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If you’re a die-hard quilter or even a beginning sewist, you probably have a tried and true, favorite sewing machine sitting in your sewing space right now.
But how many times have you been rushing out the door and realized that you needed to make a quick repair on something, tack down a hem on a pair of pants or avoid a clothing emergency?
Maybe you’ve been on your way to a scout meeting and realized that you never remembered to sew on those hard-earned badges.
If you’ve ever had a sewing emergency, this post on how to choose the best handheld sewing machine is for you. There are SO many models on the market these days, that it can be hard to pick the right one.
Handheld sewing machines simply allow you to make repairs and alterations on the go. They’re small, portable and help you make small repairs and adjustments on the fly. Perfect for travel, they’re small enough to throw in your bag for those just-in-case wardrobe malfunctions.
Now let’s have a look…
10 Best Handheld Sewing Machines
Here are our picks for the top 10 picks for the best handheld sewing machine to help you manage your on the go repairs.
Usually, we try to give you our best recommendations at each price point, but since all handheld sewing machines are pretty inexpensive, we’re leading off with our top three overall picks for the best handheld sewing machine.
Read on for all the details you need to make your best choice.
This post may contain affiliate links. My full disclosure policy is sort of boring, but you can find it here.
#1 W-Dragon Handheld Sewing Machine
All the Details
- Power: 4 AA Batteries or DC 6V 600mA power adaptor (not included)
- Size: 8.3″ x 2.8″ x 1.6″
- Weight: 7.7 ounces
- Material: White Plastic
- Includes: 2 extra threaded bobbins, needle and needle threader
What We Like
- Stapler design is lightweight and easy to hold and carry
- Easy to use
Our Verdict
Good choice for a basic handheld sewing machine. Very typical of the varieties available. This will do the job without any extra frills.
#2 Handy Stitch Handheld Sewing Machine
All the Details
- Power: 4 AA Batteries or DC 6V 600mA power adaptor (not included)
- Size: 8.3″ x 2.8″ x 1.6″
- Weight: 7.7 ounces
- Material: Black Plastic
- Includes: 2 extra threaded bobbins, spare needle and needle threader
What We Like
- Comes pre-threaded and ready to use
- Easy to use
Our Verdict
Another good choice if you’re for a handheld sewing machine. It comes with extra bobbins and arrives pre-threaded which is a bonus.
#3 Duitson Handheld Sewing Machine
- 【Travel Use& Household】The compact, lightweight and portable design makes this household stitch tool excellent for on-the-spot repairs and serve the emergency needs of stitching.
- 【Easy To Operate】This mini sewing machine is easy to operate, line with the flat edge, automatic moving. Both beginner and professionals can make some DIY arts crafts easily. There are 2 power modes. Can use 4 xAA batteries or DC 6V Power Adapter(Both are Not Included ).
- 【Perfect For Any Material】Suitable for fabric, clothing, silk, jeans, , leather, denim, wool,Hem pants, drapes, holes rips, toy crafts and etc. You can use it to sew hanging curtains as well. Note: The suitable sewing thickness cannot over 1.8mm.
- 【PACKAGE INCLUDES】Portable sewing machine, Instruction Manual, Long-Stick, Threader, 2 Sewing Needles, 9 Bobbins, Scissor and Measuring Tape.
- 【Mini Sewing Machine】Compared to full-size sewing machine, it is mini and portable with single straight line stitch. Althought the function is simple, it perfect to make some daily mending for your requirement.
All the Details
- Power: 4 AA Batteries or DC 6V 600mA power adaptor (not included)
- Size: 8.3″ x 2.8″ x 1.6″
- Weight: 7.7 ounces
- Material: White Plastic
- Includes: 10 threaded bobbins, needle, and needle threader
- Bonus kit includes: Measuring tape, snips, safety pins
What We Like
- The extra sewing items in the bonus kit are super handy to have
- Easy to use
Our Verdict
For a few dollars more, this machine comes with multiple extra bobbins pre-threaded with various colored thread. Having a set of snips included makes a big difference when you want to use this on the go so you don’t have to go searching for scissors.
#4 Two-Speed Handheld Sewing Machine
- 🎀[COMPACT & PORTABLE]The overall weight of the sewing machine is as light as 1.6 lbs. Size: 7.9 x 7.6 x 5 inches. It breaks the tradition, is novel in style, small and portable. Fits for carrying around and can sew most light and thin fabrics.
- 🎀[MULTI-FUNCTIONAL]The product comes with double-speed for you to choose from. Dual-speed adjustment is more concise and convenient. Two power modes: 4 AA batteries(product without battery)/external power supply. Double-switch: the pedal and the manual switch.
