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Tips for Choosing a Sewing Machine

Do you need help purchasing a sewing machine? Maybe you’ve recently started sewing on a borrowed machine and want to buy your first sewing machine. Perhaps you’re wanting to upgrade your current machine to something that will help you expand your sewing.

For most sewists buying a machine can be overwhelming because even inexpensive machines have a lot of features that you may not understand. More importantly, you really need to consider features that you may not need today but might want down the road as your sewing progresses. With so many brands, price ranges, features, and stitches, it’s hard to know where to start.Because there are so many variables involved in purchasing a sewing machine, I’ve broken them down into solid tips that will help you choose a sewing machine that will serve you now and a for some time into the future.

Once you’re armed with these tips I highly recommend that you visit local sewing machine dealers in your area. They should allow you to try a variety of machines so you can start to see what will work best for you. When shopping, refer back to these tips as you test different machines. Hopefully, they will help you make the best possible decision.

Tips for Choosing a Sewing Machine

1. Budget

When setting a budget for purchasing a sewing machine my best advice is always to choose quality over bells and whistles. Of course that will depend on your budget which ultimately determines the features that are available to you. If you have a very small budget, look for a great deal on a quality used machine. Find a dealer who takes trade-ins; they will have done a thorough maintenance on a machine and usually give you a small warranty plus a class on operating the machine. If you need a machine that has a heavy-duty motor or some high-end features then this might be a good route to take.

There are also other options that can save you money. Several sewing machine manufacturers are making decent machines that don’t cost a fortune. The thing to remember with these machines is they are light weight (both a plus and a negative) and many of their parts are made from plastic. If a part breaks, you may not be able to get the machine repaired. However, there are a few highly rated low cost ($150-ish) machines that can serve you for many years.

2. Stitches

Tips for Choosing a Sewing Machine Do you need help purchasing a sewing machine? Maybe you’ve recently started sewing on a borrowed machine and want to buy your first sewing machine. Perhaps you’re wanting to upgrade your current machine to something that will help you expand your sewing.

For most sewists buying a machine can be overwhelming because even inexpensive machines have a lot of features that you may not understand. More importantly, you really need to consider features that you may not need today but might want down the road as your sewing progresses. With so many brands, price ranges, features, and stitches, it’s hard to know where to start.

How to choose a sewing machine? I have put together some tips for buying your first sewing machine. I’ve also included ideas for buying a used sewing machine plus a list of stitches that will actually get used.

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Because there are so many variables involved in purchasing a sewing machine, I’ve broken them down into solid tips that will help you choose a sewing machine that will serve you now and a for some time into the future.

Once you’re armed with these tips I highly recommend that you visit local sewing machine dealers in your area. They should allow you to try a variety of machines so you can start to see what will work best for you. When shopping, refer back to these tips as you test different machines. Hopefully, they will help you make the best possible decision.

Tips for Choosing a Sewing Machine

1. Budget

How to choose a sewing machine? I have put together some tips for buying your first sewing machine. I’ve also included ideas for buying a used sewing machine plus a list of stitches that will actually get used.When setting a budget for purchasing a sewing machine my best advice is always to choose quality over bells and whistles. Of course that will depend on your budget which ultimately determines the features that are available to you. If you have a very small budget, look for a great deal on a quality used machine. Find a dealer who takes trade-ins; they will have done a thorough maintenance on a machine and usually give you a small warranty plus a class on operating the machine. If you need a machine that has a heavy-duty motor or some high-end features then this might be a good route to take.

There are also other options that can save you money. Several sewing machine manufacturers are making decent machines that don’t cost a fortune. The thing to remember with these machines is they are light weight (both a plus and a negative) and many of their parts are made from plastic. If a part breaks, you may not be able to get the machine repaired. However, there are a few highly rated low cost ($150-ish) machines that can serve you for many years.

2. Stitches

How to choose a sewing machine? I have put together some tips for buying your first sewing machine. I’ve also included ideas for buying a used sewing machine plus a list of stitches that will actually get used.This is a sewing golden question that is difficult to answer. Once your budget is set then you can start deciding on some of the features that you’d like to have on your machine. The first question that comes up will be the number of stitches that comes on a machine.

The key is not to be seduced by the number of stitches but rather choose a machine that includes stitches that you will actually use.

At the core of sewing, you really only need two stitches to sew well: A Straight Stitch and a ZigZag Stitch. Almost all sewing can be accomplished with either of these stitches. That said, there are a few additional stitches and/or stitch features that I believe make sewing a little bit nicer.

