Handheld Sewing Machines: Pros And Cons

There are several reasons handheld sewing machines can be a great alternative for your sewing needs.

Sewing is a great way to save money. Not only can you easily repair torn clothing and fallen hems, you can create awesome clothing. Costumes and crafts are also fun items that you can easily create. One question you may have is whether to buy a simple handheld sewing machine. These are smaller and simpler to use than full-size machines but are also limited in scope. Here are a few pros and cons to owning a handheld sewing machine versus a full-size machine.

Small Hands

If you have older children interested in sewing, a hand held machine could be just the machine they need. They are small, operate easily and are portable, making them an excellent gift for your college bound child. So, whether your interest is in introducing the joys of sewing to young children or providing a handy repair tool for your adult child, hand held machines are a good idea.

Portable

Perhaps the number one reason many people invest in a hand held sewing machine is portability. These little machines seldom weigh more than a pound or so and are rarely over seven inches long. Perfect for stowing in your carryon luggage, handbag or even a pocket if you are so inclined. Some people even choose to keep one at the office just for sewing emergencies.

Price

When you compare a handheld sewing machine to a standard machine, the price for the smaller of the two is a mere fraction of larger models. As a rule, hand held sewing machines will range from $10- $100. Note that higher priced units are usually not true hand helds because they need a sturdy surface to operate.

Cons

Don't be disappointed by believing that you will be able to do the same job with a hand held as you can with a standard sewing machine. They are good for small tears and quick fixes but they will not provide the same quality seam as your regular machine will.

Another common issue with these small machines is their productivity. Hand held sewing machines require much threading. Realize as well that material jams are common, especially if you are taking on a large job.

Conclusion

Is it worth your time to buy a hand held sewing machine? Honestly the answer is, it depends. If you plan to do much sewing or expect tight even stitches, a standard machine will serve you better. On the other hand, if you are prone to small accidents and want a simple way to take care of these issues then a hand held is a great option.