A sewing machine is probably the largest investment you will make in any of your sewing tools. Making an informed decision will allow you to buy a machine to meet your needs and save you hours of frustration. Sewing is fun when the machine works with you to create anything you want.
Know Your Spending Limits
- Sewing machines can be found for less than one hundred dollars to over eight thousand dollars.
- It’s very easy to be convinced you will use everything and end up in debt, regretting your decision.
- Carefully think about how much you are honestly going to use the machine and adjust your spending accordingly.
- Keep in mind that a bargain is not always a bargain. A machine that is not designed for how and what you want to sew, can lead to hours of frustration.
Get to Know the Dealer - Before You Spend Your Money
- Online or locally, learn about a machine dealer before you spend your money.
- Take classes that are publicly offered.
- Ask for other’s experiences on the forum.
- Subscribe to newsletters for the best deal and to learn the communication level of a dealer.
- Know the shipping costs before you place an order.
- Know the return policy.
- Have an address and phone number to verify that it is a real company.
Advantages of Having a Local Sewing Machine Dealer
- Help is a phone call away and they have direct support from the machine's manufacturer.
- Most have their own repair department, which avoids extended repair time.
- Classes usually offered with your purchase, give you the opportunity to learn everything your machine has to offer and learn about optional equipment that may expand your capabilities.
- Most know the local sewing community so you can meet others to share interests and knowledge.
- Many will take the machines they sell as trade-ins giving you the opportunity to upgrade your machine when you can afford better options.
- They are aware improvements and recalls.
What to Bring and Test on a Sewing Machine
- Write a list of the kind of sewing you do so the dealer can help you find a machine that is suitable to your needs.
- Analyze which type of fabrics you would use the most and take samples or scraps with you.
- Test basic sewing techniques that you use on the machine you are considering. Make up sample facings, collars, multiple layers to topstitch or what ever you sew before you go to the dealership.
- Even if you aren't planning on sewing buttonholes, test them on the machine you are considering purchasing. Look for even balanced stitching no matter what direction the machine is sewing.
What if You Have Never Sewn Before
- Learn everything you can about a sewing machine.
- Learn the names of the sewing machine parts and have a general knowledge of what the parts do.
- Visit the machine company websites to learn what kinds of machines each one offers.
- Buy remnants of the fabrics that interest you and take them with you to the machine dealer.
- Look for basic seam guides that are built into the machine and watch those guides, not the machine needle, when you test drive the machines.
