My sister just started sewing her first quilt and her Singer machine broke! She would like a good, basic sewing machine to replace it. She does not need fancy stitches or fancy anything else. What do you suggest? Thank you in advance.
Trixie
I would suggest that she visit some of the local sewing machine/quilt shops and see what they have available in trade ins.
One that is a little fancy -- is the Janome 6600 -- I don't have it but everybody (and I mean EVERYBODY) that I know that does swears by it for quilting. I have an older Pfaff 2030 that is a real workhorse that is wonderful.
Most important is that there are a few features she wants to be sure she has.... I'll start the list and others will add to it, I'm certain.
Features that are "must-haves":
Needle Down position Reverse option Largest Harp (I think that is what it is called -- the opening in the middle of the machine - if she plans to actually machine quilt her projects -- every little bit here is really helpful!) A 1/4" foot available A walking foot (some machines have it built in -- others it is a separate foot).
Okay -- I'll let others add to the list. And they'll probably add some other things to watch for, too.
My only other suggestion is for her to go into the shop, sit down at any machine and sew on it for a bit. See if it is somewhat "intuitive" for her? is it quiet enough? does she like the stitch it sews?
I hope she finds one she really loves!
I agree with what Kate said, especially about trying out the machine.
When our counseling secretary asked me, Viking or Bernina, I told her I like Viking, but she needed to try both out to see what SHE liked. I also told her, take her own material, quilt sandwich, etc., that she typically sewed on. Of course the store would supply what their machine sewed on best to try to impress her and make a sale.
Tell them to go away for 10-15 minutes so she can just sew, try to fiigure things out herself to see what machien is intutive for her.
Steven Alaska
Trixie, here's a good FAQ to ponde, "What Sewing Machine Should I buy?"
-Irene
Thanks everyone for the wonderful suggestions!
Trixie
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