- 🎀[PROFESSIONAL DESIGN]The professional tube slot design makes it easy to sew cuffs. Equipped with a LED lighting function, help you see more clearly and reducing damage to your eyes. The bottom line plus the upper thread is double-threaded, which is firm and easily thread. With a thread cutter and winding function.
- 🎀[PRACTICAL & GIFT]Made of environmentally friendly materials and designed with cute look for any sewing enthusiast. You can DIY your handbags, clothes, curtains, sheets, tablecloths, shopping bags, lunch bags, pillow dolls and other fabrics. Cute and sleek look makes it an ideal gift for your daughter, sister, mother, grandmother on Children’s Day, Birthday, Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas.
- 🎀[QUALITY ASSURANCE]Please read the instruction manual or watch the instructional video before using this product. The wrong operation may affect the operation of machine itself and your using experience. If there are any quality problems with the machine within 6 months, you can return it or replace it for free.
All the Details
- Power: Power adapter plug or battery powered with 4 AA batteries (not included)
- Size: 7.9″ x 7.6″ x 5″
- Weight: 1.6 lbs
- Material: White Plastic
- Includes: 4 bobbins, extra needles and needle threader
What We Like
- Two speeds
- LED light
- Thread cutter built-in
What We Don’t Like
- The foot pedal makes it more like a mini version of a standard sewing machine, and less of a hand held model.
Our Verdict
This machine does sew pretty well, but it isn’t truly portable. If you’re looking for a super small machine that can do small repair jobs, this will do the trick, but it isn’t truly handheld since it requires you to place it on a surface and use a foot pedal.
#5 Jeteven Handheld Sewing Machine
All the Details
- Power: 4 AA Batteries or DC 6V 600mA power adaptor (not included)
- Size: 8.3″ x 2.8″ x 1.6″
- Weight: 7.7 ounces
- Material: Pink Plastic
- Includes: 12 bobbins, needle and needle threader
- Extra accessories include thread snips, measuring tape and a set of safety pins
What We Like
- The machine comes with an accessory kit containing thread snips, measuring tape and a dozen pre-threaded bobbins.
- Cute pink color
- Easy to use
Our Verdict
The cute pink color of this machine might make repair jobs more fun! We like that it does the job and has an extra accessory pack that includes multiple extra threaded bobbins, thread snips and a measuring tape.
#6 Yibaision Handheld Sewing Machine
- WHAT YOU WILL IN YOUR PACKAGE: 1 * Portable sewing machine; 9 * Bobbin sewing thread; 1 * Needles; 1 * Scissors; 1 * Measuring Tape; 10 * Safty pins; 1 * Threader; 1 * Spindle;1 * English Manual
- PORTABLE SEWING MACHINE HANDHELD: This Mini Portable Handheld Sewing Machine is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, allowing great control and easy operation. Meets various sewing requirements in daily life. An ideal gift for moms, girls, teens, friends and family.
- MINI HANDHELD SEWING MACHINE FOR QUICK REPAIR:: Great for silks, denim, wool, leather, Hem pants, jeans, hanging curtains and crafts, etc. It can repair drapes without taking them down ,repair clothing without taking it off; and repair beding without stripping the bed and so on. You can use it to sew hanging curtains as well. Please notice that its sewing thickness is 1.8MM, too big too hard or too soft materials can’t be sewed.
- HOW IT WORKS? It Needs 4 x AA Batteries or DC 6v Power Adaptor(Batteries and Adaptor Not Include in package). The mini cordless portable sewing machine can make some repairs that conventional desk machines can not handle, such as sewing curtains in the pole or patching a torn bag without removing the pants. It’s easier and more convenient than traditional desktop machines, saving your money and time.
- BEGINNERS SEWING MACHINE: It’s a simple, convenient handheld sewing machine, easy to use and carry, fit for beginner or master in sewing. The portable sewing machine can develop children’s work habits and train sewing skills. Ideal gift for your friends who are interested in DIY Great Crafts.
All the Details
- Power: 4 AA Batteries or DC 6V 600mA power adaptor (not included)
- Size: 8.3″ x 2.8″ x 1.6″
- Weight: 7.7 ounces
- Material: White Plastic
- Includes: 9 bobbins, needle and needle threader
- Extra accessories include thread snips, measuring tape and a set of safety pins
What We Like
- The machine comes with an accessory kit containing thread snips, measuring tape and a dozen pre-threaded bobbins.
- Easy to use
Our Verdict
We like that it does the job and has an extra accessory pack that includes multiple extra threaded bobbins, thread snips and a measuring tape. Another good choice for a basic portable repair machine.
#7 Charminer Hand Sewing Machine
All the Details
- Power: 4 AA Batteries or DC 6V 600mA power adaptor (not included)
- Size: 8.3″ x 2.8″ x 1.6″
- Weight: 7.7 ounces
- Material: White Plastic
- Includes: 9 bobbins, needle and needle threader
- Extra accessories include thread snips, measuring tape and a set of safety pins
What We Like
- The machine comes with an accessory kit containing thread snips, measuring tape and a dozen pre-threaded bobbins.
