Sewing Machine Market Overview, 2023-28

The sewing machine industry can trace its roots back to the early 19th century. The first patented sewing machine was designed by Thomas Saint in 1790, but it wasn't until the mid-19th century that significant breakthroughs in sewing machine technology occurred. In 1851, Isaac Singer introduced the first commercially successful sewing machine, which featured a foot pedal for easier operation. This innovation revolutionized the textile industry and significantly reduced the time and effort required for sewing. Over the years, the sewing machine industry has seen numerous improvements, including the development of zigzag stitching, computerized sewing machines, and embroidery machines. These advancements have not only made sewing more accessible to individuals but have also revolutionized the fashion, textile, and garment industries, increasing efficiency and reducing production costs. The sewing machine industry is a dynamic and evolving sector that has played a pivotal role in shaping the way we dress, produce textiles, and even express our creativity. From its humble beginnings in the early 19th century to its continued expansion in the modern world, this industry has witnessed significant advancements in technology, design, and application. Many consumers are seeking personalized and customized items. Sewing machines allow for unique embroidery, embellishments, and tailored fit, which is appealing to those who want clothing or home décor that reflects their individual style and preferences. Sewing machines provide the opportunity to make and repair garments at a lower cost than purchasing new ones. With the rising cost of clothing and other textile products, sewing can be a practical way to save money in the long run. Economic downturns or uncertainties, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, have prompted individuals to explore sewing as a means of income generation. Many people have turned their sewing skills into small businesses, selling handmade items or offering alteration services.

According to the research report, “Global Sewing Machine Market Overview, 2023-28” the market is anticipated to cross USD 6 Billion by 2028, increasing from USD 4.68 Billion in 2022. The market is expected to grow with 4.99% CAGR by 2023-28. Today's sewing machines are more than just mechanical devices; they are equipped with modern features such as touch screens, computerized stitch patterns, and even Wi-Fi connectivity. These features allow users to download new designs, share projects, and even receive software updates, providing a seamless sewing experience. As sustainability and eco-friendliness become increasingly important, the sewing machine industry has adapted. Many sewing machine manufacturers are now focused on creating environmentally conscious products. This includes energy-efficient machines and the use of eco-friendly materials in their production. The Do-It-Yourself (DIY) and crafting movements have surged in recent years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sewing machines have become an essential tool for enthusiasts looking to create homemade clothing, accessories, and home décor. The industry has responded with machines tailored to the needs of hobbyists and crafters. Embroidery machines have seen a significant surge in popularity as people seek unique and personalized items. This trend is particularly noticeable in the fashion and home decor industries, where custom embroidery adds a personal touch to products. While sewing machines for personal use have advanced, industrial sewing machines have not been left behind. They have become faster, more automated, and equipped with sophisticated features to meet the demands of large-scale garment production. Smart technology, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, will be integrated into sewing machines to enhance user experience, automate tasks, and provide guidance for complex sewing projects. The integration of 3D printing and innovative fabrics will create new opportunities for customization and creativity. Sewing machines will need to adapt to work with these materials, expanding the possibilities of what can be created. Sustainability will remain a significant focus, with more manufacturers working to reduce the environmental footprint of their products and processes. As sewing becomes more accessible, education and skills development programs will play a vital role in helping individuals harness the full potential of their sewing machines.

Europe, like many other parts of the world, has witnessed a surge in crafting and do-it-yourself (DIY) culture. People are increasingly interested in creating and customizing their own clothing, home decor, and accessories. Sewing machines play a pivotal role in enabling these creative pursuits. Europe has been at the forefront of promoting sustainability and eco-conscious consumption. The sewing machine market aligns well with the principles of slow fashion, which focuses on producing high-quality, durable clothing and accessories while minimizing waste. Many Europeans are choosing to repair and up-cycle their garments instead of discarding them, contributing to the demand for sewing machines. Europe has a rich history of textile and fashion craftsmanship. Countries like Italy and France are known for their high-quality fabrics and couture fashion. This heritage and appreciation for craftsmanship have made sewing and tailoring an enduring art in Europe. Europe is home to some of the world's most prestigious fashion and design schools. Aspiring designers and students often use sewing machines to bring their creative ideas to life. The availability of advanced sewing machines with modern features caters to the needs of the fashion and design community. Many European consumers prefer to support local artisans and small businesses. This preference has led to a growth in sewing businesses and custom tailoring services. Local artisans and designers create unique, custom-made items using these machines. European sewing machine manufacturers have been at the forefront of technological advancements in the industry. They have developed innovative machines with user-friendly interfaces, modern features, and advanced stitching capabilities, making sewing more accessible to a wider audience.

