What type of sewing machine should I get?
chriscornelluv@sbcglobal.net asked:
I am new to sewing but eventually would like to be making my own dresses, pillowcases and blankets. I do not want to get an overly extravagant sewing machine, but I also do not want something that will need to be upgraded fairly quickly. What are some good, sturdy sewing machines around that I can get?
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Tags: Blankets, Dresses, Pillowcases, sewing machine, Sewing Machines
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February 3rd, 2009 at 4:28 pm
To start go with med. priced sewing machine, but try to stay away from the computerized for now. They are complicated and confusing! If you buy it from a sewing machine specialty store they will give you lessons on how to use it. You can buy one from a discount store and they may be able to give you a place or person to show you the basics. I’ve been sewing since the 7th grade home ec class I took back in the 70′s and I love it. It’s very relaxing and the better you get, the more you can play around with patterns to make one of a kinds that people go nuts over!
The only limit is your imagination! Have fun! Happy sewing!
February 6th, 2009 at 2:27 pm
Go to a dealer, not a major discount store first of all. You will be able to try out any machine they have there and if the machine needs repairs and service they can take care of right in the store. look for a good heavy mid priced model without a bunch of fancy stiches and add ons. Ask questions before you buy , find out the machines ability and match it to the projects you want to use it for. I have a 15 y/o basic model Kenmore and brand new Brother . The Kenmore is simple and easy to use, the Brother you just about need a enginering degree to work. Good luck in your quest.
February 8th, 2009 at 1:23 pm
As mentioned go a a sewing machine dealer to buy a machine. They will offer operation lessons, they will help you if you have problems, take care of any preventative maintenance and they will have replacement needles, bobbins that fit your machine and accessories such as specialized presser feet for special sewing purposes. As a pro, I always buy from a dealer. I have ten machines and they represent a big investment and they have to work well. my dealer keeps them in tip top condition.
For most sewing projects you will need the following stitches straight, zig zag, three step zig zag, stretch stitch blind hem, buttonhole, and some type of over-edge/overcast stitch. I’ve been sewing for many years and those are the stitches I use the most, I have some stitches I’ve never ever used. Look for a machine that allows you to adjust the pressure on the presser foot, that’s an important feature. Sewing special fabrics and special techniques are often a matter of the accessories for the machine such as needles and presser feet, so you’ll need a machine can take special feet and has a good variety of needles.
My favourite line of machines and the one I recommend most often is the Janome line. The Janome line of machines are excellent for most sewing applications and are reliable performers. They have a large variety of machines in many price points with a range of stitch packages. The instruction manuals are in clear and easy to read with clear illustrations. With a good machine that does the basic stitches, you can sew a variety of projects and any upgrading will need to be in the accessories only.
Janomes take low shank or snap on presser feet, so most of those fancy feet in the notions catalogues will fit the Janome. They take standard household needles and they come in everything from extra fine microfiber needles to extra heavy canvas needles and everything in between. Sewing special fabrics is more about the proper needles and thread than it is special machines or stitches, so invest in good needles and use the tools that are out there.
Here’s their sewing machine web page, complete with a little quiz to help you select the best model for your purposes. Thre’s also a message board where you can ask for clarification if you have questions about any of the models.