Sewing lingerie is an exciting and fun sewing project, and it requires precision and specific techniques—especially when working with delicate fabrics like lace, mesh, and stretch knits. If you’re ready to dive into lingerie making, having the right sewing machine can make all the difference. In this post, I’ll go over what features to look for in a machine, plus two budget-friendly options that my students and I use in my studio.

I have been specializing in lingerie design and sewing for over a decade. In addition to publishing a book on the subject, I also teach in-person and online classes, so I understand the importance of sewing with the right machine.

What to Look for in a Sewing Machine for Lingerie

When it comes to sewing lingerie, your machine needs to handle delicate fabrics, stretchy materials, and small, precise seams. Here are the key features to look for:

Stretch stitches

Lingerie often requires sewing stretch fabrics, like spandex and jersey. Your machine should have a variety of stretch stitches, including zigzag, triple zigzag stitch, and possibly a lightning stitch. These stitches enable your seams to stretch with the fabric.

Adjustable presser foot pressure

Since lingerie fabrics can be slippery and lightweight, having the option to adjust the presser foot pressure is essential. This feature helps ensure that delicate fabrics don’t get stretched out or distorted while sewing.

Needle positioning

For precision work on small areas, like bra straps or narrow elastics, a sewing machine with adjustable needle positions helps you achieve the accuracy needed for professional results.

Walking foot or dual feed

A walking foot or integrated dual feed system helps feed layers of fabric evenly. This is particularly useful when sewing slippery or stretchy fabrics commonly used in lingerie.

Compact size and portability

If…