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Topic: Sewing Machine for Beginners

Topic: Sewing Machine for Beginners
Topic started by buddy29 on Jan. 31, 2010
Hello All,
I hv recently joined this group & would really appreciate some advice from the members on my query.
I hv always used my moms sewing machine (Singer) since I was a teenager. Now I want to buy one of my own, not sure where to look & how to start.
I am looking for a sewing machine which would serve my basic sewing needs and also allow me try my hand in slightly advanced techniques like embroidery, etc.
Plz suggest which sewing machine would help me quench my creative thirst ... ;-)
    • posted by JennyKerr on Feb. 2, 2010Flag as inappropriate Inappropriate
    • Hi buddy29 ,
      There are so many differnt types of machines and very one has the preference.
      First  thing I woud look for is a store that offers free classes to help you with your machine.
      Next keep your eye on the price and what you read need. Some shops will steer you to a machine you don't really need and a high price. (I have fall into this trap once and I have been sewing for 30 years) Do not buy on the spot. take all the information and flyer home and do some home work. you can also look the information up on the internet. You could even start looking on the net before you go to the shops, to be foreamed. There are so many great fandagles on machine but stop and think "would I really use all off these in the next 2 years. if not do buy. Are hearts will let us run away with thing but listern to your head and your pocket. Hope this helps a little.
      Kind regards Jenny
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    • posted by Spotlight on Feb. 2, 2010Flag as inappropriate Inappropriate
    • Hi buddy29! I went straight to the sewing machine buyer here at Spotlight Support Group and she's put together some advice to take on board as well as some recommendations.

      Firstly you might like to make a list of what you're looking for out of a sewing machine - what will you use it for? Do you need to quilt through many layers of fabric or will you be sewing denim/other thick fabric? Then you'll want a machine that can do heavy duty sewing. If you'll be doing some quilting you might like to look at machines with a long "throat" (this is the area between the needle and the part of the machine with the dials/settings on it). If you're sewing curtains or furnishings you might want a machine with a fast sewing speed as that's a lot of material you'll be hemming in one long straight line! Do you like fancy stitches? Some machines come with a whole lot of them, some only come with the basics. As JennyKerr said - try and think "will I really use all of these?". Fancy stitches are fun, but unless you can think of a few ways/projects you'd use them on, then maybe you don't need a machine with 50 different stitches!
      Don't forget that all Spotlight stores that stock machines have helpful staff who are happy to talk you through all the pros and cons of each machine and don't forget to ask to try one out before you buy! You want to buy a machine you feel comfortable using.
      Some recommendations:

      Brother NS-30
      The NS-30 is about functionality - if sewing is already a keen hobby for you, or you simply want more features, then the NS-30 offers fantastic versatility. The electronic 'jog dial' provides finger tip control to choose from 70 different stitches, including 7 buttonholes. The LCD screen allows you to see at a glance information about the stitch you have chosen, and the electronically controlled functions allow you to adjust the stitch sizes in a much more precise and simple way.

      Elna 3230
      A great little machine for beginners looking to stretch their legs and try some more advanced sewing. With 25 stitches to choose from, it also includes a one-step button hole, meaning creating buttoned garments has never been easier. You can manually adjust the speed from slow to fast, keeping the machine working at a pace you feel comfortable with. And with auto tension, there's no
      adjustment to be made.


      We hope this helps! If you have any more questions, don't hesitate to ask.

      ~The Spotlight Team
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