What to look for when buying a sewing machine

Joanne · Last edited by Joanne on Fri Jun 27, 2003 5:56 pm; edited 2 times in total

Hi Everyone Very Happy

I get an email every once and a while asking me what to keep an eye out for when buying a sewing machine, so I thought I would start a discussion about it. Tell me what you think is important, and why!

What I think is important

1. Set your budget
2. Before buying, decide whether or not to fix your old one or buy something new.
3. Ask for a demonstration from the salesperson
4. Try it yourself. If the store won't let you go elsewhere. Shocked

5. Stick to the name brands and look for authorized dealers.
6. Look for extended warranty options.
7. For beginners, look for sewing machines with accompanying instructional videos.

~Joanne

armybrat · Posted: Tue May 27, 2003 9:58 am Post subject:

I would suggest that if you are a beginner sewer, look at basic models. Forget the frills until you are confident with basic sewing. Then, move up to a fancier model if you need it. I have a friend who purchased a sewing machine with every extra possible. Years later, she has only ever done straight sewing and the fancy gizmos have never been used. This was a definite waste of money!!

Joanne · Posted: Wed May 28, 2003 7:36 am Post subject:

Ask about maintenence! Find out wht you need to oil, and what you don't Very Happy

tartan · Posted: Wed May 28, 2003 11:25 am Post subject: sewing

I am back

Don't waste your money on a sewing machine from superstores like walmart or canadian tire unless it is a name brand. Smile

If you don't have a lot of money but want a sewing machine can do the things you want, don't buy a cheap new one. Look at buying a good used one instead. Smile

tartan · Posted: Wed May 28, 2003 11:26 am Post subject:

oops I forgot to mention spare parts Embarassed

If you buy used make sure parts are still available Cool

armybrat · Posted: Wed May 28, 2003 8:40 pm Post subject:

1. Ask your sewing friends what they recommend.
2. If buying a used machine, make sure there is a manual. #Milti

Joanne · Posted: Thu May 29, 2003 7:20 am Post subject:

Hi

What are your favourite brands of sewing machines?

armybrat · Posted: Thu May 29, 2003 10:56 am Post subject:

Give me a good old Singer any day of the week!! Smile

tartan · Posted: Fri May 30, 2003 10:18 am Post subject: sewing machines

my mom has a pfaff. I have a Singer Smile

Joanne · Posted: Mon Jun 02, 2003 8:40 am Post subject:

What a great list of things to keep an eye out for Very Happy

Thanks to everyone for contributing.

~Joanne

sharptimes5 · Posted: Wed Jun 15, 2005 9:41 am Post subject:

I have a White 2037. It does everything and more. It's a relatively simple machine but does have some really nice decorative stitches and comes with an instructional video. I played with one at Joann, but didn't like the $300 price tag. Ended up buying mine from a powerseller on Ebay who has a store outside of Ebay for $150 shipping included.

Carol


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