6 Best Sewing Machines for Denim and Jeans: Reviews & Guide

From heavy-duty mechanical sewing machines to more sophisticated computerized models, we've picked the best sewing machines for denim to help you buy a perfect one!
By
Chloe Faber
Chloe Faber
Designer
Chloe is not just a fashion designer - she’s an artist, and her personal blog is her canvas. BTW, check it out to get daily inspiration from her vibrant style! Chloe activ read more
Last updated: September 02, 2023
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Denim is a sturdy, thick fabric that can be difficult to sew by hand or with a standard sewing machine. There are a few things to keep in mind when you’re sewing denim. First, you need a machine that has enough power to sew through multiple layers of fabric. Second, you need a machine with a heavy-duty needle – one that’s designed for thicker fabrics. And finally, you need a machine with a few different stitch options, so you can choose the right one for the job.

We’ve come up with a list of the 6 best sewing machines for denim, based on our own extensive research. We’ve looked at a variety of factors, including price, features, and user reviews. The Bernette 38 became our top choice.

Quick Summary

  • Editor's Choice: Bernette 38
    "A great computerized sewing machine with 394 stitch patterns, and a speed of 820 spm. It features automatic limitation for double needles and adjustable pressure for the presser foot"
  • Best Industrial Sewing Machine for Denim: Juki TL-2010Q
    "An industrial sewing machine with a variety of features that make it one of the best machines on the market, including its speed, size, and portability"
  • Best Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine: Janome HD3000
    "This machine has a powerful motor and a strong needle system. It also has various stitch options and a presser foot that can accommodate different thicknesses"
  • Best Electric Motor: SINGER Heavy Duty 4432
    "An electric sewing machine that is built for durability and speed, with a 60% stronger motor than a standard sewing machine.Comes with 32 stitch patterns, stainless steel bed plate, and a metal frame"
  • Best Needle Threader: Brother ST150HDH
    "A computerized sewing machine with 50 stitch patterns, 5 auto-size buttonholes, and a speed of 850 stitches per minute. Comes with 9 sewing feet, a set of heavy-weight sewing needles, and more"
  • Best Value: Janome 2212
    "A budget-friendly yet reliable sewing machine with 12 stitch patterns, a four-step buttonhole function, and a top speed of 860 stitches per minute. Comes with a 25-year limited warranty"

Top 6 Sewing Machines for Denim Review 2024

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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9723 people in the past 30 days
9.9
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.8
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.6
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.4
9.9
1
Editor's Choice

Bernette 38

Features
  • Type: computerized sewing machine
  • Stitch patterns: 394 patterns, 8 one-step buttonholes  
  • Speed: 820 spm
  • Free arm: 170 mm
  • Size: 9.1″ x 9.1″ x 9.1″, 20.5 lbs.
  • Warranty: 10-year limited

Other features:  7 mm stitch width, drop-in hook system, automatic limitation for double needles, automatic thread cutter and tie-off function.

The Bernette 38 Computerized Sewing Machine is the top choice for sewing denim. It has enough power to sew through multiple layers of fabric and can handle thick fabrics with ease thanks to its heavy-duty needle. This machine has an impressive 8 one-step buttonholes, a speed of up to 820 spm, and comes with seven mm stitch width. The machine has seven different stitch options, allowing you to choose the best one for your project. It comes with eight presser feet, giving you a variety of options to best accommodate your project.  It also has a drop-in hook system and automatic limitation for double needles. Finally, it has an automatic thread cutter and tie-off function that makes finishing seams easier. 

The Bernette b38 is an upgraded version of the Bernette b37, and as such, buyers get several new perks not available in the cheaper model. For instance, the interface is better, with more buttons to help you select stitches and other settings. Buyers even get a marginally larger screen on the 38 with more information. Also, where the b37 gets 50 preset stitches, the 38 gets 394. 

