5 Best Sewing Machine For Leggings

In this article, we will look into which is the Best Sewing Machine For Leggings. Whether it is spending the weekend at home or working from our home office, we can all agree that nothing feels better than putting on a comfy pair of leggings. Leggings, commonly known as yoga pants, are great-fitting pants that can make our day feel even more comfortable.

These types of everyday wear pants have gained a lot of popularity in the market recently. It is no wonder, then, that starting a small-scale business of making leggings is one of the most profitable businesses you can start today.

But, have you ever paused to look beyond the comfort provided by leggings? For instance, how are leggings manufactured? And, which best sewing machine for leggings is available in the market? If you are a leggings lover or are looking to start a legging manufacturing business, then this article is just for you. Read on!

BEST SEWING MACHINE FOR LEGGINGS

What Machines are Required for Legging Manufacturing?

Leggings are manufactured using sewing machines. A pair of leggings can be described as a piece of knitted fabric. Sewing machines used for manufacturing leggings should always allow for stretch since most leggings are sewn using Lycra fabrics that stretch. Good examples of such machines are the serger and single needle lockstitch sewing machine.

Read More: Best Serger Sewing Machine For Knit Fabrics

Manufacturing leggings using sewing machines is very advantageous. It helps reduce the overall leggings manufacturing cost and ensures faster stitching, as compared to stitching by hand.

Review of Top 5 Sewing Machines for Leggings

Product Image Product Name Features Price / Primary Button
Best Choice
  • Features:
    Color: White
    Note: Computerized sewing machine with 100 built-in stitches.
Editor's Choice
  • Features:
    Color: White
    Note: Lightweight machine with 27 built-in stitches.
Best Overall
  • Features:
    Color: White
    Note: Portable and lightweight machine.
  • Features:
    Color: White
    Note: 2-3-4 cover stitch, 1100 stitches per minute.
  • Features:
    Color: White
    Note: 100 built-in stitches.
Best Choice
Features:
Color: White
Note: Computerized sewing machine with 100 built-in stitches.
$299.99
Editor's Choice
Features:
Color: White
Note: Lightweight machine with 27 built-in stitches.
$129.99
Best Overall
Features:
Color: White
Note: Portable and lightweight machine.
$286.00
Features:
Color: White
Note: 2-3-4 cover stitch, 1100 stitches per minute.
$519.99
Features:
Color: White
Note: 100 built-in stitches.
$299.30
02/18/2024 05:22 am GMT

If you are looking to purchase a sewing machine for leggings, then you would do well to consider the following 5 best-reviewed sewing machines for leggings;

1. SINGER 7258 Computerized Easy Sewing Machine.

SINGER | 7258 Sewing & Quilting Machine With Accessory Kit – 203 Stitch Applications – Simple & Great For Beginners
$299.99
Buy On Amazon
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
02/18/2024 05:22 am GMT

The SINGER 7258 is a legging stitching machine that offers a lot of accessories, all for free. It is designed with 100 built-in stitches, which include decorative stitches, quilting stitches, different stitch lengths, and fashion sewing. Some features included in this sewing machine are horizontal threading, a feeding system with 6 segments, a presser foot lifter, and speed control. The SINGER 7258 sewing machine package comes with a 25-year limited warranty.

What We Like
  • The frame of the SINGER 7258 is built using heavy-duty metal, which guarantees the long-lasting durability of the machine.
  • It includes a large LCD screen, which enables legging sewers to clearly and easily view their selected stitches.
  • It allows users to easily adjust the lengths and widths of their stitches, customizing the stitches to fit their desired projects.
  • It is designed with the built-in reverse system, such that users can sew threads in reverse.
  • The built-in needle threader makes threading much easier and faster. More so, threading instructions are usually included in the package. This makes the SINGER 7258 ideal even for beginners who are just learning how to thread.
What We Don’t Like
  • SINGER 7258 tends to develop a crunching sound when used for longer time.
  • Decorative stitches tend to get caught in the drop-in bobbin.

2. Brother XM2701.

Brother XM2701 has a very lightweight design, which makes it convenient to carry around and store. It is designed with multiple user-friendly features, making it an ideal legging sewing machine for beginners. More experienced sewers can also use this particular sewing machine to attain versatility.

What We Like
  • The 25-year limited warranty that comes with this machine is enough proof of its high quality and durability.
  • Brother XM2701 features 27 built-in stitches. These stitches provide legging sewers with a wide range of stitch options to choose from, to ensure more precise and beautiful legging sewing projects.
  • The included automatic needle threader makes sewing of leggings much easier. This is because the system automatically pushes the threads through the needles, saving users from the hassle of doing so themselves.
  • It comes with a DVD and instruction manual, which beginners can use to learn how to sew high-quality leggings.
What We Don’t Like
  • Upper threading can be complicated sometimes.
  • The LED light does not provide enough lighting.

