How to Start Sewing for $100

How to Start Sewing for $100

Sewing is a rewarding hobby but it can be very expensive when you start out.  If you are interested in learning to sew but are hesitate because of the cost consider these tips on how to start sewing for $100.

I have put together a comprehensive list of where to find a sewing machine, tools, patterns, fabric and thread on a budget.  You will need to put in some work and have a lot of patience if you are serious about only spending $100 to start sewing but it is possible. 

Getting the tools and supplies is one thing but having the drive to learn how to sew is priceless!  If you are drawn to the craft then you should give it a go. Here are some practical tips on how to start sewing for $100.

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How to Source a Sewing Machine on a Budget

Your sewing machine is going to be your biggest expense.  You can buy a brand new sewing machine from Amazon or Walmart but those will cost you at least $100 for a very standard average quality machine.  If you only have $100 dollars to spend then you are better off buying secondhand or borrowing a sewing machine. You can find older sewing machines at local thrift stores such as Savers, Goodwill or the Salvation Army.  You can also look online at Facebook Marketplace, local Buy Nothing Groups on Facebook, Craigslist or Freecycle. You can find a decent sewing machine well below $100 and sometimes even free.  If you can’t get your hands on a free sewing machine I wouldn’t recommend spending more than $60. 

Tips On How To Snag a Free Sewing Machine

Yes, it is possible to get a free sewing machine. Sewing machines are constantly available online because many people don’t want to bother selling them.  They just need to declutter instead.  Every web site works differently but on Craiglist you can save your search and opt in for emails to alert you when your search criteria has been met.  On Freecycle, once you sign up for an account you can let the community know what you are looking for and get notifications when new items are posted.  Facebook is very similar in that you can list what you are looking for in certain groups. Someone may contact you within that group or you can keep checking back periodically in case someone has missed your post. 

How to Assess a Secondhand Sewing Machine

Now don’t just take any ol’ sewing machine.  Make sure it is still working and will not need any costly repairs.  Be sure to ask the owner about the condition and if you can see it working before you purchase it.  Ask how about how often it was used, how old the machine is and where it was stored.  Most older machines although not stylish anymore were built to last so don’t necessarily be turned off but an older machine.  When I say older I mean decades old- probably even considered vintage at this time.  Make sure to ask the owner for the user manual or see if you can find a copy online. Since you are buying secondhand you cannot return the item so keep that in mind and do your due diligence.  You may want to call local sewing machine repair shops to see how much it costs for a tune up on your machine- it may need to be oiled or a part may be worn down so add that into your costs.  Consider deducting that cost from your offer to the owner.  

Whether you are buying privately or from a thrift store do a quick check yourself including making sure it has all the necessary parts including standard machine needle, bobbin and bobbin case under the needle plate.  Turn the hand wheel to make sure the needle goes up and down.  Also make sure the feed dogs move back and forth or your fabric will not move.  Remember vintage machines are heavy because they are made of metal which is higher quality than plastic.  Always go for the heavy machine over the light one. 

Other Ideas on How to Get an Inexpensive Sewing Machine:

  • Ask friends and family if they have a machine you can borrow.  You never know, they may want to get rid of it all together.  
  • Ask for a gift card towards a new sewing machine from friends and family for your birthday or Christmas.
  • Check out auction sites like eBay.
  • Keep on eye on estate sales and garage sales/yard sales in your area. 

Total: Free-$60

Where to Get Inexpensive or Free Fabric

Many of the places where you can get inexpensive or free fabric are the same as where you can buy sewing machines.  You can find fabric for a fraction of the cost that you would pay when shopping at fabric stores.  You may not find the exact type of fabric you are looking for as in type of weave, style or color but if you are in the beginning stages these are good fabrics to experiment with.  However, don’t let that hold you back because you could potentially find exactly what you are looking for which is a major win.  Almost every place I have listed is secondhand but you can also find inexpensive fabric at Walmart.  Some Walmart stores have pretty comprehensive sewing departments that are worth taking a look at.  In addition, I have had a lot of luck shopping for fabric wholesale at the Fabric District in Los Angeles.  Not only can you buy fabric in places like this but all sorts of other haberdashery, tools and supplies at discounted prices. If you are near a fabric district this is a great place to start.

Inexpensive fabric:

  • Local thrifts stores
  • National thrift stores such as Savers, Goodwill, the Salvation Army
  • Vintage shops
  • Estate sales, garage/yard sales
  • Walmart
  • Fabric districts (found in larger cities such as Los Angeles and New York)
  • Free or inexpensive:
  • Craigslist
  • Freecycle
  • Facebook Marketplace
  • Fabric alternatives: Bed sheets, second hand clothing

Total: Free-$20

Where to Get Inexpensive Thread

Thread is going to be more difficult to find secondhand.  Honestly, this is something you should buy brand new.  You can find some great deals through Walmart or Joann Fabric when using their coupons.  Gutterman is my favorite thread as it very durable.  Clarks and Coats also has a really good reputation.  I have sewn with other types of thread and the results are fine so far.  I would look at online reviews for other brands when buying on Amazon or Walmart.  You might find something really great for the right price.  If you are near a larger city with a garment district you should head over at look at what they offer.  You’ll probably find some really good deals for bulk thread. 

Total: ~$20

Where to Find Tools

When I started out sewing I got one of those Singer kits with all the basics.  It definitely was not high quality hence it did not last me very long but it was a great intro for me.  It’s worth considering but not ideal.  Ideally, you would be able to put together some basic tools that are a bit high quality to last you longer.  I put together some suggestions that shouldn’t break the budget. 

Total: ~$25

Don’t underestimate finding some of these tools at a garage sale, estate sale or facebook marketplace.  Many people get into a new hobby and buy all the materials only to find that they don’t really have time for it.  You may be able to snag some lightly used or new tools this way for an even lower price point. 

Hopefully you have these tools:

Iron and ironing board

Nice to have tools:

  • Clear ruler
  • Fabric marker

Where to Find Free Sewing Patterns

There is an abundance of free patterns for almost anything you can think of on the internet.  It really is very cool.  Whether you are sewing homewares, quilts, kid toys, clothing, lingerie or trinkets you can find it online.  Just head to google and add “free sewing pattern” to whatever item you are looking for.  You can also get a lot of great advice from sewing communities on facebook or reddit.  You will need to print these patterns out and that may cost you some money.  You can print at your local library for 10-15 cents per black and white page. 

Total: Free if you have access to a printer.  Otherwise, 10-15 cents per black and white page at the library. 

As you can see that are a variety of options to get you started sewing that won’t break the bank.  Now you won’t have the shiniest or trendiest of sewing machines or tools but is that what sewing is really about?  If you want to start sewing for $100 be resourceful, don’t be afraid to haggle and keep those notifications on.  You can start sewing for $100, sometimes even less.  It’s up to you and if you find that you want to spend a little more you can do that too. 

Grand Total: ~$45-$125

Looking for free sewing patterns?  Here are a few articles to get you started:

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How to Start Sewing for $100
How to Start Sewing for $100