Sewing Machine Consumer Guide - Buying a Sewing Machine

WHAT IS THE BEST BRAND OF SEWING MACHINE?

I wish there were an obvious winner for best sewing machine brand. Many machines have similar feature sets and history of reliability. Your objective is to select a machine that works well for your particular needs. Depending on your sewing level and the projects you undertake, the best brand for one sewer may not be the best brand for you.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MOST COMMON FEATURES IN A SEWING MACHINE?

Like automobiles, most sewing machines come equipped with "standard features" that make look a little different, but work very similarly. Standard features that you should look for include (in no particular order):

• Variety of stitch patterns - Regardless of your use, even a basic machine should be able to offer some variety of basic built-in stitches, such as straight, zigzag, edging, and basting stitches.
• Automatic buttonhole - Some of the more basic models don't have this feature, but most of the mid-range models offer some form of automatic buttonhole maker.
• Easy load bobbin - Drop-In bobbins allow you to clearly monitor thread use, and some electronic machines will alert you when you are nearly out of bobbin thread.
• Automatic needle threader - This is a godsend for anyone who has eyes over 40 years of age, or trouble threading a needle (I speak from experience).
• Automatic tension - These days, most manufacturers claim that their machines have an automatic tension, however, don't completely rely on this feature. More likely than not, you'll still have to manually adjust the tension from time to time depending on the job at hand.
• Drop feed and needle up/down - The ability to easily drop the feed dogs in your machine and change the needle position is particularly crucial if you are planning on doing a lot a free motion quilting. This feature is commonly available.
• Presser feet - In addition to the General Purpose presser foot, you'll want to consider machine models that include several presser feet as part of the sewing machine purchase. Specialty presser feet include: Blindstitch Hem Foot, Buttonhole Foot, Embroidery & Darning Foot, Zipper Foot, Walking Foot, and Quilting Foot and Bar. It is possible to purchase specialty presser feet separately - I once bought a generic walking foot for my basic $79 Brother machine. In hindsight, it would have been more practical to spend a bit more and purchase a machine that had the walking and quilting foots included.

HOW DO I KNOW WHICH FEATURES I NEED?

When you are comparing the features of competing sewing machine models, think about what type of sewing you are likely to be doing. For example, think about the quality of fabrics that you tend to work with. Some sewing machines will glide through cotton calico, sheer organza, and even vinyl, but won't pierce a stitch on leather, heavy denim or fur-lined suede.

• Basic sewing and mending - If you plan to do a lot of mending of zippers or hems, look closely at those features that will help you most with those tasks. Make sure the machine is equipped to handle zippers, buttons, and darning.
• Apparel, costume and fashion - If you dream of becoming the next designer on Project Runway and apparel is your forte, you might be most interested in a machine with an adjustable platform, a variety of stretch stitches for knits and lightweight fabrics, automatic buttonhole, and specialty options for zippers, darning, ruffling, gathering, blind hems, and special seaming. You may wish to invest in a sewing/serger combo or even an industrial-level machine.
• Home decorating and quilting - If you have visions of pillows, draperies, and table skirts dancing in your head, focus on machines that will allow you to make the most of embellishments, trim, and even embroidery. If you are a quilter, consider machines that have a wide platform to support quilt projects, a quarter-inch presser foot or seam allowance guide, and a variety of quilting stitches. There are some quilters who only use old-fashioned treadle machines because they want to duplicate the look of antique quilts. In this case, the only real feature is the vintage appeal.
• Crafting - Unless you are a bona fide textile artist, you'll find all the features you need for crafting on even the lowest priced models of machines. You may even want to try out some of the compact, handheld, and As Seen on TV models.
• Business use - There are many talented sewers who are looking to start a business with their new machine. If this is how you plan to use your sewing machine, it is crucial that you find one that is sturdy and is specifically designed to be a workhorse. For example, you are not going to want to start an embroidery business with an entry-level embroidery machine that can only load one color spool at a time, or is prone to breaking down if worked too hard. If you don't get the features you need up-front, you're going to have a tough time of it trying to hold a business together with a sewing machine that's not up to the task you have in mind.

SHOULD I BUY A COMPUTERIZED OR MECHANICAL SEWING MACHINE?

