what is the best sewing machine under $200.00?

Question

i don't want too light that it will move while sewing. easy to thread and not too fancy.

Answer 1

in my opinion you are better off getting a good second hand machine for e.g. a Bernina 807 or an Elna SU air electronic, both sturdy machines used by schools and can run over layers of denim without fuss. I sew a great deal and worked for many sewing machine companies over the years. If you are going to buy brand new than I recommend you get a Pfaff Hobby 1122, or if you can spend a little more a Pfaff Select 1528. I do own both Bernina and Elna as well. The worst machines are Singer, Husqvarna, and Brother which I have owned brand new and have never kept for more than a a week. I think the problem is that drop in bobbins and apposed to front loading bobbins pose a risk for problems, with the exception of New home/ Janome which have designed their drop in bobbin very well and can safely say that they are Jam proof. I use one at work and have lots of fun using it. As for my personal pick, when I run sewing classes I reccomend people get a Pfaff Hobby 1122, it is a good basic machine with room to move and is very smooth to sew on, not to mention the name is well prestige, but the pfaff hobby 1122 is only $229 in australia.

Answer 2

In that price range, I'd definitely be looking at some place (local dealer or Sears) that offers repair service, and where you can try the machine out before you buy it. The Big Box stores don't have service so the machine has to be packed up and shipped back for repairs and maintenance. Kenmore/Janome is my personal preference, but may vary for you. Many local sew and vac repair places sell used machines that have been left after repair or are traded in on up-grades. You can get some really good deals on those machines.

Answer 3

"Brother" sewing machines are among the least expensive and I'm sure quite a few people in the sewing world thumbs their noses at them, but a Brother was my first sewing machine that I bought more then 20 years ago and it still works beautifully. Check out the Brothers, they are well made and they are inexpensive. You can purchase them just about any place that sells sewing machines. I know they sell them at Wal-Mart because that is where I got mine.
Good luck

Site for comparing prices of Brother sewing machines:
http://www99.epinions.com/Sewing_Machines--reviews--brother

Answer 4

You really need to find a machine that has the features you want. If you are unsure of what you are looking for, make sure you purchase from a place that has hassle free returns.

If you want to compare brands here is a helpful article:
http://www.onlysewing.com/sewing-machines/sewingmachinebrandsarticle.cfm

If you want to shop by price, OnlySewing.com offers that and has hassle free returns:
http://www.onlysewing.com/sewing-machines/6950+6951.cfm

Answer 5

Brother or Singer.Both are good choices with many trouble free years of service.Both should be available at your local dept store such as wal mart and Sears