- Easy to use
Our Verdict
Another good choice for a basic portable repair machine. We like that it does the job and has an extra accessory pack that includes multiple extra threaded bobbins, thread snips, and a measuring tape.
#8 Singer Stitch Sew Quick Handheld Mending Machine
- Handheld 2-thread mending machine
- Cordless and easy to maneuver, used for quick sewing repairs requiring a straight stitch
- Double thread feed with automatic winding function and dual speed control
- Includes thread, bobbins, needles and thread spindle
- Batteries not included
All the Details
- Power: 4 AA Batteries (not included)
- Size: 6″ x 8″ x 3″
- Material: White Plastic
- Includes: 2 bobbins, needle and needle threader
What We Like
- Dual speed control
- Automatic thread winder
- Uses two threads for a stronger stitch
What We Don’t Like
- This design is more like a standard sewing machine, which makes it bigger and less portable than the stapler-like models
Our Verdict
While not as portable as the other models, this one does a decent stitch since it’s designed more like a standard sewing machine.
#9 Sew Mighty Handheld Sewing Machine
- The Sew Mighty handheld, single stitch, sewing machine, can be powered by 4 AA-batteries or an AC power adapter (not included).
- The Sew Mighty handheld is compact, lightweight and rugged. It is designed to be portable and easy to take with you almost anywhere.
- The Sew Mighty handheld is perfect for light, quick repairs, especially on-the-go. The machine is capable of handling a seam thickness of up to 1.8mm.
- The mini handheld Sew Mighty machine can make some repairs that conventional desk machines can not handle, such as sewing curtains in the pole or patching a torn bag without removing the pants. It’s easier and more convenient than traditional desktop machines, saving your money and time.
- Package includes: Sew Mighty portable sewing machine, 3 threaded bobbins, 1 replacement needle, 1 needle threader; 1 spindle, 1 pink 60” tape measure and instruction manual.
All the Details
- Power: 4 AA Batteries or DC 6V 600mA power adaptor (not included)
- Size: 8.3″ x 2.8″ x 1.6″
- Weight: 7.7 ounces
- Material: Black and Pink Plastic
- Includes: 3 bobbins, needle and needle threader
- Extra accessories include a measuring tape
What We Like
- Stapler design is lightweight and easy to hold and carry
- Easy to use
Our Verdict
We like the pink and black color combo of this machine. It does the job as well as any handheld machine.
#10 LuckyMe Handheld Sewing Machine
All the Details
- Power: 4 AA Batteries or DC 6V 600mA power adaptor (not included)
- Size: 8.3″ x 2.8″ x 1.6″
- Weight: 7.7 ounces
- Material: White Plastic
- Includes: 20 threaded bobbins, needle and needle threader
- Extra accessories include a metal accessory box, measuring tape and thread snips
What We Like
- Comes with 20 bobbins threaded with various colors
- Easy to use
- Thread snips and measuring tape are handy additions
Our Verdict
This is a good choice. It’s set apart by the fact that it has a handy metal accessory case to hold the extra bobbins and sewing accessories.
What Is a Handheld Sewing Machine?
A handheld sewing machine is a handy little sewing gadget that makes a simple lock stitch, just like a standard sewing machine.
It uses thread and needles in the same way as a regular machine, but it’s small, light and portable for sewing and repair needs on the go.
Most are designed to be held while you sew and look a bit like a stapler, but some look like a tiny version of a regular sewing machine but are light enough to hold.
Why Do You Need Handheld Sewing Machine?
If you’re a serious sewist, you’ll probably use your regular sewing machine for most repair, hemming and mending jobs.
But there are lots of situations where buying the best handheld sewing machine for the job can really come in handy.
- If you want to be able to do a quick sewing fix on the go
- If you travel and need to be able to make simple repairs and adjustments when you have a wardrobe problem away from home
- If you don’t sew but want to be able to make your own sewing repairs instead of paying for a dry cleaner or tailor
- College students and people off on their own for the first time.
- If you want to be prepared for any situation, a handheld sewing machine is easy to stow in your car, office desk drawer or luggage for the unexpected repair problem.
Different Types of Handheld Sewing Machines
Handheld sewing machines are usually pretty simple and therefore pretty similar. There are two varieties to be aware of when you’re looking for the best handheld sewing machine.
There’s really no advantage to either type so choose the one you think has the features you need.
Stapler Version
This variety of handheld sewing machine looks like a stapler. It’s also about the same size as a standard office variety stapler.
Sewing Machine Style
The handheld “sewing machine type version” looks like a tiny sewing machine, but with a handle. It’s just as portable as the stapler version, but can be a bit larger.
