Sewing Machine For Sale

anybody sew? Could you give me an overview of the main differences in sewing machines?

I scrapbook, knit, crochet, even make origami... But I have never used a sewing machine. I recently decided I am going to learn to sew and in turn I can use the machine for scrapbooking projects etc. However, I have no idea what features I am looking for. There are so many different makes and models and features. Can someone just school me on the basics? I'd really appreciate it!

Public Comments

1. 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, if new was my choice: Janome (who also does Kenmore). If you get the BYU channel, look for Martha's Sewing Room. Martha Pullen often has a sewing/scrapbook segment. The machines used on that show are of the $3K+ variety, but it can give you an idea of what sort of effects are possible.
2. hi you could look on a site www.patternreview.com they review sewing machines. i love this site!!! also if you are mostly going to use it to scrap book a basic machine would be ok. also if you are just learning 2 great books are readers digest complete book of sewing and the dk complete ( photo ) guide to sewing ? i am not sure about the last ones title but it is by dk it is a white book with photos. they can also be found at your local library.
3. Today's machine have the same basic functions, and then as the goodies (usually referred to as "bells & whistles") are added, the price goes up. I found this blog very interesting and well researched (the screen jumps too much for me, so I printed, read and kept this for reference material) - http://www.evidently.org/2007/he-said/too-much-information/