10 Best Intermediate Sewing Machine 2025 in the United States

The Brother XR9550 is a solid choice for those stepping into intermediate sewing, offering a robust set of features. With 165 built-in stitches, including utility, decorative, and 8 auto-size buttonholes, it gives you plenty of creative options for your projects. The automatic needle threader and jam-resistant drop-in bobbin simplify your sewing experience, making it user-friendly for those who prefer to spend more time sewing than troubleshooting. The intuitive LCD display is another great aspect, allowing you to easily select stitch settings at the push of a button.

One of the standout features is the included accessories, such as a wide table and eight presser feet, which enhance versatility in sewing and quilting tasks. Having a protective hard cover is also a nice touch, ensuring your machine remains in good condition when not in use. Plus, Brother offers excellent customer support, providing free technical help for the life of the machine, which can be incredibly reassuring for users.

On the downside, while the machine is well-built, some users may find it a bit heavy at 10.1 pounds, making portability an issue if you plan to take it to classes or workshops. Additionally, since it’s designed for use in the US and operates at 120 volts, those outside this region might face compatibility issues if they wish to use it abroad. While 165 stitch options may seem impressive, beginners might feel overwhelmed by the variety, which could require some time to fully explore and master. Still, for those who are ready to expand their sewing abilities, the Brother XR9550 combines features and support that make it a strong contender in the intermediate sewing machine category.

The Janome HD-1000 Black Edition is a solid choice for intermediate sewists who want a durable, mechanical machine that can handle a variety of fabrics, including heavier materials like leather and vinyl. It offers 14 built-in stitches along with a four-step buttonhole, providing enough variety for most home sewing projects without overwhelming you with complicated options. The machine includes several useful presser feet—such as a general purpose foot, zipper foot, blind hemming foot, and sliding buttonhole foot—making it versatile for different stitching tasks.

Its strong build quality is designed to last through heavy or frequent use, which is a significant advantage if you plan on working with thicker fabrics regularly. It does not have computerized features, so there are no automatic stitch adjustments or digital speed controls; speed and stitch selection are manually managed. Some users may prefer this simplicity, while others might find it limiting. The Ultra-Glide Foot and included leather needle set help with sewing tricky materials smoothly.

Though it lacks modern automatic functions like programmable stitches or needle positioning, the straightforward mechanical design is reliable and generally easier to maintain. At a moderate price point and with a good set of accessories, this machine is well suited for those seeking a dependable, no-frills sewing machine to handle a broad range of intermediate sewing projects.

The Brother CS7000X Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine is a strong contender for intermediate sewers. It boasts 70 built-in stitches, including utility, decorative, heirloom, and quilting options, which cater to a wide range of projects. The inclusion of 7 one-step auto-size buttonholes adds versatility, making it easier to create professional-looking garments and accessories.

The improved automatic needle threader and jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin simplify setup and operation, which is a big plus for users looking for convenience and efficiency. The machine's metal frame and fixed needle bar contribute to its durability and consistent stitching performance, ensuring it can handle various projects with ease. The larger needle-to-arm workspace is particularly beneficial for those working on bigger projects like quilts, giving you more room to maneuver your fabric.

An ample array of included accessories, such as 10 sewing feet, a wide table, and a hard case, enhances its value and functionality. The 25-year limited warranty and free lifetime technical support are reassuring for long-term use. However, it's worth noting that the product is designed for use in the US with a 120-volt power supply, and using it elsewhere may void the warranty. Additionally, while the computerized features offer great benefits, they might pose a learning curve for those accustomed to mechanical machines. In summary, the Brother CS7000X is well-suited for intermediate sewers looking for a versatile, durable, and feature-rich machine that can handle a variety of sewing and quilting tasks.