Working with specific fabrics can be a tumultuous process depending on what you’re working with. Finding a machine specifically tailored to your fabric can be a necessary, but challenging part of the process. Finding the best sewing machine for denim is no different. Within these specifications, though, there can be incredibly dense markets filled to the brim with various options that all satisfy different needs. For instance, those looking for sewing machines specifically made for dealing with denim will be surprised at the sheer variety currently available, subsequently making consumers feel indecisive. That’s what we’re going to help you with. We went looking for the best sewing machine for denim and we’d love to share our results.
Finding the best sewing machine that is not only adept at dealing with denim but also made from long-lasting materials is key. To aid you in your decision-making process, we, at Sewing Life have gone through and tested some of the market’s most notable sewing machine brands to help you determine the best sewing machine for denim.
In a Hurry? Here are Our Top Choices
Without further ado, here are the details of the 5 best sewing machines for denim:
5. Singer Heavy Duty 4423
You might recognize Singer as one of the leading brands in the sewing machine universe. This is because the brand has been continuously innovative over the years. They’ve given users a dedicated, trustworthy experience since the first sewing machines were widely popularized in the US in the late 1800s. As time has gone on to push various industries in different directions, Singer has continued to adapt. They’ve even branched out into electric models and more automated machines. With the Heavy Duty 4423 model, Singer has branched out to make a sewing machine that is specifically geared towards working with denim in an effort to connect with consumers on new levels.
We recommend this machine for those who are new to the sewing machine world and want to begin working with denim without worrying too much about a steep learning curve. The Singer 4423 is adept for this prospect due to its incredibly intuitive approach to stitching. The machine itself has 23 built-in stitches, meaning that you won’t have to struggle with customizing your exact approach to sew your denim. The design of the machine also allows you to thread into it easily, making it easy to quickly thread on the go and switch between different pieces of fabric with its automatic threader. The product itself is also remarkably lightweight, meaning that you can transport it relatively easily without worrying about it being too heavy.
Pros
- Lightweight at 14 Pounds
- Intuitive for beginners
- Low price range
Cons
- Not enough variety for advanced designs
We also have a full review of the Singer Heavy Duty 4423.
4. Toyota J34 Super Jeans
Though Toyota is mainly a brand associated with cars, they also do an impressive job with the sewing machines they make. In particular, Toyota sewing machines are good for those who want to have a variety of built-in stitches at their fingertips in order to have accurate control over the designs they’re sewing. The J34 Super Jeans sewing machine is a prime example of this, as it allows you to get your designs down to specifics in a way that isn’t as easily possible with other models in the market. What we especially love about this machine is its endurance. The Toyota J34 is truly made to last, sporting a stitch panel that is able to weather significant usage without budging an inch. This was especially useful during our three weeks of using the product rather intensely, showing little sign of wear and tear that we experienced with other products.
The durability of this product is also represented in its strength. It’s able to sew through 12 layers of 12 oz denim at a time. This makes even some of the most stressful jobs a breeze, with pricing that is typically only reserved for the models that are geared towards beginners. The main difference between the Toyota J34 Super Jeans and the aforementioned beginner models, though, is the ability to be flexible and get a variety of different types of stitches without simplifying the process.
Different parts of the machine such as the 6 presser feet help users be able to navigate multiple layers with ease and its lightweight design makes it even easier than ever to accurately transport and maintain. This is most recommendable to those who will be working with heavy types of denim or multiple layers due to its strength. Those who are also planning on transporting their machine will appreciate the durability.
Pros
- Lightweight model
- Accessible methods of changing patterns
- Can handle multiple levels or heavy denim
Cons
- Potentially prohibitive price range for some
3. Janome Magnolia 7330
Though they began with modest roots, Janome has certainly made a name for themselves with some of the most reliable products available in the sewing world, with the Janome Magnolia 7330 being no exception. Don’t let the design of the machine throw you off. It’s a well-powered and accessible sewing machine for a variety of different projects and fabrics. For example, it boasts an impressive amount of 30 built-in stitches that also let you adjust and compare the stretch, consistency, and overall tension to make sure that you’re getting the exact motions that you want.
