What sewing machine should I get?

Question

I would like one that will be durable, not be overly basic, has a fair amount of accessories/extras and also not one made for extreme experts.
I have been wanting to get a decent sewing machine for a while now, and my birthday is coming up so I am doing some research so I can know what is best for me to ask for.

I have had a couple sewing classes so I know the basics ( I would have to refresh myself with it but I am a quick learner). I am an interior design student and mainly I will be sewing home fabric type projects(pillows, curtains, bedding, possible embroidery) (as well as some clothing repairs I am sure) but this is for myself and not for projects for school.

It definitely can be over $100, but $425-$500 is probably the max price. Hopefully something less than that, but I want something that can be dependable and not need to be replaced soon and can be repaired easily if needed.

What do you think?

Answer 1

I think the best machine is the best machine that you can afford. It's going to be a personal choice - my best brand may not necessarily fit your needs or desires - I could recommend a Fiat when all you want is a Ford Focus....

I personally own a Kenmore because it is what I could afford at the time. It is a real workhorse, and has rarely let me down. I also own a Babylock, much nicer machine, but doesn't seem to be capable of going through really thick layers. I have a Brother combo embroidery machine, that can sew through multiple layers of windproof polarfleece that no other machine in my house could get through, but is rarely used as a sewing machine. When it is, it is a great little machine, but it cost more than some used cars, so I can't outright recommend it to someone who is just starting out.

A few questions to ask yourself when you are looking:
*Do you want a mechanical or a computerized machine?
*Do you feel comfortable with purchasing out of retail store like walmart or sears, or do you want the personalized service and maintenance of a sewing machine store?
*With the multitude of features, are you going to go with what you really want or just what you need?

If possible, test drive before you plunk down your cash. Bring samples of different types of fabrics and check out how the machine handles them.

Don't rule out the used machines at the sewing machine stores - they were turned in because someone upgraded and most likely cared for them well. You could easily get more machine for your money this way.

I recommend you look at patternreview.com after you narrow your choices down. Also, about.com has input from readers on their machines.

Answer 2

It is true you get what you pay for but, there's a lot of sewing machines out there that are very over priced. We make quilts and have several brands. The one I like is the Penney's Euro-pro, it's an inexpensive machine that you can do anything with and has a good warranty. We bought three over the years.
It will sew up to four layers of blue jean material for repairs or double layers of Velcro and backing, filler for quilts and, it's about $150.00 just right for the person wanting to save a few bucks.
My wife's is over twelve years old and is still going strong, she uses it every day while the one I use is newer. We have seven machines set up.

One thing for sure, keep them oiled, clean and well maintained and they'll last a lifetime.
If you want one with fancy do-dad's I also have a Brother Embroidery machine but, the designs are basic and you have to have a PC or a way to use the $110.00 cards you get for it. This one is $250.00 a nice machine and works very well, is a little touchy.

Answer 3

My wife has the Brother NX-400Q which she rants and raves about. She tells me it is the easiest to use machine It has a true automatic needle threader, a drop-in bobbin so all you have to do is drop in the bobbin and run it along the tracks and machine will bring up the bobbin thread automatically for you, it comes with 294 different stitches. It also has My custom stitch so you can create your own stitch and store it memory for later use. It has a one step automatic buttonhole so all you do is put the button in the buttonhole maker bring down the flag and press go and you have a perfect buttonhole. One of the coolest features it has is the Programmed Thread Trimming, after your done stitching and you want to see the project out just press the button and the thread on the top and the bottom will be automatically cut for you. The NX-400Q also comes with bonus accessories an extra-wide sewing table, walking foot, quilting foot and quilting guide. It is only $599 which is not bad at all considering you will have this machine for 20 to 25 years minimum. It is also a non-oiling machine so there is no need to oil. I got mine from Mr. Vac and Mrs. Sew, they were a very nice company to deal with no problems and fast shipping and a low price. Here is a link:

http://www.mrvacmrssew.com/Shop/products/Brother/Sewing-Machines/Brother-NX%7E400Q-Sewing-Machine-w%60-Quilter%27s-Kit/index.html

Answer 4

I have owned the same Singer Sewing Machine {Touch and Sew} since 1972. I have sewn many miles on it and NEVER have had a problem with it---never had to have any repairs whatsoever. Keep it oiled and there should be no problems.
It does zig-zag, buttonholes and lots more.

Remember--you get what you pay for.

Answer 5

The brother LS-2125i. It's pretty basic, and modern at the same time. Only you can't top stitch...but it also comes with a really handy guide on everything you ever needed to know about Blind Hem Stitching/Gathering/Elastic Stitching, etc. I believe it was less than $100. Pretty good.