What to look for in a sewing machine?

**Amanda W** · 06-21-2007, 12:05 AM

I'm taking a sewing class next month, and we have to bring a portable sewing machine to class. I have zero sewing knowledge, and I have no idea what to look for. Can any of you experienced sewers help me out with what brands/features to look for? I've been looking at different machines online, and my head is kind of swimming.

**SewCrafty** · 06-21-2007, 01:14 AM

First of all Amanda, it depends on what you plan for your new sewing machine? What do you want to learn how to do? Let us know these things and we can help you better.

**Amanda W** · 06-21-2007, 02:24 AM

Really, I don't know. Right now I don't even know how to sew a button on!!!

I'm thinking things along the lines of tote bags, cushions, maybe a skirt or two. I don't mind buying a basic machine and then having to upgrade later on if I decide to make fancier things, but I also don't want to buy a piece of junk that will make learning how to sew even more difficult. Thanks for your help!!

**SewCrafty** · 06-21-2007, 03:16 AM

My sister used to craft a lot a just needed a basic machine, this is the one I got her about 6 years ago. http://www.walmart.com/catalog/produ...uct_id=4764724 When she passed 2 years ago, I inherited it back. LOL Gave it to my friend that is learning to quilt. If you want to spend just a bit more, this one has more stitches. http://www.walmart.com/catalog/produ...uct_id=4698205

Still a great machine today.

**SewCrafty** · 06-21-2007, 03:23 AM

Forgot to say that like Singer, while is a good machine, it is propiritary (sp) meaning ONLY Singer assesories and parts will work with it. The Brother machine, I can buy needles and bobbins (which you will use a lot of) I can get at the Dollar store that fits it. Just a thought,

I also have a machine I purchased at Montgomery Wards years ago, it uses the $$ store needles and bobbins too.

**SewCrafty** · 06-21-2007, 03:31 AM

I'm back again. LOL

Others may disagree with me on my suggestion of a machine for you. But if you have never sewn before and don't really know if you will like sewing OR will even do much sewing. I can't see purchasing a $300, $400, or $500 machine right now, like you said. Try a cheaper, well made machine out first, and IF you find out that you do like sewing, THEN upgrade to a better machine.

**DJ1972** · 06-21-2007, 08:42 AM

I am in the same boat, have never sewn anything! My aunt who is an avid seamstress, suggested a cheaper model (Brother from WM) to start out with also.

**Amanda W** · 06-21-2007, 01:14 PM

Thank you so much for your suggestions! It really helps! I think I'm going to go to the store and check out some Brother machines.

**PB&J** · 06-21-2007, 09:32 PM

I prefer Singers that are 40+ years old. I don't like the new machines very much. The old ones are all metal, weigh 500lbs (almost! lol) and sew so smooth. I got mine at a resell shop for $35.00 (even has a nice wood cabinet) then I bought the manual that goes with it on Ebay for less than $10.

**FrugalDonna** · 06-25-2007, 10:50 AM

I bought my machine 25 years ago. It's a Bernina. I graduated to that from a basic Montgomery Wards machine. It was really smart at the time to use a basic machine a) to make sure I'd use it at all and b) to learn how to go forwards, backwards, zig zag, and make buttonholes with. Those were the biggie functions for me. When I got the Bernina, it was out of my budget, but it turns out I chose wisely. With a tune up now and then, it's lasted this long and will last a lot longer.

I agree that the basic machines that you were linked to are fine for getting started. You don't want to spent tons of money on something you may not use in future years.