Calling all people who like to sew!

ChemFanatic25

Hi Ladies,

 

So I figured, this would be a great place to post this question because a lot of you are craftsy one way or another. So I love to sew and I bought my first sewing machine a few years ago when I had just graduated from college. It is a great little machine but I am now becoming more adventerous with sewing and would like to upgrade. I cannot find feet for this sewing machine like a button hole foot or a zipper foot. I'd prefer that. Also, this machine gets snagged at times and that can get annoying.

So I am looking for a machine within the $200 dollar range. I was thinking something like this. What do you think? I can order the zipper foot and other feet as well. I would also prefer something sturdier. The one I have, while great for a beginner, just feels like it is not as smooth for sewing and I don't know if it's because it might have been cheaply made. The feeling I have now is that it jabs the needle into the material and then kind of jumps back out rather then sliding in smoothly, and I'm using simple fabric you get at Joann's that isn't located in the specialty aisle.

Any recommendations or can point me in the right direction? Is the one I am thinking about purchasing a good idea or should I look elsewhere?

Thanks!

JCbride2015

All I've got is I really thought you meant sewers, like pipes.  And I was grossed out and then felt really dumb when I opened the thread.

duhitsd

JCbride2015 said:

All I've got is I really thought you meant sewers, like pipes.  And I was grossed out and then felt really dumb when I opened the thread.

Don't worry @JCbride2015, I thought the same thing.

charlottesmom0626

ME TOO GUYS

kvruns

I thought stinky sewers too.  and then possibly Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles because I think that's where they lived.

I can't sew so I'm out!

jenna8984

Ditto. I thought of Super Mario Brothers going down the sewer pipes.

sorry I can't help lol

ChemFanatic25

duhitsd said:

JCbride2015 said:

All I've got is I really thought you meant sewers, like pipes.  And I was grossed out and then felt really dumb when I opened the thread.

Don't worry @JCbride2015, I thought the same thing.

Oh sorry, I'll fix the thread title.

hellosweetie1015

....count another one for TMNT sewers....

Wish I could be more help! Maybe @missdelilah?

ohannabelle

Brother is a decent brand, but I'm a huge Bernina fan. If I ever upgrade, I'm going Bernina. 

vulpiepop

I used Brother all through college and it worked great until I broke it (do NOT try to sew ballistics nylon or pleather on regular sewing machines). It's a decent brand and it's affordable. Singer is another one I really like, but it's a good bit more expensive. I think it's worth it if you're planning to make a living sewing but otherwise, Brother should do just fine.

amelisha

I have a Brother that was my starter machine too, and it's okay, but if it's in the budget for you I'd look at a Singer (Bernina might be too pricey but that would be my top pick too.) 

lovesclimbing

I just got a Janome and I really like it. My sister has a Brother and she really likes it. I've heard that Singer used to be awesome machines, but newer models aren't so hot.  My professional quilter grandmother uses Bernina. Those are some GOOD machines.

artbyallie

I have an inexpensive Singer, but it gets the job done. I've used all the brands mentioned in the thread but I don't feel I have a handle on whether the more basic Bernina/Janome/Brother models are good since I've only used the professional versions (ugh, I still lust for those machines from the college costume lab--and the way-expensive industrial serger too, damn it).

ohannabelle

artbyallie said:

I have an inexpensive Singer, but it gets the job done. I've used all the brands mentioned in the thread but I don't feel I have a handle on whether the more basic Bernina/Janome/Brother models are good since I've only used the professional versions (ugh, I still lust for those machines from the college costume lab--and the way-expensive industrial serger too, damn it).

I could have written this, exactly- I want the costume shop machines back!

Though I have used a more basic model Bernina, and it was like driving a really nice brand new car after you've been clunking around in an old VW bug for many years. Smooth ride. I need one.

I have a Singer my Grandma bought me for my 25th birthday. I remember looking at the warranty, and thinking how crazy it was that I'd be 50 by the time it expired. It's still going. Never had a problem. 

Inkdancer

I love my Singer, honestly. The warranty lasts forever, and the thing is like a tank. I have traveled with it probably way more than is recommended and it just keeps going.

missdelilah

I really can't recommend anything in that price range.  Sorry, but I spend five days a week at my machine, and I bought one that I expected to last (both in physical terms, and in terms of me outgrowing it).

I know Singer makes pretty reasonable lower end models with basic functions that would be good at that price point.  My friend still has one from the 1960s, which I use occasionally, and it runs great.  I'm sure the newer quality isn't the same, but I'd take the recommendations from PPs on this one.

Honestly though, if you have very little money to put down, I'd be looking at a slightly better machine that's lightly used.  If you buy a beginner machine, you'll likely find that it's not very useful in the long run (for me, "the long run" was about seven months).  