3. Brother 2340CV Coverstitch Machine.

Brother Coverstitch Serger, 2340CV, Sturdy Metal Frame, 1,100 Stitches Per Minute, Trim Trap, Included Snap-on Presser Feet
$519.99
Buy On Amazon
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
02/18/2024 10:31 am GMT

This machine is designed to be used for sewing knits and leggings with a serger. The Brother 2340CV makes it possible for legging sewers to create multiple cover stitches on different materials of fabric and weights. The advanced technology incorporated in this machine gives it high flexibility in creating decorative and constructive applications. The cover stitch serger package comes with a 25-year limited warranty, as well as free technical support via phone, all through the machine’s life.

What We Like
  • Brother 2340CV cover stitch serger provided users with color-coded threading options, as well as dials that can be easily adjusted. These two features promote stitching of a higher quality.
  • It has a high stitch capability of 3 mm to 6 mm, allowing for sewing of even thicker leggings.
  • It provides high speeds of up to 1,100 stitches for every minute.
  • The package includes essential high-quality accessories, such as a gathering foot, a standard foot, and a blind stitch.
  • The frame of the cover stitch serger is built using heavy-duty metal, ensuring the durability of the machine.
What We Don’t Like
  • Sometimes may skip stitches when sewing.

4. JUKI HZL-27Z.

JUKI HZL-27Z Sewing Machine
$286.00
Buy On Amazon
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
02/18/2024 05:14 am GMT

If you regularly travel and are looking for a portable sewing machine that you can always carry with you, then the JUKI automatic legging-making sewing machine is the ideal equipment for you. JUKI HZL-27Z is a portable machine that has all the essential features of a perfect legging sewing machine. It features a total of 22 different stitch patterns, including a buttonhole.

What We Like
  • The 22 stitch patterns offered by this machine make it ideal for all types of legging projects, as users can simply choose from the wide range of stitches provided.
  • Lightweight design and small footprint of the JUKI HZL-27Z machine make it easier to carry around to any location, as well as to store.
  • It is designed with an automatic needle threader that threads needles on behalf of the sewers, making the legging sewing process faster and simpler.
  • The incorporated LED light provides a clearer and brighter working space.
  • This machine also includes both a drop-in bobbin and a free arm.
What We Don’t Like
  • The vertical spool pin of the JUKI HZL-27Z is very short.
  • The handle for carrying the machine is located in the back part, such that the front of the machine tilts forward when being carried.

5. Janome JW8100.

The most outstanding feature of the Janome JW8100 machine is its cutting-edge technology. This technology provides more power and precision to sewing activewear. The machine also includes a locking stitch button and a button for moving the needle either up or down. These incorporated buttons make this a very user-friendly sewing machine, ideal for all levels of legging sewers. The maximum stitch width provided by the Janome JW8100 computerized sewing machine is 7 mm.

Pros
  • Built-in automatic needle threaders make sewing of leggings much easier and faster.
  • The machine for leggings is designed with a well-backlit LCD screen display, from which users can clearly and easily choose stitches.
  • Janome JW8100 package comes with an extra-wide extension table, which provides more working space for larger projects.
  • It incorporates the 7-piece feeding system, which makes it possible for users to feed smooth fabric on even tougher fabrics, such as wool and fleece.
  • To keep the Janome JW8100 machine dust-free, the package comes with a bonus hardcover for safe covering.
Cons
  • Sometimes, the machine may skip stitches when sewing.
  • 25-year warranty of the Janome JW8100 does not cover the foot pedal.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Sewing Machine for Legging Clothes

Buying a home sewing machine for the very first time can feel very challenging and daunting. After all, there are very many sewing machine options to choose from in the market. Most people think that; the more features a sewing machine possesses, the better the quality. This is, however, not true at all. Some sewing machines for leggings offer numerous features yet continually jam or break down.

So, how can ensure that you always choose the best sewing machine for leggings? Consider the following 5 factors before buying your sewing machine;

1. The Basics of Regular Machine.

One of the sewing machine basics that you need to look out for is a metal full-rotary hook. The most recommended sewing machines for making clothes, such as leggings, are those that feature a hook that spins around in a circle. Machines with such-like hooks do not jam.

Another basic that you can consider is the presence of an open arm. Open arms in leggings sewing machines are helpful when it comes to sewing sliding pant legs. Also, sewing machines that offer easy threading are preferred over those that don’t.

2. Stitch Options.

When purchasing a sewing machine for making home-use leggings, you need to go for those that come with the following stitch options;

Straight stitches — these work as precision stitches.

Zigzag stitches — used for producing a finished look on the raw edges of the fabric.

Tri-motion stitches — prevent unraveling.

Blind hem — used for making hems that can be barely seen.

Special stitch — required for some kind of special sewing operation.

3.) Mechanical or Electronic.

Electronic sewing machines for leggings are highly recommended for use by both beginners and advanced sewers. These machines automatically adjust stitches for users, unlike in mechanical sewing machines, where the user is required to manually turn dials to adjust the stitches.

4.) Budget.

Sadly, we don’t always have the money to buy the most ideal sewing machine for leggings. This is why you should put your budget into consideration when buying these machines. The good news is; even with a low budget, you can still find a high-quality leggings sewing machine. For instance, the above-discussed best sewing machine for leggings are very budget-friendly machines that also offer high-quality services.