Again, your personal needs and budget will dictate which type of sewing machine to purchase. In my case, I started with the basics and purchased more feature-rich machines as my skill level increased. If you are already a proficient sewer, you would likely bypass the basic models and go straight for the features that more advanced sewers require.

Are you computer-averse, or do you enjoy technology and all the nifty things it can do? Think realistically about your comfort zone. It will do you no good to buy a bare-bones machine if you're itching to automate your sewing tasks, nor will you want a fancy electronic model that frustrates you because it has too many buttons or complicated commands. Concentrate on middle-of-the-road models that provide some computerized functions, but doesn't require an IT degree to operate.

If one feature or stitch is really important to you, then let that be a non-negotiable in your purchase. In hindsight, I wish I had a larger assortment of quilting stitches. If I were to do things all over again, I would spend an extra hundred dollars on the front end to get those features.

I'VE NARROWED DOWN MY CHOICES. WHERE CAN I GET PERFORMANCE-RELATED INFORMATION FROM ACTUAL USERS?

It's easier than ever to get detailed information about sewing machines before you plunk down your hard earned money. Keep in mind, however, that although there are a limited number of sewing machine manufacturers, the model numbers of those machines are constantly changing and growing. You may find hundreds of reviews for a Singer machine, but only a handful may be for a specific model that you have your eye on. With that caveat in mind, here are some places to get more detailed information:

• Internet sewing forums - These forums are worth their weight in solid gold thread. Find out how fellow sewers use their machines, what they like and dislike about them, and what they wished they had known before they purchased them. Spend a little time lurking around forums and reading messages, particularly if you have a couple of machines in mind as possibilities. Shortly, you'll begin to see which brands have the best reputations among the people that actually use them on a day-to-day basis. You'll also quickly discover which items are lemons and make sense to avoid.

Don't be afraid to register on the site and post messages asking any questions you might have. For example, I was having trouble with needles breaking on my new embroidery machine and I got excellent advice on how to fix the issue at SewForum.com from users who'd encountered and solved the problem. Also try the web forum of Threads magazine at Threads.com.

• Local resiyrces - Even though we have the ability to do most things by computer, never underestimate the value of face-to-face, word-of-mouth recommendations. Ask sewing machine dealers, fellow quilt guild members, sewing grandmas and aunties, local seamstresses and tailors, sewing classmates, fellow customers at the fabric store, or anyone you know who you think may have a good recommendation. Visit a local sewing shop and register to take classes, and ask dealers to allow you to try out some of the machines.

• Review websites - Search the Internet for information about sewing machines. At Viewpoints, for example, there is a constantly evolving list of real people sharing real experiences with their machines. 

Sewing Machine Reviews

Reviews- Singer Sewing Machines

Reviews- Brother Sewing Machines

Reviews- Janome Sewing Machines

Reviews- Simplicity Sewing Machines

• Sewing machine manufacturer websites - Most sewing machine manufacturers have Web sites, and these sites offer detailed information about current models, features, and pricing. Some of the manufacturer's websites also provide free projects, design ideas, and other freebies. Check out the owner's manual of the machine you are considering. You may find out that certain functions are easier - or harder - to execute than they appear in the product description. You may also discover that you can't make heads or tails out of the instructions, and you might want to avoid that product altogether.

Major sewing machine manufacturers include: Kenmore, Pfaff, Elna, Husqvarna Viking, Janome, Brother, Bernina, White, and Babylock. The Singer Sewing Machine Recommendation feature lets you enter your skill level (basic, proficient, expert), a major feature (easy to learn, portable, affordable, etc)., and what type of sewing you want to do (mending, crafts, fashion). Based on your answers, the site will then recommend models that best fit your needs.

HOW MUCH SHOULD I SPEND ON MY SEWING MACHINE?

This question is typically a variation of the universal question: Are more expensive models better than cheaper ones? To some degree, a better made machine or one with fancy features is going to cost more than a basic version. However, if you determine a basic version is all that you require, you have to ask yourself do you really want to spend a lot of money on a basic machine. Don't buy something with lots of pricey bells and whistles that you aren't going to use. On the other hand, don't buy a bargain-priced model that is so cheaply made it is prone to breaking down or will create hours of frustration.

