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From: DCrain02
Date: 10-11-2004, 07:04 AM (1 of 14)
| Hi Everyone, I'm Dani, new to the group from the tiny state of RI. I've spent the last few weeks or so trying to choose a sewing machine. (I'm a first time buyer) So far, online the one I've liked best is the Singer 6038, however in reading reviews from various sewing sites I've discovered that there is so much out there!! I went to Sears over the weekend and discovered a plethera of Kenmore machines to choose from. I guess the best advice I've gotten so far is to take a machine for a test ride, however I'm such a novice that I'm embarressed to walk into a dealer and be taken advantage of. Unfortunately I don't have any seasoned sewers locally. Any advice for a first time buyer? Is any one brand better than another? My mother had always used Brother brand - I've heard Singer has improved the quality of their machines, and until doing research I've never heard of White, Jamcome(sp?) etc. I went to Joanns Fabrics hoping that they would have a wide variety of machines, but all they carried was White's brand. Thanks for your advice in advance! |
User: DCrain02
Member since: 10-10-2004 Total posts: 2 |
From: Chrysantha
Date: 10-11-2004, 10:47 AM (2 of 14)
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It's Janome....and it's Japanese....most if not all Kenmore (brand) machines are made by Janome...Sears only sells the machines, NO ONE there sews and will help you in anyway with that part of it. You buy a machine from Sears and you're on your own. (it's not that the machines are bad, it's Sears itself.) I always look for quality machines..(name brands) I tend to stay away from machines that seem 'light' for the size. (plastic gears and mostly plastic insides) The heavier the machine the better it will be in the long run (more metal means better lasting). Going to a store that sells quality machines is always better than just buying what you see in Wally World ,etc. You need to find something that will last and usually sewing machine stores offer lessons, repairs, fabric, etc. Bernina, Janome, Babylock, Viking,Elna all stand behind their machines...(some Bernina machines are now being made by Janome) Also machine dealers take trade-in's and will have those at REALLY good prices and they almost always service what they sell..... Chrys
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User: Chrysantha
Member since: 09-06-2002 Total posts: 2414 
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From: gramfel
Date: 10-11-2004, 05:40 PM (3 of 14)
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Most of the newer machines are computerized. I have a Brother 8500 (older now but used to be top of their line) and I love it, but it also embroiders and cost a lot when I bought it! My favorite sewing machines are used Berninas, particularly the 1130, 1230, 1260, and 1530. These machines are computerized and make automatic buttonholes with very little trouble, and they last for years. In fact, I had an 1130 and gave it to my daughter with threats if she ever decided to sell it!! In other words, I want it back if that happens!! I just didn't need two machines! All of these older Berninas I consider even better than some of their newer ones! But these still cost, too. Buying a machine from a dealer does get you a good warranty from someone who can actually work on the machine. And I would never buy a used Singer unless it was a featherweight made in the 40s and 50s. When I bought my first used Bernina, I realized how much fun sewing could be when the tension setting was never a problem!! I have known people who had Elnas, too, who loved their machines. Good luck! Let us know what you choose. There are many good machines now that are computerized, but service is the name of the game, too, just like automobile service! Lulie 
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User: gramfel
Member since: 09-12-2004 Total posts: 23 |
From: DCrain02
Date: 10-11-2004, 07:36 PM (4 of 14)
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It's Janome....and it's Japanese....most if not all Kenmore (brand) machines are made by Janome...Sears only sells the machines, NO ONE there sews and will help you in anyway with that part of it. You buy a machine from Sears and you're on your own. (it's not that the machines are bad, it's Sears itself.) I have had trouble with Sears in the pass concerning Air Purifiers I've purchased from them. My husband and I have purchased two over the past few years - but now that we went to purchase the replacable filters they are not being manufactured anymore. I think you are right, a dealer will probably be my best bet. Thanks for the tips. I'll be shopping around this weekend and I'll definitely post my results. I am dissapointed a bit as I hoped to be able to order a machine right away, but it looks like I'm going to be spending quite a bit of time researching first!!! 
