The main places to find a sewing machine
You can buy a new sewing machine at big-box retailers like Walmart and Target, fabric stores like Joann, specialty sewing shops in your area, and online marketplaces including Amazon and eBay. Used machines are available through Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, local thrift stores, estate sales, and pawn shops. You can also rent machines by the day or month from some fabric stores and independent sewing studios. The choice depends on your budget, whether you want a warranty, and how soon you need the machine.
Each source has real trade-offs. New machines from retailers come with a manufacturer's warranty but cost more and may be basic models. Specialty shops have trained staff who can help you choose and often offer classes, but prices are higher. Used machines are cheaper but may need repair, and you won't have a warranty. Rentals let you try before buying but add up in cost if you sew regularly.
Key Takeaways
- New machines from big-box stores are affordable and widely available, but specialty sewing shops offer informed information and better selection for serious sewers.
- Used machines from thrift stores, Facebook Marketplace, and estate sales cost less but may need servicing, so budget for a tune-up before use.
- Rental options through fabric stores and sewing studios let you test a machine for a day or week without committing to a purchase.
- Online retailers like Amazon have fast shipping but no in-person support, so read reviews carefully and check the return policy.
- Local sewing shops often buy and resell used machines, giving you a middle ground between new retail prices and private sales.
New machines at big-box and fabric retailers
Walmart, Target, and Joann carry entry-level and mid-range machines year-round. Walmart and Target stock basic models in the $100 to $300 range, usually from brands like Singer, Brother, and Janome. These machines do straight stitch and zigzag, have a few built-in stitches, and come with a one-year manufacturer's warranty. You can see them in person, take them home the same day, and return them within the store's return window if they don't work for you.
Joann stores carry a wider range—from $150 beginner machines to $800 computerized models—and staff can answer basic questions about features. Joann also runs sales and coupons, so prices drop regularly. The downside is that staff at big-box stores usually aren't trained sewers and can't advise on which machine suits your projects. If you're new to sewing and want a straightforward, affordable machine with no fuss, these retailers are a fast option.
Specialty sewing shops and local dealers
Independent sewing shops in your area carry machines from brands like Bernina, Pfaff, Husqvarna Viking, and Janome, often at higher price points ($400 to $2,000 and up) than big-box stores. The real value is the staff: they are usually sewers themselves, can watch you sew and recommend a machine that fits your skill level and projects, and many offer free or low-cost classes. They also service machines, so if something breaks, you have a local place to take it.
To find a specialty shop near you, search "sewing machine dealer near me" or "sewing shop [your city]" online. Call ahead to ask if they have machines in stock and whether they offer a trial period—some let you take a machine home for a few days before you buy. Specialty shops are more expensive upfront, but the support and warranty coverage often make them worth it if you plan to sew regularly.
Used machines from thrift stores, online, and estate sales
Thrift stores like Goodwill and Salvation Army often have sewing machines for $20 to $100. The catch is you don't know the machine's history, whether it works, or if it needs repair. Before you buy, ask if you can plug it in and run it. Look for machines from established brands (Singer, Brother, Janome, Pfaff) rather than unknown names, because parts and service are easier to find.
Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist let you contact sellers directly and often see photos and descriptions. You can message the seller to ask how long they've owned the machine, why they're selling, and whether it's been serviced. Estate sales and auctions sometimes have vintage machines in good condition. Budget an extra $50 to $150 for a tune-up at a local sewing shop after you buy used—a technician will oil the machine, check the tension, and replace the needle, which makes a real difference in how it sews.
Online retailers and mail order
Amazon, Overstock, and brand websites like Singer.com sell new machines with shipping to your home. Prices are often lower than in-store, and you get fast delivery. The downside is you can't see or touch the machine before it arrives, and if something is wrong, you have to deal with shipping it back. Read the reviews carefully—look for comments about whether the machine arrived damaged, how customer service handled problems, and whether the manual was clear.
Check the return policy before you buy. Most online retailers give you 30 days to return an unopened machine, but some charge a restocking fee. If you're buying from a brand's official website, returns are usually easier. If you're new to sewing and want hands-on help choosing, online shopping is riskier than going to a store where you can ask questions.
Renting a machine to try before you buy
Some fabric stores and independent sewing studios rent machines by the day, week, or month. Joann offers rental programs in some locations—call your local store to ask. Independent studios in urban areas often rent machines for $10 to $30 per day or $40 to $100 per month. Renting lets you test a specific model on your own projects before spending $300 or more.
The rental cost usually doesn't count toward a purchase, so this is an option if you're unsure whether you'll stick with sewing or want to try a more expensive machine before committing. If you rent regularly—say, twice a month—the cost adds up quickly, so this works best as a short-term trial, not a long-term solution.
What to check before you buy or rent
Whether you're looking at new or used, in person or online, check these things: Does the machine come with a warranty or service plan? Can you take it to a local shop for repairs if something breaks? Does it have the stitches you need for your projects (straight stitch and zigzag are the basics; decorative stitches are nice but not essential)? Is the manual in English and clear enough to understand? Can you find the presser feet and bobbins you need locally or online?
For used machines, ask the seller or shop whether it's been serviced recently and whether they'll stand behind it if it breaks within a week or two. A machine that's been sitting in a closet for years may need work before it sews well. If you're buying from a private seller on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist, meet in a public place and bring someone with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth buying a used sewing machine?
Yes, if you find one from a known brand and budget for a service visit. Older machines are often built more solidly than cheap new ones. The risk is you don't know the machine's history. Buy from a thrift store or sewing shop that stands behind what they sell, or from a private seller who can tell you how long they owned it and why they're selling.
What's the difference between a computerized and mechanical machine?
Mechanical machines have dials and levers you turn to set stitches and tension—they're simpler, cheaper, and easier to fix. Computerized machines have buttons and screens, store stitch patterns, and adjust tension automatically. Computerized machines cost more but are easier to use once you learn them. For a beginner, a mechanical machine is fine.
Can I return a machine if I buy it online?
Most online retailers allow returns within 30 days if the machine is unopened or in original condition. Some charge a restocking fee of 10 to 15 percent. Check the return policy on the website before you buy. Brand websites usually have better return policies than third-party sellers on Amazon.
Do I need to service a new machine before I use it?
No. New machines come ready to use. Read the manual, thread it correctly, and start sewing. After a few months of regular use, a tune-up is nice but not urgent. Used machines should be serviced before use so you know the tension and timing are correct.
Where do I find a sewing machine repair shop?
Search "sewing machine repair near me" or ask at a local fabric store or sewing shop—they usually know the reputable technicians in your area. Specialty sewing shops often repair machines as part of their business. Avoid shops that won't give you a quote upfront or that pressure you to buy a new machine instead of fixing yours.