When Jessica asked me to be a guest blogger my initial reaction was “gee, how flattering!” Then panic set in as I realized she had given me one of the toughest topics there is: Sewing Machine for Beginners. Ack!
This is a killer subject for two reasons: One,
So here’s the course of action I recommend for sewists looking for their first sewing machine:
1. Don’
2. Ask the sewists you follow on the web what sewing machine they own. When I was in the market for a new machine last year I lurked on PatternReview.com to see what sewing machines were used by the people making clothes I liked. In fact, PatternReview is a fabulous source of information on sewing machines and you shouldn’t buy a new one until you’ve read the reviews posted there.
Now you’re ready to buy. Personally, I think all you need in a sewing machine is a straight stitch, zigzag stitch, buttonhole and a free arm, but again, it’s an individual decision. Consumer Reports just did a report on sewing machines in its March 2009 issue. Here are three of their picks that I like:
Kenmore 15358 (sugg. retail $119.99). A mechanical model with a 1-step automatic buttonhole and several stretch stitches for sewing knits. I have a Kenmore machine and am very pleased with it; Kenmore machines are made by Janome, BTW.
Kenmore 16231 (sugg. retail $249.99) This one provides an opportunity to experience electronic functions while maintaining mechanical operation. Sorry to recommend another Kenmore here, but I’m partial to sewing machine manufacturers you hear fewer complaints about, like Kenmore, Janome and Bernina.
Brother Innov-is-40 Project Runway (sugg. retail $400) This model was one of Consumer Reports' favorites, saying it did a “very good job on satin, medium-weight wool, sheer and stretchy fabrics, and buttonholes.” I’ve owned Brothers in the past and have been satisfied with their performance.
Good luck in your quest, and here are some links I think you’ll find helpful:
Erica B’s Sewing Machines for Beginners (helpful post by a sewing fashionista)
PatternReview for reviews of sewing machines and message boards where you can ask questions about sewing machines
Overstock.com refurbished sewing machines
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
10 comments:
It's nice to see someone say good things about Kenmore. I know several people who turn up their noses at the name, but I have had my Kenmore for 6 years and I am very happy with it - it's a little work horse for me and hasn't given me any problems. :)
Great post Lindsay. I have Husqvarna machines, Designer 1 and Optima 630,and absolutely love them. My 630 works as well today as it did 19 yrs ago :) but I agree, machines are a personal choice.
My back up machine is a 30 pound, 30 year old Kenmore. It still does the best buttonholes I have ever seen and I always have it tooled up for that process.
I totally agree that a good beginner machine is a previously loved trade in that can be had for a reasonable price but has some quality. I do think a lot of these "beginner" machines just frustrate and make you want to trade up really fast. Perhaps that's the intent. But this perspective comes from one who has pretty high machine requirements, like many of us out there.
Wow, this is a great post, thank you.
I own a Bernina Activa 130, a mid-level computerized machine, that I've been looking to supplement with a more basic, non-computerized, less expensive workhorse of a machine, but I've been striking out on the secondhand market. I will keep looking there, but will also take a look at the 3 you recommended, especially the first 2 Kenmores.
I also agree that 2nd hand machines are ideal - I have several sewing machines - I teach "learn to sew" classes - I choose Bernina, because, as a school teacher I have seen how tough and reliable the Bernina's are. However, they are very expensive to buy new - mine are ALL 2nd hand - they are great machines!
I love my Bernina, but it is very tempting to buy a cheapie backup machine with a 1 step buttonhole! My 1008 is the only mechanical Bernina model and has a 5 step buttonhole.
Great advice, I share the same opinion!
Soooo glad to see you recommending Kenmore. They go on sale all the time so you can often get them even cheaper, and they are worth every penny. I often see people answering the "what sewing machine should I get" question by suggesting "fancy" used machines. I think it's better for a beginner to start simple and not be overwhelmed. It's not just about getting a good deal (I'm sure good deals are to be found on used computerized machines), it's about spending your money on something you will learn from. Start simple! (Also, consider that repair costs for a computerized machine are phenomenal compared to non-computerized. I have the Kenmore 16231, love it, and it has only two computerized functions. If that tiny computer dies, at least the machine is still totally functional otherwise.)
I asked an FIT tutor what kind of machine I should buy (rank beginner here) and she said to get a cheap Brother, that's what she uses. I bought a $100 model, the XL-2600i.
http://www.amazon.com/Brother-XL2600I-25-Stitch-Free-Arm-Functions/dp/B000F7DPEQ
It's toy-like, but OK. I tend to use the industrial Jukis at the school because it's hard to work at home for all kinds of reasons including lack of room. But it's wonderfully slow.
I'd love to have a Bernina one day.
I just had to say thank you - I ran across your site after a google search. I've been looking for a reasonably priced sewing machine with features I can grow into. (I'm a complete beginner.) After being discouraged by prices, I saw your advice to go with a refurbished model. I've just placed my order at Overstock.com and am already thrilled! Thank you!
Post a Comment