Straight Stitch: The straight stitch needs to be adjustable from 0 – 5mm. The 0 setting allows you to lock stitches and the 5mm stitch length allows you to baste and gather. Most of the time you will sew with 2.5mm stitch length. The ability to adjust the stitch length will give you more options with your sewing. Look for machines that make this easy. ZigZag Stitch: The zigzag stitch should be adjustable in both stitch length and stitch width. Buttonhole Stitch: Technically, a buttonhole stitch is just a zigzag stitch that is automated. Any machine that has a zigzag stitch should have a buttonhole feature. Even lower-priced machines have some sort of automated buttonhole option. If possible, try this feature out before purchasing a machine. Stretch or Knit Stitch: There are a couple of stitches that are ideal for sewing with knits. One looks like a ‘lightening’ symbol and the other is a triple stretch stitch. Both will allow the knits to stretch (and not pop the threads) once they are stitched. While a zigzag stitch will actually sew stretch fabrics well, special knit stitches do an outstanding job. Blind Hem Stitch: This stitch creates practically invisible hems on skirts and pants. Utility Stitches: Most new machines will have a few utility stitches (which would include stretch/knit stitches). These are good for securing  seams but can also double as decorative stitches. Once you’ve sewn for a while you will know which stitches you would like to have. And when that happens, it’s usually time to upgrade to a new machine.

5. Special Features

Many machines come with some awesome features that make sewing so much fun. Even lower priced machines will have many of these in some form or another.

Needle Threader: Higher end machines will have an automatic needle threader, but most budget machines have a semi-automatic needle threader which simplifies the process. Needle Up/Down: This feature allows you to set the needle to stop either in the up or down position. This feature simplifies pivoting and turning fabric. Adjustable Speed Control: This feature allows you to adjust how fast or slow you sew. Perfect when piecing difficult fabrics. Needle Position Adjustment: This is usually available on higher end machines but can be found on budget-friendly machines. The feature allows you to move the needle either more to the left or right. Ideal for setting in zippers or perfect top stitching. Lighting: In the last few years lighting on almost all machines has improved significantly. I recommend looking at the lighting to make sure you are able to adequately see what you’re sewing. Automatic Thread Cutter: Many machines have some sort of automatic thread cutter. All you have to do is push a button and it cuts the thread, eliminating little thread bits around your sewing area. Be sure to test this out on different machines. Some are better than others with this feature. Knee Lifter: This used to only be available on very high end machines. In the last few years I’ve seen it on modestly priced machines. It is one of my favorite features because it allows you to lift the presser foot while your hands are holding the fabric in place. Ideal for curves and sharp corners. Personally, I can’t imaging sewing without it. Free Arm: This is a removable piece from the sewing deck and allows you to slip something narrow (like a sleeve) under the needle. A lot of manufacturers have this double as a removable accessories storage box on the front of the machine. 4. Attachments and Feet

Attachments and feet will be specific to what you plan to sew. Quilters will want a Walking Foot, spring action foot, and a 1/4″ foot. Garment sewists may look for a zipper foot, overcast stitching foot, buttonhole foot, and button attaching foot.

Many machines will come with all of these feet, however, lower priced machines might not have access to a larger variety of specialty feet. More expensive machines will have a better selection. Another thing to check on is the price of accessories and feet. Some manufacturers charge $30-$50 for their feet.

Many manufacturers offer machines that have a more specific purpose. You may see the name of the machine with a ‘Q’ next to it. That means the machine comes with feet and attachments a quilter would want. On the other hand, I’ve seen a Project Runway sewing machine that is designed for people who want to make their own clothes.

Be sure to look at the specific feet and attachments particular to your sewing plans.

5. Mechanical or Computerized

Ultimately, sewing is about having the needle go up and the needle go down. How well a sewing machine does that can depend upon what’s inside the machine and whether it’s a mechanical or computerized sewing machine.

Mechanical machines tend to be simple to operate and aren’t as heavy because they don’t have a computer. They require a lot less maintenance. If kept clean and oiled a mechanical machine will serve you well for a long time. A well-maintained used mechanical machine can last a lifetime, making it an excellent choice for someone on a budget. A well-maintained computerized machine will sew a beautiful straight stitch ~ every time. All high-end machines will be computerized in one way or another. This simplifies stitch selection, stitch length, buttonholes, and programmable stitch sequences. Computerized machines will almost always have a touch screen. One of the greatest benefits of a computerized machine is the motor. Because computerized machines are usually higher priced, they tend to have high-powered motors that are ideal for heavy-duty projects. A computerized sewing machine will likely need regular service by a professional. There is also a third option and that’s a machine that is considered electronic. It’s a hybrid of the mechanical and computerized machine. There is usually some sort of computer screen, but the machine is completely mechanical on the inside. When well-maintained, these machines tend to be worry-free. The electronics will usually include stitch selection, needle up/down, needle position, and a thread cutter. These machines have a decent selection of stitches and but don’t have embroidery capabilities. They usually sew beautifully. Final Thoughts on Choosing a Sewing Machine

I always recommend that you purchase a machine locally and develop a relationship with your local dealer. If they are a quality dealer they will match you with the right sewing machine. A good dealer will have an excellent service department that will keep your machine in top shape for many years to come.

Before heading out to shop for a sewing machine, I recommend you do some research on various manufacturers. Knowing a little about the company that manufactures your sewing machine will help match you to the right machine and allow you to make the most informed decision.

Source: Tips for Choosing a Sewing Machine