The average weight of a regular sewing machine is between 15-18 pounds. For a model with a large cabinet and extra features, it can weight up to 50 pounds. But if your after the perfect sewing machine for an individual or extensive use, it is rightly said that heavier is better. While the portability of lightweight machines permits it to easily be transported for classes or home visits or house parties, it might lack some of the qualities such as power and stability.
In general, for an entry-level or midrange sewing machine, a weight of at least 15 pounds is ideal. It ensures the stability of your machine that’s needed for sewers of all levels – beginner, intermediate and pro. However, it is ultimately something that comes down to personal preferences, which can be influenced by various factors such as the size of the space available and its intended use.
“Heavy machines are generally more robust and deliver better results than lightweight ones,’’ says Lindsay Taylor, a sewing expert at Sew Tech. This is because heavy machines are of superior quality, providing a solid foundation and better stability. These machines are an ideal choice for all kinds of fabric, making complex stitches like boat-stitch and reverse stitch. Heavy machines also come with all the necessary accessories, like a hardcover and foot controller, making them even heavier.
Overall, the heavier the machine, the greater the quality. A heavier machine would last a lot longer, especially if the user has a specific purpose in mind. But if convenience and portability is of utmost importance, a lighter machine might be a better option, as a lightweight machine would be easier to carry up stairs, or from front yard to the back yard or across town.
One of the advantages of a light machine is the fact that it operates much quieter than its bulky counterparts, providing a pleasurable sewing experience. Lightweight machines are also preferred by sewers who want an affordable machine. They can do basic mending, quilting, and garment creation without the extra heft and expensive features.
In summary, how much a sewing machine weighs is something sewers have to decide based on specific needs. In most cases, a light machine may not be the best choice for projects other than basic mending, but a heavy machine comes with a price and might be too heavy for some.
Sewing Machine Weight According to Type
Weight of a sewing machine may also vary depending on the type. A full-size machine can range from 15 to 30 pounds. For instance, an in-store sample machine can typically weigh around 18 to 20 pounds. On the other hand, full-size industrial machines can exceed 200 pounds.
Meanwhile, domestic machines tend to be lighter than industrial machines, as they can range from 7 to 25 pounds. Domestic machines are mainly used by beginners, hobbyists, and quilters, and can easily fit in small places.
A mini or portable sewing machine weighs about 8 pounds but can go as low as 4 pounds or high as 10 or 12 pounds. This makes them popular for learners who want to give sewing a try from the comfort of their homes. But keep in mind that portables might have fewer features, making them limited to certain projects.
A free-arm machine has an arm or extension by the needle; this adds weight ranging from 13 to 19 pounds. This type of machine is especially useful for sewing garments, enabling sewers to feed sleeve and collars into the unit easily. It also comes with a different array of features than a regular machine.
Computerized machines, on the other hand, can weigh around 7 to 45 pounds. Computerized models take sewing to the next level with their automated options, like the speed and patterns, making them ideal for experienced sewers.
Lightweight Materials Affecting Sewing Machine Weight
Today’s manufacturers are producing machines made of lightweight materials such as plastic and metal, even though more expensive motorized machines are still made primarily of metal. By choosing a machine made with lightweight materials such as plastic, manufacturers can reduce the weight by up to 15 pounds.
Meanwhile, heavyweight machines tend to be quieter and much more durable than lightweight models. As durable as lightweight machines might be, they are more prone to wear and tear due to the lighter parts that compose them, such as plastic or aluminum gears. Heavier machines also tend not to vibrate as much as their lightweight counterparts.
Moreover, heavier machines are made up of more metal components that provide a steadier base and better results with various fabrics. They also ensure the stability of the job and the overall accuracy of the stitches.
Does Sewing Machine Weight Matter?
Whether a machine is light or heavy, the user should consider their needs before buying. Sewers who plan to use their machine for complex jobs and take frequent trips should go for a heavier model. On the flip side, sewers who need a machine for short trips and simpler tasks can opt for a lightweight model.
In general, the cost of the sewing machine is usually inversely proportional to its weight – meaning that lightweight machines are usually cheaper than model with a hefty weight.
Ultimately, machine weight matters and should be considered thoroughly by anyone who is looking to purchase a machine that can handle increased workloads and provide hours of sewing pleasure.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Sewing Machine
While weight may be an important factor to consider when selecting the right statement, there are other factors to consider too. When buying a machine, check the type of stitches, the speed of the machine, the number of presser feet, noise level, and the ability to upgrade.
What’s more, consider what kind of fabric you plan to use. If you plan to sew heavy fabrics like denim, then invest in a heavy-duty sewing machine with a powerful motor. But if you plan to sew lightweight and delicate fabrics, then go for a lightweight machine with lower speeds.
Moreover, check the system type and compatible needles, as well as the size of the bobbin case and the throat size, if you’re looking to sew particularly large pieces. A larger throat size means that you can easily fit a larger piece of fabric under the machine’s arm.
Finally, look for machines with digital displays, which will allow you to adjust the settings easily and monitor the machine’s performance in real-time.
Advantages of Owning a Sewing Machine
No matter how weighty a machine is, the greatest benefit of owning one is that it can open up creative doors. It allows sewers to quilt, embroider, monogram letters, and even add 3D embellishments to finished projects. A sewing machine can also save sewers money when it comes to making and altering clothing, pillows, and curtains.
It is also a great way to come up with custom gifts. Customized t-shirts, blankets, or bags can make great presents! Owning a sewing machine also means being able to practice sewing on scraps of fabric, giving sewers an idea of which settings will produce a great-looking project.
Plus, the time it takes to work on something and get it finished is greatly reduced, allowing sewers to focus on other important tasks. Also, hand-sewing fine moves or complex seams can be really difficult, but machines can make consistent even stitches.
Caring for Your Sewing Machine
Caring for your sewing machine is essential, regardless of its weight. To ensure that your machine runs smoothly, regular maintenance is essential. The frequency of maintenance depends on how often you use your machine, so check with a technician.
But aside from regular checkups, keep in mind that its best you don’t lift your machine without help, as the internal parts can be easily damaged; instead, slide it into a bag and carry it to the place that you want.
After you finish a project, remove the fabric that’s still in the machine, then use a brush to remove fabric bits, lint, dust, or other materials from crevices. Before you put the machine away for a long time, lubricate the parts according to the instructions specified in the manual.
Sewing Machine Safety Tips
When you’re using a sewing machine, safety is key. To ensure that everyone is injury-free, it’s better to keep small children away from the room and to keep the machine clean. Avoid using it in wet conditions, such as if there’s thunder or lightning.
On that note, use bad cords safely to avoid electric shock – before using, check to make sure that all the parts are attached. Additionally, make sure your machine is properly grounded and replace the parts as soon as they exhibit signs of deformity or wear.
Most importantly, read the manual carefully before use. If a part seems confusing or unfamiliar, contact a local technician for advice.