    What are our favorite features?
  • 394 stitch patterns8 one-step buttonholesDrop-in hook systemAutomatic thread cutter and tie-off function
    What could be better?
  • It's quite priceyA bit in a heavy side
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4531 people in the past 30 days
9.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.3
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.6
9.8
2
Best Industrial Sewing Machine for Denim

Juki TL-2010Q

Features
  • Type: mechanical sewing and quilting machine
  • Stitch patterns: 1
  • Speed: 200 to 1,500 spm
  • Free arm: no
  • Size: 14″ x 25.7″ x 18″, 25.3 lbs.
  • Warranty: 5-year limited

Other features: treadle powered, automatic thread trimmer, knee lifter lever, automatic needle threader, portable, LED light, drop feed, quilting foot, adjustable presser foot pressure

If you are looking for an industrial sewing machine that is best suited for heavy-duty fabrics such as denim, leather, canvas, and upholstery. It has an adjustable presser foot pressure which allows you to adjust the tension of your fabric easily. Additionally, it comes with a knee lifter lever which allows you to lift the presser foot with your knee. Its motor is powerful enough to sew up to 1500 stitches per minute and is equipped with a thread trimmer, so you don’t have to trim it manually after stitching. It comes with an automatic needle threader and LED light for maximum visibility. This machine is portable and comes with a quilting foot. It is very easy to use, making it ideal for both experienced and new sewers.

Compared to the other denim sewing machines listed, the Juki TL-2010Q is the most expensive model. Notably, while the others are multi-function sewing machines, the TL-2010Q is built as mostly a quilting option making it ideal for tough fabrics like denim. Another significant difference is that most of the other options come with multiple stitches built-in. In comparison, this Juki machine only has one straight stitch.

    Why is it special?
  • Powerful motor – Up to 1,500 spmAdjustable presser foot pressureThread trimmer and knee lifter leverAutomatic needle threaderLED light for visibilityPortable, lightweight at 25.3 lbs.
    What are the flaws?
  • No free arm
Read full review: juki tl 2010q
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5809 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.5
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.2
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.1
9.6
3
Best Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine

Janome HD3000

Features
  • Type: mechanical sewing machine
  • Stitch patterns: 18, 1 one-step buttonhole
  • Speed: 860 spm
  • Free arm: yes
  • Size: 10″ x 19″ x 14.7″, 21 lbs. 
  • Warranty: 25-year limited

Other features: built-in threader, foot pressure adjustment, push-pull bobbin winder, 6.5mm stitch width, 4mm stitch length, reverse stitching

The Janome HD3000 is a heavy-duty mechanical sewing machine that is built to handle thick fabrics like denim. This machine is built with a heavy-duty frame and comes with a hardcover for protection, making it ideal for extended use. Additionally, the Janome HD3000 has 18 stitch patterns and a one-step buttonhole, making it versatile for a variety of projects. The machine also features a reverse stitch lever, snap-on presser feet, and a stitch selection dial for ease of use. Finally, the Janome HD3000 comes with a 25-year limited warranty, ensuring that you can enjoy your machine for years to come.

The Janome HD3000 is an upgraded version of the HD2000 from the same manufacturer. One key difference is the change from a front-loading bobbin to a top-loading bobbin. The stitch selection interface is also different to make it easier to use. Lastly, while the Janome HD2000’s speed maxes out at 700 spm, the HD3000 is significantly quicker at 860 spm.

    What do we love it for?
  • Powerful motor and strong needle systemMultiple stitch optionsPresser foot that can handle different thicknessesComes with a 25 year limited warranty
    What were we disappointed with?
  • No built-in speed control dialBuilt-in light could be brighter
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 3239 people in the past 30 days
9.4
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.1
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.3
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.2
9.4
4
Best Electric Motor

SINGER Heavy Duty 4432

Features
  • Type: electric sewing machine
  • Stitch patterns: 32, 1 one-step buttonhole
  • Speed: 1,100 spm
  • Free arm: yes
  • Size: 6.25″ x 15.2″ x 12″, 15 lbs.
  • Warranty: 25-year limited

