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Stitching & Crafting Room:  Sewing machine for a beginner?  |
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PilgrimSoul
True Blue Farmgirl
61 Posts
Jessie
NJ
USA
61 Posts |
 Posted - Aug 10 2010 : 11:57:04 AM
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| I want to learn how to sew, and want to get a sewing machine. I can't afford anything too high-tech, and really just want something simple to use. I'd like to use it for basics -- baby clothes for my son, pillows, aprons, etc. Nothing too terribly complicated, I'm sure. What machine would you recommend that's reasonably priced and good for a beginner? Thanks! |
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MerryHeartSister
True Blue Farmgirl
158 Posts
Christy
Tuscaloosa
Alabama
USA
158 Posts |
Posted - Aug 10 2010 : 12:45:20 PM
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I only have experience with Singer and Husqvarna Viking. Husqvarna Viking is going to be more expensive but I LOVE it! Singer is an old hand-me-down. It isn't as heavy duty as my Husqvarna but perfect for simple sewing and piecing quilts. Good luck on your search!
Farmgirl #1951
Home is a gift that should be opened every day. |
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1badmamawolf
True Blue Farmgirl
2199 Posts
Teresa
"Bent Fence Farms"
Ca
USA
2199 Posts |
Posted - Aug 10 2010 : 12:47:24 PM
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Try your local thrift stores, bring someone who does sew, and try it first before you buy, craigslist is also another place to look, just make sure its close enough to go check it out, then if you find one and they don't have the instruction manuel anymore, go to the companys web site and most likely you can download one for free. There are so many differant brands out there, in all price ranges, try to find one with metal gears and such inside, they last much longer than the ones with plastic, Good luck...
"Treat the earth well, it was not given to you by your parents, it was loaned to you by your children" |
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Sitnalta
True Blue Farmgirl
4208 Posts
Jessica
NJ
USA
4208 Posts |
Posted - Aug 10 2010 : 4:33:56 PM
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I have a Brother. It is very simple. It has 7 stitch options and a manual button hole stitching.
I like it and it is easy to use. I would highly recommend it and the price was fairly decent. I sew a lot, so I have more than gotten my moneys worth out of it.
Hope you find what works best for you!
hugs
jessie
"Wonder Woman hasn't got a cape, she just turned her apron around"
Farmgirl Sister #235 |
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bluebellequilts
True Blue Farmgirl
72 Posts
Teresa
Georgia
USA
72 Posts |
Posted - Aug 11 2010 : 7:16:00 PM
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Jessie,
Check with a reputable sewing machine dealer to see if they have an older mechanical Pfaff, Elna, Viking or Bernina available. They are workhorses and parts are still available.
For new machines, I would look at Janome or Brother from a dealer. This way you get free lessons and the first year service as part of the package. The low to mid-range models look promising and are easy to use.
Don't forget there's always Kenmore brand from Sears. If you are comfortable learning on your own, you can get a great mechanical machine for about $200.00. I have a Kenmore I can't bear to part with. She's been a trusty back-up machine when my computerized Pfaff has a bad hair day.
Another suggestion is to contact a local quilt guild or chapter of the American Sewing Guild to see if a member is looking to sell a machine. You might luck out and be gifted with a sweet little machine.
Good luck with your machine search!
Teresa |
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EastTXFarmgirl
True Blue Farmgirl
731 Posts
Victoria
Farmgirl #549
TX
USA
731 Posts |
Posted - Aug 11 2010 : 7:32:35 PM
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Jessie I taught myself to sew last year. I was like you, I wanted to make sure I could do it before I invested in an expensive do many things kind of sewing machine. My husband bought me a Brothers from Wal Mart. It is the very basic $79 one. I have been very pleased with it. I was able to learn without getting frustrated with a bunch of gadgets. Now that I have been sewing more and trying new things my husband asked me if I would like a new machine that is a little more automatic and has more options. I told him no I'm not ready. I actually enjoy using my little plain jane machine. Sometimes it may take a little longer to get some things done but I can do just about anything on that little machine that I could on any machine.
Begin each morning with a song in your heart. |
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Merry
True Blue Farmgirl
765 Posts
Merry
Ankeny
Iowa
USA
765 Posts |
Posted - Aug 11 2010 : 7:38:15 PM
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I second the brother. Machine for ease and affordability. I bought mine on Amazon.com, no shipping charge and you can purchase inexpensive basic models at wal mart.
Merry
Farmgirl #536
http://afarminmyheart.blogspot.com/
Your life is an occasion, rise to it. Mr. Magorium |
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Stitching & Crafting Room: Sewing machine for a beginner? |
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Sewing machine for a beginner?
