sewing machine recommendations?

[Sara Noel]

I haven't done any sewing since I was about 14. I am a beginner at best. LOL I really would like to get a machine and am wondering what would be a good starter machine that I could also grow with. (meaning not too basic, but not too fancy) What features have you found you wanted and didn't have also? (I am the queen of this error in judgement)

Sara

[homesteadmamma]

Sara, great question.

I have a Husqvarna Viking Lily 555 which is computerized and I love it. Husqvarna now has a quilting sewing machine.

Here is their website: http://www.husqvarnaviking.com/

Another really good sewing machine is the Pfaff which you don't hav to purchase a quilting foot for. Here is there website: http://www.pfaff-us-cda.com/index.html

These are the 2 I would highly recommend although I'm very partial to Husqvarna. You can't find a better sewing machine in my opinion and I've had 3 of them so far.

I started with a simple one and then moved up to a more advanced one. The one I have now, my mom purchased for me a couple of years ago and I love it.

Things to look for when purchasing a sewing machine.

- what will you be using it for. If you don't plan on doing lots of sewing, a simple machine will work well. If you plan on doing more, move up.

- always purchase the best you can afford. What I mean here is never purchase the least expensive one just because its at a good price. If you can purchase a more expensive one, do. In other words, cheap is usually what you get!!!

- always read up on them first. Consumer's report will also have lots of information in regards to the best ones.

- go to different places that sell different sewing machines. Get the feel of it. Ask for a demonstration BUT also ask for you to try it out. If they are a reputable sewing machine dealer, they will let you try it. Quilting stores often sell top of the line sewing machines.

- never be pressured into purchasing a sewing machine you don't feel comfortable with. Its an investment you can have for a lifetime if you choose the right one. Walk away before purchasing one and thing about it. Does it feel comfortable, will it do everything you want it to do. Will you have to purchase another one in a couple of years. To me its like buying a car/fridge/stove - its an investment!!

- ask friends/relatives what brand they have. If possible see if you can try it out. Ask them what they like about them. What they don't like.

- what type of warranty do they have. Husqvarna has a great warranty.

- are there places you can take it to where you live if it needs fixing. Many places don't have that.

- when purchasing added pieces to it, are they costly. That is one fault of Husqvarna. If you want a walking foot, etc. they do cost more than they should.

- do they have a great explaination book or video. Husqvarna has a video along with an excellant book.

Once purchased - sew to your hearts delight.

[homesteadmamma]

Here are a couple more websites you might find interesting:

http://www.quilt.com/FAQS/SewMachinePurchaseFAQ.html

http://www.brother.com/

http://www.berninausa.com/home.jsp

http://www.babylock.com/

http://www.singer-sewingmachines.com/

HTH