My first sewing machine was from a door to door salesman. Actually, I don’t remember how we connected, but this was what the experience felt like. I didn’t know much about sewing machines, and he was there with one. It was heavy and awkward. I did use it for quite a long time, but not very enthusiastically.
When I was ready to look for a new machine, there was a quilt shop going out of business. The brand I bought is a well-known, reputable company. It had a lot of features I was looking for, and the price, even on sale, reflected that. One feature it did not have, was being able to embroider designs in a frame. Fortunately, I was happy with the machine (no way could I take it back to a shop going out of business.). I didn’t have any problems or need any repairs. For the selection of the right sewing machine, a registration should be done at http://sewingmachinebuffs.com/best-sewing-machine-for-quilting/ site. The purchasing through the person will be effective without any additional repairing cost. The life of the product will be long in comparison to the others.
After I was retired, and had saved some money, I decided to investigate embroidery machines. I did not want to spend another small fortune. I found what I wanted online by a reputable company for a reasonable cost. Yes, I had to read and understand the manual, but I learned how the machine worked, and wasn’t afraid of it.
There are several things to consider when you’re thinking about buying a machine. Brand, cost, features, repairs by a reputable/brand dealer or repair person, what you want to accomplish with the machine, and where you’ll use it.
Brand:
Talk to sewing friends who have different brands and kinds of sewing machines. Ask about different features, things they like about their machine, and things they don’t. How long have they had the machine, and how often have they had to have it repaired? Just because a TV personality uses a certain brand or kind of a machine, does not mean it’s the ultimate machine to have.
Cost:
Go online to compare brands, features, and cost. Do you have a trade-in? If you go to a store, whether it’s an independent dealer or a chain, ask if they will give you something for your “old” machine. You might consider keeping it anyway as a back-up. Tell the clerk you’re shopping, and not in a rush to buy, even if there’s a ” limited time offer”. This is an investment. Ask if there are classes included with the purchase. Price will determine what features are available on the machine. YOU need to determine what features you’ll use and will benefit you.
Optional equipment:
Unless you’re an avid seamstress/sewer, you don’t need some of the available tools you can get to go with your machine. Try it out with what comes with it. You can purchase options later.
Features:
Think what you want the machine to do for you. An automatic threader is wonderful, as is a thread cutter. They’re not necessary, but great features. How hard/simple is the machine to thread and wind the bobbin? Can you lower the feed-dogs? If you’re interested in embroidery as well as sewing, can the machine do both, and what size is the frame? How heavy is the machine? Do you need special bobbins? Ask to review the manual and see if it’s relatively easy to understand.
Repairs:
Is there someone you trust to work on your machine, and who will explain problems and solutions to you? What and how do they charge?
Use:
Some people use their machines on a daily basis. Others use them maybe once a month. However often you use one, you should be comfortable and confident when you do. Take time to read instructions, the manual, and warranties. You’ll enjoy your machine much more if you do.
