Looking for the best sewing machine in India and you’re stuck which one to get for home use or beginners – Bernette Sew & Go 8, Usha Janome or Singer 8280? Well, this guide will surely help you out!
There are so many sewing machine models with incredible features due to which it becomes difficult to choose the best out of so many options available. I have faced the same situation. It is only through extensive research and first-hand experience that I have managed to buy the right product every single time.
If you are also planning to buy a new sewing machine, you are at the right place.
Usha vs Singer vs Brother electric sewing machines: comparison
Now, let’s first compare Usha, Singer, and Brother sewing machines, especially focusing more on Usha Janome Dream Stitch vs Singer 8280.
You can say it’s a comparative study for these 3 brands dealing with the electric sewing machines between the price range Rs. 8,000 – 9,500.
| USHA | SINGER | BROTHER |
|---|---|---|
| USHA has been synonymous with sewing machines for decades in India. This no. 1 Indian sewing machine company is known for its durable & reliable products. | Established in 1851, Singer, an American brand produces top-notch automatic machines. They are recognised as one of the leaders in sewing machine market in the world. | Japanese company Brother focuses more on basic mechanical & computerised sewing machines for beginners & hobbyists. Brother has outstanding ratings when it comes to customer-satisfaction. |
| 7 in-built stitch patterns and 7 stitch functions | 8 in-built stitch patterns and 24 stitch functions | 20 stitch functions |
| 550 stitches per minute | 750 stitches per minute | 600 stitches per minute |
| 4 step buttonhole sewing | Has 4 step buttonhole sewing | 4 step buttonhole |
| Has in-built sewing light | In-built sewing light | In-built sewing light |
| Has free arm | Free arm | Free arm |
| Auto trip bobbin winder | Automatic bobbin winding | Top load bobbin |
| Thread tension control | Automatic tension | Tension control |
| Accessories included | Comes with accessories | Accessories included |
| Reverse stitching and automatic zigzag sewing | Darning plate for free motion sewing and twin needle sewing | Straight and zigzag stitch. 3 needle positions. Triple strength stitching |
My verdict: Brother, Singer or Usha?
All these brands are great. Usha is affordable with variety of models and features. Also, it has awesome positive reviews. It can be your go-to brand. But, when it comes to low price range, Singer definitely offers more features and models for every budget.
At a little higher price end, Brother is somewhat better than Singer when it comes to features as well as functionality. However, I have not included any sewing machine from Brother on the list because of the non-availability of the products online and the lack of reviews in India.
Side note – Bernina (Bernette) is another brand which is definitely among the top 5 best sewing machine brands in the world. The downside is that their products are more pricey as compared to its competitors. May be it’s Swiss made? If you have no budget restriction and are looking for a premium model, then get a Bernina sewing machine. Bernette Sew & Go 8 (review below) will not disappoint you.
6 best sewing machines for home use in India
I have compiled a list of the best sewing machines in India for home use along with detailed reviews and FAQs. Believe me, this will be your ultimate buying guide.
1. Singer Start 1306
Singer is one of the brands that I have personally witnessed evolving. When it comes to sewing machines, it is highly trusted. As the name suggests, Singer “Start” is best for beginners as it is really easy to use.
