Recs for sewing machine?

[jerzgirl25]

Hi all,

I'm looking to get a sewing machine and learn to sew this summer. I'm a complete beginner. Does anyone have any recommendations for a machine? I'm not looking to spend a ton.

Thanks so much!

[pinkeggs]

I have heard to beware of Singers. I have a Brother, which I really like. Mine is one of the Project Runway editions, and as a beginner, I have really liked it.

[sierramist03]

I have a kenmore but I really want a new brother machine

[TBM]

What do you plan to use it for?

I would steer clear of the under $100 machines from the big box stores. I think there is too much plastic and they are so poorly made, that they can be frustrating...even to an experienced sewist.

Sometimes dealers and repair shops (and even Craigslist) have great deals on used/refurbished machines that are great quality. Especially entry level machines.

I really feel strongly that there is a difference in the quality of stitching, as well as less frustration, and the result will be more success and maybe a new hobby.

Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using proboards

[auntie]

The recent Singers suck.

I hear great things about Janome as an entry level machine.

I am in the minority on this, but I believe in paying a little extra to buy from a sewing machine store that can offer you instruction on your machine and trouble shoot down the line.

I have a mid-range Husqvarna that I love to death. Before that I had a Kenmore and swore like a sailor whenever I used it.

[emoflamingo]

If you're learning, I definitely would get something cheaper, but not the $100 ones from Wal-Mart and the like. I have a Brother that is computer operated and I love it (it is a C-something or other, 6000i I think) and I got it off eBay for like $180. I have two of them, actually, because I dropped the first and broke the winder off. So it's pretty sturdy.

[sunshine608]

I, and several others in the class I took had and enjoyed this one:
www.amazon.com/Brother-XL2600I-Affordable-25-Stitch-Free-Arm/dp/B000F7DPEQ/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1367886858&sr=8-4&keywords=brother+sewing+machines

[clementine]

For a beginner, I would stay away from any of the computerized machines and just get a basic machine in a good brand. I have been sewing forever and I have a very plain Janome Magnolia that was around $250. I found the reviews on Amazon to be very helpful and many of them address machines for beginners. I'm telling you, I have saved a ton of money sewing throw pillows and window treatments and those are things a beginner can learn quickly. Have fun!

[stephm0188]

May 6, 2013 14:59:29 GMT -5 TBM said:

What do you plan to use it for?

I would steer clear of the under $100 machines from the big box stores. I think there is too much plastic and they are so poorly made, that they can be frustrating...even to an experienced sewist.

Sometimes dealers and repair shops (and even Craigslist) have great deals on used/refurbished machines that are great quality. Especially entry level machines.

I really feel strongly that there is a difference in the quality of stitching, as well as less frustration, and the result will be more success and maybe a new hobby.

Yes. Yes yes yes yes yes.

Loved my Kenmore... they're made by Janome and you can find them refurbished and renamed under the Janome brand on Overstock.com
Brother is fine, but I'd look around the 125-150$ mark. There's a noticeable difference in quality for not much more money.

[lavender444]

I have this one. I like it. It's pretty easy to use, and does everything I need it to. My sewing skills are all self-taught and fairly novice though.

www.amazon.com/Brother-XL-3750-Convertible-35-Stitch-Free-Arm/dp/B000VGAMU6/ref=sr_1_1?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1367940590&sr=1-1&keywords=brother+sewing+machines+xl-3750

[mrspez07]

I love my Janome. I bought it probably close to 8-9 years ago from a local sewing store that also provided classes. I was a total beginner but willing to put forth about $400 for this machine because I anticipated using it. I also felt I wasn't likely to pay to "upgrade" unless it was no longer functional, so I wanted something I could grow into and have for 20 years or more. I have made about 8 quilts and sewn various other things in that time, and it just keeps on rockin'.
You don't need something with a ton of different stitches, I would say even 6 is plenty.

[jerzgirl25]

Thanks everyone! These are great suggestions to look into. I'm looking to do pretty simple projects; curtains, baby blankets, maybe hem some pants.

Thanks again!