Happy Monday! To me, this topic is a big one, so let’s dive right into it.

The crux of the matter is what’s better – hand or machine sewing. The answer is neither…and both.

Machine Sewing

Machine sewing is good for a lot of things. It’s faster, and the stitches can be more even. Since the stitches are more even, this can also mean that the stitches are stronger. If you are needing to sew a lot, or large garments, machine sewing might be a better choice.

Sewing machines can be bulky, and expensive. They aren’t particularly portable, although some are better than others. Depending on the type of machine, there may be limited stitch options as well.

Hand Sewing

Hand sewing is significantly slower than machine stitching, because you are doing it all yourself. It is good for more decorative stitching, as well as precision in more difficult to reach areas. You can also hand sew anywhere, since you don’t have to bring a machine with you.

As a beginner, your hand sewing might be not so great. This is normal! You will likely have trouble with tension and stitch size consistency. It takes practice to master hand sewing, but once you get there, it can be almost meditative.

With all that said, you do not win a prize for only sewing one way or the other. I have seen some people act as though they are morally superior because they only hand sew. Don’t be like them. If you want to hand sew, great. If you don’t, also great. I do a combination of both, depending on the project and what my goals are. I resisted hand sewing for a long time because I wasn’t good at it, but the only way to get better is to do it.

What do you think about hand sewing and machine sewing? Do you prefer one over the other? Why?