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From: Newbe
Date: 02-23-2005, 03:36 PM (1 of 8)
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The last time I sewed something was in the junior high! I want to start with simple repiars of clothing and then make outfits for my daughter. I don't know how to choose a sewing machine. I don't know how many stiches I need or what else I need. Does anyone have any ideas on what I need or how to do some reasearch. Thanks! |
User: Newbe
Member since: 02-23-2005 Total posts: 2 |
From: DorothyL
Date: 02-23-2005, 04:53 PM (2 of 8)
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Some people are going to tell you to buy the most machine you can afford but I would like to suggest you start with a basic model -- with zig zag -- of any good name brand. You don't need a lot of fancy stitches and accessories and there is a good chance you will not use it much. And, if like some of us, you get hooked you will have a better idea of what you need and want after you have done some basic sewing. Of course, if you have a lot of money to spend, you can find a dealer that will take the time to fix you up with the machine that is just right for you. Dorothy |
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002 Total posts: 3883 |
From: mommydionne
Date: 02-23-2005, 06:23 PM (3 of 8)
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I would suggest a buttonhole function as well, I used a basic janome with a 4 step buttonhole for years!
Jeanette
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User: mommydionne
Member since: 01-08-2004 Total posts: 838 
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From: Newbe
Date: 02-23-2005, 06:48 PM (4 of 8)
| Thanks for the info it was really helpful. I'd like to spend less now in case it ends up being a dust collector! I hope it doesn't but I want to be realistic! |
User: Newbe
Member since: 02-23-2005 Total posts: 2 |
From: paroper
Date: 02-23-2005, 07:57 PM (5 of 8)
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You might want to consider a gently used mid-range machine. You can get a little more for your money that way (sometimes you can get a lot more). You might check with local dealers to find machines that they have serviced. Sometimes the dealers will give training classes on even used machines. Many people purchase machines and don't use them that much and don't know what they are worth. You can get some really nice deals if you keep your eyes open.
pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: Pudge99
Date: 02-23-2005, 08:54 PM (6 of 8)
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Hey Dorothy, We finally agree on something  . We've been having opposite views lately.I sewed for many years on an old Singer ZigZag machine. It had a buttonhole attachment that worked fairly well. My suggestion to first time sewers is always to start very basic. You don't need all those bells and whistles, it is just more to give you headaches when you are first starting to sew. Go to a yard sale & pick up an old machine for a few bucks clean it, oil it and play around. As for how many stitches you need. Two. Straight and zigzag. All those other stiches are not needed in basic garment construction. They are mostly decorative. My machine that I have now has 76 stitches on it and honestly I still only use straight and zigzag most of the time. Gina
Pictures of my successes and failures Pfaff 2040 Janome Mylock 134D Singer Futura CE-100 w/ Autopunch Husqvarna Viking 3D Sketch |
User: Pudge99
Member since: 10-30-2001 Total posts: 1375 |
From: sable
Date: 02-23-2005, 10:14 PM (7 of 8)
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Definitely go for a fairly basic machine. Make sure it does a really good straight stitch. Test drive it to make sure it's user friendly for you. Some of the older machines are great too, I have an old Bernina Record, it's 30 something years old. It does straight stitch, zigzag, a 5 step buttonhole and has 21 other stitches. I use some of the utility stitches occasionally (one looks like a wave), but I find the straight, zigzag and buttonhole are the most used. If you buy secondhand and not from a dealer take the machine in for a service before you try using it at home. If at all possible you want a manual for it too. Have fun sewing Rachelle |
User: sable
Member since: 01-10-2005 Total posts: 76 
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From: MaryW
Date: 02-24-2005, 07:31 AM (8 of 8)
Hi Newbe, welcome to Sew Whats New. 
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542 
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