I know there is a coumputer program to generate patterns, which would be the best one, or which do you like best. Thanks
- posted
17 years ago
I know there is a coumputer program to generate patterns, which would be the best one, or which do you like best. Thanks
I just bought LivingSoft.
What I really wanted was the shiny new junk from Wal-Mart and a matching junk serger. I stalked the items for a week and finally decided to get something reliable. Did I make a mistake? It may not be too late to void the auction commitment and get the Wal-Mart bling. My use will be light. My goal is hassle-free versatility.
I'll value the opinions of you who have been keeping up with your passion for sewing as I have not.
IMHO, you have made a *very* good choice. The Singer 401A I bought new in 1961 is still going strong, and I have sewn hundreds (thousands?) of garments, home dec. kids stuff, etc. I like it so much I bought two additional ones on eBay, so that I will *never* be without one. I also own two sergers, and a Singer XL5000 for embroidery. But for actual *sewing* the 401A is my machine of choice.
NAYY, HTH,
Beverly
I don't think you made a mistake at all with your machines. I prefer a computerized machine, but would never buy from wal-mart. I have bought decent computerized machines at different (estate sales) for less than $100. But, the machines at wal-mart, I believe are made cheaper and are less reliable than the same machine at a sewingmachine store.
Thank you both. I'll stop obsessing over the decision and know it was right for me.
Joanne
You absolutely did not make a mistake! The 401 machine is one of the best ever made. It will sew through anything you can fit under the foot, and is one powerful machine. I really believe they cannot be killed -- LOL They were top of the line when they came out and they have no belts or plastic - they are all metal and gear driven. They really are fantastic and a joy to sew on.
Many of us here have 491s so we'll assist with any questions you may have!
When you get your machine it may need a good oiling and cleaning, and possibly new grease on its gears, which should be done before being used! Also check the wiring to make sure it is safe. Once thse things are done the 401 will reward you with the nicest, trouble-free stitches you've ever seen.
Post back when you get it and we'll help you with the maintenance!
-Irene
-------------- You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.=20
--Mae West=20
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You absolutely did not make a mistake! The 401 machine is one of the best ever made. It will sew through anything you can fit under the foot, and is one powerful machine. I really believe they cannot be killed -- LOL They were top of the line when they came out and they have no belts or plastic - they are all metal and gear driven. They really are fantastic and a joy to sew on.
Many of us here have 491s so we'll assist with any questions you may have!
When you get your machine it may need a good oiling and cleaning, and possibly new grease on its gears, which should be done before being used! Also check the wiring to make sure it is safe. Once thse things are done the 401 will reward you with the nicest, trouble-free stitches you've ever seen.
Post back when you get it and we'll help you with the maintenance!
-Irene
That's really good advice. I think I'll just take it to the local shop and let them do a "new puppy vet check".
I ordered the instruction book from someone who reproduces them but I'm sure I'll have questions and this is a very experienced group.
I believe this is a dual, slant needle and I want to read the book to understand how that differs from an old vanilla Singer. It also appears to have a system of combinable stitch discs which will be interesting to learn about.
I have various attachments for the older machines and I'm not sure if they are interchangeable with this machine. I'll learn about that as well.
Today I cut and pinned my "welcome back" projects. Had to laugh when I went hunting for cans of tuna to hold the pattern down. It's been a while. I stabbed myself with pins a number of times and that brought back memories, too.
As with all things, I know the art of sewing has evolved in 15 years. I don't know any of the new methods, shortcuts, tools or accessories. I just saw something on a sewing how-to show about zippers that are trim-to-length. Wow, what a deal.
This will be fun in a Rumpelstiltskin sort of way.
One of the nicest things about the 401 is that a good cleaning and oiling, which you can do yourself, is all it is likely to ever need. It is a fun machine to use, and is amazingly versatile. It is also a metal machine - any plastic on it is just trim. No electronics to fail, either. It's mechanical.
Vikki,
I have used a few of the different Wild Ginger programs. I'm saving my pennies for Pattern Master Boutique. If you go to
Sharon
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