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What sewing machines are used on Sewing Bee?

If you're wondering which sewing machines are appearing in the nation's favourite sewing room, we've done some sleuthing and can reveal the tech that's powering the contestants projects

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BBC/Love Productions

Published: May 16, 2023 at 11:00 am

Besides ogling our favourite haberdashery every week in The Great British Sewing Bee's sewing room, we love looking out for clues to discover which sewing machines are used on the show. What can we say? We're curious like that.

While the machines on screen have their branding concealed as BBC1 is not a commercial TV channel, we asked Simply Sewing Magazine's Technical Editor Roisin to look for clues about exactly which machines the contestants are using.

The machines in this article are from the 2022 series and we'll update the guide as soon as we've identified what sewing machine models they're using in 2023.

If you're a fan of the Bee, catch up with all the latest episode news and get to know the latest batch of contestants in our Great British Sewing Bee guide.

Overview of the sewing machines used on the Sewing Bee

  • Janome 5060 QDC sewing machine with extension table
  • Janome AT2000D Professional Air Thread Overlocker

What sewing machines are used on Sewing Bee?

Janome 5060 QDC Sewing Machine with Extension Table

This is the machine that we think is featured on the sewing tables of the sewing bee. Despite the branding being concealed, we're pretty sure the sewists are using Janome 5060 QDC sewing machine.

It features 60 stitches plus two styles of automatic buttonholes, an LCD display, and a superior feed system. The extension table makes it easier to work on larger sewing projects too. The automatic thread cutter is an added bonus!

If you're new to using a sewing machine, then take a look at our how to use a sewing machine guide and beginner's guide to sewing.

Janome 5060 QDC sewing machine

Janome AT2000D Professional Air Thread Overlocker

Overlockers are an essential piece of kit on the Sewing Bee! We've done some sleuthing and this year the contestants appear to be using the Janome AT2000D Professional Air Thread Overlocker.

This overlocker has a handy jet air threading system with an upper and lower looper. This machine is sturdy, lightweight and excellent value for money.

You can learn more about the best overlockers on the market with our handy guide.

Janome AT2000D overlocker

Now you know what sewing machines are used on the Sewing Bee!

Thanks to Roisin's eagle eyes, you know exactly what sewing machines they use on the Sewing Bee. Why not order your own? If they're good enough for the sewing room then they're definitely good enough for us!

How to choose the best sewing machine for your needs

Not sure what sewing machine you need for your latest project? Gathered's experts have put together a complete guide to the best sewing machines to help you make your decision.

The guide covers everything from machines for beginners to the best options for advanced sewers. There's even a round-up of the best cheap sewing machines for crafters on a budget.