Sewing Machine For Sale

Sewing Machine for Basic Sewer--how much to spend?

I am thinking about a new machine, but not sure what to look for. I am a returning sewer. I will make clothing and purses, etc. I would like a one-step button holer and an automatic threader. Not sure what else I need and how much to expect to spend. I see some machines for under $100, when on sale. They seem fine; are they? Thanks

Public Comments

1. i got my sewing machine on Black friday at walmart when they were like $80. It works fine and has all that you need. I can't remember what brand it is but it was like the cheapest one at walmart and had everything i need.
2. If budget is an overriding concern, go used. You'll get a far better $100 machine from an estate sale or from a sewing machine repair shop than you will from a big box store. And I say that as someone who wore out a cheapie machine in less than a couple of years -- amortized cost about $10/garment, plus much smoke rolling out my ears. My new machine was much more expensive, yes, but it's down around $0.40/garment amortized now, and still going strong. And I don't threaten my 12 year old machine with defenestration followed by backing the truck over it a few times like I used to with the cheapie. Here's my standard beginners' sewing machine rant... since you're not a beginner, there are parts you can ignore, but I think it's still valid for you: First read: http://www.cet.com/~pennys/faq/smfaq.htm What I want for beginners in sewing: - a machine that doesn't scare you - a machine that isn't balky (cheap new machines are often very balky or need adjustments often and are rarely repairable -- just too frustrating to learn on!) - very good straight stitch - good zigzag (4-5 mm is fine, more than that is gravy) - a method of making buttonholes that makes sense to you - adjustable presser foot pressure (which helps some fabric handling issues) - accessory presser feet that don't cost an arm and a leg (machines that use a "short shank foot" typically handle generic presser feet pretty well. Some brands of machines use proprietary or very expensive presser feet) If the budget stretches far enough: - blindhem and stretch blindhem stitches - triple zigzag (nice for elastic applications) - a couple of decorative stitches (you won't use them nearly as much as you think) - electronic machine because of the needle position control and because the stepper motors give you full "punching force" at slow sewing speeds -- mechanical machines often will stall at slow speeds. Please go to the best sewing machine dealers around and ask them to show you some machines in your price range, *especially* used machines you can afford. You'll get a far better machine buying used than new, and a good dealer is worth their weight in sewing machine needles when you get a machine problem -- often they can talk you through the problem over the phone. While you're trying things out, try a couple of machines (sewing only, not combo sewing-embroidery) over your price limit, just so you can see what the difference in stitch quality and ease of use might be. You may find you want to go for the used Cadillac. Or you might want the new basic Chevy. Might as well try both out. Suggested reading: John Giordano's The Sewing Machine Book (especially for used machines), Carol Ahles' Fine Machine Sewing (especially the first and last few chapters) and Gale Grigg Hazen's Owner's Guide to Sewing Machines, Sergers and Knitting Machines. All of these are likely to be available at your public library. Used brands I'd particularly look for: Elna, Bernina, Viking/Husqvarna, Pfaff, Singer (pre 1970), Juki, Toyota New "bargain brand" I'd probably pick: Janome (who also does Kenmore). http://www.patternreview.com can be a useful adjunct to the hunt for a new machine.
3. I recently purchased an Elna that is 28 years old and it sews fine. It all depends on where you purchase the machine from. The Elna came from a machine mechanic that gave the machgine a good service before selling it on eBay All you need is a good brand such as Elna, Bernina, Pfaff or Husqvarna and you can rely on the product. Servicing is no problem in the future as well.
4. I would go to yard sales and pick up a good used machine. If it looks beat up pass. But if is real clean Id get it. Look for a basic all cast metal Zig Zag machine. Unless you are into a lot of stich features. For basic sewing a flat bed would be good. The best part is you can get a good mach. for $10 -$20 and since they were built to last it should last for a long time with reasonable care