Portable sewing machines are ideal for taking on vacation, providing peace of mind that you can deal with any last minute fashion snafus.
They are also a good option for young people going off to college, as most portable sewing machines will fit easily and tidily into a dorm room.
And finally, if you’re taking sewing classes, a portable sewing machine in a roll-along case is the ideal option for ensuring you can be tutored on the machine you’ll be using every day.
It is important to note, however, that, in most cases, portable sewing machines, being significantly smaller than regular models are only really suitable for thin fabric and occasional use, such as for repairs, etc.
The Top 5 Portable Sewing Machines
#5: Brother LB6800PRW Project Runway with Carry Case
This is a full-size sewing machine, with all the functionality you’d expect, including 67 built in stitches, 70 built in embroidery designs, computer connectivity, and a brightly-lit LED workspace.
It also comes with a sturdy, roll-along carry case, making this the ideal machine to take to classes, or pack in the trunk for vacation sewing.
The bright workspace is ideal for those whose eyesight isn’t what it was, while the LCD touch screen makes this sewing machine easy to use.
However, the embroidery hoop area is set at 4”x4”, meaning it is not possible to use this machine for larger designs.
Also, setting up the machine is not an intuitive process, especially for novices.
Being a full-size, regular sewing machine, this is also expensive, and somewhat heavy and bulky.
Pros:
- Roll-along carry case for portability
- LED-lit workspace
- Touch screen operation
- Full size machine
Cons:
- Heavy and bulky
- Expensive
Value For Money?
While the roll-along carry case does make this a portable sewing machine in the broad sense, it may not be what people are actually looking for from a portable sewing machine, in which case the relatively high purchase price may not prove worth it.
You couldn’t, for example, throw this in your purse in case your pants ripped during a night out.
- Enjoy true versatility with a full range of 67 sewing stitches, comprehensive sewing functions, plus 4-inch-by-4-inch embroidery design and...
- Creative embroidery design options - with 70 built-in designs, 120 frame combinations and 5 lettering fonts; computer connectivity to import...
- Comes complete with 4-inch-by-4-inch embroidery hoop, 7 specialty sewing feet, designer rolling bag, USB cable, embroidery bobbin thread,...
#4: FlatLED Sewing Machine Mini Portable
This is a two speed, battery (4 x 1.5v AA) portable sewing machine, which can also be operated by 6v DC power.
It comes with a full range of accessories, and is easy to use.
However, being a very small – and very cheap – sewing machine, it is only intended to handle occasional, lightweight sewing jobs, and is not suitable for most regular sewing work.
It is also difficult to use for those whose hands are affected by arthritis or similar conditions.
- Pros:
- Affordable
- Accessories included
Cons:
- Light, occasional sewing needs only
- Not suitable for those with arthritis in their hands, or similar conditions
Value For Money?
If you simply want the reassurance of knowing you can replace a button or quickly repair a small tear whilst out and about, this could be the machine for you, as long as you don’t expect too much more from it.
#3: Nex Sewing Machine
This is an excellent sewing machine for children who are just learning to sew, as well as for on-the-go repair needs.
It features 12 built in stitches, a storage drawer, and a sewing light to help you see your work area.
However, it is not particularly durable, a disappointment considering that it is a little higher priced for smaller, portable sewing machines generally,
Pros:
- Sewing light
- Good for children as well as on-the-go jobs
Cons:
- Not durable
Value For Money?
This may be a good purchase as a back up sewing machine.
- Good for beginners and different speed to ensure the safety, 1 year warranty
- Please ensure the direction of the needle and the winding is fluent before sewing
- Size:10.8 x 4.8 x 10.2 inches. Please be sure to read the instructions carefully before operating this machine!
#2: Amado Mini Sewing Machine
This is a handheld sewing machine which is intended for occasional light repairs to thin fabric only.
While it is a very affordable portable sewing machine, it is not durable, and cannot handle large sewing jobs, or thicker fabric.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Handheld
Cons:
- Not durable
- Light, occasional sewing needs only
Value For Money?
It may be worth getting to keep in your purse as a “just in case”, especially at the price.
- Amado introduces its Portable Sewing Handheld Machine which is a great choice for the professional as a quick stitch tool for fabric,...
- The battery operated handheld sewing requires a very small power to operate which is 4 x AA batteries or DC 6V power adaptor. Since it uses...
- The best mini handheld sewing machine comes with a compact design which is very attractive. Not only ergonomic design but convenient to use...
#1: Amado Portable Sewing Machine
A little extra on the price of the Amado Mini buys you a lot more performance.
This is a lightweight, easy to use sewing machine, offering adjustable speed. Running on batteries (4 x 1.5v AA) or AC power, it gives you a little more power for those on the go sewing jobs.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Easy to use
Cons:
- None that we could find
Value For Money?
An affordable portable sewing machine for all your on-the-go and occasional needs.
- Small and convenient: This is a Mini portable sewing machine that strikes the perfect balance between having a convenient size and being...
- Adjustable: Adjusting is portable sewing mini machine is easy. The speed can be adjusted to ensure that any novice or even a master can work...
- Double switch: This unique sewing machine features a Pedal switch and a push button switch. It's up to you which one you want to use.