Choosing the Best Sewing Machine for You
Are you in the market for a new sewing machine? Whether you’re replacing an old one, buying your first, or adding to a collection, you’ll want to make certain that you’re purchasing the best sewing machine for you. To do so, go into the purchase with some key tips in mind.
Ultimately, choosing the best sewing machine shouldn’t be too difficult, especially if you’re experienced at sewing and know what you want. Here at Sewing-N-More, we’re confident that our tips for picking a sewing machine will help you find the one you’re looking for. Whether you need a budget-friendly option or a fancy professional sewing machine, our guide can lead you to the right buy.
Tip One: Set Your Budget
Before you go about choosing a new sewing machine, you’ll need to have your budget in mind. If you don’t have a solid number in your head, you’re likely to spend big. Believe us—we know the temptation. You might be afraid to set a budget because you don’t want to put quality machines out of your reach, but don’t worry too much—quality sewing machines come in all price ranges.
Tip Two: Don’t Get Duped by Bells and Whistles
Those who don’t sew might think a sewing machine is just a sewing machine—end of story. But the truth is that sewing machines can have as many fun and fancy features as any other product, with luxury models often sporting the most for your money. The problem is that it’s easy—especially when picking a sewing machine—to mistake lots of features for quality. In some cases, quality machines may offer more features, but otherwise those bells and whistles are sometimes an excuse to drive up the price of an otherwise unremarkable machine.
Tip Three: Don’t Disregard Used Machines
We don’t suggest jumping on Craigslist to find the best used sewing machine for you but make no mistake—used sewing machines can be really wonderful. Many sewing machine retailers will purchase used machines and fix them up, good as new, but without the shiny new price tag you’ll get when buying a brand-new sewing machine at retail price. If you’re on a budget, a used sewing machine could be the best way to acquire the quality sewing machine you’re looking for.
Tip Four: Know the Type of Stitches You Want
Your basic sewing machine will be able to create two stitches—a straight stitch and a zig-zag stitch. If these are the only types of sewing stitches you generally use, you’ll be able to sew pretty much anything. If you’re more of a newbie to sewing, the basic stitches should be all you’ll need—at least until it’s time to upgrade! If you’re experienced at sewing, however, you might need to find a sewing machine with the ability to make additional types of stitches—both those you already use and those you’re itching to try.
Tip Five: Brainstorm Future Sewing Projects
There’s no way to know every possible project you’ll create using your new sewing machine, especially before you purchase it. It’s important to have a good idea of the types of sewing projects that interest you before you make your purchase. Different types of projects require different types of fabrics, stitches, threads, needles, etc. This means that different sewing machines will be better suited to certain types of sewing crafts than others. As you look at machines, check to see if they’re made for the projects you have in mind—such as mending, home decor, garments, and embroidery. Be sure to ask questions while you’re shopping in order to find the best sewing machine suited for your projects.
Tip Six: Consider Usage of your Sewing Machine
Chances are that if you’re giving this much consideration to purchasing the right sewing machine, you’ll use it pretty often. This means you’ll certainly want a more durable machine, as they tend to last much longer. Those marketed as professional sewing machines are generally more durable than ones designed for regular craft use, and heavier machines tend to be more durable than lighter ones in general, as the weight indicates it contains more metal parts than plastic ones.
Tip Seven: Decide Which Non-Standard Options Matter to You
If you’re just getting started with sewing, you won’t yet know which non-standard options you’ll need, so we suggest getting a basic machine to learn on. If you already know what you like and don’t like, be sure to come up with a list of sewing machine options that are must-haves for you. These can include lighting, speed control, the design of the thread cutter, free arm, and more. Of course, the more non-standard options you want, the more you can expect to pay for your new sewing machine.
Tip Eight: Purchase Your Sewing Machine from a Reputable Retailer
Even though online shopping has revolutionized the way business works and there are literally thousands of sewing machines to choose from online, we don’t suggest purchasing them from just any retailer. Sewing machines are a highly specialized item. Stick to retailers that have a special focus on sewing machines in order to get the best product and the most knowledgeable service.
Be sure to take some time to visit us at Sewing-n-More. We offer a wide selection of sewing supplies, including high-quality sewing machines. We’re confident you’ll find the right machine when shopping with us, as superior quality and service are something we specialize in.