Consumer Guide for Sewing Machines
No matter what your skill level, it is important to do your research when you are planning to buy a sewing machine. Modern sewing machines come in a variety of types and capabilities. Have an idea of what kind of projects you would like to sew, and also how much of a learning curve you are working with. If this is your first time sewing, you might want a simpler machine with fewer bells and whistles. Choose something that will be possible to master so that you will continue to improve and enjoy the valuable skill of sewing.
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Mechanical Sewing Machines
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These sewing machines use levers and knobs to make adjustments to stitches. They are operated by an electric foot pedal, and are often much simpler to look at than the electronic sewing machines because they do not have computerized display panels. Thought to be less accurate and predictable than the digitized models, they nevertheless work very well for all types of projects including mending, home decorating and clothing creation. They are also less expensive.
Electronic Sewing Machines
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If you have more money to spend on a sewing machine, getting an electronic model will give you more options and more precision as far as stitching goes. Stitch adjustments can be made digitally, which takes out the guesswork and can save you some frustration. Electronic machines have a wide variety of stitch types to choose from and are enjoyable as far as the creative aspect of sewing goes.
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Warranty and Service
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It's good to look for a machine that comes with a warranty and a service policy. The website "Consumersearch" found that "the industry average is 25 years on the machine head, two years for most other parts and one year on labor." If you are getting a machine from a discount store, be sure to ask where you should take it to be serviced and what number you can call for questions. Some low-end, entry-level models only come with a 90-day warranty. When buying online, be sure to ask if the manufacturer's warranty applies to your model, and if not, ask for a substitute warranty.
Be Aware
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Good construction: Look for machines that don't have excess vibration or plastic parts that could snap off easily.
Buttonholes: If you are sewing anything with buttonholes, look for a machine that has a one-step buttonhole process (as opposed to a four-step process).
Easy bobbin-winding: Look for a machine with an easy way to wind the bobbin. Ask the salesperson to demonstrate the way it works, because many machines have different methods.
Project Type
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Keep in mind what kind of project you want to work on when choosing a sewing machine. If you are going to be doing a lot of quilting, you might look into machines made specifically for this task, as they are fitted with special equipment (like a walking foot) that will make it easier. However, if you rarely quilt but instead spend more time embroidering, a higher-end electronic machine that provides a wide variety of stitch types would be preferable.
Used Machines
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If you don't have a lot of money to spend and are just looking for a machine on which you can learn how to sew, try looking at pawn shops, thrift stores and yard/garage sales for used machines. If the machine doesn't come with an instruction manual, you might be able to order one online for common brands like Singer, Kenmore or Brother. Remember that basic mechanical models can be bought brand new, with all the accoutrements, for around $100. So if the source for a used machine is charging the same thing or higher, you might be better off buying a new model.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit sewing machine image by Peter Baxter from Fotolia.com
