What is a good brand of sewing machine to buy under 200 dollars? and can also do heavy fabrics and multistitch

Question

Anybody ever use a a machine around 100 dollars (I saw some at target and walmart)? I am thinking if they are all about the same I could save a bit and still get the same quality machine. Im just afraid that it will break easily. And will one of those little machines sew through denim?

As for upgrading to a 500 dollar machine, how can I tell if it will sew through denim and leather?

Any advice on where is the best place to buy any of these machines and/or which one has good stitching, reliable and user friendly? I live in Cali.

Answer 1

All the machines in that category kind of work the same. If you're talking about really heavy materials, it may be necessary to graduate to the $500.00 level because the motor on the cheaper machines will not perform on very heavy material, or at least not more than a couple of times.

Look in your yellow pages for sewing machine stores. they can show you the right machine for the projects you have in mind.

I have a Pfaff that cost $700.00 and I have never regretted buying it.
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Answer 2

Best Sewing Machine Under 200

Answer 3

I've been sewing for well over 40 years and I use to work for several fabric stores that sell machines.

Keep in mind, you get what you pay for. Buy cheap, you get cheap machines that generally will frustrate you.

If you want a reasonably priced machine, get what is called a Jeans Machine made by WHITE. This is a good sturdy machine that will handle heavy materials such as denim and has a few built in decorative stitches, including a 1-step buttonhole stitch.

Unfortunately, these days the Singer machines are not as good as they use to be. They are made with plastic parts which break down. Years ago they were metal and well built.

Refrain from going to a retail shop for purchasing a machine. They generally have no one there to help you with any questions. Check out your local fabric store that has a sewing machine department. Or, check out your local sewing machine repair place. Sometimes, when you buy a machine from these types of stores, you will get some kind of lessons on how to use it.

Check out Joanne's because sometimes they have these on sale. They run around $240-250 and they are well worth the price.

Answer 4

It's going to be difficult to get any level of machine that will sew on heavier fabrics for under $200. If you buy at Walmart, Target, etc, you won't have any service if it breaks or you don't know how to use a feature. At best you would send it back if it breaks and get the same thing again. Go to a local sewing store.

A suggestion in the $500 price range: Pfaff "Smart 200c" model. It is computerized and easy to use. It sews well on heavier fabrics and has about 50 decorative stitches and an alphabet. It retails for $599 but you may be able to find one in your area for less than retail.

Answer 5

I love my Pfaff "classic home" sewing machine. The classic line is always changing, but they are heavy duty machines made for a variety of sewing tasks, rather than fancy embroidery. It has a very heavy duty motor and the idt "walking foot" which you can disengage. It sews many layers of heavy fabrics quickly but can also be used for delicate fabrics and has a free arm . There are dozens of presser feet available and you can also lower the feed dog for free motion sewing. I use my machine every day, sometimes for hours on end and it is a dream. It is much quieter than my old singer. I purchased the mechanical model ( rather than electronic) just because I have always used a mechanical machine but I have heard the electronic is just as reliable. If you buy from an authorized dealer the support is fantastic. I can't say enough good things about my Pfaff.

Answer 6

Under $200, I'd strongly suggest a used machine. An overhauled Singer 401 is a possibility, if the heaviest things you're likely to sew are denim and light upholstery. If you're talking heavy upholstery with a coated back, saddle leather, etc, you really need a commercial machine.

Answer 7

I got a Brother from Walmart ($90) a couple years ago. I've sewn suede, denim and silk on it. It's a good little machine to start with. Of course you may want to upgrade eventually. My Mom recently spent $600 on a nice little machine. Also a Brother. It's a really nice piece of machinery. For that you need to go to a sewing machine shop.

STAY AWAY FROM SINGER. Unless you are getting an OLD (over 20 years) one. They have a good reputation but the newer machines don't live up to the name.

Good luck with your search.

Answer 8

Having purchased a $100 machine myself...DON'T! . Put that $100 toward a $500 machine and get computerization,more stitch lengths/widths, choices and features! Mine just sits in the box in the corner. What a waste! I have a Janome Decor 3030 and I love it!!!! Great for classes,etc. I also have a Janome 9700 sew/embroid but wanted a second machine to carry to class and to use during my embroidering....save up until you can invest in a machine that you can do many more things with, you won't be sorry.

sandy

Answer 9

I have a Bernina that was bought in the 70's and it will sew through anything. some other good machines are PFAFF, Husquavarna and Janome. If you want performance, you have to pay extra for it. check out sewing centers or sewing machine repair, sometimes you can find a good used machine that has been refurbished .

Answer 10

DO NOT buy a plastic throw-away machine from these stores. You are way better off finding an all metal machine used and having it serviced. I am a sewing machine tech and collector. I have many machines (used) that are as good as new for under 100.00. And I will guarrentee they will be good and stay good. You can contact me and we can talk. Wherever you are shipping can't be over 50.00. Click my pic and email me.
Good luck.