Sewing Machine--Advice??

[HeatherJay]

I'm getting a sewing machine in a month or so. I have no idea what kind to get or anything. We're planning on spending around $200, but not more than $300. I'm planning on doing some quilting and crafts...maybe I'll get into sewing clothes (though I've never been good with patterns). Anyway, what kind of machine would you ladies recommend? And, what features should I be looking for when we pick one out? As far as a brand name, I'm leaning toward Singer (my Gram had an old pedal one, and I'm kind of sentimental), but I don't really know what other brands are out there.

So, within my price range, what would you ladies recommend?

Thanks

Love, Heather

 

[princess heart]

Hi Heather,
Singer is good. Brother is good. I am sure there are other good brands. Singer no longer has the monopoly on quality that it use to have.

You should be able to get something that will suit your needs in your price range. If you have a sewing machine shop where you live, consider purchasing your machine there. Certainly have a visit while you are shopping for your new machine. There are very good reasons for getting your machine from a sewing machine shop. Not the least is they will teach you how to oil your machine and to clean it so that it will run better. They may even have sewing classes. They will recommend when you should bring it in for routine service. When/If you decide that you are ready for a fancier machine, then your machine will be worth more on trade in since they will know it has been well cared for.

For the tasks that you mentioned, you will just need to make sure that it has a reverse and will zig-zag. I haven't priced a machine for a long time, but I would think that you could get a free arm one in your range.

 

[Beauty4Ashes]

When I look for a machine, I look for specific things like varied stich width, length and tension and buttonhole capeabilities and speed control and volume of the motor and also the different foots and equippment provided. Mine has a built in threader as well. i love that

If you are just doing quilting and crafts for the most part, I wouldn't worry to much about all that stuff. But it is important it has thread tension and length as well as a basic zigzag stitch and stretch stiches if you plan on sewing any stretch materials.


Some good brands that I researched when buying my machine are Pfaff, Bernina, Husquevarna, Singer(is ok but the new models are kind of cheaply made) and Kenmore is also really good.

Mine is called a Huskystar. I got a good deal on it and it suits me well for the time being. Though I REALLLLY need a serger.

God bless ..happy shopping

 

[HolyRoller]

I own a sewing shop. I agree with the above advice. Look at a local dealer. Janome(kenmore same but a little more cheaply made) are good, Pfaff and Viking are the same at this time.

A chain store will not give you a good value. For the money you are planning to spend you should be able to get a machine that does straight stitch, zigzag, electic stitch, blind hem, buttonhole and have stretch stitches. Yes most machines today are freearm machines. A carring case or cover would be nice.

Look for lesson to be included.One thing to remember is to ask questions and see if you are comfortable with the dealer. If you don't feel comfortable go elsewhere!! You will need his/her help.

If there are no dealer find out who teaches quilting classes in your area and ask them where to get a machine. It is better to travel a bit then to buy in a Walmart type store, a Sears is better then other chains.

Good luck and enjoy your machine.