What to Look for In A Good Sewing Machine

sewing machine, thread, tape measure, scissorsWhen I was young, I did a lot of sewing. First of all, it was a required course, but also, I loved to make new outfits.

Going to the fabric shop and looking at patterns and materials was a great outing. I watched for sales to get the best deals if I could and I looked for unique blends of different fabrics to make outfits that others had not seen. I even modified patterns to have an altogether different look. If you haven’t sewn before, you might want to start with sewing pattern kits with fabric. You can learn quickly how to choose material for your project. Also, basic necessities are important so think about getting yourself dressmaking kits for beginners so that you have a starting point. Both kits can get you off in the right direction for learning.

One thing I didn’t have, however, was my own sewing machine. I used the machines at school and one that my mother had that didn’t always work the best. The bobbin always clogged up and I was continually fixing something. Still, I managed to get my projects done. When it came time to get my own machine, I sat here thinking about six points to consider when buying a sewing machine.

#1 – Avoid Lots of Features

Indeed, we all want to try new things, but one catch when buying a sewing machine is all the features that might be offered. If you are not going to use them, then sometimes having them is more a pain than anything else. It just means more things that can go wrong and can break. Look for a machine that is exactly what you need or one that you will definitely graduate to.

#2 – Know Your Budget

Before you even start shopping, in addition to knowing what you need in a sewing machine, you should also have an idea of what you want to spend. Once you get out there looking, you might be tempted to get something you don’t need if you don’t have a clear idea of how much money you have to splurge.

#3 – Try Before You Buy
There are actually two parts to this point. First of all, you are better off buying a machine from a dealer than a big box retailer. The support is going to be far superior, plus you will be permitted to try out a machine in the showroom. Be sure to bring along samples of fabric and actually sew some pieces together and make sure the machine is what you want.

When you are making such an expensive investment, you need the support available and should not have to depend solely on the information that comes with the machine and is found on the internet. Also, try to listen to how noisy the machine is when in operation.

#4 – Check Out Stitching
Be sure that the sewer has the type of stitches that you want or need to do. Likewise, check to make sure the length of stitching can be changed to accommodate different patterns. If you like to baste your designs before sewing them for good, then being able to change the length and width of the stitch will be invaluable to you.

#5 – Inquire About Attachments
You will most probably want a few different presser feet, so be sure to check out which ones come as part of the kit. If you do need to buy alternate feet, check for availability and pricing before buying the sewing machine.

#6 – Review Weight and Motor Size
The motor is usually the heaviest part of a sewing machine because it is metal. Often, the outer cases of the machine are plastic, so the weight is going to be important. If the motor is so heavy that it damages the plastic, you will have wasted your money. Likewise, if you keep the machine in a closet and have to get it out every time you sew, then you need to make sure you can carry it easily.

Here’s more information to help you choose the right sewing machine.

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