Do you need to sew layers of thick fabric? Chances are, you have tried to do this with a regular sewing machine without much luck.
Regular sewing machines were designed for everyday use and small projects. So, if you need to sew fabrics such as vinyl or leather, you might be in the market for an upholstery sewing machine.
Below are 10 of the best upholstery sewing machines. We have included machines for home use as well as industrial level machines.
Top 3 Picks for the Best Sewing Machine for Upholstery
Best Overall
Juki TL-2010Q 1 Portable Upholstery Sewing Machine
The Juki TL-2010Q upholstery sewing machine can speed up your sewing project. It can produce an impressive 1500 stitches per minute. And the stitches are clean and professional.
Premium Choice
Consew 206RB-5 Walking Foot Needle Feed Industrial Upholstery Machine
The Consew 206RB was developed to handle all types of industrial projects. It can be used for boat seats, camper covers, auto upholstery, tents, handbags, luggage, and more.
Great Value
SINGER Heavy Duty 4411 Sewing Machine
The Singer Heavy Duty 4411 is perfect for learning how to use a sewing machine. It is fast and can handle heavy duty fabrics too.
What is an Upholstery Sewing Machine?
An upholstery sewing machine is an industrial sewing machine that was made to sew all types of fabrics including challenging heavy fabrics.
They can often be used for everyday sewing projects as well as industrial-size projects.
When searching for the best upholstery sewing machine, you will want to look for a machine that:
- Has a strong, powerful engine
- Can handle a wide variety of fabrics
- Provides high-quality stitching
- Can sew layers of heavy fabrics
- Has a metal frame and metal components
Why Do You Need an Upholstery Sewing Machine?
There are several reasons you may want to own an upholstery sewing machine. Maybe you enjoy working with heavy duty fabrics, or you could be an interior designer or a professional tailor.
If you need a machine that can handle hard projects with ease, you need an upholstery sewing machine.
Below are some common reasons you may want to invest in an upholstery sewing machine:
- You are an interior designer
- Starting a sewing business
- Work with a lot of heavy fabrics
- Looking for a more professional stitch
- Need a reliable sewing machine that can handle all your projects
How to Use an Upholstery Sewing Machine
Operating an upholstery sewing machine is a little different from any other machine. They often come with special accessories and thicker needles. Regular sewing machines only require small needles and a few accessories because they do not have to sew thick materials.
Upholstery sewing machines typically have additional functions. These functions make it easy to stitch hard to sew materials with ease. To keep an upholstery sewing machine working properly, it is important that you perform regular maintenance.
Just as with a vehicle, regular maintenance helps your machine operate smoothly and will extend its life.
- Remove lint and debris before and after every use
- Change the needle regularly
- Never use a bent or damaged needle
- Keep screws tightened
- Replace damaged or missing screws
- Use a sewing machine cover to keep it clean
- Lubricating all moving parts
- Have it professionally tuned up every few years
Benefits of Using an Upholstery Sewing Machine
If you have a regular home sewing machine, you already know that heavy duty fabrics can be hard to sew. This is because everyday home machines were not designed to handle tough projects. They were designed to sew thin fabrics and easy projects.
If you are looking for a machine that can handle large, tough projects, you need a heavy duty sewing machine. These machines were designed to make hard projects easy.
Benefits of using an upholstery sewing machine include:
- Less Broken Needles
Regular sewing machines were designed to sew thin fabrics. If you try to sew a fabric that is not intended for your machine, you can encounter a lot of broken needles.
Using the right machine for the job will eliminate excessive breakage.
- You Can Sew Heavier Fabrics
You can complete projects that use heavier fabrics, and you will get professional looking results.
- Will Last
Upholstery sewing machines are industrial machines. They are made with strong materials which will make them sturdier than regular machines.
They will last a long time, and you will require less maintenance.
- Are Sturdy
Industrial sewing machines are usually made from metal, and they are heavy. The weight helps hold the machine in place reducing bouncing and missed stitches.
- Fast
The best upholstery sewing machines can get the job done fast and provide smooth stitching.
- Easier to Use
Since upholstery sewing machines have one main function, to sew thick fabrics, they do not need complicated controls.
What to look for in an Upholstery Sewing Machine
Upholstery sewing machines need to be able to take a beating. They work hard and take care of jobs that regular machines cannot.
So, they need to be made of metal and have powerful motors.