• Negotiate. Sometimes, your sewing solution may come in the form of a used or reconditioned machine at a local dealer. If you do go this route, try to get a limited warranty in case you encounter mechanical problems later. Dealers often list their store price in addition to the manufacturer's suggested retail price. Shop around, and see if you can negotiate a better deal. Ask for extras such as thread, specialty feet, or embroidery cards
• Additional costs. When considering your budget, don't forget to factor in the prices of accessory items and add-ons. For example, embroidery machines are of little use without specialty thread and stabilizers. You may need a larger hoop, and unless you are only planning to use the images that come with the embroidery machine, you'll need to purchase additional cartridges. For example, because I wanted the ability to download images to a card, the PED Basic software set me back $100, in addition to the images that I purchase and download from the Internet. If I get adventurous and decide to create my own images to embroider, I'll have to invest in digitizing software which is not cheap.
• Secondhand options. If you come across a great machine on Craig's List, your local classifieds, or the neighborhood thrift shop, it's a coin toss as to whether or not you should buy. A bargain is only a bargain if it works as advertised and doesn't cost you more in repair bills. This is usually a gut decision, because you're often not able to give it a thorough try out before you purchase. Some folks have found real gems at estate sales and thrift shops, and others have had their "bargains" conk out soon after purchase. In the case of used machines with no warranty, the old adage applies - Buyer Beware.

WHERE SHOULD I SHOP FOR A SEWING MACHINE? IS IT OKAY TO BUY ONLINE?

The obvious advantage to purchasing your machine locally is that you can test drive it before you buy it. Often, competing models may have the same feature sets, but feel completely different to you and your personal work style. You can't tell by reading a product description if you'll like the method of threading the machine, or if it's too noisy for your comfort, or if you think the motor is sluggish. Another advantage in buying locally is that you can take sample fabrics with you to the store, and have an opportunity to see how the sewing machine in question handles the kind of projects you're likely to have.

Just like car dealerships, sewing machine dealers are often the first to know about problems and recalls, and they may offer trade-ins when you're ready to upgrade to a swanky new machine. If your machine needs maintenance or repair work, you'll always know who to turn to for help. Also check out local JoAnn Fabrics stores for in-store classes and purchase options.

Some people try out machines locally, but then make the purchase online if they find a better deal. If you do decide to buy online make sure you read the fine print. Know how much your TOTAL cost is going to be including shipping and handling. Is the machine under warranty (for how long?) and where do you go for repairs and service?

Become well versed in the return policy. How are returns handled if the product turns out to be defective or if you just don't want it? Are you responsible for return shipping charges (which can be quite costly for a heavyweight item)? What about a restocking fee? Will you receive a cash refund or a merchandise credit? Will the refund include the entire amount you spent for shipping, or just the amount of the sewing machine itself.

WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SEWING MACHINE MAINTENANCE BEFORE I BUY?

Lint, dust, and pet hair seem perpetually attracted to the inside of your sewing machine. These unwanted inhabitants often cause problems in the sewing machine mechanisms and circuit boards of electronic machines.

To protect your investment, plan to keep your machine covered when not in use. Most machines come with either a soft or hard cover, but some of the cheaper models don't come with anything. When I bought my basic Brother, my very first project was to create a quilted sewing machine cover for it.

Remember that whatever machine you buy, you're going to have to maintain. Many serious sewers make it a habit to remove and discard the machine needle after every project. Take out the throat plate, bobbin and case, and clean under the feed dogs with a small brush. Those little compressed air sprays that are used to clean electronics are perfect blowing out lint from the bobbin case (Resist the urge to use your breath to blow away the dust - your breath contains moisture which can be harmful to components.)

Finally, read through your sewing machine manual and follow the instructions on maintaining your sewing machine in peak performance.

SUMMARY

The main point of this guide cannot be stressed enough - there is no one best brand of sewing machine for any one user. Buy the best model that you can afford, with the features that are most important to you. Do plenty of research both locally and on the Internet, and ask lots of questions of experienced stitchers. Before you buy, whether online or in a store, make sure you fully understand the warranty, return policy, and service options. Finally, remember that preventative maintenance will keep your new purchase in good running order.

Happy Sewing!