Can you recommend a Sewing Machine?

3style

I've become interested in doing minor alterations and repairs on my clothing myself.

I have an amazing tailor, but I have things like shortening my tankini tops, and bra straps, (I am exactly between regular and petite for top lengths) and mending panties, that I don't feel it is worth the trouble (and would be quite socially awkward) to ask him to do. I have only ever sewed and altered things by hand and have no clue about machine sewing. Places like Amazon have hundreds of machines, but since I don't really know what technical specs I want, it doesn't help me much.

I would like to stay under $200 for the cost, if possible, for a sturdy, straightforward machine, ideally with a good instruction manual. Recommendations please!

14 years ago

General

10 replies

Latest reply was from cora*♥*

HeleenH

Veteran

The best idea is to go to a shop and get a refurbished machine. That way you will get a good quality machine for a reasonable price.

14 years ago

catgirl

Veteran

I love my Janome - it is several years old and a basic model, but it has held up under my completely negligent maintenance.

14 years ago

(website)

Veteran

Ditto the Janome recommendation. I have the Janome Gem Gold-- I don't know what the current version of that it, but it's been great. I've had it... 4 years? Maybe 3? It's on the small size, but I've made skirts, tops, etc, and can even quilt with it. Incredibly reliable and easy to use.

14 years ago

Kate

Veteran

I have this one: http://www.amazon.com/Brother-.....038;sr=8-6 It does more than I will ever need it to do, was a great price, and is pretty easy (as far as newer machines go) to take apart and sort out. I thought about shopping for old/refurbished machines, but given the great reviews and the 25-year limited warranty I decided to just get a new one. I'm really happy with it!

My sister has this one: http://www.amazon.com/Brother-.....038;sr=1-1 and loves it, but I'm not crazy about computerized machines, and don't need any of the extra features. But if you want something with a bit more bells and whistles, it's very affordable and also has overwhelmingly positive reviews.

ETA: I should also mention that I taught myself how to sew on my machine, and my sister learned on hers (she took a couple classes at the local fabric store).

14 years ago

sarah

Veteran

I bought a really basic Kenmore, after a Consumer Reports recommendation - it's nothing fancy, but just use it for hemming. It's similar to this:

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_1.....ockType=G3

I've never tried sewing knits, however, as I'm a knit-phobic when it comes to sewing.

14 years ago

mrseccentric

(website)

Veteran

i have a Bernina which i bought 25+ years ago and which has never given me a moment's trouble. so i can recommend the brand. it's more expensive, but you might keep it in mind for a refurbished machine.

this blogger is very interested in sewing machines, and getting good ones for the lowest price possible. you can search his archives for information:

http://malepatternboldness.blogspot.com/

plus, he is an excellent seamster, with an incredibly glamorous identical cousin - she's a high fashion model! it's a wonderful blog, have fun, steph

14 years ago

Desmo April

(website)

Veteran

Funny, I just posted links from Male Pattern Boldness in the weekly links!

I have an ancient Kenmore that I acquired from my mom. I think it is from the '60s; Its rock solid, weighs a ton and gets the job done.

Stop into your local fabric store, many of them offer introductory sewing classes with the purchase of a machine.

14 years ago

mrseccentric

(website)

Veteran

re: learning. taking an introductory class from a local fabric store or adult school is an excellent idea. in addition, these days there is an amazing amount of excellent instructional material available online. just search for whatever you want to - 'sewing knits', for example. search until you find instructions that make sense to you, then *** (Make A Sample(s) *** to test type of thread and needle, interfacing, stitch type and length, and son on. experiment until you get the effect you desire, and keep notes for future projects.

sarah, i was knitphobic for DECADES. one day i saw a great article on sewing knit tees in Threads magazine (excellent resource), decided to try it out, and have never looked back. all you need is a zig-zag stitch and ballpoint needles (use a new needle for each project to avoid 'holes' along your seam). (actually, a lot of ladies just use a straight stitch with fine results, if you don't have zig-zag on your machine). if you want to try it out, don't worry - just read up and make some samples to fine-tune your settings! good luck, steph

14 years ago

mrseccentric

(website)

Veteran

hi Desmo April!! 'Great Minds', i love it!! steph

14 years ago

cora*♥*

Active Member

I don't sew so I can't get very specific but my mother uses a Husqvarna and is in love with it.

14 years ago

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