Best Sewing Machine for Visually Impaired: The Top 5

Gone are the days when impairment was a discriminatory factor. The visually impaired can now enjoy crafting, knitting and sewing. Manufacturers are a step ahead in designing sewing machines for those abled differently, and we love to see it.

Getting the best sewing machine for the visually impaired is now easy. There might be fewer specific models in the market. But, at least, options exist.

Such sewing machines meet all the needs of sewers with impaired vision. Most importantly, the sewing machine should be easy to operate. Check out our review guide of sewing machines for people in this category.

Best Sewing Machines for People with Visual Impairment

You can enjoy your past times regardless of the cause of impairment. We know that manufacturers are now designing computerized sewing machines. That shouldn’t limit you from adventuring with fabric.

Here are some promising options. The sewing machines below cut across the three budget ranges. See our reviews below.

1. Brother XM2701 Lightweight Sewing Machine

Feature Highlight

• 27 Inbuilt stitches
• Metallic build
• Electric model
• 12.6 Pounds
• Automatic needle threader

The Brother XM2701 is a fantastic beginner sewing machine for anyone, even the blind. The manufacturer designs it with a few features that appeal to this group of people. I know that computerization is almost taking over many things.

Luckily, some manufacturers are still producing old-school sewing machines to cater to the needs of differently-abled people. You will notice knobs on this machine. There are knobs for stitch length and width adjustment.

The tension adjusts with the help of a knob. Such features are easier to feel and use. The same also applies to the big stitch selection knob.

It has 27 inbuilt stitches. Among them are special stitches for stretchy material, blind hem, and zigzag options. It also comes with a foot and one-step buttonhole stitch.

Brother designs this one with a drop-in bobbin you can load from the top. It is not as complicated and has low risks of jamming. The vice versa often happens in side-loading bobbins.

This model has an automatic needle threader like most modern sewing machine versions. A visually impaired user should learn how to lay the thread across the threader properly.

Most users review this machine as reasonably hard and dependable. It comes with 6 standard presser feet, extra needles, 4 bobbins, and a twin needle set.

Pros

• Worth every coin
• Excellent for beginners
• Easy to use
• A drop-in bobbin that works well
• 3 Needle positions
• Lightweight and portable machine
• It has more stitches compared to others in its category
• Excellent durability

Cons

• The spool bounces on the spool pin if you can’t lower the feed dog
• It doesn’t come with a cover or case
• Not the best for many layers of tough fabric

2. Brother GX37 Sewing Machine

Feature Highlight

• Metallic
• Electric
• 15.4 Pounds
• 37 Inbuilt stitches
• Automatic needle threader
• 120 Volts

The GX37 is among the top products if you compare the number of stitches machines in our review offer. The presser feet accessories also aren’t a few. But, on the issue of price, it is slightly more expensive than its sister, the Brother XM2701.

Brother designs this one with 37 inbuilt stitches and an automatic needle threader. It also comes with a single-step buttonhole function. There are 6 snap-on presser feet to choose from according to your needs.

The bobbin loads from the top and comes with an adjustment knob, which is easy to use. It has a free arm for hems and comes. The manufacturer gives the user many decorative stitch options, narrow or blind hems.

Such features are fantastic to use on children’s or doll’s clothes. The brightness of the LED light is fair. You might need extra lighting if your eyesight condition is on the extreme.

Brother adds a detailed instruction DVD and written manual. You can use this or find help reading from someone near you. Online assistance is available if you need help.

The sewing machine is designed to last long, thanks to the metallic frames. Its mechanisms are also easy to maintain. You can reach Brother to ask if the sewing machine can work for quilting freehand.

You can get a faceplate cover compatible with the machine if it does. But basic quilting can work minus this feature.

Visually impaired buddies will need more light and magnification for quilting.

Pros

• Lightweight
• Detailed user instructions
• Well-built for the price point
• Auto-needle threading
• More stitches, thus pricier
• Beginner-friendly

Cons

• The foot pedal is plastic

3. Bernette 38 Computerized Swiss Design Sewing Machine

Feature Highlight

• Electric
• Metallic
• 1 Pounds
• 394 Stitch patterns
• 8 Buttonholes
• Drop-in hook system

Bernette 38 is one of the most straightforward machines you can get. It is among the few traditional-style sewing machines on the market. Did you know that this one has no computerized controls?

Yes! I know you are shocked now that modernization is sweeping this earth like floods. It is the perfect sewing machine for a visually impaired person.

You might have to dig deeper into your pocket to get this masterpiece. It is costlier than competitors in its category. Luckily, it is designed to last a lifetime.

The machine carries sewing versatility with it. It comes with three knobs, enough to control all its aspects. The first knob is for choosing stitch patterns from the 23 inbuilt options it offers.

The user can also set their thread tension and stitch length. Isn’t this enough to work on most of your sewing projects? Thanks to the one-step function, you can sew professional buttonholes easily and quickly,

The manufacturer designs the machine with 7 presser feet to work on all your sewing projects. One primary concern of this sewing machine is the unavailability of automatic needle threading.

It might also be a little challenging to reload your bobbin. That doesn’t dismiss it from our list. It still works for visually impaired people with fair vision.