If you want to learn sewing or just want to get your creativity flowing, you should get your hands on this product. It is fast and comfortable and you need not hassle much or figure out too many things while using it. Take a look at the features:
| Type and Speed | Electrical with 750 stitches per minute |
| Buttonhole sewing | 4-step |
| 6 built-in stitch patterns | It comes with a variety of stitch features that makes stitching easy and fun. With 4 buttonhole, 1 decorative, and 1 basic stitch pattern, you are all set to master the skill. |
| Three presser feet | Combination of all-purpose foot, buttonhole foot, and zipper foot makes it efficient. |
| LED lighting | Lights up the entire area while you are sewing and makes the whole process easy and convenient |
| Removable free arm | Provides easy access to difficult-to-reach areas |
| Other Features | Easy stitch selection, automatic winding, preset stitch length and width, printed threading diagrams |
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Best for beginners | No auto start or stop feature |
| Free motion sewing | |
| Quick and easy threading with printed threading diagrams | |
| Portable and lightweight | |
| Heavy duty metal frame |
2. Singer 8280 (highly recommended)
This is yet another incredible sewing machine by Singer. This versatile machine can do almost every type of sewing, be it fashion sewing or home decorative sewing. I love it because it lets you be creative and innovative. It has 24 stitch functions which is just incredible. Have a look at the features and decide for yourself:
| Type and speed | Electric with 800 stitches per minute |
| Buttonhole sewing | 4-step |
| 7 built-in stitch patterns | The variety of built-in stitch patterns enrich your experience and encourage you to experiment more. |
| Needle position | You can adjust the position of the needle as per your requirement and try out different designs. |
| Built-in light | Provides visibility while sewing |
| Adjustable stitch length & width | Using this feature, you can use any type of fabric to stitch strong seams and can also avoid bunching. You just need to turn the dial to adjust the length and width of the stitch. |
| Free arm | Allows easy access to areas which are difficult to reach |
| Other features | Oscillating shuttle mechanism, tension adjustment |
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Easy to setup and use | No LED lighting |
| Lightweight | No auto start and stop |
| Heavy duty metal frame | |
| Accessory storage facility | |
| Compact and portable |
3. Usha Janome Dream Stitch (Our Top Pick)
Usha is a brand that needs no introduction. I am sure every household must have at least one Usha product. Usha sewing machines are known for their great quality. Designed to make your job smoother, Usha Janome Dream Stitch has various features that makes it one of the best sewing machines in India for home use. Have a look:
| Type and speed | Electric with 550 stitches per minute |
| Buttonhole sewing | 4-step |
| 7 built-in stitches & 7 stitch applications | Helps you explore many different functionalities and ideas while sewing |
| In-built sewing light | Illuminates the sewing area. Improves visibility while sewing so that you can work more efficiently |
| Thread tension control | This makes sure that you don’t break the thread while sewing. |
| Single touch reverse stitch lever | Using this feature, you can sew backwards and ensures strong stitching. |
| Free arms | Ensures circular stitching and easy access to hard-to-reach parts |
| Other features | Auto trip bobbin winder, automatic zigzag sewing |
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Also comes with free sewing kit worth Rs. 500 | The sewing light has no switch so it can’t be turned off during daytime |
| Automatic | |
| Accessory storage compartment | |
| Lightweight and portable with handle | |
| Compact size |
4. Usha Janome Wonder Stitch
This versatile automatic zigzag sewing machine is perfect for you if you are ready to take your skills to next level. Using the advanced features of this machine, you are all set to go wild with your creativity. Have a look and get amazed:
| Type and speed | Electric with 860 stitches per minute |
| Buttonhole sewing | 1-step |
| Drop feed mechanism | Using this feature, you can do free hand embroidery. |
| 13 built-in stitches with 21 stitch functions | The variety encourages you to take your creativity to next level. |
| Built-in needle threader | With this feature, you do not need to struggle with threading the needing on your own. |
| Free arm | Circular stitching and easy access to hard-to-reach parts |
| In-built light with a switch | Provides visibility |
| Other features | Thread cutter, automatic zigzag sewing, and automatic tripping bobbin system |
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Free sewing kit worth Rs. 500 provided | Brand no longer gives demo DVD |
| Triple strength stitch | Can be a bit expensive |
| Automatic | |
| Portable and compact |
5. Bernette Sew & Go 8 (Computerized Sewing Machine)
If you are looking for a computerised sewing machine, then this is one of the best models you can get your hands on. It is a complete package full of variety of features. Offering 197 stitch patterns, this machine should be your first choice if you want great performance. Have a look at these amazing features:
| Type and speed | Computerised with 850 stitches per minute |
| Buttonhole sewing | 1-step |
| 197 in-built stitch patterns | Includes letters, signs, and numbers |
| Feed dog drop | Allows free hand embroidery and quilting |
| Automatic needle threader | Makes your job easier as you do not need to hassle with threading the needle anymore |
| LED screen | Ensures best viewing of all the features and settings |
| Start/stop button and needle stop up/down | No need of foot control anymore |
| Memory function | With the help of this unique feature, the individual stitch combinations get saved. |
| Other features | Twin needle capability, speed regulator, and manual thread tension adjustment |
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Easy to operate | Expensive |
| High speed and speed regulator | Isn’t really lightweight |
| Fresh design | |
| Pull-out stitch overview | |
| Direct stitch selection and adjustment |
6. HNESS Electric Sewing Machine (Best under 5000)
You do not need to worry about all those torn clothes because HNESS electric sewing machine is best for home tailoring. It will take care of all your DIY projects. If you are a newbie, this machine will help you get started in the best way possible.
However, I recommend you this product only if you have a tight budget or can’t afford the above sewing machines.