When searching for the best upholstery sewing machine, look for:
- Construction
An upholstery sewing machine needs to have a metal frame and as many metal components as possible.
The fewer plastic pieces there are, the more durable it will be.
- Speed
A goof upholstery sewing machine can sew fast. Look for a machine that can sew at least 1000 stitches per minute.
- Weigh
Since upholstery sewing machines are working hard and sewing through several layers of heavy fabric, it can cause the machine to bounce.
You want a machine that is heavy, so there is very minimal bouncing.
- Available Stitches
If you are only using the sewing machine to sew heavy duty fabrics, you do not need a lot of stitch options.
If you plan on using the machine for other types of projects, make sure the machine you purchase has the stitch options you require.
- Extra Features
Check to see if the upholstery sewing machine has any extra features that you cannot live without.
- Price
As much as we all hate to admit it, the price is always one of the major deciding factors. So, before you begin searching for the best upholstery sewing machine for you, know your budget. The sewing machine can vary greatly in cost.
10 Best Sewing Machine for Upholstery in 2023
1. Janome HD3000 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine w/Hard Case
The Janome HD3000 is one of the best upholstery sewing machines for beginners.
Why We Like the Janome HD3000
This machine can easily be mastered by a beginner. The Janome HD3000 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine does not have any complicated features.
- Adjustable Pressure Foot Pressure
With most sewing machines you cannot adjust the pressure foot pressure. The Janome HD3000 allows you to change the pressure making your sewing experience easier.
- Easy Stitch Selection
Choosing one of the 18 built-in stitches is as easy as turning a dial.
- Automatic Needle Threader
The built-in automatic needle threader eliminates the aggravation of threading the needle.
Pros and Cons of the Janome HD3000
Pros:
- Easy stitch selection
- Automatic needle threader
- Top loading bobbin system
- On board tutorial and reference guide
- 860 stitches per minute
- Adjustable pressure foot pressure
- Comes with a lot of accessories
- User friendly
Cons:
- Small worktable
- Lighting is dim
- Short cable on foot pedal
- Some of the parts are plastic
2. Singer Upholstery Sewing Machine, 4423 Heavy Duty
The features of the Singer 4423 set it apart from many of the other best heavy duty sewing machines on the market. The singer 4423 is great for beginners as well as professionals.
Why We Like Singer 4423
This affordable heavy duty sewing machine can handle all types of projects. The stainless steel bedplate helps the fabric slide through with ease.
- Strong motor
The motor in the Singer 4423 is strong. It is perfect for sewing heavy weight fabrics with ease.
- Heavy Duty Frame
A heavy duty frame allows the machine to stay still when sewing. This eliminates skipping.
- Stainless Steel Bedplate
You will have a smooth fabric feed with the stainless steel bedplate.
Pros and Cons of the Singer 4423
Pros:
- Strong motor
- Mountable
- Free arm
- Portable
- Easily adjustable stitch length
- Stainless steel bedplate
- Automatic needle threader
- 23 Built-in sewing stitches
- Affordable
- Heavy duty frame
- 3 Needle Positions
Cons:
- Loud
- Bobbin casing is plastic
- Speed can be difficult to control
3. Consew Upholstery Machine Walking Foot
The Consew P1206RB upholstery sewing machine was designed to sew all types of materials from light weight fabrics to leather, vinyl, upholstery, synthetics, canvas, and more.
Why We Like the Consew P1206RB
If you do a lot of sewing, you need a machine that can get the job done fast. This thing can produce 3000 stitches per minute without jamming or binding your fabric.
- Durable
The upholstery sewing machine was made to last for a long time.
- Professional Results
This machine produces even, professional looking stitches.
- Fast
The Consew P1206RB sewing machine has an impressive speed of up to 3000 stitches per minute.
If you need to get a job done fast, this machine can handle the job.
Pros and Cons of the Consew P1206RB
Pros:
- 3000 Stiches per minute
- Adjustable oil flow
- Reverse
- Large horizontal axis hook
- Adjustable upper thread tension
- Locking stitch regulator
- Built-in bobbin winder
- Hand and knee presser foot lift
- Walking foot
Cons:
- Bobbin can be hard to install and remove
- Only one stitch option
- Expensive
- Takes up a lot of room
- Not portable
4. Consew 206RB-5 Walking Foot Needle Feed Industrial Upholstery Machine
The Consew 206RB was designed for stitching products such as boat seats, camper covers, auto upholstery, tents, handbags, luggage and more.
