Choosing a machine should feel exciting. Whether you're taking your first stitches or looking for something that gives you more room to grow, start with what you'd love to make. We're here to help you find a machine that feels right for you.
What would you like to sew?
-
Everyday sewing, repairs and dressmaking: explore our sewing machine range. Think about the fabrics you use, buttonholes, threading and how comfortably you can control the speed.
-
Patchwork and quilting: browse quilting sewing machines. Compare the space to the right of the needle, fabric feeding and the feet included for your projects.
-
Names, motifs and embroidery designs: explore embroidery machines. Check the embroidery area, available hoops and how designs are transferred. If you also want to sew, look at combined sewing and embroidery machines.
-
Neat seam edges and stretch fabrics: take a look at our overlockers. They work alongside a sewing machine for tasks such as seam finishing; you'll still want a sewing machine for jobs such as buttonholes and inserting zips.
-
Stretchy hems: explore coverstitch machines for finishing hems on knit garments. These do a different job from an overlocker.
Choosing your first machine?
Our guide to choosing your first Brother sewing machine explains the useful features, compares beginner-friendly Brother models and includes prices checked in October 2026. It is a good place to start if you are deciding between mechanical and computerised machines.
A few things worth trying
Look beyond the number of stitches. Think about threading, lighting, controls, workspace, weight and the fabrics you want to sew. Mechanical and computerised machines can both suit beginners; the useful features depend on the model and on what feels comfortable to you.
Set a budget that leaves room for the needles, thread and any extra feet you need. Check the individual listing for current prices, included accessories and warranty details. If you're upgrading, tell us what you enjoy about your current machine and what you'd like your next one to do better.
Come and have a chat
Not sure where to start? Contact us or plan a visit to Fabric Mouse in Brompton-on-Swale. Tell us about your projects, your budget and any features that would make sewing easier. If there's a particular model you'd like to see, get in touch before travelling so we can confirm what's available to view.
Check our opening hours before setting off.
Get to know your machine
Our Sewing Videos & Machine Help page brings together practical help with machines, common errors and using sewing feet. For everyday upkeep, visit Sewing Machine Care & Cleaning, including our free printable Sewing Room Starter Set.
