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The Sew What’s New Archive
This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and
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From: amelie
Date: 12-23-2005, 07:09 PM (1 of 4)
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Hi everybody. I'm completely new to the whole sewing thing and i really can't do it to save my life but i want to give it a shot. I'm looking to buy a VERY basic, easy-to-use sewing machine - (and as cheap as possible). I'm not going to be doing anything fancy, just alterations. Could someone please help me out and recommend which sewing machine i should buy? I've been looking at prices and there's such a wide range !! Thanks 
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User: amelie
Member since: 12-23-2005 Total posts: 1 |
From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 12-23-2005, 07:33 PM (2 of 4)
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I think everybody is a little hesitant to answer.. Its a wide open question.. Do you live in a town with a lot of machine dealers?.. Do you have a friend who sews?? Do you plan to take lessons?? A lot of factors go into choosing your first sewing machine.. We need a little more background in order to give you good advice.. Welcome to the site.. btw.. I think you will love it here..
Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022 
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From: AndreaSews
Date: 12-23-2005, 07:36 PM (3 of 4)
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You're right, there is a very wide range. And a wide range of opinions. I think it's a lot like buying a car. What's going to satisfy you? A Benz or a Subaru? Used, or hot off the lot? I spent $200 at Costco 8 yrs ago for a 20-stitch basic machine (I use only 2 of those stitches), and I've been making finer and finer things with it ever since. I've often shopped for an upscale model, but never took the plunge so far. But, I already knew how to sew, and I had user- support in my family (an experienced sewer to come over and show me how to fix the tension, etc.) Another sewer won't be pleased with anything that doesn't come from a dealer with a warranty and sewing lessons in the package. To save money on that route, you can get a re-sale from the dealer and still get a good machine for a whole lot less. The answer is in the match up of your sewing needs, your purchasing style, and what's out there. Well, these days, it's _all_ out there!
Andrea
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User: AndreaSews
Member since: 02-18-2005 Total posts: 1007 
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From: Tom Land
Date: 12-23-2005, 11:49 PM (4 of 4)
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You've been given some good advice. Be careful not to confuse "Basic" with "low quality". Basic machines today have lots of capabilities and it may be a long time before you feel you need a more advaced one. A decent machine should last at least 20 years with very few problems. If it is properly maintained it will probably never have a major problem. Lesser quality machines tend to have more minor problems and start having serious problems after a short time. I do not feel comfortable recommending brands or models in this forum. If you go to a dealer you can expect a better machine often at a price comparable to the "Box Stores" or discount houses. Then if the machine doesn't measure up you have someone to go to. When you buy off the shelf you have no one to help you decide which machine will best suit your needs and have no one to help you with the machine. This is just an example but I see it literally everyday. If you purchase a machine for say $150 and soon have to have a $65 repair done on it. You will have spent $215 and still have a low quality machine that will likely soon need more repairs. Had you spent $200 you might have gotten a better machine and not had any problems. Good luck. Have fun or don't do it, Tom
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User: Tom Land
Member since: 09-21-2005 Total posts: 514 |
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