Possibly the best aspect of the 7330 Magnolia, though, is the machines light weight that makes it incredibly easy to transport. This is why many people who want to gift a sewing machine to children or other types of beginners give the 7330 Magnolia. Being able to use the convenient carrying handle and knowing that you don’t have to stress about its weight makes it a perfect pick for those who are always on-the-go. The materials that the machine is made of also make it easy to carry. It also allows those who might have issues running heavy-duty machinery not to worry about wearing down their muscles in long-term, intensive sessions. Of the number of features available with this sewing machine, we especially loved the different types of decorative stitches that let us put a special spin on any fabric that we were using.
Pros
- Lightweight, effective design
- 30 built-in stitches
Cons
- Not as adjustable as other machines
2. Brother ST371HD
Brother is well-known for providing effective and high-quality products to a variety of different markets: whether you know them for their printers, computer parts, or their sewing machines, you’ll know Brother as a company that is consistently on the cutting edge. The biggest benefit that the Brother ST371HD sewing machine offers is its reasonable price point that allows those with experience to get a very good machine. Many sewing machines for denim of the same caliber cost almost three times the price of the ST371HD, making it a true value for the money.
Something that we appreciated when we used the product was the ability for the machine to take on 16 different needles so you can easily thread different types of fabrics with ease. If you’re looking for a machine that will handle denim as easily as it handles other types of fabric, then the ST371HD is for you. It can also give you great customization and smooth control when working with leather, something that is also incredibly helpful for those who frequently find themselves having to switch between or combine fabrics on the fly.
The performance of the ST371HD is also very notable. It does not waste much energy. With the power that it does use, it gives you a really strong threading without losing its edge, ensuring that you’re able to keep a consistent perspective without losing your speed. The automatic needle threader is very intuitive and offers customization, also making this a great machine for beginners who are looking into progressing their skills to the next level of desired experience.
Something that Brother stands out for overall, is its customer service and warranties that add to the product’s overall durability. Any questions that we had about the product were easily answered by the customer service support line, which was not only reliable but incredibly consistent. A strong warranty policy also ensures that your product will be covered from any type of wear and tear or defects, something that is especially helpful when looking for sewing machines to use with denim. If you’re somebody who might make the mistake of using a material of wrong thickness or underestimate your speed when switching fabrics, it’s good to know that the company is just as reliable as the product itself.
Pros
- Great customer service and warranty measures
- Cheap price point, affordable
- Accessible for varying experience levels
Cons
- Could have more customization options for stitches
1. Janome DC2014
At the top of our list rests the Janome DC2014, the sewing machine that is not only most compatible with a variety of different types and weights of denim but also incredibly flexible. The success in the DC2014 lies in its foundation. As a computerized sewing machine, it provides ease that can only be seen with more automated models. Something that is not as often explored by machines that are more focused on giving you specific amounts of analog control. Being able to automate more of the processes than ever before ensures that you’ll be able to complete your designs and sewing projects with ease without having to think at all about strategy or how to effectively use resources.
It also has an absolutely enormous level of customization for a machine of it’s kind. With 50 built-in stitches, you can get a variety of different patterns to fit any sort of thread you want to use. Within these stitches, you can adjust the type of quilting, applique, and even the specific stretch. It’s also very easy to secure and hold the fabric in place so to make sure that it won’t travel too far while you’re adjusting the stitch.
For those who enjoy having a precise level of control over the speed and pressure with which they put in certain stitches, the DC2014’s tension and speed control modes will provide the variety necessary to nail down any specifics you might want to have.
All of these wonderful features are tied together with an intuitive sense to the machine that comes out most effectively in the LED display and various buttons that show you exactly what is going on. While we were using this product, we did not lose track of any settings or options that we had adjusted, something that we believe is a testament to the product’s flexibility.
It should be noted, though, that the DC2014 is not the most portable product out of our list of sewing machines for denim. At 18 pounds, it might be difficult for some to carry, but it is more than worth it when you take into consideration how effective and durable the machine is. Something that might deter consumers, though, is the price point. As the highest quality machine on the market, though, the DC2014 is more than worth the value you pay for it. Because of its convenience, accessibility, and customization options, the DC2014 takes the title as the best sewing machine for denim with ease.
Pros
- Over 50 different stitches
- Easy customization options
- Durable and high-quality
Cons
- Price point relatively high
- A bit heavy for a machine of its kind (18 pounds)
Decision Time: Which is the Best Sewing Machine for Denim & for You?
We’ve laid out for you, the best sewing machines for denim. Now it’s time for you to decide which one is the best option for you. Depending on your specific needs, any of the five on our list may suit you best.
We hope you’ve found the sewing machine of your dreams. Once again, here are what we found to be the best sewing machines for denim.
