Sarah Dickins, a student from Loughborough University in the UK has created a modern sewing machine that encourages beginners not to fear the idea of mending their own clothes. The Alto sewing machine is a contender for the James Dyson Award, where designers are told to “design something that solves a problem.”

“To put it simply ~ Sewing machines are ugly and complicated which puts beginners off sewing and re-usable clothes are thrown away. Alto is a revolutionary new sewing machine which simplifies threading and speed control to improve ease of use for the beginner.”

I love this idea! Not only is the sewing machine modern and sleek compared to the clunky machines we’re all used to seeing, but it is intuitive, unique and creates a fun experience. I have to believe that more people would try sewing if they had an inviting machine like this. From children to adults, there is a wide range of appeal and benefits to this new design.

Learn more about the Alto sewing machine here.