I recommend something with a mid to large throat.  I find those machines most versatile.  You probably don't need the 1000 embroidery stitches that a lot of the higher end models have.  Honestly, I think I've used two of those stitches.  

I have a Bernina 580.  I think it's wonderful.  If you're good at break and enter without being detected, go ahead and gangster one from someone who's not me.  (I did buy mine in Australia, where they're a LOT less expensive).  

I also have a Singer 160 which is very nice to use, but too small for me.  I'd highly recommend that, but I'm thinking about selling mine, so checked the prices on eBay, and it's going to cost you twice or more than you want to pay.  

By the way: I know it all depends on personal preference, but my friends and I decided we hated the word "sewer" for obvious reasons, so use "sewist" instead.  Yeah, you'll constantly be told by spellcheck that it's not a "real" word, but neither is "spellcheck."

Good luck in your search.

Edit:  Sorry, wee bit tiddly right now.

ChemFanatic25

missdelilah said:

I really can't recommend anything in that price range.  Sorry, but I spend five days a week at my machine, and I bought one that I expected to last (both in physical terms, and in terms of me outgrowing it).

I know Singer makes pretty reasonable lower end models with basic functions that would be good at that price point.  My friend still has one from the 1960s, which I use occasionally, and it runs great.  I'm sure the newer quality isn't the same, but I'd take the recommendations from PPs on this one.

Honestly though, if you have very little money to put down, I'd be looking at a slightly better machine that's lightly used.  If you buy a beginner machine, you'll likely find that it's not very useful in the long run (for me, "the long run" was about seven months).  

I recommend something with a mid to large throat.  I find those machines most versatile.  You probably don't need the 1000 embroidery stitches that a lot of the higher end models have.  Honestly, I think I've used two of those stitches.  

I have a Bernina 580.  I think it's wonderful.  If you're good at break and enter without being detected, go ahead and gangster one from someone who's not me.  (I did buy mine in Australia, where they're a LOT less expensive).  

I also have a Singer 160 which is very nice to use, but too small for me.  I'd highly recommend that, but I'm thinking about selling mine, so checked the prices on eBay, and it's going to cost you twice or more than you want to pay.  

By the way: I know it all depends on personal preference, but my friends and I decided we hated the word "sewer" for obvious reasons, so use "sewist" instead.  Yeah, you'll constantly be told by spellcheck that it's not a "real" word, but neither is "spellcheck."

Good luck in your search.

Edit:  Sorry, wee bit tiddly right now.

I don't mind buying something used. I think I will probably check out craiglist and ebay to find something. I have a "beginner" sewing machine but I'd like to get more seriuos, though I don't sew anywhere as much as you do. Maybe once a week depending on my work schedule and what I'm doing that week.

 

So I will keep an eye out and hopefully I find something decent. Thanks for the advice!

relliotts

I tend to agree with @missdelilah, but I'm also at my sewing maching almost daily and working on a lot of large scale or complex projects.  I have a Bernina and wouldn't trade it for the world. I spent a lot of money on it, but it was an investment for me because I use it ALL. THE. TIME. and will for many years.

I would recommend you take some time to really think about what your goals are in regards to sewing - do you plan to do it a lot? Is it a part time hobby? Are you making garments, or quilts, or? Do you want to move in to more complex projects?

Then take some time to really think about your dislikes/frustrations/limitations with your current machine. You've listed a few.  Add on to that list as much as possible. Be very detailed.

Once you've compiled your list, go to a sewing shop (NOT Joanne's or that type of place - a place that specializes in sewing specifically) and talk to someone there. Go through your list. Tell them your budget. Get some recommendations. They will probably even have some machines you can try out. Use all of that info to make a decision.

One thing I will say, since you mention feet - While I love my Bernina to death, I wouldn't recommend one to a "casual" sewist mostly based on cost factors.  Not only are they expensive up front (even used ones), but accessories can be very expensive too, and you can't always find generic equivalents. Bernina feet usually run $50 and up each, depending on what you need. You can find feet for other brands for less than $20 and a lot of times less than $10, particularly if you are OK with generics.

Prior to my Bernina I used a classic Singer. I still have her, in fact, and there are some projects I go to her for before I go to my Bernina. She's a gorgeous machine in a gorgeous walnut cabinet. She purrs along and sews most things like a dream. It's very easy to find accessories on Ebay. She isn't electronic and doesn't have all the fancy stitch options of more modern machines, but I find I have more control with her in some instances than with some of the lower end modern machines.  She's also easier to thread, and honestly I don't use a lot of the fancy stitch options on my Bernina. I found her for $60 on Craigslist, offered for sale by the son of the original owner. Worth every single penny.  I will never get rid of her.

missdelilah

And seeing as this is where we're talking about sewing machines, I came across this great post today (clicky) on fixing minor machine issues.  I know a lot of them sound straight forward, but I had to work a lot of this stuff out on my own.  I'm sure most of you are past the stage where this terribly helpful, but I thought I'd post it anyway.  x

Inkdancer

This is making me so anxious to get my craft room organized. Currently I don't even have a clear table space to get my machine set up!

wandajune6

Off topic but where did you learn to sew? My mom doesn't know how to sew nor does my grandmother so I never learned this around the house. I looked at sewing classes at one of the local fabric stores but their beginner classes seem to be meant for young children. I'd love to learn but don't know where to start!