5.) Service and Warranty.

This goes without saying; sewing machines that offer longer warranty lengths, or cover more parts and items, provide the best services. So, before you can settle for a leggings sewing machine, first consider the warranty length covered by the equipment.

Which Brand of Sewing Machine is Best for Leggings and Other Clothes?

In the field of sewing machines for making clothes and leggings, there are those specific brands that have for a long time maintained their top ranks. Of course, other new brands have come about in the recent past, and have even surpassed the older mechanical sewing machines.

Simply put, the best brands of regular sewing machines for leggings are those that offer machines that incorporate modern technology and that can provide multiple functions. The following is a list of the top 10 best brands that manufacture sewing for leggings;

JUKISingerBrotherJanomeBernina
ToyotaElnaJaguarPfaffHusqvarna Viking

Choosing the Pattern

One major step involved in the process of sewing leggings is finding a pattern piece. There are tons of patterns that you can choose from to sew your leggings; some of these are available for free and others for purchase.

There are 3 best leggings sewing patterns that you can choose, namely;

Manila leggings — this is a more classic pattern design that features beautiful overlapped curved cuffs, seen into each leg’s hem. The pattern is sold by Collete Patterns.

Ooh La Leggings — leggings that use this pattern are usually made using faux leather spandex. The pattern gives off a street-wear vibe. It is sold by Papercut Patterns.

Hyacinth Moto Leggings — this pattern provides options for both low and high waists. It also features 2 lengths; full length and a short length. The pattern is sold by the Cucicucicoo Patterns.

How to Sew Leggings

To sew leggings, you first need to gather together all the raw materials you will need. The following are the basic tools required for sewing leggings;

  • Elastic
  • Sewing machine
  • Thread
  • Stretched knitted fabric

After you have gathered together all the above basic tools, follow the 7 steps below to see your leggings;

  1. Cut the elastic, as per the measurements. Then, using a zigzag sewing machine, join the 2 ends of the cut elastic, such that you create a closed loop.
  2. Attach the front to the back rise. This can be easily done by using an overlock machine.
  3. Again, use the overlock machine to sew inseams.
  4. Attach the elastic to the waistband. This is also done by using the overlock machine.
  5. Turn the elastic to the inside, then finish the waistband with a flatlock machine.
  6. Using the same flat lock machine, perform bottom hemming.
  7. Attach the main, care, and size labels. However, note that this is optional, hence, you can choose to skip this process. The main purpose of attaching these labels is to add more value to the leggings.

After going through all these steps, you will have successfully made your very first legging. It is now time to put it on and flaunt the legging of your own sewing!

What Thread Do You Use For Leggings?

The best threads that you can use for sewing leggings are textured threads, such as polyester and nylon threads. Examples of such textured threads are the Best Stretch® and the A&E’s Wildcat® Plus.

Textured threads are highly recommended for sewing leggings since they offer perfect seam elasticity and coverage. This makes them ideal for the cover stitch and over-edge seams present in leggings. These seams are responsible for the high strength, stretch, and comfort offered by leggings.

What Is The Best Fabric For Leggings?

If you intend to use the leggings for working out, then choose stretchy fabric made using performance fibers/synthetics, such as polyester and nylon. These types of soft fabric are usually opaque, have high durability, and stretch better than other types of fabric. These features are what make them ideal for working out.

On the other hand, if you are sewing leggings to wear when relaxing in the house, then you would do well to go for Cotton/Lycra or wool jersey standard fabric. Wool fabric displays better recovery than cotton fabric.

What Is The Best Free Pattern For Leggings?

The best free legging pattern is the ‘Anything But Basic Women’s Leggings’ pattern. A while back, this pattern used to be purchased. However, it can now be accessed for free by all who intend to use it.

What Kind Of Machine To Use For Making Leggings?

Serger is the best sewing machine for sewing leggings and is also known as the overlock machine. A serger trims the seam and encloses the seam allowance or edge of the fabric inside a thread casing, all in one step for professional-looking results. Make sure you use a good serger, though.

Conclusion

Unlike most types of clothes, leggings are worn by women of all age groups. These pairs of pants are quickly becoming the fashion trend, being worn with tank tops, jackets, tunics, and coats, among other clothes. Since their demand is going up, the price of leggings is also increasing at a fast rate.

But, you don’t have to incur the expensive costs of buying leggings in the market. Instead, get yourself one of the best sewing machines for leggings, and start manufacturing your leggings. Doing so will save you a lot of money, which you would’ve otherwise spent to buy these. More so, you will develop a skill that could earn you good money by manufacturing and selling leggings!

Jane
Jane

Hi,
I’m Jane and I’m the editor of janesknittingkits.com! I am a long-time craft and clothing design fan who has been writing about these interests for years.

I have spent many hours studying knitting, weaving, sewing, embroidery, and quilting as well as learning about various brands and models of sewing gear and machines. In addition to this research, my work involves publishing information related to these topics in ways that will be informative for both amateur crafters like me and more experienced sewers!