Why We Like the Consew 206RB
This machine was developed to handle all types of industrial projects.
- Reliable
The Consew 206RB-5 is one of the most reliable machines on the market.
- Extra Long Stitches
You can adjust the stitches up to 10 mm in length.
- Large Bobbin
You do not have to constantly rewind your bobbin thanks to its large capacity.
Pros and Cons of the Consew 206RB
Pros:
- 3300 Stitches per minute
- Extra long stitch
- Thread release finger
- High presser foot lift
- Large horizontal axis hook
- Safety clutch
- Adjustable reverse stitching
- Simple foot adjustment
- Walking foot
Cons:
- Takes up a lot of room
- Not portable
- 1 Stitch option
- Expensive
5. Juki DDL-8700-H Industrial Straight Stitch Sewing Machine
If you need an industrial style, heavy duty upholstery sewing machine, then the Juki DDL-8700-H industrial straight stitch sewing machine is a great option.
Why We Like the Juki DDL-8700-H
This upholstery sewing machine can produce straight stitches on medium and heavy materials.
- Large Arm
The Juki-DDL-8700-H upholstery sewing machine has a large arm space. It is ideal for sewing large projects.
- Self Lubricating Mechanism
The sewing machine has a self-lubrication mechanism. This makes maintenance of the device easier than many other machines.
- 4000 Stitches Per Minute
Are you a pro at sewing? This machine will help your job done quickly. It can produce up to 4000 stitches per minute.
Pros and Cons of the Juki DDL-8700-H
Pros:
- 4000 Stitcher per minute
- 5 mm max stitch length
- Large arm
- Sewing table
- Automatic-lubricating full rotary hook
- Thread Stand
- Bobbin Winder
- Oil Pan/Knee Lifter
- 5 Extra Bobbins
- 10 Extra Needles
- Self lubricating mechanism
Cons:
- No walking foot
- Heavy
- Not portable
- Assembly required
6. SINGER Heavy Duty 4411 Sewing Machine
If you are a home sewer that also sews the occasional heavy duty fabrics, the Singer Heavy Duty 4411 Sewing Machine is a great machine. It is lightweight and durable.
Why We Like the Singer Heavy Duty 4411
The Singer Heavy Duty 4411 Sewing Machine is a fast machine that can hand different types of fabrics with ease.
- Heavy Duty Machine
If you sew or mend a lot of heavy duty fabrics, this is a nice sewing machine to have.
- Stainless steel bedplate
The Singer Heavy Duty 4411 has a stainless-steel bedplate that helps the fabric feed through smoothly.
- LED Lighting
There is a bright LED light that makes it easier to see what you are sewing.
Pros and Cons of the Singer Heavy Duty 4411
Pros:
- 1100 Stitches per minute
- Adjustable needle position
- 14.5 Pounds
- Adjustable pressure foot
- Drop-in bobbin
- Metal frame
- Clear bobbin cover
- Stainless-steel bedplate
- 11 Built-in stitches
- Free-motion sewing
- Heavy Duty
- LED lighting
Cons:
- No automatic needle threader
- Dial is a little hard to turn
7. Juki TL-2010Q 1 Portable Upholstery Sewing Machine
The Juki TL-2010Q upholstery sewing machine is a brute of a machine. It is fast and can provide up to 1500 stitches per minute.
Why We Like the Juki TL-2010Q
This powerful upholstery sewing machine is easy to use. And it generates some of the most even stitches we have seen.
- Sewing Speed
The Juki TL-2010Q upholstery sewing machine can speed up your sewing project. It can produce an impressive 1500 stitches per minute.
And the stitches are clean and professional.
- Thread Tension Scale
Different fabrics require different tensions. This powerful little machine gives you the ability to adjust the tension of the thread to suit your specific needs.
- Automatic Thread Trimmer
A thread trimmer may seem like something simple. However, it makes sewing so much easier.
With a simple press of a button, the machine trims the needle and bobbin threads simultaneously.
Pros and Cons of the Juki TL-2010Q
Pros:
- Lightweight
- LED light
- Automatic thread trimmer
- 1500 stitches per minute
- Easy bobbin replacement
- Fast
- Extension Table
- Speed control
- Knee lifter lever
- Variety of accessories
- Thread tension scale
Cons:
- Price
- Not computerized
8. Janome HD1000 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine with 14 Built-in Stitches
Janome manufactures some of the highest quality sewing machines on the market. The machines are easy to learn and are great for beginners as well as professionals.
