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Baby Lock Molly Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Baby Lock Molly Review was originally written in 2013, and has been revised and updated in 2023. We have added alternatives such as SINGER Making The Cut, Elnita EM16, and EverSewn Sparrow 15.
When I reviewed the Baby Lock Molly, I realized just how much a child would enjoy using this uncomplicated mechanical sewing machine to learn how to sew.
Baby Lock Molly Overview
The Baby Lock Molly is a lightweight and compact sewing machine designed for beginners and those who want a simple machine for basic sewing tasks. It features 15 built-in stitches, including straight, zigzag, and stretch stitches, and has a 4-step buttonhole function. The machine also has a drop-in bobbin system and automatic needle threading for easy setup and use. The Baby Lock Molly has a free arm for sewing cuffs, sleeves, and other small areas and comes with a range of accessories, including a foot pedal, bobbins, and a needle pack. Its user-friendly features and lightweight design make it an excellent choice for those who want a reliable and easy-to-use sewing machine.
The bright orange accents and easy to use function dials and buttons are perfect for little hands and fingers. The step by step on board threading guide and bobbin winder are only icing on the cake.
On the front of the Baby Lock Molly, there is a large reverse button, and two huge dials – one for stitch selection, the other for stitch length adjustment.
A stitch width adjustment dial sits on top of the machine, next to the bobbin winding spindle.
There is also an on board ruler, a removable workspace, a free arm, a see through cover on the drop in bobbin, seam guide etched onto the needle plate and an easy to follow stitch selection chart stamped on the front.
What are some alternatives for Baby Lock Molly?
We have reviewed several home sewing machines like the Baby Lock Molly and here are some we highly recommend.
The Singer M3330 Making the Cut Sewing Machine, featured on Amazon Prime's MAKING THE CUT, is the machine you might want to add to your sewing room if you're searching for a reasonably priced sewing machine with enough capabilities for beginners who want to learn how to sew and for advanced sewers who want to make a variety of sewing projects. This machine offers 97 stitch applications, adjustable stitch options, a built-in needle threader and a built-in cutter for efficiency, and "Making the Cut" technology for unique designs. Its one-step buttonhole, LED lighting, and durable metal frame make it perfect for quilting, garment making, and DIY projects. The included essentials make it ideal for project kick-starts.
- Offers 97 stitch applications, suitable for various fabrics and sewing projects
- Full metal frame ensures long-lasting performance, providing stability during use
- Built-in needle threader and one-step buttonhole simplify the sewing process
- Long-lasting LED lighting provides bright, cool-to-touch illumination for precise work
- You won't be able to use this basic sewing machine, if you're a top-tier professional, to work on complex sewing jobs
The Elnita EM16 Mechanical Sewing Machine is a reliable and durable machine that is perfect for beginners and those who prefer a simpler approach to sewing. With 16 built-in stitches, including straight, zigzag, and decorative stitches, this machine offers a range of options for basic sewing tasks. The EM16 also features a front-loading bobbin system, making it easy to load and replace the bobbin, and a free arm for sewing cuffs, collars, and other hard-to-reach areas. The machine is lightweight and portable, making it easy to transport and store. The EM16 also comes with a range of accessories, including a hard cover, four presser feet, and a seam ripper, to help you tackle any sewing project with ease. With its simple and straightforward design, the Elnita EM16 Mechanical Sewing Machine is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use machine for basic sewing tasks.
The EverSewn Sparrow 15 is a reliable choice for beginners and creative minds seeking an efficient yet budget-friendly sewing companion. Boasting a modern blue and white design, this electric machine offers 32 stitch patterns, including 15 utility stitches and 12 decorative stitches. Ideal for kids and those starting their sewing journey, it features user-friendly functions like a manual thread cutter and a 5 mm maximum stitch width. The Sparrow 15's robust build, automatic needle threader, and included accessories make it a practical solution for entry-level sewing enthusiasts. Aimed at beginners and kids, the Sparrow 15 offers an accessible entry into the world of sewing with a modern design and functional features.
Read more about mechanical sewing machines here
What are the features on Baby Lock Molly?
- 25 Built-in stitches, including one-step buttonhole
- On board needle threader
- Drop-in bobbin
- Free-arm sewing
- Drop feed for free-motion techniques
- Adjustable stitch length and width
- On board thread cutter
- Twin-needle sewing
- Electronic foot control
- Built-in accessory storage
Working on the Baby Lock Molly
On board guides make winding the bobbin and threading the Baby Lock Molly child’s play. Selecting the desired stitch is as easy as dialing up the number.
When selecting a stitch that appears on the lower row, turn the stitch length adjustment dial to the SS/buttonhole setting and then dial the stitch selector dial to the number corresponding to the desired stitch.