Pros of Using a Handheld Sewing Machine
For simple repairs when you don’t own a regular sewing machine, there are several benefits that stand out when thinking about buying the best handheld sewing machine.
Portability
Because they’re so light and easy to carry, a handheld sewing machine beats out a standard sewing machine every time. You can use them anywhere: on an airplane, in a car, camping, and anywhere else you need to make a repair.
No Need for Electrical Power
Most handheld sewing machines are designed to use battery power, so there’s no need to search for an electrical outlet if you have to make a repair on the go.
Affordability
The low pricing of handheld sewing machines means that anyone can afford one. You might even buy a couple so you can keep one at work, one in your suitcase, one in your car, etc.
Cons of Using a Handheld Sewing Machine
Not surprisingly, a handheld sewing machine isn’t for everyone and isn’t the best choice for every situation.
Stitch Quality
Even the best handheld sewing machine won’t replace a full-size sewing machine. Because they are designed for simple, easy repairs and hems, they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution to your sewing needs.
If you’re looking for beautiful seams and perfect projects, stick to your regular sewing machine. If you’re looking for recommendations for the best mechanical sewing machine, we’ve got you covered.
Machine Quality
Handheld machines are made for simple, easy repair projects. They are not durable, well-built machines designed to do extensive sewing jobs. Most handheld sewing machines are not built to the same quality standards as a traditional sewing machine.
Why Would You Choose a Handheld Sewing Machine?
Handheld sewing machines are designed for on the go repairs. You might want one of these tiny machines if you are concerned about portability, want to make quick repairs while traveling, away from home and away from your regular sewing machine.
If you want quick, temporary fixes that can be done on the road wherever you are, a handheld sewing machine can fill that need.
A Handheld Sewing Machine is Probably Not For You If…
Since this type of machine is made for quick, on the go fixes and repairs, if you’re a perfectionist, this machine probably isn’t going to make you happy.
If you like to do a quality job only once, this is probably not the gadget for you – just stick to your standard sewing machine, or hand sewing and you’ll get better, more satisfying results.
Important Features to Look for in the Best Handheld Sewing Machine
None of these handheld sewing machines are made to be used on a daily basis, so there are only a few features to consider when looking for the best handheld sewing machine for your needs.
Power Needs
Cordless/Battery Operated
Most handheld machines are cordless and run on standard batteries, which makes them perfect for on the go repairs.
Corded
An electrical cord is a nice option if you have trouble keeping batteries on hand and you know you’ll be making most of your repairs where you have access to an electrical outlet like a dorm room or apartment.
Needle Type
Make sure the handheld sewing machine you choose has needles that are easy to find online or at your local fabric store. You don’t want to buy a machine only to have to toss it when you can’t find replacement needles.
Prewound Bobbins
Some of the best handheld sewing machines come with pre-wound bobbins in several colors. It’s great to be able to use your repair machine straight out of the box without having to buy thread first. This is key if you’re buying this for a non-sewist, college student or someone who wouldn’t normally have thread on hand.
Tips for Using a Handheld Sewing Machine
Even the best handheld sewing machine can be frustrating to use, so for the smoothest experience take a look at these tips.
- Follow the manufacturers’ instructions. Just as with any device, things always work best when you follow the instructions.
- Find a YouTube Video: Sometimes a video is worth way more than 1000 words when you’re trying to figure something out.
- Keep batteries on hand so your machine is ready to go when you need it.
- Purchase a spool of dark and light thread and wind your bobbins so you’ll be ready when you have a repair emergency.
- Make sure you knot your thread at the beginning and end as most of these machines are unable to backstitch to secure your line of stitching.
How to Thread a Handheld Sewing Machine
Here are basic instructions for threading a stapler-style handheld sewing machine.
- Pull the thread through the rear guide
- Pull thread over and into the tensioner
- Loop thread through the front guide
- Stick threader through the needle eye and run the thread through the pincers
- Pull the thread through the eye of the needle
- Cut excess thread
Summary: Our Top Picks For The Best Handheld Sewing Machine
Once again, here are our top three picks for the best handheld sewing machine for your quick on-the-go sewing needs.
If you’re realistic in your expectations and don’t expect a full-function traditional sewing machine, any of these are good choices.
The Takeaway: Which Handheld Sewing Machine is Best for Me?
Since most handheld sewing machines have similar features and are priced in the same ballpark, most machines will do an adequate job at the occasional repair sewing job.
Our advice is to choose a machine that is made from a manufacturer you trust and a machine that has some extras thrown in like replacement needles and pre-wound bobbins in assorted colored thread.
Any of our three top choices would be a great place to start if you want to add the best handheld sewing machine to your collection of sewing gadgets.
