The main places to buy a sewing machine
You can buy a sewing machine from fabric and craft stores, big-box retailers, specialty sewing shops, online marketplaces, and secondhand sellers. Each route has different prices, selection, and support. A fabric store like Joann or Hobby Lobby stocks beginner and mid-range machines with staff who know sewing. Big-box stores like Walmart and Target carry budget models but offer limited information. Specialty shops focus on higher-end machines and repairs. Online retailers like Amazon have the widest selection and often the lowest prices, but you cannot test the machine first. Used machines from Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or estate sales cost less but come with no warranty.
The choice depends on what you need: speed and low cost point to online or big-box; hands-on testing and guidance point to a fabric store or specialty shop; budget and willingness to inspect used machines point to secondhand sources.
Key Takeaways
- Fabric stores like Joann and Hobby Lobby let you see and touch machines before buying and offer staff guidance on features.
- Online retailers including Amazon and brand websites have the largest selection and often lower prices, but you cannot test the machine or return it easily if it does not work.
- Specialty sewing shops sell higher-end machines and provide repair and maintenance support, making them worth the extra cost if you plan to sew regularly.
- Used machines from secondhand marketplaces cost significantly less but require you to inspect the machine in person and may have no warranty or support.
- Big-box retailers like Walmart and Target offer the cheapest new machines but carry only basic models with minimal staff knowledge.
Fabric and craft stores: testing and guidance
Joann, Hobby Lobby, and independent fabric stores stock sewing machines in the beginner to mid-range price band, usually $150 to $600. Staff members are trained on the machines they sell and can explain the difference between a basic straight-stitch model and one with built-in stitches or automatic threading. You can sit down and test the machine, feel how the pedal responds, and see how the needle moves. This matters because comfort and control vary widely between models.
These stores also sell thread, bobbins, needles, and feet in the same visit, so you can start sewing the day you buy. Many offer classes or workshops where you learn to use your new machine. The downside is that prices are higher than online, and the selection is smaller than specialty shops. Return policies vary by store, so check before you buy.
Specialty sewing shops: higher-end machines and repair
Independent sewing machine shops carry brands like Bernina, Janome, Singer, and Pfaff at prices from $300 to $3,000 and up. Staff are sewers themselves and can discuss stitch quality, tension control, and which machine fits your skill level and project type. Many shops offer free or low-cost lessons with your purchase and will service and repair your machine for years to come.
A specialty shop is the right choice if you plan to sew regularly, want a machine that will last 10 years or more, or need repairs done by someone who knows your exact model. The trade-off is higher upfront cost and smaller selection than online. To find a shop near you, search "[your city] sewing machine repair" — repair shops almost always sell machines too.
Online retailers: selection and price
Amazon, Walmart.com, Target.com, and brand websites like Singer.com and Janome.com have the widest range of machines at the lowest prices. You can compare hundreds of models, read reviews from other buyers, and often save $50 to $150 compared to a physical store. Shipping is usually free or low-cost, and delivery takes three to seven days.
The catch is that you cannot test the machine before it arrives. If it does not work or feels wrong when it arrives, returning it can be slow and frustrating — you may have to pay return shipping, and some sellers charge a restocking fee. Read the return policy before you buy. Online is best if you know exactly what you want, have sewed before, or are buying a gift for someone who has.
Brand websites sometimes offer better prices than Amazon on their own machines and include free shipping. Singer, Janome, and Brother all sell directly to consumers. Checking the brand site first can save you money.
Big-box retailers: budget machines with limited support
Walmart and Target stock basic sewing machines in the $100 to $300 range. These are straightforward, straight-stitch or basic-stitch models meant for light use. Staff cannot usually answer detailed questions about features or performance. The advantage is low price and the ability to return to a nearby store if something goes wrong. The disadvantage is that you get what you pay for — these machines are not built to last and may jam or break after a year or two of regular use.
Buy from a big-box store if you are testing whether sewing is for you and do not want to spend much, or if you need a machine for a one-time project. Do not expect it to be your machine for the next five years.
Used machines: cost savings with risk
Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, OfferUp, and local estate sales have used sewing machines at 30 to 60 percent below retail price. Older machines, especially metal-bodied models from the 1970s and 1980s, are often more durable than new budget machines. You can inspect the machine in person, test it, and negotiate the price.
The risks are real. You have no warranty, no return option, and no way to know if the machine has a hidden problem that will show up after you buy it. Bring a power cord and test the machine before you hand over money. Ask the seller why they are getting rid of it. If they say "it stopped working" or "I do not know what is wrong with it," walk away. If they say "I upgraded" or "I do not sew anymore," that is a good sign. Older machines may need a cleaning and new belt, which costs $30 to $100 at a repair shop.
Comparing price and support across retailers
| Retailer Type | Price Range | Selection | Testing Before Buy | Support After Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fabric store (Joann, Hobby Lobby) | $150–$600 | 20–50 models | Yes | Staff information, classes |
| Specialty sewing shop | $300–$3,000+ | 30–100 models | Yes | Repair, maintenance, lessons |
| Online (Amazon, brand sites) | $100–$2,000+ | 500+ models | No | Return policy varies |
| Big-box (Walmart, Target) | $100–$300 | 5–15 models | Yes | Store return only |
| Used (Marketplace, Craigslist) | $30–$500 | Varies widely | Yes (in person) | None |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy a new or used sewing machine?
Buy new if you are a beginner or want a warranty and support. Buy used if you have sewed before, know what features you want, and can inspect the machine in person before paying. Older metal machines often outlast new budget models, but you need to test it first and budget for a cleaning or belt replacement.
What is the difference between buying online and in a store?
In-store, you test the machine, get information from staff, and can return it easily. Online, you get lower prices and more choice but cannot test it first and returns are slower. Online is faster and cheaper; in-store is safer if you are unsure what you want.
Do I need to go to a specialty shop or is a fabric store enough?
A fabric store is enough if you sew casually and want a machine in the $200 to $400 range. A specialty shop is worth it if you sew regularly, want a machine that lasts 10+ years, or need repairs done by an informed. Specialty shops also carry higher-end machines with more features.
Can I return a sewing machine if it does not work?
Return policies vary by retailer. Fabric stores and big-box stores usually accept returns within 30 days. Online retailers vary — check the policy before you buy. Specialty shops often have longer return windows. Used machines have no return option, which is why you must test them in person.
What should I look for when buying a used machine?
Test it in person. Listen for grinding or rattling sounds. Check that the needle moves smoothly, the presser foot lifts and lowers, and the thread tension dial turns. Ask why the seller is getting rid of it. Avoid machines that have been sitting unused for years without being cleaned. Budget $30 to $100 for a cleaning and belt replacement at a repair shop.