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To bring out the best in your sewing creations, not only do you need dexterous fingers and a creative mindset, you’ll need control. And much like the pianist to their set of pedals, for the sewist, nowhere does this become more relevant then when using a sewing machine with a foot pedal. Sure, there are quite a number of sewists out there who get by without using foot pedals but is this truly the best course of action?
We beg to differ. A sewing machine fitted with a foot pedal brings with it an innumerable number of benefits.
This, of course, includes gaining control, consistency and comfort when it comes to manipulating the speed of your sewing machine. This may not sound like much at first glance but just trust us on this – this simple feature can drastically alter the quality of any sewing creation for the better when used under the right hands (or foot so to speak).
So, if you’re convinced and happen to be looking for a sewing machine right now, there is no reason why you shouldn’t be targeting for a decent machine that comes fitted with a foot pedal. Heck, even if you find it to be too annoying for your tastes, most models allow you to remove them later down the line!
Thus, this is where our list kicks in. Continue reading on and check out our take on some of the best sewing machines out there in the market you can get right now that happens to come with a foot pedal.
Best Sewing Machine with Foot Pedal of 2020
1. SINGER 7258 100-Stitch Computerized 76 Decorative Stitches Sewing Machine
If you’re looking for a sewing machine that blends both functionality along with neat, technological innovation, then the Singer 7258 might just be the ideal pick for you. Not only does it come equipped with a universal foot pedal, but it also delivers a computerized interface that allows you – with a single press of a button – to specify a range of things from your desired stitch type, length, tension and even width.
It isn’t too unwieldy as well, sitting at a size of 14.5 x 7.5 x 12 inches and weighing under 15 lbs so if travel is something high on your radar, this sewing machine won’t hold you back in any way.
With an impressive list of 100 built-in stiches, a 6 point feed dog system, LED white lamp to illuminate even the dimmest of workspaces, twin needle capabilities and even 7 full automated 1-step buttonholes, the sky truly is the limit with this machine.
Lastly, take note that the Singer 7258 also comes with a whopping 25-year limited warranty if you are based in the US or Canada so with care and love, it isn’t too much of a stretch to claim that this sewing machine can last for a long lifetime to come.
2. Brother Sewing and Quilting Machine, XR3774
Designed with both the freshest novice to the most seasoned of veterans in mind, the Brother XR3774 has something in store for just about anyone. Featuring its capability to handle the whole range of everyday sewing projects (including quilting), with the machine’s 37 built-in stitches, 8 sewing feet and included sewing feet, you’ll be able to let loose all your full creativity with the XR3774.
Its pre-installed foot pedal is also at the top of the line compared to other alternative products in the market, boasting very responsive action and smooth experiences.
You’ll also find that it comes with an included instructional DVD that’ll get you to grips on how to get started and though it lacks the computerized LED of the product above, selecting your stiches is as easy as a walk in the park thanks to its Easy Stich Selector mechanism. Just turn the dial as you would a microwave and you’ll be set to go!
This sewing machine too, makes for a pretty compact product despite what it promises to achieve standing at 15.3 x 5.8 x 12 inches and weighing out at 18.3 pounds so even if you lived in a cramped flat or intend to move around with the XR3774 in hand, these activities will be totally feasible.
And of course, we all love having a warranty so you can rest assured that indeed, the XR3774 comes with your standard 25 year limited warranty.
3. Imax FHSM-202 Mini 2-Speed Sewing Machine With Foot Pedal
If you are a serious traveler and intend on lugging around a sewing machine throughout your numerous journeys, then you should definitely consider purchasing a machine that is designed with the avid traveller in mind. One such device is Imax’s FHSM-202 that is absolutely built with portability and compactness in mind.
Measuring out at just 7.9 x 7.6 x 5.0 inches and at a weight of 2.61 lbs, you’ll still be able to do pretty much anything you’d normally do with a regular sized sewing machine.
Offering 2 different speed configurations (high and low) along with a start – stop button which allows you to continue sewing even without a foot control pedal (which is included) and paired with a range of accessories including a light bulb, thread spools and a built-in thread cutter, you won’t have to worry about lugging too many additional amenities as well.
Most interestingly however is how the Imax FHSM-202 is powered: via 4 x AA batteries. That’s right – gone are the days of moving around long, heavy wires, though you’ll still have the option to use a power cord if that’s what you prefer! Though do take careful note that batteries aren’t included in the initial purchase to avoid any potential disappointment.
4. SINGER | Heavy Duty 4452 Sewing Machine with 32 Built-In Stitches
Standing as the antithesis to the portability of the Imax FHSM-202, Singer’s Heavy Duty 4452 will offer a powerhouse of an experience with its professional grade build and capabilities.
Boasting an impressive range of 32 built-in stiches along with highspeed functions which allow the machine to operate at a mindboggling sewing speed of 1110 stiches per minute, there is a very good reason why the Singer 4452 is a staple mainstay in a number of commercial sewing warehouses – it produces good results fast.
It even comes with an in-built automatic needle threader which allows you to effortlessly thread those tricky little needles without the worry of hurting your eyesight or fumbling about with sore fingers. And better yet, it includes a number of key accessories such as feed and walking feet, needles, a clearance plate and even a foot pedal!
Durability is also a key factor in the making of this device as you’ll be able to notice given its mainly steel design which can withstand even the roughest and meanest of hands. And this paired with its complementary dust cover and 25 year limited warranty only if anything, ensures a long life to come.
Though, you should know that this sewing machine is quite large, standing at 15.5 x 6.2 x 12 inches and has a shipping weight of 17.55 lbs, so do be prepared to allocate at least a decently sized portion of space to bring out the fullest potential of the Singer 4452!
5. RZChome Sewing Machine Portable Crafting Mending Machine
Going back to the theme of portable and compact devices, much like the Imax FHSM-202, RZChrome’s Portable Sewing Machine offers a wholly comparable experience for the travelling sewist. Weighing just under 4 lbs and spanning 12.9 x 12.5 x 6 inches, you’ll easily be able to fit this device even in the most economical of carrying cases and even better, you’ll still receive a full-on sewing machine that come fitted with its own foot pedal.
With 12 full in-built stich functions, you’ll be able to work with quilts, decorative stiches and even elaborate garments and coupled with its included features such as its bright LED lamp, metal threader and thread cutter, you’ll be ready to go from the start even without arming yourself with all sorts of other additional accessories.
It’s also quite elegantly designed and is built to be used effortlessly even by the humblest of beginners so if you think you fall in this bracket, consider this a fitting first step for your sewing journey to come.
6. Sewing Machine, SHUDAGE Household Portable Electric Sewing
While it still is a lesser known brand, SHUDAGE still produces great sewing machines for those working with a tighter budget. Coming in either dazzling blue or purple and equipped with 12 different types of stitching, you’ll be able to work with your whole host of standard sewing repertoire including sewing on buttons, zippers and so on.
With the turn of its hand wheel, you’ll also be able to move the needle up or down based on your preference and can even adjust the machine’s sewing speed by setting it to either high or low and if you feel like it, even use your foot pedal.
Made out of mainly metal, durability is too, a non-issue and paired with its complementary storage box for sewing accessories, we especially recommend this product to younger audiences and novices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all different types of sewing machines come fitted with a foot pedal?
While the majority of sewing machine models out there tend to be paired with an included universal foot pedal, some do not. This especially holds true for older sewing machines that either come without foot pedals or, as is the case with brands such as Bernina, comes fitted with knee pedals which can be very tricky to use properly to the untrained sewist.
You’ll easily be able to check whether the machine of your choosing comes fitted with a foot pedal based on the product descriptions online but if you stick to our list, you don’t have to worry about this aspect at all.
Is having a foot pedal necessary to sew?
Surprisingly, not really. After all, not everyone is as physically able as the next person, so it goes without saying that sewing machines are designed to accommodate for this reality. Most modern machines are made with this in mind, allowing you to use in-built functionalities (e.g. automated computers) to bypass the need of your standard foot pedal.
You won’t have as much free reign and control over your sewing, but you’ll still be able to get quality results through this alternate method.