Replies

1. 
   Teaf5 | Jun 30, 2007 02:18am | #1

   If you do a search on this forum for "Sewing machine recommendations," you'll find hundreds of very thorough explanations of favored machines.

   No matter what you choose, make sure that you can stitch a bunch of your own fabric samples on it before buying it-- a machine that someone else loves may not suit you at all.

2. 
   Pattiann42 | Jun 30, 2007 03:04am | #2

   Look at the sewing machine reviews at PatterReview.com.

   After you recover from sticker shock.........Make a wish list and if price is a factor include it too.  Take the list with you and visit the local dealers.  Tell them what you are looking for and ask them to let you test whatever they recommend.

   Buy the brand you like from the dealer you like.  If it is a new machine they will give you a free lesson on how to operate it. 

   Enjoy shopping and your new machine!

3. 
   suesew | Jul 01, 2007 09:20pm | #3

   I second buying from a dealer you like. They will service your machine and all machines do need servicing eventually. Walmart or Kmart will not do that and the dealers don't like messing with the cheap varieties that are sold there. Sometimes they can't even get parts for some of those machines.
   Buy the best that you can afford. You won't be sorry having a machine that will allow you to try new stitches and techniques that you weren't even aware existed. And there are many good machines among the different brands out there.
   You might also consider taking along different needles with your different fabrics. If you test drive a machine at the store with the same size14 universal needle you may have trouble with fine silky fabrics or cotton knits, if the dealer doesn't change the needle as you test drive. Happy hunting.

1. 
   Specialist | Jul 02, 2007 06:23pm | #4

   Thanks!