5 Things to Consider When Choosing a Sewing Machine
Get a general idea of the price range of the type of sewing machines that fulfill your needs. Figure out just how much you want to spend. Sewing machine prices range from the under $100 basic models like the Omega 605 or the Singer 1507, a basic 7 stich sewing machine and great choice for simple garment construction, basic quilting and mending; to the over $7,000 embroidery sewing machines like the Viking Husqvarna Diamond with an incredible amount of features only a hardcore embroidery afecianado could truly appreciate and utilize. Stick to your established budget to avoid falling into the trap of getting a sewing machine with features you don't need or will never use.
(4) Research the Brands & Models Available
After you have fine tuned your ideas about what you need in a sewing machine, research the brands and models of sewing machines with the features you need in the price range you want to stay within. Use sites like http://sewingmachineboutique.com to compare features and see pricing on a variety of sewing machines. If embroidery will be your main focus, take a look at brands such as Husqvarna Viking, a well respected producer of exquisite embroidery machines. They are pricey but hold their value and last a very, very long time. Review other sewing machine manufacturer's websites as well, including Singer, Brother, Elna and Bernina. Note the sewing machine models they offer, their features and the price ranges.
Choose the ones with features you know you want to use for sure and the ones suitable for the types of projects you plan to tackle. Shortlist the sewing machines that are not too complicated to learn how to use.
Go to sewing machine forums online to read customer feedback and discussions about the models you are considering to get a sense of whether these machines warrant further interest.
(5) Road-test the Sewing Machine Shortlist Group
Find local dealers for the machines on your shortlist and visit them to see the sewing machines and if possible, a trial and a demonstration. Test out the stitches and features that you have listed as important to you using samples of fabric you have been working with or plan to work with.
(4) Research the Brands & Models Available
After you have fine tuned your ideas about what you need in a sewing machine, research the brands and models of sewing machines with the features you need in the price range you want to stay within. Use sites like http://sewingmachineboutique.com to compare features and see pricing on a variety of sewing machines. If embroidery will be your main focus, take a look at brands such as Husqvarna Viking, a well respected producer of exquisite embroidery machines. They are pricey but hold their value and last a very, very long time. Review other sewing machine manufacturer's websites as well, including Singer, Brother, Elna and Bernina. Note the sewing machine models they offer, their features and the price ranges.
Choose the ones with features you know you want to use for sure and the ones suitable for the types of projects you plan to tackle. Shortlist the sewing machines that are not too complicated to learn how to use.
Go to sewing machine forums online to read customer feedback and discussions about the models you are considering to get a sense of whether these machines warrant further interest.
(5) Road-test the Sewing Machine Shortlist Group
Find local dealers for the machines on your shortlist and visit them to see the sewing machines and if possible, a trial and a demonstration. Test out the stitches and features that you have listed as important to you using samples of fabric you have been working with or plan to work with.
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