which machine?

I have only recently started to sew and need a sewing machine that is not too complicated yet adequate for my needs. Could anyone recomend one to me and perhaps tell me what I should be looking for in a machine?

Reply to
Tara
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Wow...tough question. It all depends on how much you plan on spending, what you plan on sewing and what features you think you need. You can spend anywhere from $100 for a basic good used machine all the way up to $10,000 for a new top of the line, all singing, all dancing, embroidery/sewing machine.

That being said, I would recommend the following features that I love...

- Automatic needle up/down feature

- Side loading bobbin if you plan on machine quilting. (That way you don't have to take the quilt out of the machine to change the bobbin)

- Pressure foot knee lift bar (I don't know how I ever managed without that great feature).

- Weight. Will you be taking it to classes often or will it be mostly staying at home. They can range from 10-35 lbs.

Most machines come with free arm capabilities (for sewing around sleeve cuffs) and button hole (sometimes automatic, sometimes semi-automatic).

I would go to many different sewing machine stores and ask many questions and test drive many machines. That way you will get a feel for the machines and see which ones feel right to you.

There are many good brands, but I would lean towards whichever dealer is local, offers free classes or help on the machine and overall the friendliest and most helpful. Oh, and also a store which does its own in-house servicing.

But if your budget is limited...don't be afraid of a good used machine. If you buy from a dealer, you will get the most bang for your buck. Many will offer an in-house limited warranty, i.e. 6 months.

Sorry that I didn't recommend a particular machine, but I think it is more important for a beginner to do a lot of looking around to see what is out there. Buying a sewing machine is a lot like purchasing a car. Many different brands, wide price range, new or used, standard or automatic, Hyundai or Rolls Royce (Price Range), Chevy or Ford (brand loyalty)...you get the picture.

So have a good look around and then come back with questions and advice about the 2-3 machines you get it narrowed down to .

Good Luck Cheri

Reply to
C. Carroll

Hi, Someone once said buy as much machine as you can afford. Another must is the auto needle threader for aging eyes, a good light (my Bernina has an ott type one). Feed dog drop, adjustable needle postition, presser foot pressure adjustment, and a few more I will think of after I send this. :-)

-- Sugar & Spice Quilts by Linda E

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Reply to
nana2b

If you also want to do embroidery but also have all the other stitches etc consider a 2nd hand Janome 9000 they are user friendly , touch screen and pretty reliable also should be plenty around that are reasonable

Reply to
bnd777

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