Sewing Machine For Sale

sewing machine?

i got a singer 338 sewing machine from a garage sale and its got a lot of features but its old and it keeps getting knots and stuff, i want to get a new one that has a lot of features but isnt too expensive (at the most $100) thanks for all your help!!!

Public Comments

1. The "knots and stuff" are probably due to poor thread, a machine that needs cleaning, a needle that needs changing, misthreading, or improper sewing habits. You'll probably have similar but worse issues with a new sub-$100 machine. If you describe what your old machine is doing, we can probably help you figure out what's wrong and what's needed. Otherwise, the best information I know of on choosing a new machine is right here: http://www.cet.com/~pennys/faq/smfaq.htm
2. Did you get the instruction manual with the machine ? If you did, go to the section on "thread tension adjustment' I think that's all that is wrong with your machine. The thread knotting and making big loopy stitches are signs that the tension needs adjusting. I would be surprised if anything major is wrong because Singer is such a sturdy, reliable machine. My sewing machine is a Kennmore that I've used a lot for 30 years. Yes it was cheap, about $100, and they still have them at that price. I'm happy with it, but Singer is a much better model. If you don't have the manual you can get one for the 338 model at this link. Good luck! http://ca.search.yahoo.com/search?ei=UTF-8&fr=sfp&p=singer+sewing+machine+338&rd=r1
3. Actually, you have a better machine with the 338 than you can buy for a hundred dollars. Your machine is all metal including the insides. The gears, etc. You won't get a better plastic machine than what you have. Your problem lies within these three letters... TNT. Remember these. Threading, Needle, and Tension. These are always the 3 main problems. First make sure its threaded right. I added a link below to a diagram of how to thread your machine correctly. Be sure your bobbin (spool on the bottom is in correctly also and threaded right. Second, make sure you have a NEW needle and that it is inserted all the way up with the flat side on top of the needle to the back. Third is tension. If your upper tension is too loose you will have all kinds of problems. Make sure the presser foot is down and usually the upper dial should be set around 4 - 6 on average. Good luck on this machine, its a good one. Maybe you should have a sewing place with a technician look at it for you and maybe clean, oil, and adjust it for around 50.00. (better than buying a new plastic machine that won't last you). Even a new one has to be learned so why not just learn the one you have first. Again, good luck.
4. I just answered a similar question a few days ago. You will not be satisfied with a $100 machine. You will have the same problems. Take the machine that you have and get it repaired/ tuned up. That will keep you under the $100 and your machine will probably be better than anything you can get for $100. Also, if you are a beginner, take some classes so that you know how to operate your machine without the knots and breakage. It also helps if your thread did not come with the machine. Believe it or not, thread does have a shelf life. If you can break it with very little tension, it is too old. If you are determined to get a new machine try them out before purchasing. There is nothing more frustrating than getting home with a new machine that does not do what you want it to, how you want it to, and is difficult to use. Happy sewing!
5. Try http://www.smartelephantdesigns.com and see if you can find an answer there.