Buying a Sewing Machine
Confidently Purchase a Sewing Machine with Basic Considerations
May 27, 2008
Becoming the owner of a sewing machine is exciting. Take the time and do the homework to find the perfect machine.
A sewing machine can last a lifetime, so never buy a machine on impulse or as the result of a pushy salesperson. Take time when purchasing one and be sure to do the necessary homework to find the perfect machine.
Many sewing enthusiasts start with a very basic machine and upgrade over the years to more complex machines. There are some basic features that should be part of any sewing machine; more advanced machines should have additional features.
Sewing Machine Basics
When purchasing a machine, make sure each item on the following list can be checked off.
- Machine starts and stops smoothly and is jam-proof.
- Bobbin is simple to wind and easy to insert into bobbin case.
- Bobbin doesn't vibrate while sewing and feeds thread evenly.
- Automatic bobbin winder shuts off and prevents bobbin from overfilling.
- Threading of machine is easy.
- Needle is easy to remove and insert.
- Fabric feeds evenly under needle.
- Variety of utility stitches are available to join seams, overcast edges, topstitch, hem, sew over elastic, sew stretch fabrics and darn.
- Variety of easy-to-change throat plates, feet and attachments for use with utility stitches are available.
- Needle plate markings exist to guide seam widths.
- Reverse stitching is accurate.
- Stitch lengths and widths are controllable.
- Tension and pressure knobs are adjustable.
- Machine sews over extra-sheer fabrics without puckering.
- Variations in speed control stitching accuracy.
- Lighting illuminates needle area without shadows.
- Thread cutter works well.
- Foot or knee pedal is easy and comfortable to operate.
- Sturdy one-piece body construction is used.
- Machine sews over two or more layers of thick fabric.
- Machine is easy to clean and requires a limited amount of oiling.
- Instruction book is easy to understand.
Additional or Special Features
When purchasing an advanced machine, consider the following.
- The bobbin should have large holding capacity to eliminate frequent rewinding.
- Changing stitch types should require only a limited amount of readjustments.
- Self-repeating stitch patterns should have memory.
- A built-in button-holer is preferable to a button-holer attachment.
- Feed control adapts for darning and embroidery.
- Multiple needle position control increases stitch possibilities.
- Automatic needle-threader makes for easy threading.
- Solid-state foot control allows slow stitching without limiting piercing power of needle.
- Free-arm allows access to tubular sewing area with a convertible flatbed surface for regular flat sewing.
- An up-down needle position switch is convenient.
- Adaptation to sewing should require only the push of a button, not the use of foot or knee pedals.
- Decorative stitches and monogramming capabilities add personal touches.
- Machine should be programmable and interface with a personal computer.
- More than one top thread should be held for decorative stitching.
- Special attachments are good for specific tasks (seam guide, ruffler, quilting foot, etc.)
- Reverse control should be self-releasing.
- A lightweight, portable machine travels well.
More Tips to Buying a Sewing Machine
Try a variety of machines before selecting one.
- Ask friends what they like about their machines and what they might want if they were going to re-purchase.
- Surf the web for sewing clubs and sewing bulletin-board services to see what others think.
- Buy from an established retailer who knows sewing machines.
- Buy the best-quality machine you can afford. Skills and interests will build as time goes by, so think ahead when considering different machines.
- Try sewing with different scraps on the machines being considered. Try several different stitches and techniques on each machine using delicate and heavy fabrics.
- Don't let the salesperson do the sewing. Sit down and try the machine.
- Step back from the decision process for a day or two and then review the top choices.
The copyright of the article Buying a Sewing Machine in Sewing/Needlework is owned by Renee Blixt. Permission to republish Buying a Sewing Machine in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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