Other features: 60% stronger motor, automatic needle threader, top drop-in bobbin, extra-high presser foot lifter, adjustable stitch length & width, automatic reverse

The SINGER Heavy Duty 4432 sewing machine is a reliable and durable option for those who sew frequently or professionally. It has a heavy duty metal frame and can sew at speeds of up to 1,100 stitches per minute, making it great for larger projects. The machine comes with 32 built-in stitch patterns, including six basic stitches, seven stretch stitches, and 18 decorative stitches. It also has a fully automatic one-step buttonhole function. Other features include an automatic needle threader, top drop-in bobbin with clear view cover, drop feed with box feed motion, adjustable stitch length and width, extra-high presser foot lifter, adjustable presser foot pressure control, three needle positions, and up to 6mm stitch width. The machine also has on board storage for your sewing accessories and comes with snap-on presser feet.

The Singer Heavy Duty 4432 is an upgrade to the slightly less expensive SINGER Heavy Duty 4411 machine. The differences in naming also point out differences in functionality. As such, the 4411 is limited to 11 unique stitches, while the 4432 has 32. This also determines the applications of the machine, with the cheaper model having 69 applications while the 4432 has 110 applications.

    Why is it special?
  • The 60% stronger motorVersatile for a variety of projects with 32 built-in stitchesVery durable, perfect for frequent use or professional sewing
    What are the flaws?
  • It may be too powerful for smaller projectsA bit expensive for some budgets.Best suited for experienced sewers
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7251 people in the past 30 days
9.1
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.7
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.6
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.9
9.1
5
Best Needle Threader

Brother ST150HDH

Features
  • Type: computerized sewing machine
  • Stitch patterns: 50, 5 auto-size buttonholes
  • Speed: 850 spm
  • Free arm: yes
  • Size: 16.26″ x 7.01″ x 12.48″, 10.14 lbs.
  • Warranty: 25-year limited

Other features: advanced needle threader, drop-in top bobbin, LCD screen, longer feed dogs, UL/CSA Listed, speed control, 5 mm stitch length, 7 mm stitch width

  • The Brother ST150HDH is a computerized sewing machine that comes with 50 built-in stitch patterns and 5 auto-size buttonholes. It has a top speed of 850 stitches per minute and comes with a free arm for sewing cuffs and sleeves. The machine is also equipped with an advanced needle threader, drop-in top bobbin, LCD screen, and longer feed dogs. It also has a speed control and a 5 mm stitch length. The Brother ST150HDH comes with 9 sewing feet, a set of heavy-weight sewing needles, an instruction manual and more.

The Brother ST150HDH is easily comparable to the SINGER Heavy Duty 4432 since they’re the only two denim sewing machines listed in the $200-$300 price range. The SINGER model is excellent if you’re looking for durability, given its superior build and construction compared to the ST150HDH from brother. However, if you’re looking for a more modern design with elements like a screen and easy-to-use button interfaces, the Brother ST150HDH is preferable.

    What do we love it for?
  • Advanced needle threader, drop-in top bobbin, LCD screen and longer feed dogsSpeed control5mm stitch length and 7mm stitch widthCan handle multiple layers of fabric25 year limited warranty
    What were we disappointed with?
  • Not best for quilting or heavy-duty sewing projectsTension issues reported by some users
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7226 people in the past 30 days
9.1
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.7
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.0
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.6
9.1
6
Best Value

Janome 2212

Features
  • Type: mechanical sewing machine
  • Stitch patterns: 12, 1 four-step buttonholes
  • Speed: 860 spm
  • Free arm: yes
  • Size: 14.09″ x 11.57″ x 5.9″, 13.22 lbs.
  • Warranty: 25-year limited

Other features: manual thread tension, snap-on presser foot, 5mm zigzag stitch width, 4mm stitch length, two retractable spool pins

The Janome 2212 is a mechanical sewing machine designed for everyday sewing enthusiasts and those who sew as a hobby or creative outlet. Its free arm allows you to easily maneuver around tight spaces and curves when sewing, while its manual thread tension control and 3-piece feed dog help ensure your projects come out looking flawless. Additionally, the Janome 2212 has a convenient drop feed dog for quilting and free motion stitching, as well as a vertical oscillating hook type for smooth and consistent stitches. It also features pre-printed stitch selection on the front panel, a 5mm maximum zigzag width and 4mm maximum stitch length. Best of all, this reliable machine comes with a 25-year limited warranty so you can be sure it will last you for many years to come. 