Computerized sewing machines have experienced significant growth and popularity for a variety of compelling reasons. These machines offer a wide range of advantages that cater to the needs and preferences of modern sewers, whether they are professionals or hobbyists. Computerized sewing machines are designed with user-friendly interfaces, often featuring digital touchscreens or buttons. This simplicity makes them accessible to individuals with various levels of sewing expertise, from beginners to advanced users. Users can easily select stitches, adjust settings, and even download patterns or designs with the touch of a button. Computerized machines offer precise and consistent stitching. They can automatically adjust stitch length and width to create even, professional-quality seams and decorative patterns. This level of accuracy is challenging to achieve with manual machines. Computerized sewing machines come with an extensive range of built-in stitches and embroidery patterns. Users can select from various decorative stitches, buttonholes, and even embroidery designs without the need for additional attachments or manual pattern changes. Many computerized machines allow users to create and save their custom stitch patterns and designs. This level of personalization enables sewers to add unique and creative elements to their projects. These machines often have adjustable speed settings, allowing users to choose their stitching speed based on their skill level and the complexity of the project. This feature is especially helpful for beginners who want to practice at a slower pace. The automation and precision of computerized machines can significantly reduce the time and effort required to complete sewing projects. This is advantageous for professional sewers, businesses, and individuals with busy schedules.

Based on the application, residential sewing machines are experiencing growth and increased popularity due to a combination of factors, reflecting the changing needs and preferences of consumers. The do-it-yourself (DIY) and crafting movements have gained momentum, with more people interested in creating personalized and custom-made clothing, home decor, and accessories. Residential sewing machines cater to this growing desire for creativity and individuality. As awareness of environmental issues and concerns about fast fashion grow, many individuals are turning to sewing machines to make and repair their own clothing. Sewing allows for the reuse, upcycling, and alteration of garments, contributing to more sustainable consumption habits. Residential sewing machines enable users to customize their clothing and home furnishings. Whether it's adjusting the fit of a garment, adding unique embellishments, or personalizing items, sewing machines offer a means of self-expression and creativity. Sewing at home can be more cost-effective than purchasing new items, especially when considering high-quality fabrics and materials. Over time, investing in a sewing machine can lead to significant savings. Residential sewing machines have become more user-friendly and technologically advanced. Features like digital touchscreens, automatic thread tension adjustment, and a wide variety of built-in stitches make sewing more accessible and enjoyable. Sewing is a creative and therapeutic hobby for many people. It offers an artistic outlet and a way to de-stress, providing a sense of accomplishment as individuals complete their projects. Many individuals are starting small sewing-related businesses, such as selling homemade clothing, accessories, or offering alteration services. Residential sewing machines enable these entrepreneurial endeavors.

Furthermore, non-apparel sewing machines are experiencing growth for a variety of reasons, driven by changes in consumer preferences and industry trends. These machines cater to applications outside of clothing and fashion, offering a wide range of benefits for different sectors. Many people are investing in sewing machines for creating and customizing home decor items such as curtains, throw pillows, tablecloths, and upholstery. Sewing machines offer a cost-effective way to refresh and personalize living spaces. The DIY and crafting culture has expanded to include a wide range of non-apparel projects. Sewing machines are essential for crafters who work on quilting, appliqué, embroidery, and other creative projects. Non-apparel sewing machines offer specialized features for these applications. The automotive industry uses non-apparel sewing machines for repairing and customizing car upholstery and interiors. These machines are capable of handling heavy-duty materials and providing durable stitching, which is essential for automotive applications. Non-apparel sewing machines are used in the manufacturing and repair of awnings, canopies, and outdoor tents. Their ability to work with heavy fabrics and provide strong, weather-resistant seams is crucial for these applications. Sewing machines designed for non-apparel use are used in the marine industry for sewing boat covers, sails, and upholstery. The resistance to saltwater and UV exposure is an essential feature for marine applications. Non-apparel sewing machines are employed in the manufacturing and repair of footwear, leather accessories, and leather goods. These machines can handle thicker materials and provide precise stitching for leatherworking. The industrial sector relies on non-apparel sewing machines for various applications, including manufacturing industrial bags, heavy-duty canvas products, and even filtration systems. These machines offer the durability and precision required for such applications. Non-apparel sewing machines are used in the medical industry for stitching medical textiles, such as surgical drapes, gowns, and orthopedic supports. Their ability to create sterile, secure seams is crucial in healthcare settings.

