Choosing the Perfect Sewing Machine
There are a variety of sewing machines on the market and I would not begin to recommend one over another. The BEST thing to do when searching for a sewing machine is to first make a list of features that are important to you. Do you want the machine to embroider? Would you like your model to have the Free Arm capability?
There are excellent web pages that will educate you on the things to look for when selecting a new sewing machine and I will include several sites that you can study. Additionally you will need resources for sewing machine parts and I have covered a few of these sites as well.
Ultimately, you need to visit shops that sell the machines you are interested in, armed with your list of features that you need. It is important that you “test drive” each machine. The shop should be knowledgeable and helpful. If they are not, move on. If you are getting no support in your efforts to try the machines out, and learn what features they offer, you will not be happy with the service from that shop after you have purchased.
Another good avenue to discover the sewing machine that is right for you is to talk with family and friends that sew. Ask to try out their machines and get their input on what features they find most useful. If you have some thoughts on your requirements, go over that with your friend or relative and see if the machine can handle them.
There is no need to over-buy and load yourself up with features you will never use. If you have no intention of ever using an embroidery feature, then don’t purchase a top-of-the line embroidery machine. There are models out there from every manufacturer that have basic features you will need for ordinary sewing like garment construction.
My first machine was a straight stitch Singer, I am going back over 30 years here. I created a beautiful wedding gown, and brides maid dresses on that machine. The most special memory I have is creating a mother-of-the bride dress with a matching velvet coat. That little straight stitch handled moire, organdy and velvet with ease. So, remember, don’t believe you have to purchase the machine with the most features, if you won’t use all those features. More expensive is not necessarily better here.
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ULTIMATE SEW & VAC
www.sewandserge.com.
These folks guide you through the decision making process beginning with basic stitches and on to more advanced features. You can click on pictures of the machines that are reviewed for details of each models features. You may email or call the company for pricing on the machines. The models covered are Singer, Necchi and Brother.
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SINGER
www.singerco.com.
These folks guide you through the decision making process beginning with basic stitches and on to more advanced features. You can click on pictures of the machines that are reviewed for details of each models features. You may email or call the company for pricing on the machines. The models covered are Singer, Necchi and Brother.
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SINGER
www.singerco.com.
The Singer company has a useful on-line tool you can use to input some information on features you need in a machine and it will make a recommendation for you.
If you would like to review the Singer Sewing machines on the market you can follow the link below to view detailed information on machines from the Quantum electronic category, Basic-Featured machines, Compacts, Multi-Featured, Scholastic, to mention a few. The site will give you not only details on each model but retailers where you can purchase the machines.
www.singerco.com/products/index.html.
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JANOME
www.janome.com.
Janome offers many models. One example especially if you are interested in machine embroidery is the The Memory Craft 10000 the most advanced Memory Craft ever. It offers the ability to be updated via software. It can embroider any size, and converts from ordinary sewing to embroidery in just 2 steps.
To review other Janome models visit their information web site.
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EPINIONS.COM
Janome offers many models. One example especially if you are interested in machine embroidery is the The Memory Craft 10000 the most advanced Memory Craft ever. It offers the ability to be updated via software. It can embroider any size, and converts from ordinary sewing to embroidery in just 2 steps.
To review other Janome models visit their information web site.
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EPINIONS.COM
Here are real “user” opinions on a variety of sewing machines. The site will also show retailers where you can purchase the machine. It is helpful to read the user reviews to get a feel for what a particular machine can do. However, it is still best to actually get a “hands-on” experience with any machine that you buy.
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PARTS
Wherever you purchase your machine you should make sure that they can handle service. If not, it is important to locate a reputable service professional in your own area.
I have listed on-line options for parts and accessories that you may need where major service on your machine is not involved.
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ULTIMATE SEW & VAC
Our friends at Ultimate Sew & Vac have it all covered in sewing machine parts and accessories. You can search for parts for Household sewing machines at www.sewing-macine-parts-store.com.
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Singer Accessories, Parts, Manuals
Manuals can be ordered directly from Singer Co. www.singerco.com. The parts are available from selected Singer Service Centers or Independent authorized Singer Sewing Specialty Retailers. Visit the web site to obtain information for ordering parts or locating a parts dealer.
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SEW USA
www.sewusa.com.
Sew USA has over 300 models of sewing machine THREADING DIAGRAMS! Plus a maintenance and repair section for do-it-yourself repair. The pages will show you the proper way to clean, oil, adjust the belt tension and in some cases set the timing on the machine. To get your model posted on the site, send them a request!
You may also purchase sewing manuals from SewUSA. The charges are very reasonable and if you prefer not to download you can order a CD and view online or print out from the PDF files just what you need.
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As much information as there is available, do not become overwhelmed. Remember that your safest bet is to find a reputable sewing machine dealer that offers lots of “hands-on”, is knowledgeable about the machines and backs them up with service or can recommend a service professional in your area.
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Quotations to Inspire:
If I create from the heart, nearly everything works; if from the head almost nothing.
-Marc Chagall