Why We Like the Janome HD1000
Upholstery can be hard to sew. This heavy duty upholstery sewing machine can handle several layers of heavy fabric at once. And the line is straight and looks professional.
- User Friendly
This upholstery sewing machine is easy to use. It does not have a lot of complicated functions.
- Free Arm
The Janome HD1000 comes with a free arm. Free arms are ideal for sewing pants, cuffs, collars, and anything in the round.
- Cast Aluminum Body
The upholstery sewing machine was made to last.
Pros and Cons of the Janome HD1000
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Free arm
- 14 built-in stitches
- Automatic threader
- 4 buttonhole styles
- Heavy duty body
Cons:
- Heavy
- Cannot handle all types of fabrics
- Bobbins are known to jam
9. Singer Heavy Duty 4452 Sewing Machine with 110 Stitch Applications
The Singer Heavy Duty 4452 is a great machine for sewing upholstery and heavy duty fabrics. And it is can be used by beginners and experts alike.
Why We Like the Singer Heavy Duty 4452
The Singer Heavy Duty 4452 is fast and durable. It is a sturdy machine that can handle a wide variety of fabrics.
- Fast
The Singer Heavy Duty 4452 can sew up to 1,100 stitches per minute. You will be able to get your projects done quickly.
- Metal Frame
Thanks to the metal frame, this machine should last for a long time with proper maintenance.
- Easy Loading Bobbins
This sewing machine makes it easy to load bobbins. Simply drop the bobbin in and you are ready to go.
Pros and Cons of the Singer Heavy Duty 4452
Pros:
- Heavy duty frame
- 1,100 stitches per minute
- 32 built-in stitches
- Powerful motor
- Adjustable stitch length
- Drop in bobbin feature
- Automatic needle threader
- Transparent bobbin plate
- Extremely affordable
- Free arm
- LED lighting
Cons:
- Heavy
- Delicate needle threader
- Has quite a few plastic parts
10. Singer Heavy Duty 4432 Sewing Machine
The Singer Heavy Duty 4432 Sewing Machine is one of the best Heavy Duty upholstery sewing machines on the market. And it is exceptionally affordable.
Why We Like the Singer Heavy Duty 4432
The Singer Heavy Duty 4432 upholstery sewing Machine can sew an impressive 1100 stitches per minute.
And it has a powerful motor which makes sewing upholstery easy.
- 32 Built-in Stitches
The Singer Heavy Duty 4432 has 32 built-in stitches. You will have plenty of stitches to choose from.
- Powerful Motor
The powerful motor makes it a breeze to sew thick fabrics.
- Heavy Duty Metal Frame
This sewing machine is constructed with a heavy duty metal frame. This strong frame will make the machine more durable.
Why We Like the Singer Heavy Duty 4432
Pros:
- 3 different needle positions
- Easy to use
- 3 Needle positions
- Affordable
- Heavy duty metal frame
- 32 built-in stitches
- Powerful motor
- Built-in needle threader
- 1100 Stitches per minute
- Automatic 1-step buttonhole
- 110 Stitch applications
Cons:
- Not computerised
- No LCD screen
Top 3 Picks for the Best Sewing Machine for Upholstery
Best Overall
Juki TL-2010Q 1 Portable Upholstery Sewing Machine
The Juki TL-2010Q upholstery sewing machine can speed up your sewing project. It can produce an impressive 1500 stitches per minute. And the stitches are clean and professional.
Premium Choice
Consew 206RB-5 Walking Foot Needle Feed Industrial Upholstery Machine
The Consew 206RB was developed to handle all types of industrial projects. It can be used for boat seats, camper covers, auto upholstery, tents, handbags, luggage, and more.
Great Value
SINGER Heavy Duty 4411 Sewing Machine
The Singer Heavy Duty 4411 is perfect for learning how to use a sewing machine. It is fast and can handle heavy duty fabrics too.
Learn how to sew upholstery like an expert with an upholstery sewing machine. These machines were developed to make sewing heavy duty fabrics quick and effortless.
Are you looking for the best upholstery sewing machine? These specialty machines can help you accomplish hard to sew tasks with ease.
If you want more options, check out our review on the machine models for beginners, machine models for beginners and computerized sewing machine models. And head on to our Facebook Page and share your feedbacks.
We hope that our list of upholstery sewing machines has given you all the information you need to pick a machine that will meet your specific needs.
