which sewing machine?

[boscobel]

I have decided that as my combo birthday/christmas present this year, I want Matt to buy me a sewing machine. I had fun making the dress that I will be posting pics of probably tomorrow, but it was a bitch cuz my sister has a sewing machine. So I always had to find time to go to her house to do it. I want one of my own so I can get into my own crafts at my own home. Problem is that I am a novice sewer and my sister is a little more advanced them me, but not really. I have no idea what to look for in a machine. I something that is more advanced then the little sewing that we've done already, b/c I want the options to learn more. If anyone knows anything about sewing machines and can give some advice, that'd be great.

 

Here are the three that I saw at Joann's and liked, with their descriptions... I think I prefer them in the order that they are listed, but not really sure, cuz I was totally looking at how "pretty" they were.

#1 - $300

The Singer HD-110 Professional is a heavy duty sewing machine. With a motor 60% more powerful than a household sewing machine, the HD-110 can sew through multiple layers of fabric and sews up to 1,100 stitches per minute. The HD-110 has a stainless steel bed plate that allows fabric to flow smoothly and prevents scratches with pins and zippers. Included is an extension table that expands your workspace for sewing large, bulky projects. Features 11 stitch programs including a 4 Step buttonhole; Circular sewing capability ; 3 Needle positions, and 7 feet ; Has a built in needle threader and a top drop in bobbin

 

#2 - $400

Introducing the Limited Edition Project Runway 50 Stitch Computerized Sewing Machine from Brother! This compact sewing machine includes 50 built-in utility, decorative, quilting, and heirloom stitches and 3 alphabet styles to enhance sewing. It also features a automatic threading system, convenient quick set drop-in bobbin, presser foot leveling button for smooth consistent stitching over changing fabric thicknesses, such as the start of a seam of crossing seams. Also includes an extra large sewing bed to accomodate quilts and larger projects, 6 point feed dogs for even stitching on any fabric weight, and adjustable Speed Control gives you the perfect stitching speed for any project Also includes: Bright LED lighting of the sewing bed for easier viewing of your projects and a hard cover to protect your investment. Drop in bobbin;50 built in sitiches; Adjustable speed control;presser foot leveling button; extra large sewing bed; Advanced needle threading system; 6-point feed dog; Includes Hard Cover to protect your investment

 

#3 - $400

The amazing little computerized White D'Lite MODEL 1750C sewing machine is a dream come true for sewers of all skill levels because it has fantastic features in a compact and portable package. This machine has EVERYTHING, including affordability! Main Features: 66 built-in stitches accomplish over 100 stitch functions, 5 different styles of built-in buttonholes, all accomplished in one-step, Lay-in threading and the handy built-in needle threader, 40 beautiful decorative stitches can be sewn. Electronic features include: Needle up/down, stop/start button, fast/slow speed control, extra-long extension bed, great for sewing larger projects, All stitches are illustrated and numbered, Handy free arm ideal for sewing in the round, Stitches are easily selected at the touch of a button on the control panel. ACCESSORIES INCLUDE: All purpose foot,Buttonhole foot, Zipper foot,Straight stitch foot STITCH FUNCTIONS: Seaming, Buttonholes, 5 styles, Top stitching, Blind hemming, Gathering, Scallop edging, Darning,, Embroidering, mending, fagotting, Patchwork stitching, zipper insertion, Satin stitching, narrow hemming, appliqué, basting, bar tacking, clean finish edges, stretch blind hemming, Stretch stitches, elastic insertion, stippling, cording, feather stitching, cross stitching, rick rack stitching, overedge stitching, And so much more! 66 built-in stitches accomplish over 100 stitch functions; 5 different styles of built-in buttonholes; 40 beautiful decorative stitches can be sewn with White D¿Lite. ; An extra-long extension bed is provided. It is great for sewing larger projects ; Stitches are easily selected at the touch of a button on the control panel

[Helen_S81]

I have a Kenmore sewing machine from Sears that was around $200. I looked at fancier ones but really when I thought about it all I was going to be doing was straight stitching, zig-zag, and buttonholes so I opted to not get a computerized one with embroidery stitching.

 

I only sew once in a while these days, Halloween costumes or shortening pants so it really doesn't get much use.

[MelanieS]

I agree - #1 looks like a good, basic machine and has everything you would need. I don't use the fancy stitches on my machine, either. Plus, on #1, you can take off the area surrounding the needle bed so you can sew in small tight places, like sleeves. Also, if you sign up online at Joann's, they will send you coupons for % off.

[ACDCDCAC]

my mom has a 30+ yr old viking husqvarna that she got around when i was born and its still fantastic! even tho we have a machine at our house i will drive 45 mins to her house when i need to projects, like hemming all of ali's new school jeans each year.

[ACDCDCAC]

also joanns is great cause the people that work there are all pretty experienced in the world of sewing, so you should totally go in and pick their brains. i bet they could tell you what to get that will best fit what you need it too.

[becks]

I *heart* my singer machine. Personally, and as many others have said, you simply won't use all of the computerized stiches. And especially when it comes to novice sewing, the fewer moving parts/options/shizbangers the better. My mom is a master sewer and in her lifetime has only ever used (a) straight stich ( zig zag © hemstich and (d) button hole.

 

The one thing she did say was to get one with the "drop down" arm piece so that you can get to the cuffs and such.

 

She bought me my new machine for my shower gift (I'd been using her 40 year old machine).

[Anna83]

I agee with the girls that said go simple. I have a Brother sewing machine that was a gift, but I think it only cost about $100-200. You can do wonders with just a few simple stitches. If you get one that is too complicated, you won't want to use it because it could be frustrating to use.

[ErinB]

I say for sure get the drop in bobbin.

 

I have a brother and have had no problems with it. I also have my grandmother's singer from the 1940's and it is still kickin' so I think they are both quality brands.

 

#1 does sound like a good machine that can handle heavier fabrics. I agree that you will probably never use most of the fancy and quilting stitches. I totally agree with Abbie to get a "professional" opinion on each machine.

 

You might see if JoAnn or some other place offers sewing classes near you. I know that several fabric stores and the adult education programs around here offer them. They are usually only a few hundred dollars for a fairly extensive course.

 

Tell Matt you want the $300 machine and classes. It will work out well and save money in the long run! LOL

[becks]

Oh! It just occurred to me to tell you to check with Costco - they have some great machines at fantastic prices.

[Jacqueline]

great idea car. i was talking to my mom about this b/c i was thinking of registering for one. she has a reallyyy old one, (dunno the brand) but it still is is great condition. she uses it all the time and when she was younger used to make her own clothes too. the lil flower child that she was! she now makes curtains and things like that. so def keep the future in mind as it will probably be a lifetime piece for you. kwim? right now u might think u'll only use it for lil things, but you never know. knowing you, you will be a natural and you'll want to make all kinds of things with all types of fabrics.

 

anyway i guess i would talk to jill about the functions and all though b/c that i dont know about that too much.