The Janome 2212 compares easily with the Janome HD3000, given they’re both from the same manufacturer and can handle denim fabrics. However, if your budget is limited, going for the 2212 is the wiser choice, given it costs about half the price of the HD3000. On the other hand, the HD3000 is the model to go for if you need more stitches to work with. After all, it offers 18, while the 2212 only has 12 stitches.

    What makes it stand out?
  • AffordableTop speed of 860 stitches per minuteFree arm for maneuvering tight spaces and curvesManual thread tension control and three-piece feed dogDrop feed dog for quilting and free motion stitching
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • No faceplate thread cutter or presser foot pressure adjustmentNo stitch length or zigzag width adjustment

Things to Consider

You should consider a few factors before purchasing a sewing machine, especially if you plan on sewing denim. This guide will cover different features and factors you should keep in mind while shopping.

What Makes A Sewing Machine Good for Sewing Denim?

Denim is a sturdy fabric, so you need a machine that can handle thicker fabrics. A good denim sewing machine will have a powerful motor and strong needle system. It should also have various stitch options and a presser foot that can accommodate different thicknesses.

Dedicated Needle System

A dedicated needle system is important for sewing denim. This means that the machine comes with special needles that are designed specifically for denim fabrics. These needles are usually thicker and more durable, so they can handle the fabric without breaking.

Presser Foot

You’ll need to make sure the presser foot accommodates tick fabric

The presser foot is the part of the machine that holds the fabric in place while you sew. A good presser foot will be able to accommodate different thicknesses of fabric. This is important because denim can vary in thickness, depending on the type of denim you are using.

High Presser Foot Lifter

A high presser foot lifter is a helpful feature to have when sewing denim. This allows you to raise the presser foot higher, so you can easily fit thicker fabrics under it.

Powerful Motor and Metal Frame

A powerful motor is essential for sewing denim. A metal frame is also important because it gives the machine stability and prevents it from vibrating too much.

Different Stitch Options

Various stitch options are also important for a denim sewing machine. This allows you to choose the best stitch for your project. Some of the best stitches for sewing denim are the straight stitch, zigzag stitch, and triple stitch. The straight stitch is the most basic stitch and is best for simple projects. The zigzag stitch is more versatile and can be used for decorative stitching. The triple stitch is the strongest of the three and is best for heavy-duty projects.

What to Consider When Buying a Sewing Machine for Denim?

Here’s a list of factors you should keep in mind when purchasing a sewing machine for denim:

Type of the Machine

The three main types of sewing machines are mechanical, electric, and computerized. Mechanical sewing machines are the most basic type of machine. They are operated with a hand crank and have fewer features than other types of machines. Electric sewing machines are more powerful than mechanical machines and are operated with a foot pedal. Computerized sewing machines are the most advanced type of machine. They are operated with a touch screen and have many built-in features.

Basic Features

As mentioned before, there are certain features that are important for a denim sewing machine. Denim is a sturdy fabric, so you need a machine that can handle thicker fabrics. A good denim sewing machine will have a powerful motor and a strong needle system. It should also have various stitch options and a presser foot that can accommodate different thicknesses.

Sewing Speed

Sewing speed is another important consideration. If you plan on sewing a lot of denim, you will want a machine that can sew quickly. The average sewing speed on most machines is around 850 stitches per minute.

Ease of Use

You should also consider how easy the machine is to use. If you are a beginner, you might want to look for a machine that is specifically designed for beginners. These machines usually have fewer features and are easier to operate.

