Sewing Machine Buying Tips

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8 Responses to “Sewing Machine Buying Tips”

1. Cathy August 5th, 2019

   There are so many other issues, is the bobbin full rotary or oscillating which is important for thicker fabrics or fabric oaks, does it have gears or all belts, what are the parts made of, can you get service for the machine, what is the warranty. Also useful stitches, does have a stretch stitch (most do now) for synthetic fabrics, does it have a blind gem stitch and foot, does it have a needle threader, so many more things to consider

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2. Isabella September 19th, 2016

   Another VERY important step... * Check out Customer Purchase Reviews for the model you're interested in. * Consider the retailer you're buying from...will they be able to assist you if something goes awry? * Are the components made of metal or plastic? Plastic doesn't last as long... Think about it. * Brand longetivity means nothing - some terrible machine manufacturers are out there banking on you not knowing they have sold out and now make cheap garbage at a premium price, and all based on name recognition. * Purchase price: how many machines you want to buy? Sometimes a little investment is worth it in the long run it the machine is likely to last long enough to be passed on to another generation vs. going in the junk pile and a new one being purchased within the first 5-10 years of use. * Just because it's a "deal" doesn't mean it's worth it... Some machines are so terribad that you're better off stitching blindfolded and by hand. * How likely is it that the machine's tension can be disrupted? Some are easy and others are workhorses. You don't want a hothouse orchid... Buy one that can actually hold up to the task you're buying it for. __|> And More... <|__

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3. Amy September 19th, 2016

   I would say that at least 90% of my sewing is for garments and I'm not a hobbiest. I have taught sewing to ladies of my faith and I believe the cheaper machines are a waste of money especially if you purchase them online. One of the ladies paid a little more for her machine to get the extra stitches and the basic straight stitch did not work properly. That machine had to be sent back to be repaired which ended up in her being frustrated with the sewing in general. However, if she had gotten it from a dealer the problem could have been resolved much sooner. If a person is not sure that they are going to love sewing, I have suggested that they purchase an older machine from a dealer that does repairs in their shop. Many of these dealers have saved parts that are hard to find and they often will give a warranty on those machines from 30 to 90 days. If a person knows they love to sew then I suggest they shop around. Talk to people and learn the reputation of the dealer in their community or close by if they do not have a dealer and then try different machines from those dealers that have a good reputation. For you can have the best machine on Earth, but if there is a problem and you have a rotten dealer, then the machine becomes a disappointment. For the person that loves to sew I suggest that they invest in a machine that might offer more than what their current skill level is because as they learn more, they will need a machine that is able to grow with them. Overall I think you did a great job for a person that is learning to sew. However, I always say when you purchase a machine from a dealer, you are also paying for that dealer to fix your machine. I am a nurse and my husband works in tools and dye and I'm the only person that sews in both our families. So, when I recommend a dealer, it is not because I know someone that has something to gain outside of my dealer. I just believe dealers are one of the top 2 important steps in purchasing a sewing machine.

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4. Dolores Nunez September 18th, 2016

   I have a Xr-34 brother sewing and my machine is a us one and the I think the part were the thed goes is not their so I was ask should I us that one or get other one a new?

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5. Laurie September 16th, 2016

   I have something to add to my last reply, as if I haven't spoken enough. I went back to visit again and found out they had a what's new party, free of course, snacks involved, but I could only go to the Tukwila location where the warehouse was, enjoyed the party and purchased some new embroidery programs and looked in the sale items where I found threads and many other goodies, and a hoop for my machine that was 80% discounted, woohoo! Didn't know it existed, my machine is 10 years old, didn't think I would find something new. The point of this is, If you happen to know what you need ask them to check the warehouse, they might have it even if you don't see it. And ask about free classes, sewing clubs, etc. A good dealer can be your best friend. Especially when their employees remember you and your machine, which can be embarrassing because some of us shop there a lot, But is a sign of good customer service. Woohoo!, gonna go sew with my new hoop. Oh, they hade chocolate, at the what's new party.

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6. Laurie July 21st, 2016

   If you live in western Washington, Quality Sew and Vac, has locations up the I-5 corridor. They sell a wide variety of sewing, embroidery machines, 10 needle embroidery machines, sergers, Threads, and notions. They offer machine classes free, even if not purchased there. There are embroidery program clubs, a club called "Sew Fun" that is fun. Their staff knows their products, and will help you to find what you need. There is machine repair available. Not kidding. Checkout the website. I am in no way related, just happy. I all dealers were this great. Now that I have moved across the state I make a point of visiting QSV when I am back visiting my family and sewing buddy. And Sadaajit your suggestions are great. The only reason I let my cousin buy her Brother sewing machine and Serger at Walmart is They are good quality machines and Qsv could clean and repair them.

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7. Beverly February 11th, 2015

   i have/use the brother sewing machine your showing. i love it. i use it for everything

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8. Sadaajit February 11th, 2015

   I think one other thing you need to be aware of is what the components are made of. Many very inexpensive machines have plastic components that are not going to hold up like metal will. I cannot emphasize enough to go online and look at reviews of the machines you are considering. There are a lot of machines available for around the same price and to know which ones users have found the most reliable is a great help in deciding between different models and companies. Also, make sure, if you are buying a machine from a dealer, that the dealer actually knows the machine you are considering in and out, so that if you have problems they can help you solve them. I bought a highly specialized machine from a sewing machine dealer (not a fabric store) and when I had problems with it they could not help me solve them. They didn't know how to use the machine. It was the internet that saved me or the machine would still be sitting there unused. They were quilters and I sew predominately clothing and this machine was specialized for clothing construction. I even showed them some of the features of the machine, from what I had learned on the internet. I will not be buying from them again, needless to say.

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