I am in the market for a sewing machine. I've been borrowing my friend's but she needed it back to make Halloween costumes, and I decided I'll try not to ask for it again between now and Christmas. And maybe Santa will get me one. The problem is, I have zero idea what I need.
Basically, I've done three sewing projects, the most recent of which I can not share because it is a gift that has not been given yet.
All of the projects involved only one stitch and I'm not really sure what other stitches I would need. I'm not real good at sewing in a straight line, either. I'm just trying to give you an idea of my skill level, here.
So, please, comment . . . what is a good sewing machine for me?
2 comments:
Erica,
I have two machines - a very, very, very old little black Singer that belonged to my grandmother. It only does straight stitching, but for that, it's great. It will sew through anything and is very easy to use. I also have a Husqvarna Huskie, that I bought on Craigslist for $50 (great price!). It will do zigzag, buttonholes and a few other things. Still pretty basic, but a good machine. I would suggest you look on Craigslist. At the same time I bought mine, I bought a used White brand machine for Erin, also for $50, and it's serving her well. You'll stand the chance of getting a very decent machine for less if you look there. I've found that a lot of people buy new machines and then find that they don't really use them. Hence, plenty on craigslist!
Actually, I just looked at craigslist for long island and there are lots. I would suggest trying to find a newer model of a Kenmore, Singer, or other brand and try it out. If you go look, take some fabric so you can try it out.
If all you want to do is simple sewing, I would say get something that, in addition to straight stitching, will do zig zag and buttonholes. You really don't need much more than that. Also, if you buy used, make sure they have the manual. If they don't have it, you might be able to get it online.
OK, that's probably enough. Sorry to be so loooong winded.
I'm with Beth -- as long as you can do some zigzag and buttonholes, you shouldn't need much more than that. I have a Tailor machine that has been excellent for the ten+ years I've used it. They use that brand in home ec classes so I figured I wouldn't be able to break it. Singers, Kenmores, and Brother machines are also good.
ALSO...buy yourself some good fabric scissors, write "FABRIC ONLY" on the blades in sharpie, and guard them with your life. ;-)
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