Replies

1. 
   Ralphetta | Jun 23, 2010 10:18pm | #1

   newcomer who knows nothing about machines

   There are many, many brands and models to chose from.  Most reliable sources recommend you check patternreview.com.  If you spend some time checking, you will see what features are available and how people feel about them.  You will also see what the price range is.  It will take a little time, but you will begin to see which brands are most reliable, etc.  Also, most sources advise you to buy from a dealer rather than off a shelf in a big box store.  If you go to a dealer they almost always give you instructions on using the machine.  They will show you how to use the attachments, etc.  You will have a real person to answer your questions and help you rather than an 800 number.

1. 
   Cat woman | Jun 24, 2010 02:16pm | #2

   newcomer

   Thanks very much, Ralphetta.  That is very good advice b/c I was planning on ordering something online.  Now that you told me, I will go to a dealer.

1. 
   Ralphetta | Jun 24, 2010 03:54pm | #3

   newcomer who knows nothing about machines

   Be sure to check patternreview.com.  It will give you an overview of what is available and what features other people like.  It will enable enable you to ask questions when you shop.  If you don't know anything about a subject it's very hard to even ask questions.  It seems to me that whenever I get some new "toy" and begin learning how to use it something happens that requires me to put it away for several weeks.  By the time I get back to it....I've forgotten what I'd learned.  With a dealer you have someone to go back to with your questions.  Dealers are interested in keeping you interested in sewing because many people upgrade every few years or buy sergers, etc.  It's worth the few extra dollars to have a support system.  Good luck

2. 
   KharminJ | Jun 29, 2010 02:28am | #4

   Have FUN with your shopping, too, even before you buy anything!

   Do as much "test driving" as you can ~ with friends' and acquaintances' machines, as well as at the shops. Reviews are ONE great resource to help you pick, but your own experience, even if limited, will matter more down the road. If one brand's instructions or controls just don't 'feel right' for you, no number of glowing reviews will get you excited about sitting down at your machine!

   Approach the hunt just like you would buying a car -

   And, especially if you have a smallish budget, do consider buying a well-serviced used model for your first purchase. As you learn more about your own likes and dislikes, and where your heart leads you, you may find yourself wanting an entirely different machine much sooner than you expected. Easier to justify, if you didn't spend a small fortune on the first one! 

   Bright Blessings ~   Kharmin