Designed keeping your safety in mind, it has some good features which makes it one of the cheapest and best sewing machines in India, especially for beginners. See for yourself:
| Type | Electric |
| 7 built-in stitch patterns | Helps beginners to try out new ideas |
| Built-in LED light | Offers great visibility |
| Forward and reverse sewing | Ensures strong stitching |
| Transparent plate | The transparent block protects your finger from getting injured by the needle |
| Free arm | Easy access to hard-to-reach parts |
| Two way supply | Can be operated by both batteries and external power supply |
| Other features | Thread width is adjustable, has automatic winding function |
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Great for beginners | Not great on too light or too heavy material |
| Easy to use | No advance control as it is a basic machine |
| Highly affordable | |
| Accessories included | |
| Compact and lightweight | |
| Portable |
Mechanical vs electrical vs computerised vs embroidery sewing machine
With the advancement in technology, different types of sewing machines ranging from mechanical to embroider can easily be found in the market. To choose the best machine for yourself, it is important to be aware about the different types of sewing machines. Different factors like budget, comfort, and skill level should be considered while buying any kind of sewing machine.
Here’s brief information about different types of sewing machines available in the market:
1. Mechanical sewing machine
This is one of the oldest and most basic sewing machines that can be found in most households and tailoring shops. I have grown up using this machine. It is typically known as manual sewing machine as the settings are done manually. These machines are highly affordable and have all the basic features required for stitching.
This is the best option for people who have just started sewing or wish to learn sewing. It is not very efficient or advanced as compared to other types of sewing machines available and can be very limiting. There are hardly any in-built stitch patterns or functions. This machine is good for basic stitching but can’t be used for other creative purpose like embroidery and quilting.
Price range in India: Rs. 2,500 to 15,000.
2. Electrical sewing machine
It offers a variety of feature that adds it to the favourite list of people. Many people go for electrical sewing machine because it is easy to use, lightweight, compact, and portable. This machine is best for beginners who don’t want to hassle manually.
It comes with in-built stitch patterns and functions, which make it a perfect choice for your creative DIYs. With features like drop feed mechanism, it can even be used for free hand embroidery. These machines are usually automatic or semi-automatic with other convenient features like adjustable needle positioning, adjustable stitch length, and width. Like manual sewing machine, it is also highly affordable and can be repaired easily.
Price range in India: Rs. 6,000 to 25,000
3. Computerised sewing machine
This machine isn’t for everyone and is basically designed for industrial purpose. It uses high-end technology and can be easily connected to the computer or internet. It is highly efficient and comes with large number of in-built stitch patterns and functions.
You can download different patterns from the internet. It makes use of various needles and spool spinners and can be used for quilting, embroidering, smocking, and so on along with sewing. It has autopilot stitching mode, which allows it to take control of the speed, thread tension, etc.
This type of heavy duty machine is best for textile industries. It is expensive and big in size. Since this type of machine is usually dependent on internet, the working can be hampered due to technical issues.
Price range in India: Rs. 25,000 to 1,00,000
4. Embroidery sewing machine
When it comes to creativity, this is the best type of machine. As the name suggests, it is used for embroidery. It is usually used for commercial purpose. It uses texture-building technique to create different patterns. You can even do embroidery using an electrical sewing machine.
However, an embroidery sewing machine saves efforts and time as it is designed for this specific purpose only. They are a bit expensive as compared to the electric sewing machine. They even save information like patterns, colour, and outlines. I suggest it only if you are highly interested in embroidery or creative production otherwise an electric machine would be the best.
Price range in India: Rs. 8,000 to 80,000
How to choose the best sewing machine for home use?
While buying a sewing machine for home use, you must take different factors into consideration. Here’s a list to make your job easier.
Budget
Sewing machines can range from 5,000 to 1,00,000 Rupees. It is important to have a clear budget that you can allot to the buying machine. This will help you filter out the options available for you. It will also determine the type of sewing machine you can buy. Make a budget taking your skills and the required features into consideration. This way, you will make a smart choice.
Speed
The speed of a sewing machine is one of the top determining factors for the effectiveness. The speed of a sewing machine can range from 80 SPM to 800+ SPM. It depends on the brand and the price range. I personally recommend Singer if you are looking for a high speed sewing machine at affordable price. Features like speed regulator help you sew according to your convenience.
Stitching options
Different machines come with different stitching patterns and options. Go for the machine whose stitching options match best with your project or requirement. Some basic stitch options that you should consider while buying a sewing machine are – straight stitch, zigzag, stretch straight, tri motion, blind hem, and buttonhole.