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User: DCrain02
Member since: 10-10-2004 Total posts: 2 |
From: catquilts
Date: 10-12-2004, 08:23 PM (5 of 14)
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Hi, Cathryn here. I usually lurk  . I am the proud owner of a brand new Viking Platinum series machine. I must say that I love, love, love it! I traded my Singer XL-100 in on it and it was a great decision. I liked the Singer machine but the Singer customer service was lousy. I bought it from a dealer, etc., but it seemed that everytime my Singer needed a repair it had to go back to the "depot" and it would take months.  It became so frustrating that I finally just got rid of the machine. I have been looking at Vikings for years and finally just took the plunge. I am so, so happy!Just my two cents worth. Cathryn |
User: catquilts
Member since: 10-12-2004 Total posts: 1 |
From: Kylnne2
Date: 10-14-2004, 04:51 AM (6 of 14)
| Hi Dani and welcome to the group. Cathryn it sounds like you got a nice machine I hope you enjoy it. I recently went through the decision process of finding a new machine and believe it or not..well, I won't go into it ..but I got several lemons in the process. I have now the machines I love and I would like to tell you about the Pfaff Selects. I have the Pfaff Select 1530 and it has the Dual Feed (IDT). After all these years of sewing I didn't know what I was missing. This is just a mechanical machine but a work horse and considered a best buy. I also have a Jem Silver. My computerized machine is the (Janome) Kenmore 19365 that I purchased for the 365 stitches to work alongside my embroidery stand alone machine. This one was also considered a best buy. All sewers like to praise their brands of machines. I saw other brands and some nice ones that I would haved love to have but I bought the two that I have on sale. I feel I got fantastic bargains as these machines suit my sewing needs perfectly. It is a personal thing..the machine of choice. The machine needs to fit your sewing needs, expectations, pocketbook, comfort level and should also be one of quality. I hope you find a machine you like Dani. I know it took me some time. I now see that Viking has come out with 3 new machines called the Scandinavia's that look interesting..Naw..I am not still looking..LOL |
User: Kylnne2
Member since: 07-10-2004 Total posts: 629 |
From: MartySews
Date: 10-17-2004, 08:41 AM (7 of 14)
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Buying a sewing machine is much like buying a vehicle. First of all you must decide what you plan to do with the machine. Then, because you stated that you are a novice with no experienced help nearby, I suggest that you visit the local dealers. They often give lessons on how to use the machine and can refer to a sewing teacher to help you learn to sew. Test drive a variety of machines to find the one that is easiest for you to use. You may also want to consider joining a sewing guild. Your local fabric store and the dealers can help you there too. Here are some things you may want to consider when buying a sewing machine: 1. Know what you plan to sew. 2. Ability to have "hands-on" lessons and support 3. Basic features like a variety of zig-zag, one step buttonhole, stretch stitches, some decorative stitches, blindhem, twin-needle, needle up/down and being able to adjust the position of the needle. 4. Availability of accessories like additional presser feet, needles, bobbins, etc 5. What type of warranty is offered on the parts and how much is typical cleaning and basic repairs. Test drive a variety of machines using your own fabric and you will find the one that is right for you. Be sure to come back and let us know what you selected as we're always happy to find out. Happy Stitching! Marty 
It takes one moment to change a life.
