Are you unsure as to what sewing machine to buy? With thousands of available models, choosing a sewing machine is definitely a daunting task.
Let us help you! We've compiled necessary factors will help you in selecting the best machine for your needs.
BONUS: Includes a free checklist.
1. 10 POINTS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING
A SEWING MACHINE
SEWING MACHINE
BUYER’S GUIDE
2. POINTS TO CONSIDER
- KNOWING YOUR BUDGET
- TYPES OF STITCHES YOU NEED
- STITCH LENGTH & WIDTH
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES
- MACHINE’S POWER
- BRAND PREFERENCE
- MACHINE NOISE
- MANUAL vs COMPUTERIZED MACHINES
- FREQUENCY OF WORK
- PLANNED SEWING PROJECTS
3. KNOWING YOUR BUDGET
Everyone has a budget and recognizing whether or not you can actually afford the
machine that you want is the first step to choosing the one that’s right for you.
There is simply no point in looking at high-end machines if you have a limited budget.
That way lies disaster. So decide on a budget and stick to it, recognizing that there will
always be a machine that offers so much more if you just spend just a little bit extra.
If you can only afford a $100 machine, then look around and see what quality second-
hand machines are available, either at a dedicated retailer or on an auction site (but
make sure any second-hand machine you buy has a warranty).
Everyone has a budget and recognizing whether or not you can actually afford the
machine that you want is the first step to choosing the one that’s right for you.
There is simply no point in looking at high-end machines if you have a limited budget.
That way lies disaster. So decide on a budget and stick to it, recognizing that there will
always be a machine that offers so much more if you just spend just a little bit extra.
4. TYPES OF STITCHES YOU NEED
A machine that appears exciting and a machine that will do what you’ll need are
two different things!
To sew effectively you simply actually need a zigzag stitch and a straight stitch.
Both of these stitches allows you to do almost everything you might like to do on
the sewing machine. Anything else depends upon the manner in which you plan
to make use of the machine.
The remainder of the stitches are absolutely fun, and look good, but do you want
to use some of them on an everyday basis? Are they a really deal-breaker?
5. STITCH LENGTH & WIDTH
Many machines provide adjustable stitch sizes and lengths, a few of the more
affordable machines do not, so it’s always worth checking.
I set my machine towards the greatest period and machine coat any new styles
I’m focusing on. And I constantly alter the breadth and length for finishing off sides
and appliqué. As you might just use zigzag stitch and straight stitch, having the
ability to alter both thickness and along these stitches could be important.
6. INCLUDED ACCESSORIES
For simple sewing, an array of different thickness feet could be important when
converting between seam allocation sizes, in addition to for the zigzag stitch.
When the device you’re considering buying doesn’t include the feet you’d like,
make certain they’re open to buy individually and that they do not cost a lot of
money.
It’s also very helpful to check on how quickly the feet could be changed.
7. MACHINE’S POWER
A powerful, heavy engine can make it easier to handle weightier fabrics and
regular use, such as for instance upholstery-weight fabrics and jeans.
There are particular machines that’s built for certain tasks. Some machines are
meant to solely do straight stitches, some are built to sew on heavy fabrics like
denim and leather.
8. BRAND PREFERENCE
Manufacturer really does change lives with sewing machines.
On another hand, if you’re looking in a store, you’re a lot more likely to locate
manufacturers including Pfaff, Bernina, Huqsvarna and Juki.
These devices are usually those described by manufacturers. And they’re not
usually available in large shops. So it’s not only about purchasing the name you
understand.
I usually take a look at where the equipment has been sold. If I’m in a
department-store, I’ll be probably to locate manufacturers like Brother, Singer
and Janome. These are all very effective brands, but they’re more prone to be
light, hobby machines (Janome may be the exception to the rule, as they’ve
managed to create high-end professional machines) and equally low-end hobby
machines. It’s often easier to get in the low-end of the good brand as opposed to
the high-end of a typical interest brand.
9. MACHINE NOISE
If you’re concerned about the level of noise your machine will be making, you will
be less prone to make use of your sewing machine.
Consider the make of the machine. Often times, machines that are fully made of
metal parts tend to produce less noise as they vibrate less as well.
On the contrary, machines made mostly of plastic and other materials tend to
vibrate more, which in turn causes more noise.
10. MANUAL vs COMPUTERIZED MACHINES
If budget is a problem then your question of whether to purchase a mechanical machine or perhaps a
machine must be expected.
Computerized devices are designed to ensure that particular stitch sequences can be appreciated, and they
provide large selections of embroidery and attractive stitches in addition to automated tie-offs, and thread
cutting.
Contemporary physical devices tend to be light (even if they’ve a powerful engine) because they’ve less
parts, so they’re easier to tote around, making them the ideal choice if you do not have a passionate sewing
place or you go to classes. They’re also easier to keep, with addresses that can be eliminated so that the
engine can be oiled. Maintenance is consequently often cheaper.
As their computerized counterparts physical devices might not seem to be just as much enjoyment, however
they can still handle the fundamental sewing tasks. And older, top quality mechanical machines can be
wonderful beginning machines, because they’re easy to grasp and tend to be heavy-weight, so they can
handle the type of abuse you might inflict on them while understanding how to sew.
Nevertheless, all of the great new machines are computerized or digital, indicating that the machines have
stronger engines and additional energy, so they really do not struggle with heavyweight materials and
constant use. Computerized devices also generally have exceptional stitch lines, with thus stronger and
more evenly spaced, stitches. It’ll go longer and even when it only provides the principles, it’ll endure much
more use.
11. FREQUENCY OF WORK
This really is among those questions that you might want to answer honestly. And
you have to know what you’re asking.
Everyone that sews needs time for things that they do. A great quality digital
device might improve your sewing knowledge and encourage you to begin sewing
more regularly.
If money can be an issue, recognizing your personal sewing objectives is
important. A brand new, costly device that needs lots of understanding isn’t
fundamentally going to make you sew more, if you seldom sew now. A good
physical device that includes all of the principles and only needs inserting and
threading in will seem less overwhelming. A great sewing machine won’t turn you
directly into a great tailor, however it could make sewing far more of a pleasure.
Keep in mind that good doesn’t suggest automatic tie-off, 200 stitches and
automatic cutters!
12. PLANNED SEWING PROJECTS
Another real factor that can help you determine if your desire to have that
incredible, expensive machine relies on wishful thinking or even a genuine need.
Similarly, if your ambition is to create heirloom-quality blankets, then purchasing a
machine that just has simple accessories will prevent you from attaining your goal
and will probably leave you feeling frustrated.
If the thought of all those links and programs makes you bust out in a chilly sweat,
then there’s a chance that all those designs and the large instructions and
designs might put you off using your machine.
13. BONUS: BUYER’S QUICK CHECKLIST
Why are you buying it?
What’s the max amount you can spend?
What feature/s are looking for in a sewing
machine?
What accessories are included?
What’s the cost of the accessories?
Preferred Brand / Model?
Can stitch length and width be adjusted?
How many stitches can the machine do?
Can the machine do quilting? (does the feed
dogs drop)
What type/s of threads the machine use?
How much thread can be loaded in the bobbin?
Can the machine perform special stitches?
(buttonholes, decorative stitches)
Does the machine come with a users class?
(what extras come with the machines purchase)
Does the machine come with warranty? (does it
cost extra / what does it cover / how long is the
warranty)