Absolute beginner sewing machine - What do you think of this one?

Question

I have done a little rudimentary hand sewing way back in, 6th grade, even less on a machine. and I was bad at it. Except for hand sewing, my teacher once noted I had really nice stitches. Not that that means much.

Anyhow, now I'm in my 20s and REALLY want to learn to sew. I have looked up some sewing classes, but they usually specify that you own a PORTABLE sewing machine. I have no machine AT ALL, I did do a search and was wondering what people thought of this one. I am no Hello Kitty fan (so I'm not looking at this because I think it's "cute" - not at all.) BUT it seems efficient enough.

Otherwise I was going to go for a Singer or Janome model. I need something small and simple that will take me to and from class. However, I don't want to sacrifice what I need to learn for a "portable" ....So what do sewers think of this machine?

My goal would be to be able to design tops and things or home design, if possible.

Here it is, hope the link works:


http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_02011702000P?vName=Appliances&cName=SewingMachines&Accessories&sName=Conventional%20Sewing%20Machines&psid=18625274&sid=IDx20070921x00003d

I want a machine that will take heavier fabrics, not just light ones,makes dresses, is beginner friendly and that a seamstress would approve of.

Answer 1

If you really need light weight and small, I'd send you out for a Janome Jem or one of the later Elna Lotus machines. I know a number of folks have bought the more featured Jems for class machines, and my MIL took her Lotus around the world in her purse, sewing curtains and upholstery and clothing and....

However, have you hefted a few of the full size modern machines? They're in the 15-25 lb class, a far cry from the old cast iron monsters in a cabinet. There are various rolling carriers available made especially for sewing machines, and some folks
who use the rolling ice chests for transport. Me, I just drop my full size Viking in one tote bag, project and notions in the other, and go.

Please shop around and try. There are so many machines out there I really think you should take the time to find a machine you're comfortable with. For instance, I've never met a Viking or Pfaff I couldn't sit down and sew on. Berninas are wonderful machines, but the controls always make me feel like I'm sewing with thumbs instead of fingers. Talk to a 'nina sewer, and s/he'll say the same about my Viking.

There's one good thing about Sears machines... they can be returned. Many of the big box stores are less generous.

Be sure to take your own fabric samples and thread with you when you try. If you can shop with a knowledgeable friend, so much the better. When you get your shopping list down to a few possibilities, check the sewing machine section at http://www.patternreview.com

For a beginner, I would like to see you have a machine with very good straight stitching, at least ok zigzag and blind hem, a method of making buttonholes that doesn't frustrate you, adjustable presser foot pressure, and stitch lengths in the range of 1-5 mm (0-6 is better).

I gotta tell you, unless you're hitting a heck of a sale, I doubt most machines under $200 new will do much more than frustrate you, and I hate to see that happen.

More suggestions here:
http://www.cet.com/~pennys/faq/smfaq.htm

Answer 2

It's nice, but I would think that you could use something a little more substantial. It is definitely portable, but so are most machines. Also, I think it is intended for children which means it is not going to have all the features or the power that you will need. if you really get into sewing then I would suggest that you purchase a quality machine. They don't have to be expensive and you don't have to go for a top brand. As a matter of fact, Brother makes several very nice and inexpensive machines that are ideal for beginners. My first machine was a brother and after 20 years, I still have it and it still works perfectly. I don't sew as much as I used to so I never bothered to get a new one. However, that little machine has made more than 15 Daisy Kingdom dresses, 2 brides maid dresses, mended who knows how much, and had a crack and numerous stuffed dolls.

Check these out and see how you like them:
http://www.nextag.com/brother-sewing-machine/search-html

Answer 3

Since you are going to be serious enough to take classes, get a machine you can grow into and be proud of! Not just a "Beginner Machine" that will have to be upgraded in 30 to 60 days. After all this will be an "investment" in your education as well in future endeavors you are looking to pursue.
I found this machine with a large throat and some cool looking features like self threading. It looks like something you may wish to look at in the store. Here's the link.
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_02015343000P?vName=Appliances&cName=Sewing+Machines+%26+Accessories&sName=Conventional+Sewing+Machines