With so many machines out there, one question many beginners have is “What sewing machine is best for me?”
Whether you are a beginner, or a veteran in sewing, you have asked this question at one time or the other. Choosing a sewing machine can be a daunting task, but with this guide, I am hoping to make the process an easy and stress-free one for you.
A very important starting point is to identify the main reasons you need a sewing machine. In other words, what do you need to get done with a sewing machine? It is also important to decide what your budget is for a sewing machine. If you can clearly answer these questions, it will guide you in choosing the best sewing machine for you.
Before you go shopping for that sewing machine, ask yourself these questions. These can help you identify your basic needs, and help you reach a decision:
- Are you just starting to sew, or do you already know how to sew?
- Have you used a sewing machine before and are you comfortable using one?
- Do you see yourself doing more with a sewing machine in the future, or are you just interested in the basics (like just knowing how to do straight stitches)
- Is this an asset you want to hold on to for long, or just looking for something in the interim?
- What are you able to afford, and willing to pay for a sewing machine?
Answering these will help you determine what sewing machine works best for your situation.
Should You Buy Used or New: Sewing Machine?
This is a tricky question and must be handled with utmost care, and reasoning. For your peace of mind, I personally would advise you go for a brand new machine. That is not to say you can’t find good used machines, but since you really can’t vouch for what the used machines have been through, and usually they may not come with a warranty, I would choose a new one instead.
Getting a new machine is less of a risk, and gives you some peace of mind. In addition, even if you don’t buy additional warranty, your new machine will have manufacturers warranty.
What Type of Sewing Machine to Buy
As a beginner, you don’t need any complicated sewing machine. Get one that can perform the basic functions you need to do as a beginner. Most machines will come with some different stitches/patterns, but keep in mind that you don’t need a whole lot of stitches/patterns to get started. A basic sewing machine will wind your bobbin, do the basic straight stitching and reversing (back) stitches.
Some machines have front-loading bobbin compartments, meaning you load the bobbin from the front, and some have drop-in compartments. Although the drop-in compartments may be easy to use, but either one of these will work and are not too complicated once you get the hang of it. Be sure to always keep your sewing machine manual handy, and refer to it from tome to time as this will serve as a great resource over time.
Check Reviews and Ratings Inline Before Buying a Sewing Machine
Also, make sure you read reviews online before you buy any sewing machine. Even if you decide to buy in the store, check the reviews online first. The more the reviews and ratings, the better it can be trusted. It s also good practice to check reviews on different retailer websites, and not just one.
You can watch the Video on this Beginner Sewing Machine too.
What is You Budget for A Sewing Machine?
How much can you afford for a sewing machine? This is an important factor to determine ahead of time. It helps you filter out machines outside of your budget and concentrate on the ones within your range.
In addition to getting your sewing machine, you should also consider putting together your sewing kit. Check my blog post on Beginner’s Sewing Kit. It will help guide you on what you need to get started.
Check out one my sewing machine reviews in this video:
