Best Sewing Machine for Intermediate Sewers—Our Top Picks in 2023

Are you looking for the best sewing machines for intermediate sewers in 2023? If yes, you have landed on the exact place, as I have reviewed the top 10 products for you. 

First, let me tell you what intermediate sewing machines mean. It means sewing machines above entry level but not as advanced or too expensive. Also, they have more features than introductory models but a little more than advanced ones. Got it? 

Intermediate sewing machines are handy and can easily sew light to tough fabrics. Finding the perfect sewing machine for intermediate sewers can be a little daunting, and they have multiple categories, each with different features.

After days of testing and reviewing, I was able to shortlist the 10 best intermediate sewing machines for you. 

When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. Using our affiliate links won’t cost you anything extra. 

If you are in a hurry, here’s a quick look at TOP 3 PICKS.

Obviously, an intermediate sewer who does alterations for personal dresses will need a different sewing machine than the one who excels in special designs.

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Quick Access to all machines

• SINGER QUANTUM STYLISH 9960 — Best Sewing machine for Intermediate Sewers
• BROTHER SE600 — Best For Sewing & Embroidery
• BROTHER XM2701 — Best Budget Sewing Machine
• SINGER 4423 — Best Selling Machine
• BROTHER HC1850 — Best For Sewing and Quilting
• BROTHER PQ1500SL — Fastest Sewing Machine
• JANOME ARCTIC CRYSTAL — Easy to Use Sewing Machine
• JANOME HD3000 — Best Heavy Duty Premium Sewing Machine
• JUKI Exceed HZL-F300 — Best Automatic Sewing Machine
• JUKI HZL-F600 — Best Computerized Sewing Machine

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Here is my list of the top 10 sewing machines that are best suited for middle-level (intermediate) sewers. I have picked these products after hours of research.  

Top 10 Sewing Machines for Intermediate Sewers in 2023 Reviewed

Singer 9960 is a fully-featured all-purpose sewing machine that is fully computerized to provide ease of use to sewers.

Bring your creative dreams to reality with advanced features including decorative stitches for your special projects. You can craft special designs for home décor, quilts, and personalized projects.

One of the most frustrating things about sewing machines is threading the needle. But, you don’t have to worry about that anymore. Because, with an automatic needle threaded in Singer 9960, you can have the entire machine threaded in literally seconds. So, no more eye strain or frustration.

There is no limit to creative possibilities with this amazing machine. I absolutely loved that the computer on the machine is filled with creative options. You have access to more than 600 built-in stitches, 5 alphanumeric fonts, 13 one-touch buttonholes, and stitch elongation features.

Not only this, but you also have an exclusive buttonhole under-plate to make the job easier. Also, with the amazing speed of 850 stitches in one minute, you can take care of your sewing tasks much faster. In addition to this, you will also have an automatic needle cutting features that enables your sewing machine to cut trim threads by a single touch.

Bottom Line

Overall, Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 is the best sewing machine for intermediate and semi-professional sewers. The machine is fully featured to serve every function related to sewing and quilting.

The built-in computer is programmed with tons of advanced stitches and features to make the job easier for sewers and open endless creative possibilities.

As I said in the beginning, there are different categories of intermediate sewing machines. So, for embroidery, you need a different type of machine. The best among them is without a doubt Brother SE600 which comes at a reasonable price and offers good quality features for an intermediate embroider.

This sewing and embroidery machine is equipped with a large 3.2-inch color LCD screen which allows you to view and edit designs before you stitch them.

You have access to 9 built-in fonts, including both English and Japanese, for lettering and monogramming.

New to embroidery? No worries because this machine helps beginners by showing them steps for a new design ensuring they don’t make a mistake.

While dealing with detailed designs, you can turn on the built-in light to focus on your work and craft it to perfection. The light can also help you work in the dark. this feature is especially great for those who cannot work in dim light.

As for embroidery, you have more than 80 built-in designs that open endless creative options for you to work on. so with this machine from Brother, you can make plenty of designs for yourself, friends, or clients.

You can also use the machine for sewing and it includes a feature for one-touch button holes. However, it is not suitable for quilting and sewing features are limited compared to our top pick.

Bottom Line

An embroidery machine designed to suit all your sewing and embroidery needs. Not only you can print the embroidery designs automatically with a built-in smart system, but also use the machine for your sewing needs. This can be a great sewing machine for fashion designers as well who make different designs.

There are thousands of embroidery designs available online that you can download and put into Brother SE600. You can also create personal designs on editing tools.

One of the top-rated, best-selling, and most positively reviewed sewing machines on Amazon. Brother XM2701 is the best budget sewing machine with advanced features perfectly suited for your day-to-day sewing needs.

So, if you are running low on budget, and want to buy a budget-friendly sewing machine, you can’t find a better option with all the features that an intermediate needs.

Although the machine doesn’t come with a smart computer or LCD, there are still smart features incorporated into the machine that can be accessed using the dial.

You have 27 unique built-in stitches that include decorative, blind hem, zigzag, and stretch stitches. Also, auto-sized button holes make your job as a sewer a lot easier.

The innovative drop-style top bobbin prevents any jamming in the machine. Also, you don’t have to worry about threading the needle. Even at a price this low, the machine comes with an automatic needle threader.

No need to purchase accessories separately. The sewing machines come with everything you need to be included. The package includes 6 sewing feet, a 3-piece needle set, a twin needle, 4 bobbins, and an instructional DVD.

This free arm sewing machine is ideally suited for all kinds of sewing needs and provides efficient functionality for both beginner and intermediate users. Many professional and advanced sewers also recommend this machine.

The best part is, you have lifetime technical support from Brother. So, if you face any problem you can contact them online or give them a call and they will help you out.

Bottom Line

A good option for those who have a limited budget. The Brother XM2701 serves a wide range of functions and provides efficient options. You have access to unique stitches and auto-sized buttonholes through the easy-use dial. 

The No. 1 bestselling heavy-duty sewing machine that you can find on Amazon. With a rating of 4.6 with over 18,000 positive reviews the machine truly justifies its status of being the best seller.

Even at an affordable price, the sewing machine offers a wide range of functions. These functions include 23 built-in stitches that include basic, stretch, decorative and buttonhole stitches.

So, you can take care of all your basic and intermediate sewing needs including basic alterations, home décor, personal projects, and fashion designs with help of this easy-to-use sewing machine.

Above all, it is a high-speed sewing machine for heavy-duty applications and semi-professional work requirements. You get the amazing sewing speed of 1100 stitches per minute.

Adding to this, Singer 4423 has a 60% stronger motor than its competitors. So, your sewing machine will have much more piercing power for thicker seams.

The machine ensures long-lasting stability and durability with heavy-duty performance. Heavy duty internal metal construction and stainless steel bed frame, you don’t have to worry about the durability of this machine.

A wide range of sewing accessories is included with the machine so that you don’t have to purchase anything separately later on.

These accessories include various kinds of feet, needles, pins, spins, bobbins, screwdrivers, and much more. The best part is, all the accessories are safely stored in the accessory tray.

Bottom Line

Singer 4423 is ideally suited for heavy-duty sewing applications. Besides the basic sewing features, the machine also provides advanced built-in stitches and one of the fastest sewing speeds with stronger piercing power. These things make it the bestselling sewing machine.

Next on the list, we have another amazing sewing and quilting machine by Brother. This machine comes with a built-in wide sewing table for larger projects and quilts.

The only thing lacking in our previous mention was alphanumeric characters, and that was completely justified based on the price.

So, if you are more inclined towards designs instead of basic stitching and alterations, then Brother HC1850 is a good option for you.

This sewing machine has over 130 built-in stitches that include 8 auto-sized button holes and 55 alphanumeric options.

To make the selection easier for you, the machine is equipped with built-in backlit LCD and controls. So, you can conveniently select any stitch design you want.

Also, no need to keep paper or guide with you for selecting stitch design. The handy flip board has all the stitch options displayed and numbered.

The automatic needle threader combined with an Anti-Jam bobbin makes the sewing job a lot easier for you. No more eye strain and frustration of manually threading a needle. And of course, you have lifetime customer support from Brother Staff who will help you with any problem you might face.

“Do you know the 10 amazing benefit’s of sewing machine? if no then you might get surprised by knowing a sewing machine is a greatest invention”.

Bottom Line

Brother HC1850 is an ideal machine for a variety of sewing, fashion, and quilting needs. You have endless possibilities for your creative projects and also the flip-board helps you a lot by making stitch selection quick and convenient.

One of the best sewing machines by Brother that is designed for faster and heavy-duty sewing and quilting applications, the Brother PQ1500SL doesn’t need any introduction.

The machines come with a wide table for managing larger projects and are a preferred choice by many professionals. Not just intermediate sewers, but many advanced level sewers and seamstresses also prefer this machine for semi-professional tasks.

