jazzzjew asked:
I am lookin for a decent, and note too expensive sewing machine for myself.
The first project I want to undertake is making curtains for my apartment. odd sized windows have made for a big headache in looing to buy them. I also think i might want to fiddle in making clothing for myself here and there.
I have wanted a sewing machine for years anyway 
What are the makes and models experienced ‘sewers’ would recommend for a beginner looking to do these kinds of projects?
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8 responses so far ↓
1 shortstuff // Sep 25, 2009 at 6:51 am
Embroidery Machines
Check out a Brother sewing machine.
2 HummingbirdHi // Sep 26, 2009 at 5:39 pm
Embroidery Machines
A Brother. Around $150. Good for the casual sewer.
3 bennyfan4life // Sep 27, 2009 at 7:58 am
sewing-embroidering.com
wecome to the sewing world:)my first machine was and still is a singer brand.i say they’re great, come w/many options, plus they’re not too expensive either.good luck.
4 mac3 // Sep 28, 2009 at 3:46 am
Embroidery Machines
Singer Sewing Machine
Kenmore(Sears)
5 Mamacita // Sep 28, 2009 at 3:01 pm
Sewing Machine
I recommend you look at overstock.com. I would look at getting a simple computerized machine that self-threads (one that comes with 20 built in stitches which include a button hole maker). I found a refurbished one on overstock and it came with a packet of extra stuff you’ll need for your machine as your skills advance as well as a few maintenance things and extra needles, a book and a dvd even. You don’t need one that embroiders (for some reason the new ones tout that they even embroider – but really are you going to go embroidery crazy?) And refurbished is basically brand new.(they sell new ones too)
I paid between $100-120 for it and shipping is 2.95. I love overstock. I am not professional by any means and only get to sew in batches when my 3 little boys are not bugging me, but have been sewing for years. I’ve sewn curtains, decorative stuff for the boys rooms, a dress, some baby clothes and bedding with this machine and I have loved it.
6 fishshogun // Sep 28, 2009 at 8:26 pm
Sewing Machine
if you arent going to do anything super heavy id just go to walmart and get one. they arent too expensive and they singer and brother etc. good brands…….they also make sergers which work pretty good for alot of things if you get good on the reg machine you might wanna get a serger.
7 Richard // Sep 29, 2009 at 5:15 pm
Sewing Machine
I’m a sewing machine technician and will tell you DO NOT get a cheap plastic machine from Wal-Mart or wherever. The old machines are the best. Or look in thrift stores or yard sales and find an old one for cheap. If you turn the handle and the needle goes up and down and try the motor and it works then spend a little more and have the repair guy service it (yellow pages). Clean, oil, and adjust. I’m sure you can do all this for under 200 dollars. The old all metal heavy machines with just basic stitch patterns are all you need and they will last you forever. I find old machines all the time for 25 to 50.00 . Then just have it serviced. Good luck to you.
8 Nolan's Nana // Sep 30, 2009 at 7:53 pm
Embroidery Software
I have been sewing for almost 50 years, and have sewn on numerous brands of machines.
Don’t purchase a sewing machine from a big box store or online. Go to a reputable dealer in your home town. Why??
All machine brands have low end and high end machines, you don’t have to pay a fortune to get a high quality machine.
Most dealers give free classes with the sale of a machine. They teach you how to operate the machine, how to clean the machine, how to use the feet that come with the machine. These are not sewing classes, but machine operating classes.
Most dealers take machines as trade-ins, so you have the option of buying an used (experienced) machine. A reputable dealer will go through the machine to make sure everything works and will do routine maintenance before the machine is sold.
If you want the machine to last a lifetime, I would look for a dealer who sells Bernina, Viking, Elna or Pfaff.
You want a dealer who can also repair your machine if necessary. Most independent dealers repair personnel are trained by the company who makes the machine.
You may pay a little more for a machine from a local dealer, but believe me, if and when you have a problem, knowing you can go to the dealer and get help is priceless. Many times the problem with a sewing machine is operator error. It is nice when you can take your machine to the dealer, and show them the problem. If the problem is the operator, the dealer can show you what you are doing wrong; and you avoid an unnecessary repair bill.
Sewing can be great fun and a useful skill, but if you don’t have a quality machine it can be extremely frustrating. Good Luck!
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