Pros

• Superb for novices
• Wide range of stitches
• Sews thick and thin textiles
• Runs quietly
• Easy to use and setup
• Built for longevity

Cons

• It is hard to reload a bobbin
• No automatic needle threading function
• It might be heavier for some people
• Thread cutter sometimes fails
• No embroidery function
• No free motion foot for quilting

4. SINGER 3333 Sewing Machine

Feature Highlight

• 12.57 Pounds
• Electric
• Metallic
• Free arm
• 23 Inbuilt stitches
• 25 Years limited warranty

SINGER added the 3333 model to its fashion mate category. It is sturdy and versatile for starters and won’t dent your pocket. You will love how easy it is to operate this one.

The manufacturer builds this one with high-standard components and features. It is designed from a heavy-duty metallic frame for durability.

The performance is excellent.

It has 23 inbuilt stitches, which are plenty for starters.

The 4-step buttonhole allows you to finish your projects without a hassle. Turn the dial to choose the stitches you want to use.

The automatic needle threader is a plus for visually impaired guys. It saves time and energy threading the machine’s needles.

The top load drop-in bobbin enhances convenience.

If your vision isn’t extremely affected, you can use LED lights to illuminate your working area.

But, if you need extra light, you can supplement with a comfortable option. There is a free arm to sew cuffs, collars, and pant hems with ease.

SINGER adds numerous accessories to help you start sewing immediately after you get your machine.

Pros

• Portable
• Smooth stitches
• Automatic needle threader
• Easy to use
• Sturdy metallic frame
• Perfect for starters

Cons

• The auto-needle threader confuses some people.
• The hand wheel could use more texture to enhance the grip.

5. SINGER 7258 Quilting and Sewing Machine

Feature Highlight

• Plastic and metallic material
• Electric
• 18.74 Pounds
• 120 Volts
• 74 Watts
• 25 Years limited warranty

The 7258 SINGER sewing machine is famous for its ease of work and efficient performance. Beginners and occasional tailors will love it. It comes with a programmable needle for convenience when threading.

It is also easier to lift and drop it from the feed. The user gets to enjoy 100 inbuilt stitches and 10 presser feet. You can agree that the number of the two features is higher than most modern machines.

Thanks to the heavy-duty metallic frame, the feed remains regular on your stitching area. Hardly will you notice the fabric skipping stitches while sewing. It is an affordable sewing machine.

SINGER backs it with a 25 years limited warranty. Check your manual to see what the warranty covers if you have an issue with yours.

A primary concern of this sewing machine is the inability to tackle tough fabric or many material layers at once. Despite this, the sewing machine is excellent.

Pros

• Adjustable stitch width and length
• Top loading drop-in bobbin
• Higher speed control
• Easy to use
• Durable construction
• Easy threading 

Cons

• Presser foot pressure isn’t adjustable
• Stitch width limited to 5mm

Factors to Consider when Choosing Sewing Machines for the Visually Impaired

Here are a few aspects to tick when looking for a sewing machine for the visually challenged:

Simplicity

Computerization shouldn’t be a consideration here. The simpler the sewing machine, the easier it is for these guys to use, and the better. You don’t want anything with small read-outs that will need interpretation.

Go for larger read-out screens. Get a straightforward machine you can easily adjust with simple touches. It is better if you can have braille on it.

Automatic Threading

I know I have reviewed a sewing machine that lacks this feature above. But, I have given a category that can use it. Visually impaired people will benefit more from a self-threading feature.

This gives them an easy time threading needles. If people with full eyesight still struggle at threading needles, what of our other brothers and sisters abled differently?

Lighting

Visual impairment is a broad category. It doesn’t only consist of blind buddies.

Most machines come with good lighting.

Check the sewing machine’s wattage before deciding. Most people with visual impairment will need more light as beginners.

Top Loading Bobbin

Top loading bobbins will give you fewer headaches if you are new to using sewing machines. Such bobbins don’t need tension adjustment. Also, they don’t come with separate bobbin cases to thread and counter jamming.

Some Accessories You Might Need for Smooth Sewing

People with good vision will not need these accessories unless they are testing to see how they work. These come in handy for visually impaired people. The accessories lighten the burden to avoid having stress learning how to use them.

Most of these accessories are cheap. Also, store them in the compartment section to access with ease.

• Tactile tape measure – Whoever is measuring using this tape can know the correct numbers through feeling.
• Talking tape measure – It announces the lengths and width you measure with high accuracy.
• Magnifying glass – Comes in handy when embroidering to enhance your stitches for easier visibility.
• An adjustable magnetic seam guide – It holds the fabric firmly on the machine as you sew. Visually impaired people can set reasonable allowances and sew straight lines.

Conclusion

Disability is never inability. I can say so much to back this statement but I’ll save it for later. SINGER 7258 takes the crown for us when it comes to sewing machines for the visually impaired.

The versatility and construction are unmatched. Even though beginners can use it, you aren’t limited if you are an occasional seamstress. The price point isn’t also on the sharpest edge.

Our visually challenged friends might need a little help getting used to these machines. But, it won’t take long to adjust than when using modern computerized versions. Whether you are starting your sewing journey or picking from where you left off, there’s something for you.