Well, I've let loads of time go by again without posting. I've been busy, though! I finished my 4th (yes, 4th!) Nappy Bag.
I started the Sophia Carry-All and everything was going swimmingly until...
my sewing machine crapped out on me again. Argh! I have decided to purchase a new machine anyway, but I was trying to wait until after Christmas so that I could apply gift money to it. So, I need your help! Please let me know if you have a recommendation for a particular machine. I am looking to upgrade to fully electronic. Are there features you couldn't do without (or wish you had?). C'mon, help me out! Leave me a comment if you have advice or recommendations. Thanks and Merry Christmas!
5 comments:
For me, a machine with a great buttonholes is invaluable. I would try to avoid more stitches than you need -- I think a basic zig zag, stretch and maybe a blanket stitch. Computerized machines are great and getting less expensive and lighter, but I love a good, solid mechanical machine.
Earlier this year we got the Kenmore 19233 (link: http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_02019233000P?vName=For+the+Home&cName=Sewing+Machines+%26+Accessories&sName=Electronic+Sewing+Machines)
and it was a big upgrade for us, as we had a crummy brother that was just not up to our needs. We got this one knowing that it was a Kenmore-branded Janome and liking that it was a computerized machine. We we surprised at how much we love this machine, and would recommend it to anyone. It's very simple to use and is a really reasonable price (but definitely the most expensive machine I have ever had). Anyway, I can't recommend it enough. My favorite function, one that I now cannot live without, is the automatic buttonhole. Love it, love it, love it. It just makes that task so much easier. It's probably got more stitches that anyone would ever use, but it's jun to play around with.
I have a Singer 7492. It works for me, but I would like to upgrade to a fancier version eventually. I think it's a great basic electronic machine though.
My one feature that I must have in a sewing machine is a free arm! I think most machines come with it now, but best to make sure.
Merry Christmas!
I think if you're going to take your sewing to the next level up you will want a good quality machine. Many makes and models are on the market with pros and cons for all of them. I have a former TOL Pfaff with over 200 built-in stitches and is capable of doing 4x4 embroidery designs. It also has a built-in walking foot. I love it and use it for most of my sewing. I also have a computerized small machine for classes, guild meetings and sew-ins. It is a Babylock X-scape with 66 built in stitches, 8 auto one step buttonholes, variable needle positions and only weighs 12 pounds. It came with 9 different presser feet and a tote bag plus other accessories. It sews as well as my Pfaff as it is very sturdy and doesn't jump around on the table. Then I have some antique and vintage machines that are back-ups. My best recommendation is to go to dealers in your area and test drive the machines that are in your price range. When it feels "right" to you, it will be the right machine.
Great buttonholes are a must for me, too. Even if I don't use the feature that often, there's nothing worse than completing a garment that you're proud of and having the machine do crappy buttonholes, or worse yet, try to eat the fabric. I'm looking to upgrade later this year, too, but right now I've got a pretty basic workhorse Singer that can do all the basics without much objection. It really depends on what you're after - lots of "basic" machines these days come with fancy stitches and things I don't necessarily consider basic. Also make sure you get a machine that you can easily find bobbins, feet, etc. to fit. Depending on your location, and the stores in your area, it might be difficult to add on to the machine you end up buying. Good luck.
Post a Comment