, USB
  • Fabric’s thickness: ≤1.8 mm, suitable for fabric, silks, denim, wool, leather, clothing, hem pants, jeans, hanging curtains, and toy crafts, etc,
  • Speeds: 1
  • Weight: 14 oz
  • Dimensions: 8.26 x 3.14 x 1.18 inches

The SAFETYON Handheld Sewing Machine is a machine with a stylish purple design and functionality that allows it to be used by sewing professionals, as well as amateurs or even beginners.

It runs on 4 AA batteries, allowing it to work without the hassle of cables or plugs. This machine can be used to work on many types of fabrics, of different textures and thicknesses. It is an ideal machine to make last-minute arrangements or to be used as a complement to daily work.

With a light weight and compact measurements, it comes with several accessories. It is an adjustable sewing machine and can make straight, curved, and circular seams without any problem. It comes with an instruction manual in many languages ​​including English.

    Why are we impressed?
  • It's a good piece of equipment that includes all the basics for easy sewing. Also, it is compact and light: so you can take it wherever you want, even in a pocket. It is quite fast for its mini size. Also, with it, you can sew fabrics of different thicknesses and textures such as jeans, leather, polyester, denim, or silk.
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • You can only use it with batteries because it does not come with an adapter cable for electrical power.

Things to Consider

Having seen an overview of the nominations and reviews of the individual products with the comparison table and having gone through the detailed product reviews, we would like to take a look at general questions on the subject. In this section, you would find analyses of the properties of a good handheld machine so that you can better understand why we have picked the products above and also make the best decision.

What is so good about handheld sewing machines and who needs one?

Indeed some sewing equipment has come to stay in our homes because they offer the possibility of getting simple and quick repairs without the need to disassemble your clothes. With them, you can get perfect crafts at a very low price.

A hand sewing machine is, so to speak, the little sister of a real sewing machine, as it was designed for quick, uncomplicated, and effective use. The main difference between the handheld and conventional types of sewing machines is the size. The hand sewing machine actually fits in one hand, while a normal sewing machine usually has to be placed on a stable table. Below are reasons why you should opt for a handheld sewing machine:

  • Economic and functional: They are ultra economical, and super functional with excellent versatility during use.
  • Super portable: Their light weight and their small dimensions make them the ideal machines to carry all the time with you.
  • Easy to use: Its operation is very simple and practical, this allows even adolescents and the elderly to use these machines correctly.
  • Full of accessories: The savings are huge when you have to look at the large number of accessories that these machines usually come with, that is, you will not need to buy anything else to start sewing.

Who needs one?

You should buy a hand sewing machine if:

  • You always want to touch up little things on your items of clothing;
  • You travel a lot and would like to sew something for a while on the go;
  • You don’t like to sew by hand with a regular needle or lose it frequently;
  • You don’t have the time or inclination to learn how to use a regular sewing machine

What to look for when buying a handheld sewing machine

As already described, when buying a hand sewing machine there are a few things that you should consider beforehand. Because it can be unclear for laypeople what to consider here, we have asked our testers to work with technical experts to define various criteria that simplify the evaluation and comparison of hand sewing machines. Below you will find the respective features so that you can get an overview for yourself.

Power source

The hand sewing machine has a special feature due to its design. Depending on which variant the manufacturer has chosen, a hand sewing machine can either be operated mechanically, i.e. with your own muscle power or with batteries. The model that convinced our experts from a mechanical point of view was the Spring Come Hand Sewing Machine because it can be easily operated with your muscle power. In contrast, there is the Singer Stitch Sew Quick which is operated electrically and by batteries.

Fabrics and compatibility

9 Best Handheld Sewing Machines – Shorter Training Period and Great Efficiency

Not all handheld machines can work on denim for example. Generally, handheld sewing machines are not for heavy-duty works. Rather, they are for light touchups. You have to ask yourself what you would be sewing with the device before buying. While some models like the Spring Come Hand Sewing Machine can only see light fabrics, devices like the Mudder Handheld Sewing Machine can sew various types of fabrics from silk to wool, etc., and can make handkerchiefs, aprons, gloves, craft, and patchworks.

Speeds

Speed ​​levels are also an interesting add-on, which helps to better process the materials under the needle. While there are devices with a single speed, your machine should be adjustable in two to three levels.

Dimensions and weight

The dimensions play an important role, especially with hand sewing machines, because you naturally want to save space and still work effectively. Accordingly, many manufacturers are working on bringing the smallest possible models onto the market that can still fulfill the basic functions.

Like the dimensions, the weight is particularly relevant in the case of a hand sewing machine, since it should be portable and easy to use. If this is not the case, it is difficult for manufacturers to justify the reason they ask consumers to use a hand sewing machine instead of a regular sewing machine. If you want really portable and light model, choose a manual machine. The model that is most portable and light is the Mudder Handheld Sewing Machine because in addition to its small dimensions it also has a low weight of 7.7 ounces.

Extras

  • Threading aid: Another practical function of hand sewing machines can be the threading aid. You know it yourself: you want to sew something, but you can’t get the thread into the eye of the needle, which is not only frustrating but also takes time. The threading aid helps here and makes this process much faster.
  • Replacement needle: Another practical feature for hand sewing machines is the availability of a spare needle. It makes you well prepared in the event of an emergency and you can continue sewing despite any difficulties.
  • Lock button: This is one functionality that is also found in normal sewing machines. It helps prevent accidental switching on or off.

Warranty

When purchasing a new device, you naturally want to be able to assume that it will be able to perform its duties reliably. An important factor that plays a special role in this regard is the warranty coverage because it creates a certain level of security right from the start. The model that is able to convince most in terms of warranty are, according to our testers, the Singer Stitch Sew Quick hand sewing machine, because it comes with a comprehensive service and appealing guarantee.

Prices

Every new purchase comes at a certain price. Precisely because a hand sewing machine is intended as a supplement and a quick solution for sewing, the price plays a very special role here. You don’t want a model that is inferior in quality, nor do you want to have to pay an exorbitant price that you could almost buy a regular sewing machine for. If you want a low budget model, choose the Amazing Creations Mini Sewing Machine, a manual model. Meanwhile, if you want a high-end electric model, choose the SINGER 01663.

FAQ

Do handheld sewing machines come with a warranty?

This depends on the brand. Reliable and popular brands usually include a warranty package with their models. Brands like Singer come with at least 12 months of warranty.

Can kids also use handheld sewing machines?

Yes, the safest and easiest type of sewing machine for children is the handheld sewing machine. They will even find it fun to use while learning the basics of the sewing craft.

Our verdict

As you could see in this review, not all hand sewing machines are the same. On the contrary, there are a few subtleties to be observed, especially with hand sewing machines, to really ensure that you can do your work as intended. Precisely for this reason and because we gave you a lot of information in the previous course that may not be processed so quickly, we want to finally list again the three models that will probably appeal to most people in the context of our hand sewing machine review.

We made the SINGER 01663 our Editor’s Choice because of its design and features. This machine is perfect for small jobs while not overloading normal tabletop and craft machines with work. It is powered with 4 AA batteries and weighs only 13.28 oz.

Our Best Needle Model is the Amazing Creations Handheld Sewing Machine. The machine is operated electronically and works with four AA batteries. It has a maximum sewing thickness of up to 1.8mm.

And the third place took the Budget Pick, the Amazing Creations Mini Sewing Machine. This is a manual sewing machine with a weight of just 7.8 ounces. Its small size of 4.33 x 4.72 x 2.76 inches and light weight make it easy to use. And when done, you can easily slip it into a suitcase or bag.

9,8
Total Score
SINGER 01663 - Editor's Choice
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