Convenience Features

An automatic needle threader, or a free arm come in handy for sewing any type of fabric

The best machines come with convenience features that can be helpful when sewing denim. These features might include a built-in thread cutter, an automatic needle threader, or a free arm.

An automatic needle threader is a convenient feature that can be helpful when sewing denim. This feature automatically threads the needle for you, so you don’t have to do it manually. This can be a time-saver, especially if you are sewing a lot.

A free arm is a feature that can be helpful when sewing denim. This feature allows you to sew sleeves and other hard-to-reach areas.

Price

The price is always an important consideration when purchasing a sewing machine. Denim sewing machines can range in price from around $100 to over $1000. Deciding how much you are willing to spend on a machine before you start shopping is important.

Brand

The brand is another important consideration when purchasing a sewing machine. There are many different brands of sewing machines on the market, so it is important to research and read reviews before making a purchase. Some of the best sewing machine brands for denim are Janome, Singer, Brother, and Juki.

Guarantee

It is also important to check the guarantee that comes with the sewing machine. This will ensure that you are covered in case of any defects. Most sewing machines come with a standard one-year warranty. But some come with longer warranties, so it is important to check before you purchase.

How to Sew Denim on a Sewing Machine?

For sewing denim, use heavier-weight thread and needle. Also, use a straight or zigzag stitch.

Sewing denim is not much different than sewing other fabrics. The main difference is that denim is a thicker fabric, so you need to use a needle and thread that are designed for thick fabrics. You also need to use a heavier-weight thread. Some of the best sewing machines have a setting that is specifically for denim.

When sewing denim, it is important to use a straight stitch or a zigzag stitch. These stitches will allow the fabric to stretch without breaking. It is also important to use a walking foot when sewing denim. This foot helps to feed the fabric evenly through the machine.

Some other tips for sewing denim include:

– Use a seam guide to ensure straight seams.

– Use pins to hold the fabric in place.

– Start with a test piece of fabric to get the tension and stitch settings correct.

– Use a serger if you have one. This will give your seams a professional finish.

– Use a seam ripper to remove any mistakes.

– Slow down when sewing around curves or corners.

With these tips, you should be able to sew denim successfully on your sewing machine.

FAQ

Can all sewing machines sew denim?

No, not all sewing machines can sew denim. You’ll need to use a specifically designed machine for thicker fabrics. Be sure to use the correct needle and thread for denim. You may also want to use a walking foot to help feed the fabric evenly through the machine. Start with a test piece of fabric to get the tension and stitch settings correct. Use a seam guide to ensure straight seams. And finally, slow down when sewing around curves or corners.

What type of needle and thread do I need for denim?

You’ll need to use a needle and thread that are specifically designed for thicker fabrics. The size of the needle and thread thickness depend on the specific sewing machine and the type of denim being sewn. It is best to consult the manual for your particular machine or experiment with different types of needles and thread until you find what works best.

Our verdict

The Bernette 38 is our top choice for sewing denim because it’s a computerized sewing machine with 394 stitch patterns, 8 one-step buttonholes, and a speed of 820 spm. It also has a drop-in hook system, automatic limitation for double needles, and adjustable presser foot pressure to suit the material.

The Juki TL-2010Q is a fabulous industrial sewing machine that is perfect for denim due to its speed, size, and portability. It has a plethora of features that make it one of the best machines on the market, and its 5-year limited warranty ensures that you’ll be able to enjoy using this machine for years to come.

The Janome HD3000 is our third pick for the best sewing machines for denim. It’s a high-quality mechanical sewing machine that can handle a variety of projects. It’s fast, and has a host of features that make sewing easier, like the built-in needle threader, the reverse stitch lever, and the foot pressure adjustment.

References

1.
DenverFabrics.com
The word denim is an Americanization of the French name "serge de Nimes," a fabric which originated in Nimes, France during the Middle Ages.
2.
Sewing Machine Stitches Which Stitch to Use and When
Many sewing machine stitch options are builtin. Learn when to use which stitch and how to use it.
9,9
Total Score
Bernette 38 - Editor's Choice
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