By Leah Groth, carolin lehmann
CBS Essentials is created independently from the CBS News staff. We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms.
Learning how to sew isn't always easy, especially if you never even learned how to hand-thread a needle. However, the right sewing machine can help make the learning experience less stressful and much easier. While you might be tempted by the bells and whistles of high-end, technologically advanced sewing machine models, beginners are actually better off with a simple, high-quality machine that's easy to use.
If you've never shopped for one before, here's what to look for in a first sewing machine. A built-in threader and top-loading drop-in bobbin will make threading your needle a breeze. And, while sewing machines geared toward experts offer tons of preprogrammed stitches, as a beginner, opt for a machine with fewer stitch options. (You likely won't need these fancy stitches as a beginner, anyway.)
A lightweight machine is worth considering as well, especially if you are taking sewing classes and anticipate bringing the sewing machine with you.
CBS Essentials has rounded up five sewing machines great for anyone just starting to get their thread on.
The Singer Stylist 7258 sewing machine is a metal-frame, LCD-screen-equipped sewing machine. It comes complete with an automatic needle threader, and a top drop-in bobbin to make threading easy. As your sewing skills progress, the machine has 100 built-in stitch options, along with six built-in buttonhole options. At 14.6 pounds, this model isn't the heaviest one out there, but it's not the lightest, either. Weight is something to consider if you're looking for something to haul to sewing classes.
A lighter alternative to the Singer Confidence, this Brother model weighs in under 9 pounds and is a great option for a beginner looking for a somewhat portable machine. Like the Singer, it has a jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin and automatic needle threader. And, if you plan on continuing beyond the beginner stage, it offers 165 built-in stitches, which will come in handy along the road. Another bonus? Its intuitive LCD display screen makes selecting settings easy.
Brother XR9550PRW Project Runway sewing machine, $300
For beginners planning on working with heavier fabrics, such as denim and leather, the Singer Heavy Duty 4423 is definitely worth considering. Built to last with a heavy metal frame and a powerful motor, it offers 32 built-in stitches and multiple buttonhole options. On the heavier side at 14.5 pounds, it's a little bulky to be moving around regularly.
Singer 4423 Sewing Machine sewing machine, $184
This computerized Brother sewing machine model offers 60 built-in stitches, a jam-resistant and easy-to-load top bobbin, and seven buttonhole sizes. However, at 14 pounds, it's better suited in the home rather than on-the-go.
Brother CS5055 computerized sewing machine, $150
This full-size machine has 15 stitches and comes in a cheerful teal and pink. It comes with three bobbins and three needles, plus a seam ripper. It has a front-loading bobbin, a light, a removable free arm with storage and more.
Janome 15-stitch Color Me Sewing Machine Standard, $113
This minimalist sewing machine is small, light and inexpensive. Retailing for about $25, it is a budget-friendly option. It double-threads a needle and offers two speeds, making it perfect for small jobs such as mending and hemming. It can also be plugged into an outlet or operated via battery, making it a great option for on-to-go sewing needs.
Haitral portable adjustable sewing machine, $25
First published on February 26, 2022 / 7:57 AM
None of the injuries from the shootings are believed to be life-threatening.
"When you lose that trust, especially in the institution that I'm in, it changes the institution fundamentally," Thomas said at a conference Friday.
House staffers will be able to join a union if they choose to, but it isn't a requirement under the resolution.
The senators travelled to Ukraine days before the Senate is expected to pass a $40 billion package of military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine.
The beauty industry throws out around 877 pounds of waste each minute, which totals to about half a million pounds every day.
Milk banks typically focus on NICU babies. Now they are helping families who can't find baby formula.
Stablecoins have been thrust into national spotlight after being blamed in part for the recent crypto sell-off.
Here are the do's and don'ts for parents in search of baby formula as the shortage continues.
Tesla founder says his $44 billion deal for the social network is delayed by questions over how much spam and fake accounts are on it.
Tax agency now pays 4% interest on late payments to individual filers, and that could soon rise even more.
"When you lose that trust, especially in the institution that I'm in, it changes the institution fundamentally," Thomas said at a conference Friday.
The senators travelled to Ukraine days before the Senate is expected to pass a $40 billion package of military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine.
Democrats on both ends of Pennsylvania Avenue are publicly tackling the issue, in some cases after their GOP colleagues began demanding more action.
The court did not rule on the merits of the investigations, only that lower courts in Texas overstepped by trying to block all cases
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, former U.S. Secretary of Defense Mark Esper and more appear on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" this Sunday.
Millions of pounds of hair foil plastic and metals head out the back door of hair salons and into landfills every year. But now many are joining a movement to recycle and reuse that material. Dana Jacobson reports.
Thousands of demonstrators are expected to march in cities throughout the nation today in support of abortion rights. The rallies are part of a nationwide campaign in response to a leaked Supreme Court draft majority opinion that indicated the high court may overturn Roe v. Wade. Christina Ruffini is on Capitol Hill with the latest.
The House is set to consider a measure to buy an excess supply of baby formula from other countries to ease the struggle so many American families are facing. But some Republicans are demanding more action from the Biden administration and are wondering why the shortages have become so severe. Elise Preston has more.
Parents from coast to coast are scrambling to find formula to feed their hungry and helpless babies. On Capitol Hill, lawmakers are launching an investigation into how the baby formula shortage happened. Elise Preston reports.
"Never in my 14 years have I felt so helpless," said a Texas ER nurse outside courthouse. "This could be me."
A spectacular full moon is fast approaching. Here's everything you need to know to see it.
Finland's leader told Russian President Vladimir Putin that the country would seek to join NATO in the coming days.