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User: MartySews
Member since: 02-23-2003 Total posts: 504 
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From: Sunni Florida
Date: 10-17-2004, 09:58 AM (8 of 14)
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If you are new to sewing, you want to invest in a quality machine like a Pfaff, Viking, or Bernina. They should have an entry level machine that will take you through many years. You may be able to buy a used one from a dealer, or floor sample. I have found if you buy say a Kenmore etc...that it is frustrating because of the tension problems and you will hate sewing. My neighbor bought a Kenmore for $330 + and had nothing but problems, will not sew now, and returned the machine. Make sure you like the dealer, and they will also help you use the machine and offer classes. Have fun!!! |
User: Sunni Florida
Member since: 04-16-2004 Total posts: 2 |
From: Kylnne2
Date: 10-18-2004, 04:39 AM (9 of 14)
| Sunni, that's a shame abut your freinds Kenmore. Did she get another? I too had a problem with my first machine from Kenmore. I noticed a problem right out of the box. The auto tension was broken. I reordered however and glad I did..it works like a charm. I would have not reordered if it had been a computer problem The computer on mine is fine. I did have computer problems on some other brand of machines. I bought a Pfaff Select with the IDT and I think it is a great machine for anyone beginner or experienced but it is mechanical not computerized. I do love all the deco stitches on my Kenmore and the memory, stitch editing and mirror image. etc. I use them both constantly. We like to brag about the machines we like, don't we. |
User: Kylnne2
Member since: 07-10-2004 Total posts: 629 |
From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 10-18-2004, 12:34 PM (10 of 14)
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Somewhere , up at the top of this thread, Janome was said to be Japanese, and that part is true, but the Janome co. was created by a merger with an old, old American Sewing machine mfr.. New Home... They make a quality machine... My Grandmother sewed on a New Home treadle machine..I have a Janome 4000 Memory Craft and I dearly love it.. My automatic tension works beautifully and I have never had to take it off auto, except I do it every so often to make sure the dial will work..My machine is at least 12 years old and the only money I.ve spent is for ordinary maintenance and check ups.. ( and not many of them) My Sister has a portable Pfaff and I do love that IDF on her machine.. I have an old Kenmore that is currently living at DIL's house that is more than 30 years old and still going strong.. (does 5 zigzag and 5 stretch stitches, as well as straight stitches)...I also own a singer 221 (featherweight portable with auto buttonhole attachment) worth its weight in gold.... Its 50 years old and still working perfectly...
Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022 
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From: Kylnne2
Date: 10-20-2004, 05:03 AM (11 of 14)
| Wow, I see on the Sears site they have some new machines, under electronic machines. Viking also has the new Scandinavia's. There are so many new machines out at this time of year. I think I will take a day to go check them out in person to satisfy my nosiness. I remember my dilema when looking for a machine ..and now there are more machines. |
User: Kylnne2
Member since: 07-10-2004 Total posts: 629 |
From: mommydionne
Date: 11-02-2004, 06:58 AM (12 of 14)
Yep lots of machines out there, If I was starting out again I would buy a mechanical Janome or perhaps a refurbished mechanical bernina, the new berninas are fab (I have one) but are really pricey for someone who may not take up sewing as a passion, addiction etc.  I agree with everyone about the dealer service, you NEED a great dealer who sews and does lessons for all new machine orders and SHOWS YOU how to fix the snafus that will inevitably happen. Perhaps check out a beginner sewing class at a few of the smaller local shops to get a feel for the place. At the entry level most of the machines are comparible and you should go to the place that will help you out the most. have fun, and get what you need - important functions (ie the ones I would never consider doing without  ) excellent straight stitch, zig zag, a really good buttonhole function - either a four step or totally automatic, do not get sucked into thinking you can make buttonholes without at least the 4 step function, it makes life sooooo much better. The rest of the stuff is cool but really bells and whistles and if you have a standard machine you can get a lot of cool feet for not too much at places like Nancy's Notions. (generic feet do not work on most Berninas! voice of experience here) So ask if generic feet will work on the machine you are looking at. have fun!! Jeanette
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User: mommydionne
Member since: 01-08-2004 Total posts: 838 
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From: Kylnne2
Date: 11-03-2004, 04:47 AM (13 of 14)
| Jeanette, I have always wanted a Bernina. I like the little 125s model that they have now. I have always been a midline machine person but I still and always have wanted a mechanical Bernina. I certainly don't need another machine but someday still hope to have one. I think between the 125s and the mechanical I would choose the mechanical. The mechanical Bernina's are like little tanks that work forever. |
User: Kylnne2
Member since: 07-10-2004 Total posts: 629 |
From: mommydionne
Date: 11-04-2004, 08:25 PM (14 of 14)
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I know what you mean about the mechanical Berninas everyone who has one raves about them but I think my hubby would peak if another machine came in the house LOL!! Actually he's not that bad but there would be a fair bit of eyeball rolling! Jeanette
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User: mommydionne
Member since: 01-08-2004 Total posts: 838
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