You can sew much faster with the fastest stitching speed of 1500 stitches in one minute which makes it one of the fastest sewing machines. Hence, you will be able to complete your work quicker.

The machine also includes a removable knee lifter which allows you to lift your pressing foot with your knee. Hence, you can keep your both hands free for handling the fabric on the table.

You can sew larger pieces of fabric with higher accuracy on the wide table. Also, this sewing machine comes with a set of necessary accessories included.

Adding to this, the machine has a built-in telescopic thread stand that allows you to use cone threads with smooth feeding.

The convenient thread tension dial can be used to achieve accurate thread tension. So, you will have complete control over your stitches.

Also, along with an automatic needle threader, the machine comes with an automatic thread cutter. Just with the touch of a button, you can instantly cut and reset the thread.

The top 5 uses of a sewing machine that shaped the World – Can be a helpful guide

Bottom Line

For heavy-duty sewing and quilting applications, you can’t find a better machine. Brother PQ1500SL comes with advanced features for a fast and efficient sewing experience.

The affordable and easy-to-use sewing machine is made for basic and intermediate needs. Janome Arctic Crystal is one of the easiest to use sewing machines.

However, that doesn’t mean its functionality is limited in any manner whatsoever. You have a wide range of customizable features and 15 built-in stitches.

You can customize stitch length, zigzag width, reverse lever, and darning plate. The customization is made easier with dial controls and instruction display on the body.

The heavy-duty interior metal frame makes the machine durable and sturdy. The front-loading bobbin system comes with easy access instructions.

Not only this, the machine has an attached removable storage compartment for accessories. When removed, it turns the machine into a free arm for sewing smaller stitches.

The machine doesn’t limit your possibilities in any way. The large throat size allows you to sew full-sized quilts easily.

Also, the three-piece feed dogs ensure smooth fabric feeding into the machine. Easy video tutorials are included to help you figure out the machine and learn all the features of the machine.

Bottom Line

An affordable and reliable sewing machine for basic to intermediate sewing needs. The machine is durable and comes with a variety of interesting functions for your everyday sewing tasks.

If you are looking for a heavy-duty sewing machine for your semi-professional hobby that offers a wide range of sewing options, then the Janome HD3000 is an ideal option for you.

Take care of all your sewing projects with this advanced sewing machine that comes at an affordable price and offers a variety of features.

You can easily customize and adjust stitch length and width from the front of the machine. Also, you have 18 preprogrammed stitch modes that you can use.

Unlike our previous pick, this machine does provide a one-step button-hole feature which comes very handy when sewing new clothes.

Easy stitch selection ensures that you are aware of which stitch mode you have currently selected. A small led will turn on beneath the selected stitch mode on the front of the machine.

You can also adjust the pressure foot pressure to use the machine arm free and sew complex fabric which requires both of your hands.

The flip-up stitch panels allow you to take a glance at all kinds of available stitches so you can instantly decide or recall which one to use. No need to access the guide again and again.

Learn more: Janome Hd1000 vs hd3000 – A user’s comparison (myths dispelled) 

Bottom Line

Overall, Janome HD3000 is a good sewing machine for heavy-duty needs. It has an amazing stitching speed and offers a wide range of sewing applications.

Simple to use a smart sewing machine for intermediate users which comes with a wide range of stitching possibilities. So, you can stitch both thin and thick fabrics easily using this machine. It has a smart control panel that helps you select various stitch patterns.

Overall, 106 stitch patterns also include 3 different fonts for lettering and monogramming.

You can take a quick look at the available stitch patterns from the flip-up board at the top of the machine and then select one using the LCD screen and smart controls.

No need to create manual buttonholes. There are 16 automatic buttonhole patterns preprogrammed into the system. It automatically prints those patterns using electronic sensors.

You can also purchase a wide extension table along with the machine and attach it to the machine. The included accessory box is detachable from the machine to stitch smaller fabric parts.

Also, JUKI HZL-F300 comes in an easy-to-carry case. You can carry the machine around or travel with it anywhere you want.

Moreover, this machine features an automatic needle threader and also an automatic thread cutter. So, you can automate most of the operations and sew with ease and perfection.

Lot’s of people also search for How to teach sewing to a child – practical tips by a sewing teacher

Bottom Line

A smart, easy-to-use, and user-friendly sewing machine for intermediate sewers that comes with a variety of advanced sewing features. Hence, if you are looking to expand your creative possibilities, you should definitely give it a thought.