Based on the distribution channel, online sales of sewing machines have experienced significant growth in recent years due to several factors that cater to the evolving consumer landscape and the convenience of e-commerce. Online shopping offers the ultimate convenience. Customers can browse and purchase sewing machines from the comfort of their own homes, eliminating the need to visit physical stores, deal with traffic, or adhere to store hours. Online platforms provide access to a vast array of sewing machines, from entry-level models for beginners to high-end machines designed for professionals. Shoppers can explore a broader range of brands, models, and features, ensuring they find the right machine to suit their needs. Online shopping makes it easy for customers to compare prices, features, and user reviews across different sewing machine brands and models. This information empowers shoppers to make informed decisions. Online reviews and recommendations from other customers play a crucial role in helping shoppers make purchasing decisions. They can read about the experiences of other users to understand the pros and cons of specific sewing machines. Detailed product descriptions and specifications provided by online retailers offer in-depth information about each sewing machine. Shoppers can understand a machine's capabilities, size, weight, and specific features before making a purchase. Many online sewing machine retailers provide expert advice, guides, and resources to assist customers in choosing the right machine. They offer online chat support, email support, or toll-free customer service lines to answer questions and provide assistance. Online stores often offer a comprehensive selection of sewing machine accessories, including needles, threads, presser feet, and specialized attachments. Shoppers can find everything they need in one place. Online sewing machine retailers and sewing communities offer tutorials, how-to guides, and educational content to help beginners learn to use their machines effectively. This educational aspect is especially beneficial for new sewers. Online retailers frequently offer sales, discounts, and promotions, making it more affordable to purchase sewing machines. Customers can take advantage of deals during holiday seasons, sales events, and clearance sales. With online shopping, customers can have their sewing machines delivered directly to their doorstep. This eliminates the need to transport a heavy sewing machine from a physical store.

Market Drivers

• E-commerce and Online Marketplaces: The rise of e-commerce and online marketplaces has been a significant driver for the sewing machine industry. Consumers now have easy access to a wide variety of sewing machines and related accessories online, making it convenient to browse, compare, and purchase products. Online platforms have enabled sewing machine manufacturers and retailers to reach a global customer base and streamline distribution. Additionally, the availability of online tutorials and communities has encouraged individuals to invest in sewing machines, driving demand for both beginners and advanced sewing enthusiasts.
• Customization and Personalization: A growing trend in the sewing machine industry is the desire for customization and personalization. Many consumers want to express their individuality through clothing, home décor, and other sewn items. This trend has driven demand for sewing machines that offer unique features, such as embroidery capabilities, quilting functions, and the ability to work with a wide range of fabrics. Sewing machines that cater to customization and personalization are in high demand, particularly among crafters, hobbyists, and small business owners seeking to offer unique, handmade products.

Market Challenges

• Skilled Labor Shortages: A significant challenge for the sewing machine industry, especially in the industrial and manufacturing sectors, is the shortage of skilled labor. Skilled sewers, technicians, and machine operators are in short supply in many regions. As a result, manufacturers are facing difficulties in finding and retaining qualified personnel to operate and maintain the advanced sewing machines used in mass production. This challenge necessitates investments in training and workforce development to address the skills gap and maintain operational efficiency.
• Counterfeit Products and Intellectual Property Concerns: The sewing machine industry faces issues related to counterfeit products and intellectual property violations. Some manufacturers, particularly those producing well-known and reputable brands, grapple with the unauthorized production and distribution of counterfeit sewing machines and parts. These counterfeit products not only hurt brand reputation but also compromise safety and quality standards. Intellectual property concerns related to the design and technology of sewing machines are also a challenge, as protecting innovations becomes more critical in a competitive market.

