The main places to buy a sewing machine
You can buy a sewing machine at fabric stores, big-box retailers, specialty sewing shops, online marketplaces, and from individual sellers. Each option has different prices, return policies, and access to in-person help. The best choice depends on whether you want to test a machine before buying, how much you're willing to spend, and whether you need setup support after purchase.
Most people start at one of three types of stores: chain fabric retailers that stock machines alongside fabric and notions, general retailers like Walmart or Target that carry basic models, or dedicated sewing machine shops that focus on one brand or a few brands and offer repair services. Online options include Amazon, manufacturer websites, and specialty retailers. Used machines come from thrift stores, online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, and estate sales.
Key Takeaways
- Fabric chain stores like Joann carry multiple brands and price points, offer in-store testing, and often have staff who can answer basic questions about features.
- Specialty sewing shops typically stock one or two brands, provide setup and threading help, and can service machines they sell, but usually cost more than chain stores.
- Big-box retailers like Walmart and Target have lower prices on entry-level machines but limited selection and no in-store sewing informed.
- Online retailers offer wider selection and often lower prices, but you cannot test the machine and shipping costs can be significant for heavy items.
- Used machines from thrift stores and online marketplaces cost less but may need cleaning or repair, and you have no warranty or return option.
Fabric chain stores and what to expect there
Joann Fabrics is the largest fabric chain in the United States and stocks sewing machines in most locations. They carry machines from brands like Singer, Brother, Janome, and Bernina at a range of prices, from basic models under $200 to computerized machines over $1,000. You can walk in, hold the machines, and test basic functions like threading and stitch selection before you buy.
Staff at Joann can usually answer questions about what stitches a machine offers or whether it will handle thick fabric, but they are not always experienced sewers themselves. Return policies vary by location, but Joann typically allows returns within 30 days with a receipt. They also run sales and coupons regularly, so asking about current promotions can lower your price. Some locations offer basic classes or setup help, though this varies.
Specialty sewing machine shops
Independent sewing shops focus on one or two brands—often Bernina, Janome, or Pfaff—and employ people who sew and repair machines. They can show you how to use features specific to each model, help you choose based on what you plan to sew, and often include free setup and threading lessons with your purchase. Many will service machines they sell, which matters if something breaks after the warranty ends.
The trade-off is price: specialty shops usually cost $100 to $300 more than chain stores for the same machine, because they invest in staff training and repair services. They also have smaller selection—you might find three Bernina models instead of ten. To find a shop near you, search "[your city] sewing machine repair" or visit a brand's website and use their dealer locator. Call ahead to confirm they have machines in stock and what brands they carry.
Big-box retailers like Walmart and Target
Walmart and Target stock basic sewing machines, usually from Singer or Brother, in the $100 to $400 range. Prices are often lower than specialty shops because these retailers buy in bulk and do not employ sewing experts. The selection is limited—you might find two or three models instead of twenty—and staff cannot answer detailed questions about stitches or fabric compatibility.
Return policies are generous: both stores allow returns within 30 to 90 days. However, you cannot test the machine in the store the way you can at a fabric shop, and if something goes wrong after the return window closes, you have no local repair option. These stores work best if you know exactly which model you want or if you are buying a very basic machine for occasional use.
Online retailers and manufacturer websites
Amazon, eBay, and brand-specific websites like Singer.com or Brother-usa.com offer the widest selection and often the lowest prices. You can compare dozens of models, read customer reviews, and sometimes find discontinued models or sales. Shipping is usually free or low-cost on orders over a certain amount, though sewing machines are heavy and shipping can still run $30 to $100.
The main drawback is that you cannot test the machine before it arrives. Read reviews carefully, especially ones that mention setup difficulty or quality issues. Check the return policy before you buy—some online retailers allow 30-day returns, while others do not accept returns on machines at all. Manufacturer websites sometimes offer better prices than Amazon and include setup videos or phone support, so it is worth checking the brand's site directly if you know which machine you want.
Used machines from thrift stores and online marketplaces
Thrift stores like Goodwill and Salvation Army sometimes stock sewing machines for $20 to $100. Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and OfferUp let you buy from individuals in your area, often at lower prices than retail. Estate sales and auctions occasionally have vintage machines in good condition. Used machines appeal to people on a tight budget or those curious about older, mechanical models that do not rely on electronics.
The risk is that you do not know the machine's history. It may need cleaning, oil, or a new needle. Older machines might lack parts or manuals. You have no warranty, no return option, and no way to contact the seller if something breaks the day after purchase. Before you buy used, ask the seller to plug it in and run it, or meet in a public place where you can test it yourself. Avoid machines that make grinding sounds, do not thread smoothly, or have visible rust or damage.
Comparing price, selection, and support across options
| Where to Buy | Price Range | Selection | In-Person Testing | Setup Help |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fabric chain (Joann) | $150–$1,200 | 10–20 models | Yes | Limited |
| Specialty shop | $300–$2,000 | 3–10 models | Yes | Yes, included |
| Big-box retail | $100–$400 | 2–4 models | No | No |
| Online retailer | $100–$2,000 | 50+ models | No | Video/phone |
| Used (thrift/online) | $20–$300 | Varies widely | Sometimes | No |
How to decide which option is right for you
If you are new to sewing and want to test a machine before committing, start at a fabric chain store or specialty shop. You will pay a bit more, but you can hold the machine, thread it, and ask questions. If you already know which model you want and price is your main concern, online retailers or big-box stores will save you money. If you value long-term support and repair services, a specialty shop is worth the extra cost.
For a first machine, avoid the cheapest used options unless someone experienced in sewing checks it for you. A $150 new machine from a chain store is usually more reliable than a $50 mystery machine from a thrift store. Once you know your sewing style and what features matter to you, buying used or online becomes a safer choice because you know what to look for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy a machine in person or online?
Buy in person if you are new to sewing or unsure which features you need—testing the machine and talking to staff matters. Buy online if you already know the exact model you want and price is your priority. Online retailers often have lower prices and wider selection, but you cannot test the machine before it arrives.
What is the difference between a specialty shop and a chain store?
Specialty shops employ experienced sewers, offer setup help, and repair machines they sell. Chain stores have lower prices and wider selection but limited informed. Specialty shops cost more upfront but may save money on repairs later.
Is it safe to buy a used sewing machine?
Used machines can work well if you test them first and inspect for rust, grinding sounds, or threading problems. Avoid machines with visible damage. New machines from chain stores or online retailers come with warranties and are safer for beginners, but used machines are fine once you know what to look for.
Do I need to pay for shipping if I buy online?
Many online retailers offer free shipping on orders over a set amount, but sewing machines are heavy and shipping can cost $30 to $100 even with free-shipping offers. Check the total cost including shipping before you compare prices with in-store options.
Can I return a machine if I change my mind?
Chain stores and big-box retailers typically allow returns within 30 to 90 days. Specialty shops vary by location. Online retailers have different policies—some allow 30-day returns, others do not accept returns on machines. Check the return policy before you buy.