The new deaths and cases, which were from Friday, increased total numbers to 27 deaths and 524,440 illnesses amid a rapid spread of fever since late April.
Austin urged an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine and emphasized maintaining open lines of communication.
Moscow has warned that if the Nordic nations are accepted into the alliance, "Russia will be forced to take retaliatory steps."
Formed in 2012, Bear's Den won critical praise for the group's first album. On Friday, the British folk rock band released their fourth studio album, "Blue Hours." For Saturday Sessions, Bear’s Den performs "Blue Hours.”
Formed in 2012, Bear's Den won critical praise for the group's first album. On Friday, the British folk rock band released their fourth studio album, "Blue Hours." For Saturday Sessions, Bear’s Den performs "Spiders.”
Formed in 2012, Bear's Den won critical praise for the group's first album. On Friday, the British folk rock band released their fourth studio album, "Blue Hours." For Saturday Sessions, Bear’s Den performs "Frightened Whispers."
Actor James Hong has appeared in nearly 700 movies and television shows over the course of his 70-year career. But many people don’t know his name. Marci Gonzalez has the story of the prolific entertainer who was honored this week as the oldest performer to ever receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Tara Stringfellow’s debut novel “Memphis” is a multi-generational story about family, heartbreak and moving forward. Stringfellow changed her entire life to throw herself into this book, and what she’s produced is both a tribute to her ancestors and to a city she adores. Jeff Glor has more.
Astronomers have managed to get the first images of the black hole located at the core of the Milky Way. Scientists across seven countries released the first ever image of the black hole called Sagittarius A*. Jeff Glor has more.
Ford is getting ready to roll out its all-electric F-150 Lightning. It will be the first mass-market electric pickup truck in the United States. Kris Van Cleave went on a test drive.
The war in Ukraine is the most documented war in history thanks to camera phones and social media. For "60 Minutes," Scott Pelley reports on Bellingcat, a group of online investigators using artificial intelligence to expose alleged Russian war crimes.
Elon Musk says his $44 billion takeover bid for Twitter is "on hold" as he seeks more information on the platform's spam accounts. CBS News tech reporter Dan Patterson has more on that, plus how Musk is also reportedly facing a SEC investigation for late disclosure after buying a substantial stake in the company.
Elon Musk says his deal to buy twitter is on hold. The company's stock plummeted after the announcement. Musk then tweeted that he is still committed to buying twitter. Tech reporter Dan Patterson joined CBS News' Anne-Marie Green and Vladimir Duthiers discuss the latest developments.
A spectacular full moon is fast approaching. Here's everything you need to know to see it.
Astronomers have managed to get the first images of the black hole located at the core of the Milky Way. Scientists across seven countries released the first ever image of the black hole called Sagittarius A*. Jeff Glor has more.
The eastern monarch butterfly is one step closer to being placed on the endangered species list. CBS News anchors Michelle Miller and Tanya Rivero spoke with Eva Aridjis, co-author of the new book "Monarca: A Novel" which sheds light on the dire fate of these butterflies.
Scientists warned that extreme events like this are likely to happen again "with even greater intensity."
The first-of-its-kind effort was aimed to learn more about the source and potential harm caused by plastics and other pollutants in the iconic lake.
Multiple people were hit by gunfire, Buffalo police said.
None of the injuries from the shootings are believed to be life-threatening.
At least 27 people were killed as a four-story commercial building with one narrow staircase is gutted in East Delhi.
The first trial of a Russian soldier accused of a war crime in Ukraine began this week. Russian Sgt. Vadim Shishimarin is accused of shooting a 62-year-old Ukrainian man in the head. Charlie D'Agata reports.
Hundreds of health care workers rallied outside the courthouse ahead of the decision, warning that criminalizing such mistakes will lead to more deaths in hospitals.
A spectacular full moon is fast approaching. Here's everything you need to know to see it.
NASA said the discovery paves the way for the possibility of harvesting plants in habitats on the moon in the future.
Three years after capturing the first image of a supermassive black hole in a galaxy 55 million light years away, astronomers have managed to "photograph" one closer to home.
NASA said "this sonification is unlike any other done before."
The first showcase images from the $10 billion telescope will be unveiled in mid July, after instrument checkout is complete.
If it glittered or dazzled, it was likely being worn by a celeb at fashion's biggest party of the year
Looking for something fresh to watch? Here are the top films available on the streaming platform.
One of these shows could be your next binge obsession.
A look at the evidence in "The Dexter Killer" case; plus, newly revealed letters from the man police say wanted to be like fictional serial-killer Dexter Morgan.
Bizarre clues and evidence in the investigation into the Colorado mother's disappearance include a spy pen, plastic needle cap, and a chipmunk alibi.
Is free speech under threat? CBS Reports explores that question with members of Gen Z, many of whom say their right to free expression is eroding.
California firefighters are working to contain a wildfire that has destroyed 20 homes in in Laguna Niguel. Mayor Elaine Gennawey tells CBS News' Lana Zak how her community is coping after this tragedy, and the latest on efforts to contain the fire.
Demonstrators in cities across the United States rallied Saturday in support of abortion rights. CBS News Homeland Security and Justice reporter Nicole Sganga reports from the rally in Washington, D.C.
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and Republican Senators Susan Collins, John Cornyn and John Barrasso traveled to Kyiv to visit Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Formed in 2012, Bear's Den won critical praise for the group's first album. On Friday, the British folk rock band released their fourth studio album, "Blue Hours." For Saturday Sessions, Bear’s Den performs "Blue Hours.”
Copyright ©2022 CBS Interactive Inc. All rights reserved.