Market Trends

• Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices: A growing trend in the sewing machine industry is the adoption of sustainable and eco-friendly practices. Both manufacturers and consumers are increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of the textile and sewing industries. As a response, sewing machine companies are focusing on producing machines with energy-efficient features, using eco-friendly materials, and promoting responsible manufacturing processes. Additionally, consumers are looking for sewing machines that offer longevity and durability, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
• Collaborations and Connectivity: Collaboration and connectivity are emerging trends in the sewing machine industry. Manufacturers are partnering with software developers and designers to create sewing machines that can connect to mobile apps and computer software, allowing users to access a wider range of patterns, designs, and project ideas. This trend enhances the sewing experience, providing users with more creative possibilities and access to a global community of sewers and designers. Collaboration also extends to partnerships with fashion brands, enabling sewing machines that align with specific fashion trends and collections.

Covid-19 Impacts

The sewing machine industry, like many others, experienced supply chain disruptions due to the pandemic. Lockdowns, factory closures, and transportation challenges led to delays in the production and distribution of sewing machines and their components. This impacted the availability of some models and parts. Sewing machine manufacturing plants faced temporary closures or reduced production capacity to comply with social distancing and safety measures. These disruptions led to a backlog of orders and, in some cases, increased lead times for delivery. Some potential buyers postponed or canceled their sewing machine purchases due to financial uncertainties. While demand for consumer sewing machines increased, the demand for industrial sewing machines in sectors like fashion and automotive manufacturing temporarily declined due to factory closures and reduced production activities. In some cases, the pandemic raised concerns about the safety of sewing machine use, particularly in shared spaces or public settings. Some individuals and businesses adapted to these concerns by enhancing safety measures and introducing protective barriers for machine operators. However, one of the most significant positive impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the sewing machine industry was the surge in demand for home sewing machines. With lockdowns and stay-at-home orders in place in many parts of the world, people turned to sewing as a creative and practical way to pass the time. Many individuals started sewing face masks, clothing, and home décor items, driving up sales of consumer sewing machines.

Competitive Landscape

The competitive landscape in the global sewing machine industry is diverse and includes a mix of well-established players, emerging brands, and niche manufacturers. These companies compete on factors such as product innovation, quality, price, distribution networks, and customer support. The competitive landscape is dynamic, with companies continuously striving to differentiate themselves through technological advancements, unique features, and responsive customer service. Moreover, the sewing machine industry has seen an influx of start-ups and small manufacturers offering innovative and compact sewing machines tailored for modern, urban living. Few of the major incumbent players thoroughly assessed in the research report on the global sewing machine market include Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, Juki Corporation, Bernina International AG, SVP Worldwide, Brother International Corporation, Janome Sewing Machine Co., Ltd, Aisin Seiki Co. Ltd, Jaguar International Corporation, Kaulin Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Rimoldi & Cf S.R.L..

Key Developments

• August 2021 saw the launch of the Innov-ís BQ3100 and BQ2500 Quilting and Sewing Machines by Brother, part of the Brother 2022 product lineup, which encompasses a variety of combo sewing and embroidery machines, craft tools, and accessories. These two machines incorporate innovative technology designed to empower entrepreneurs and crafters in the creation of their own unique projects.
• In May 2021, Juki Corporation entered into a partnership with Pegasus Sewing Machine, a company renowned for its production of high-quality sewing machines. The collaboration was focused on the industrial sewing machine sector and aimed to enhance the skills of sewing operators and improve their working conditions. The two companies jointly committed to expanding their presence in emerging markets.
• In March 2021, Merrow Sewing Machine successfully concluded the acquisition of Superior Sewing Machine & Supply, a leading wholesale distributor of replacement parts and supply items for industrial sewing and cutting machines. This strategic acquisition solidified Merrow's position as the largest wholesale provider of technical components and supply items for the sewn products industry in the Western Hemisphere.

Considered in this report

• Geography: Global
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report

• Global Sewing Machine market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Regional -wise Sewing Machine market analysis
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

Regions covered in the report

• North America
• Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• South America
• Middle-East & Africa

By Machine Type:

• Electric
• Computerized
• Manual

By Use Case:

• Industrial
• Commercial
• Residential

By Application:

• Apparel
• Non-Apparel

By Distribution:

• Offline
• Online

Intended audience

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organisations related to the Sewing Machine industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.