Juki HZL-F600 is an upgraded model of our previous pick, which comes with advanced features and more sewing possibilities.

However, this particular model is designed for career professionals who have special sewing needs.

As the machine provides ease of use and increases sewing possibilities, many intermediate sewers prefer it, if they can afford it. It is one of the most expensive sewing machines used by sewers.

An All-in-One sewing machine for all your stitching, quilting, and embroidery projects. The machine comes with 255 built-in stitches that include basic, stretch, decorative, letters, and buttonhole stitches.

You can easily preview and select your stitch pattern using the LCD screen and controls. The large LCD screen allows you to see details of stitch patterns and adjust them before using them.

Get the highest quality industrial style button holes with 16 different stitch patterns and sizes.

Adding to this, one of the most desired automatic thread trimming with a foot pedal feature is also installed in this sewing machine. So, you can use the machine, completely hand-free, thread it and cut the thread using only a foot pedal.

There is no limit to the sewing possibilities that you can explore with this amazing sewing machine.

Bottom Line

This is an all-in-one sewing and stitching machine that provides unlimited sewing possibilities for intermediate sewers. It has got every feature a sewer can think of.

How to Select the Best Sewing Machines for Intermediate Sewers in 2023—Buyer’s Guide

Due to market oversaturation, finding the best sewing machines can be challenging, especially when you need the best product. 

Especially because intermediate sewing has multiple subcategories, not everyone sews dresses, and many people use the machine just for design patterns, home décor, or fashion projects.

To help you out, I decided to analyze which features matter most in selecting a good intermediate sewing machine.

Built-In Stitching Options

Whether you pick the computerised sewing machine for intermediate sewers or the one with dials, you should consider the stitches options. 

A typical intermediate-level sewing machine has stitch options of more than 60, along with a few buttonhole stitches as well. You can adjust these stitching patterns or edit them as per your needs. However, the availability of stitching patterns will depend on the brand of sewing machines. 

More… 

• Computerized Models: Automated models are preferred because they have more stitching options. You can also download various new patterns from the internet and load them into the built-in computer.
• Non-computerized Models: They can be a great option and provide more than 60 stitching patterns that can satisfy all the basic stitching needs.

Sewing Capabilities

Before making a purchase, you must ensure your sewing interests. It means do you do embroidery, quilting, or a full-time sewer? 

You can adjust these stitching patterns or edit them as per your needs. However, the availability of stitching patterns will depend on the make and model of the machine.

• So, if you need a sewing machine at home for occasional alterations in clothes, then you should go with a simple option.
• You can consider embroidery-specific possibilities if you need them just for embroidery.
• Further, if you want something fancy, you can look for the computerized one. 
• However, if you pursue sewing as a passion or profession, you should look at options at the higher end

Automatic Needle Threader and Thread Trimmer

This is the feature I like the most, and I also recommend you, people, to consider this. Because threading the needle manually can cause EYE STRAINS, especially when you are aged above 40 years. 

So, why take on the headache when you get an automatic needle threader feature? Almost all of the options I have shared above offer this feature.

However, the Automatic Thread Trimmer is a rare option, and the one controlled by a foot pedal is even rarer. Moreover, this is not too important because this is what experienced sewers need. 

Learn how to change a needle on a sewing machine

Price of a machine

Price stops buyers from getting their favourite option because some can be extremely expensive. But don’t worry, there are sewing machines under 200 explained in this article, which can certainly be under your range. 

Although the expensive options seem more tempting, spending above your budget destabilises your financial situation.

So, I personally recommend starting with a reasonable option and then upgrading later on to better versions.

In this way, you can generate an income from your initial ventures and upgrade later to a more advanced sewing machine suited for advanced tasks.

Conclusion

Whether you are an occasional sewer or a semi-professional who has learned the basics, the best sewing machines for intermediate sewers will help you open endless possibilities for your passion.

No pattern or design will be out of your reach with the right sewing machine. I have tested and reviewed some of the best available options and shared them with you.

• In summary, if you are looking for the best overall sewing machine for intermediates, you should go with Singer Quantum Stylist 9960. It has got everything you need with a variety of preprogrammed features.
• If you are running low on budget, consider buying Brother XM2701. The machine offers advanced features and many sewing possibilities, even at a low price.
• You should also consider Singer 4423, as it is the bestselling and top-rated product that lives up to its name. It is simple to use and offers advanced stitching features at a reasonable price.

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