Sewing on the Baby Lock Molly is surprisingly steady, smooth and quiet for a machine this small. The stitch quality, however, is a bit disappointing.
At first, the stitches were loose. Although they tightened up after manually adjusting the tension, the stitches were still less than spectacular.
To be completely honest, the stitch quality is passable, but more like something that I would expect from a sewing machine designed for use exclusively by children, not a machine that is promoted as one for sewers of all ages.
Nevertheless, the utility stitches produced by the Baby Lock Molly are acceptable for garment construction.
I would not recommend attempting to use the decorative stitches, however. In my opinion, the Molly falls short in this area.
Which fabrics work on the Baby Lock Molly?
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Knits(Medium to heavyweight only) | Leather/suede Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber Upholstery Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers |
What are the accessories that come with Baby Lock Molly?
- 6 Snap-on feet
- Automatic buttonhole
- Blind hem
- Button fitting
- General purpose
- Overedge
- Zipper
- Bobbins (4)
- Needle package
- Seam ripper
- Spool caps (large and small)
- Additional spool pin
- Quilting guide
- Felt cushion
- Lint brush
How to maintain the Baby Lock Molly?
| Maintenance activities | After each use | Monthly | Once each year | As needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clean race hook and feed dogs | Yes | No | No | No |
| Wipe head with soft dry cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Wipe head with soft damp cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Lubricate | No | No | No | No |
| Service by sewing machine repair professional | No | No | Yes | No |
Baby Lock Molly Summary
The Baby Lock Molly has a lot of plusses. Unfortunately, the stitch quality is subpar. I think this is a good teaching machine.
However, after the student has mastered the basics of sewing and is ready to take on more complex tasks, they could very well be in the market for another sewing machine.
As mechanical sewing machines go, the Molly is solid. Despite the fact that it’s small and lightweight, I like the way it feels. It actually feels like I’m sewing on a full size machine rather than a portable.
If you want a sewing machine for mending and basic sewing, the Baby Lock Molly fills the bill. If, however, you want a sewing machine that is capable of giving you perfect decorative stitches and working on heavy jobs like coats and winter weight jackets, you should keep looking.
Baby Lock Molly Review
Summary
The Baby Lock Molly is a basic sewing machine that was released in 2017. It has 25 built-in stitches, a one-step buttonhole, a drop-in bobbin, and a free-arm. It also has an automatic needle threader and a speed control slider. The Molly is a good sewing machine for beginners and experienced sewers alike. It is easy to use and has a variety of features that make it a versatile machine. However, it has a limited stitch selection and not as many features as some other machines.
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Happy Stitching.
At my local Sew & Vac, the salesperson demonstrated the Babylock Molly on leather, suede, and multiple layers of fabric. Could you give me some insight?
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
The fabrics listed in my reviews are the ones on which I believe the machines would operate best.
This is not to say you would not be able to work with leather, suede or fur on the Baby Lock Molly. I just believe it will last much longer if you used a larger, heavier machine for really thick and heavy fabrics.
Happy Stitching
I found this information very helpful. I teach sewing classes in a high school during the school year and in the evenings to adult refugees. I failed to notice that there’s not a speed control on this machine before I recommended it for the sewing class. I’m wondering if there’s a way to place something inside the foot control to help slow it down? Thanks so much for your help.
Lori
I found your review very helpful and bought a Molly to replace an old machine. After working with it for a few hours, I agree about the stitch quality – meh. Perhaps that’s bc you can’t really see whether your thread is going through the thread tension as it should. I wish I had noticed before I purchased the machine that the thread tension is recessed out of sight and touch instead of the traditional right there in front of you design. I’ve ordered a free motion foot that I hope to use with the Molly to make art pieces. Great review – thanks for posting!
Is the Molly a low shank ? I want to purchase a ruffler
I’ve had my Molly for about a year now and have a lot of trouble with managing my thread tension. This machine seems pretty difficult to get the tension just right, so I get a lot of kickback from the bobbin and end up redoing a lot of stitches. I agree with the statement that this machine’s stitching quality is sub-par and not great for multiple layers. I see this problem more often while I’m quilting than just piecing.
Just a little feedback for those interested!
By the end of the first year my Babylock Molly had a failing automatic buttonhole. Now, not yet 2 years in, the stitch length dial changes itself as I sew. As the machine vibrates from sewing the dial moves. I hated my cheap Singer and am only slightly more pleased with the Molly. Kinda ready to try a Janome. Do quality sewing machines even exist?
Machine is a piece of junk with no dealer support.
Have had the machine back to the machine four times for a total cost that is more than I paid for it. After the last service the machine runs backwards and the dealer response is ” we don’t know how to fix it”
Calls to Molly were very frustrating with no help.
I would not recommend this machine to anyone