10 Best Intermediate Sewing Machine 2025 in the United States

The SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960 is a strong choice for intermediate sewers looking to expand their creativity and efficiency. It offers an impressive 600 built-in stitches with over a thousand stitch applications, covering everything from basic to decorative styles, which is great for quilting, garment making, and home décor projects. The computerized controls make it easy to access these stitch options, plus the built-in lettering font allows for personal touches like monograms.

Automatic features like the needle threader and 1-step buttonholes save time and reduce hassle, especially useful for users who want to spend more time sewing and less on setup. The speed control and start/stop button provide flexibility, allowing you to work slowly for precision or quickly to finish projects faster—this is helpful for intermediate users who may be experimenting with different techniques. The machine includes 13 presser feet catering to various sewing needs, from general stitching to specialized tasks like quilting and embroidery. The large extension table is a nice addition for bigger projects, offering good workspace. Build quality is solid with a durable frame, supported by a 25-year warranty, which gives confidence in its longevity.

The extensive stitch options and computerized controls might feel a bit overwhelming at first for some, and the machine is on the heavier side, making it less portable. While the machine’s many features are great, it does require some learning time to fully utilize them. Nevertheless, its user-friendly automatic functions and clear controls help ease this curve. This makes the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 well-suited for intermediate sewers who want a versatile, feature-rich machine supporting both creativity and productivity, balancing advanced options with helpful automation to facilitate growing sewing skills.

The Brother XM2701 sewing machine is a strong contender in the intermediate sewing machine category, appealing to users who want a lightweight yet feature-rich machine. With 27 built-in stitches, including decorative and stretch options, it offers versatility for various projects. The automatic needle threader and drop-in top bobbin are significant conveniences that save time and reduce frustration, especially for those who may struggle with threading issues. This machine also includes six presser feet, which expands its capabilities for different types of sewing tasks.

A notable advantage is its free arm design, making it easy to sew cuffs and hems, which is great for everyday sewing projects. The support provided by Brother, through their 'At your side' service, ensures that users can get help whenever needed, enhancing the user experience.

The XM2701 is well-built but may be less durable than more expensive models, especially when handling heavy fabrics. It operates on a 120-volt system, which limits its use to the US, potentially disappointing international customers. While it’s beginner-friendly, the wide array of features may feel overwhelming for complete novices.

The Brother XM2701 is suitable for a range of users, from beginners ready to advance their skills to more experienced sewers looking for a reliable, portable machine. Its blend of automatic features and stitch options makes it a solid choice for those who want to explore different sewing techniques without diving into more complex or expensive machines.

The Brother SE700 Sewing and Embroidery Machine is a solid choice for those looking to enhance their sewing and embroidery skills. With 135 built-in designs and 103 built-in stitches, it offers a wide range of creative options for users. The 4" x 4" embroidery field is adequate for many projects, while the large 3.7" touchscreen simplifies navigation and on-screen editing, making it user-friendly, especially for those transitioning into more advanced sewing techniques.

One of the standout features is its wireless LAN connectivity, allowing users to transfer embroidery files from a PC or mobile device, which is a big plus for tech-savvy users who want to customize their designs. The inclusion of an automatic needle threader and a jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin further enhances convenience, minimizing hassle during setup.

This machine is versatile, but it may feel a bit overwhelming for complete beginners due to the numerous functions and settings. The 4" x 4" embroidery field might be limiting for those who wish to work on larger designs, and the machine's reliance on a power source may restrict portability. Durability-wise, the Brother SE700 has a solid build, but the warranty periods vary for different components, which could be a concern in case of issues. The fact that it is only intended for use in the US at 120 volts may also limit its appeal to international buyers.