ChemFanatic25

wandajune6 said:

Off topic but where did you learn to sew? My mom doesn't know how to sew nor does my grandmother so I never learned this around the house. I looked at sewing classes at one of the local fabric stores but their beginner classes seem to be meant for young children. I'd love to learn but don't know where to start!

I kind of taught myself. My dad showed me a little bit when I was younger but now I read a lot of blogs and watch youtube videos. I would like to start sewing more serious things like clothing and bags so I am looking for advice anywhere I can find it.

relliotts

My mom taught me the basics - really just how to thread the machine and sew a straight line - when I was really young, but honestly I'm self taught.  Books, blogs, and YouTube are all wonderful resources. Craftsy also offers online classes that are really good, everything from sewing basics to an advanced level tailoring course. Another place to check might be your local community college.

I recommend the Better Homes and Gardens sewing book.  I still refer to mine all the time.  The Colette Sewing Handbook is also a great resource aimed at new sewists, and includes several patterns with step by step instructions.

There are also a number of sewing communities around the web where you can get basic information, questions answered, and fitting help.  I used to frequent one called Pattern Review that was a really great resource when I first started sewing.

falsara

This thread is fascinating.  I learned how to sew when I was younger, I took a class in high school.  But after that I never found an opportunity to sew anything.  I want to get back into it, but I just never think of anything I need/ want to sew.  

What do you ladies like to sew/ what do you use your machines for most? 

relliotts

I make a lot of my own clothes, because I'm difficult to fit and ready to wear usually doesn't fit me well.  But what I really love to design and sew are costumes! I made Princess Bubblegum's gown for Halloween, and I'm getting ready to work on Daenarys' blue Astapor dress as well as a recreation of one of Margaery Tyrell's dresses. I've made Ren Faire garb in the past, and am planning some Victorian era stuff for next year's Dickens Faire.

Inkdancer

I mostly make my own costumes. I was also a costumer for a local dance studio, which was SO FUN.

lovesclimbing

wandajune6 said:

Off topic but where did you learn to sew? My mom doesn't know how to sew nor does my grandmother so I never learned this around the house. I looked at sewing classes at one of the local fabric stores but their beginner classes seem to be meant for young children. I'd love to learn but don't know where to start!

My grandmother is a professional quilter. I mainly learned from her.  Also from my mom who used to sew clothes.  She does it occasionally now (like bridesmaid dresses and even her own dress for my wedding), but when we were little, my mom would always make matching clothes for me and my two closest sisters.

I would say search out beginner classes for adults, I'm sure they're out there, or if you have a machine or get a cheap one, just start sewing. Start out with sewing straight seams.  DON'T do what I did and decide you're going to teach yourself to sew clothing by sewing a shirt.  Learn on a skirt or something!

Practice hemming handkerchiefs or sewing potholders or make an apron. Google "learn to sew projects" or "beginner sewing projects" and you'll get a ton of results. My mom is teaching a home ec class to several young girls, and she was teaching them how to sew by making an apron. 

Or just google learn how to sew.  A few months ago, I read an article that was about how this generation is the first generation that won't need adults to learn anything. The point was you can learn anything on the internet.

CMGragain

Check out machines in your price range on Amazon.  They have lots of reviews from people who have bought them.  All budget priced machines are made overseas, and they can be wonderful.  Instead of being mechanically controlled, they often have a digital computer control.  This makes it possible for them to be much more lightweight than the old Singer machines.  Don't lose your manual!  These can be complicated!

http://www.amazon.com/Brother-XR9500PRW-Limited-Stitches-Quilting/dp/B005GXPOAM/ref=sr_1_2?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1422114013&sr=1-2&keywords=sewing+machine

ChemFanatic25

falsara said:

This thread is fascinating.  I learned how to sew when I was younger, I took a class in high school.  But after that I never found an opportunity to sew anything.  I want to get back into it, but I just never think of anything I need/ want to sew.  

What do you ladies like to sew/ what do you use your machines for most? 

I make a lot of little crafts like makeup bags and small purses but nothing to intense. I recently bought flannel to make my boyfriend sleeping pants but there is a stitch in the pattern (below) that I can't do on my current machine. When I buy a better machine I'd like to make more clothes.