Bobbin
Buying a machine with a poorly designed bobbin system can be quite frustrating. I have often struggled with bobbin and believe me, it isn’t fun. I recommend top loading bobbin simply because you needn’t hassle much with it and it won’t irritate you.
Top loading bobbin is easily visible when your bobbin thread is low. You needn’t struggle with dissembling the bobbin case. Slide open the panel and the bobbin drops in the place. It is so relieving.
Feet technology
The choice of the feet totally depends on the kind of project you are buying the machine for. If you are buying it for basic sewing, buttonhole and overcast stitching feet are must. For heavy projects like quilting or embroidery, feet like spring action or walking is required.
Accessories included
Do check out the additional accessories offered while buying a sewing machine. Nowadays, machines come with a number of additional accessories that make stitching more effective and fun. Look for accessories like embroidery foot, extra bobbin cases, and storage space. Usha even offers free sewing kit.
After sale customer services
Always go for a sewing machine that comes with warranty. Even if anything goes wrong, you can get it fixed with the help of an effective after sale services. Do your research and go through the customer reviews in order to learn about the quality of customer services available. Go for a trusted brand that is known for its service.
Why you should have a sewing machine at home?
Sewing machine is easily one of the best investments that you can make. If you haven’t bought a sewing machine yet, these reasons will definitely make you buy one:
You needn’t spent hefty amount of money on tailoring shop. With a sewing machine, you can easily mend your own clothes at homes without much effort.
With so many creative features, you can try out all the DIYs you have been watching on YouTube since forever. Just get yourself a lightweight and compact electric sewing machine and you are good to go.
I mean, go wild with your creativity. You can stitch soft toys, shoes, embroider clothes, recycle old clothes, stitch furniture and pillow covers, and make decorative things for your home. There is literally so much you can do with a sewing machine. Show the world your amazing ideas.
If sewing machines have always fascinated you like me but you have never tried your hands on it, you can simply learn basic stitching and have fun with all the useless clothes around. It is always great to learn something new and fun like stitching. Who knows you might end up mastering the skill.
It can even open a new source of income for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much could a sewing machine for home use cost in India?
The cost of a sewing machine can vary depending on the type, brand, model, and features. We have mentioned some of the best and affordable sewing machines in this article.
HNESS Electric Sewing Machine is highly affordable if you are looking for a basic sewing machine. Usha and Singer are also highly affordable. Make sure you do a thorough research about the price range before buying the machine.
Go for mechanical sewing machine if you are looking for basic features and have low budget. It will hardly cost between Rs. 1,500 to 2,500. Electric sewing machine is best for advanced features and average budget. It will cost between Rs. 6,000 to 25,000.
Is sewing easy and can I learn online?
Definitely. Sewing is no rocket science. I learned sewing watching from my mother. It is easy and fun. Nowadays, sewing machines come with DVDs along with a manual. It makes the job easier.
You can easily learn sewing online. With so many free resources, platforms, and tutorials available, learning online is the new trend. You can watch videos on YouTube and master the skill. If want to master the skill even more, you can enrol for an online course that deals with sewing.
You can even participate in forums where people who have been learning sewing discuss and share things. With a lot of practice and patience, you will even be able to do embroidery and quilting using a sewing machine. Have faith and get started.
How often should I clean or oil my sewing machine?
Once you buy a sewing machine, it is important to take proper care of it. Cleaning instructions are always mentioned in the manual that comes with the sewing machine. Make sure you go through it once after purchasing the machine.
There is no harm in wiping your machine with a clean dry cloth whenever you take it out to use it. It will remove the dust particles collected on the surface. Clean your machine thoroughly every once in a while. Oiling your machine every four months will ensure smooth functioning.
It is equally important to get your machine professionally serviced once in a while. Apart from this, keep checking if there’s any problem with the machine.
My final words
I remember Usha or Singer being the first choice whenever we thought of buying a new sewing machine. With the passage of time and advancement in technology, sewing machines have evolved a lot. Now, you can find mechanical, electrical as well as computerised sewing machines.
You should definitely get a sewing machine. I personally suggest you to go for Usha or Singer as they offer a great deal of variety at affordable price range. Both of these are trusted brands so there won’t be any problem with customer service. Electric sewing machines are definitely my first choice due to their versatility. They will make learning experience easy and fun.
I have provided you with detailed reviews along with a complete buying guide that you can use while buying the best sewing machine for home use in India. Happy DIY!