If you’re worried that your hobby is running up the power bill, relax: a sewing machine is one of the most energy-light appliances in the house. Here’s roughly what it costs to run, and why.
How much power a sewing machine draws
A typical home sewing machine uses around 70 to 100 watts — smaller mechanical machines draw less, and larger computerized or embroidery machines a bit more. For comparison, that’s similar to an old-style light bulb. The motor only pulls its full draw while you’re actually sewing and under load; between seams it’s barely sipping.
What that costs
Running a 100-watt machine for a full hour uses about 0.1 kWh of electricity — which, at average rates, is roughly one to three cents an hour. Even if you sewed for several hours a day, every day, you’d be looking at just a few dollars a year. The iron you use alongside it actually draws far more power (often 1,000–1,800 watts) than the machine itself.
Frequently asked questions
How many watts does a sewing machine use?
Most home machines use about 70 to 100 watts, with small mechanical models lower and computerized or embroidery machines a little higher.
How much does it cost to run a sewing machine?
Roughly one to three cents per hour. A 100-watt machine run for an hour uses about 0.1 kWh — only a few dollars a year even with heavy use.
Do sewing machines use a lot of electricity?
No — they’re very efficient, drawing about as much as a light bulb. Your iron uses far more power than the sewing machine does.
