so, i wanna buy a sewing machine, but which should i buy?

Question

i want one that's strong enough 2 b able 2 make jeans n leather stuff...u know? something that won't break down easily with thicker fabrics. i also want it 2 b able 2 do some cool embroidery n for it 2 have other gadgets that can help me b creative with whatever i envision 2 make (if there's anything else that sewing machines can do that i don't know of). which brand n type is best?

also, if you know a lot about sewing... i haven't had time 2 take classes 2 learn how 2 make clothes ( i know how 2 sew minor things but not how to make an actual full outfit) n i'm getting really anxious about starting 2 make the designs and ideas i have, so i'm going to teach myself for now until i can go 2 school (which i think is a good idea so that i have my own style about how i make things instead of following exactly how they teach me). so, another thing i want 2 know is...how should i start with this endeavor?

Answer 1

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/appliances/sewing-machines-buying-advice/index.htm?resultPageIndex=1&resultIndex=2&searchTerm=sewing%20machines

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/appliances/sewing-machines-important-features/index.htm?resultPageIndex=1&resultIndex=4&searchTerm=sewing%20machines
I agree that automatic buttonholer is a great feature. Also agree that you need to have a machine that will sew heavy fabric (as well as the sheer stuff). A good test is to take an old pair of denim jeans and shorten the hem (or remodel them into shorts). Then you can see how the machine handles the thickness, especially when your hem stitching includes flat felled side seams. On some pants, I use purchased seam or hem binding to get around my machine's shortcoming.

The best quality home sewing machine I ever had was a German made Pfaff because it was so strong -- at the time, the Cadillac of machines; however, it was also VERY HEAVY. After a number of moves, I bought a Viking (which does everything with a lot of manipulation, pampering and adjustment.) The only good thing about the machine (which I still have) is that it is lightweight. I would purchase another machine if I had a chance to do it all over. The only other thing I wanted to do after that was to purchase a machine that could do overlock stitches: That's very handy for seam binding and knit fabrics. If I continued sewing, I would buy one. I never saw a need to get rid of my Viking.

Leslalie describes her Viking and it sounds fancier than my plain model which lacks all whistles and bells.

Don't spend a lot of money and buy a commercial machine unless you have a lot of money to blow. For most people, unless a person is involved in the tailering or clothing manufacturing business and can deduct it from taxes as a work related expense, it's not worth it.

Answer 2

If you haven't sewn very much I would get a simple machine to start with and make outfits until you are comfortable with all aspects of sewing.

I have used all different brands of machines for sewing thru denim, several layers and have had good luck with most.

Just remember to raise the presser foot if you try to sew thru 3 or 4 layers at a time so the fabric can move smoothly.

Really good heavy duty machines can cost up to $2,500.

Answer 3

I'm a long time sewing machine technician and can tell you the best sewing machine for what you have described is Bernina by far. These are the machines I see the least for repairs. No matter how old or new. Plus any classes that you want come free from the Bernina dealer. Thats a requirement from Bernina.
Good luck

Answer 4

Start with an inexpensive machine and practice with cotton. Leather and jean fabric are expensive, so are the machines that can sew them. If you are well off then go to a high end fabric store. They will have all of the luxury items to set you on your way.

Answer 5

It depends on how much money you want to spend, and what you want to do with the machine. I have and love my husqvarna viking designer 1, it does machine embroidery, and will sew leather and i have seen them sew through 6 layers of heavy denim. to get started I would probably talk to a sewing machine dealer or look up major manufacturers up on their websites.

Answer 6

I agree Singer is a great machine but what you need to do is buy a machine that is specific to upholstering, they are heavy duty and can handle thick fabric such as leather. These machines are unlike the standard machine that you would use for regular fabric and will withstand that stress of the thick fabrics.

Answer 7

i live in san diego and there is a local poway sewing place that offers sewing classes. The best sewing machines are bernina machines at...

http://www.bernina.com/

Warning though; these are professional machines and can run you up to 8,000 dollars. Thy are very good however. Call up a local sewing place (yellow pages) and they will set you up with a class to help you learn how.

Answer 8

Singer is one of the best. You can try a store that sells reconditioned or try your fabric shop. They will be helpful. Try the bookstore for sewing help. Most everything I have made I taught myself with a book. Good Luck

Answer 9

u look 4 singer sewing machine which is very popular n lasting.

Answer 10

singer sewing machine.