Sew intro - Sewing machine 101
Now before you purchase a sewing machine, you need to research what's best for you.
You have three options.
Option 1 - Not sewing every month?
Then see if you can rent or get a handheld sewing machine.
Sometimes hand sewing alone can mend and make most things, for which you don't really need a sewing machine.
See Here video review of the handheld machine.
Option 2 - Small budget?
Buying a second hand or getting a handy down machine, is good if you are a beginner and don't have enough funds to invest in a brand new sewing machine. It also helps you get used to operating a sewing machine.
My dad gave me this Antique sewing machine - Viking Husqvarna 19E Sewing Machine and it has helped in terms of sewing heavy-duty materials, such as Denim and leather. However, it only does straight and zig-zag stitches and it's very heavy to carry around. I do love it, as it has lasted well over a decade in my possession. However, as I already have a modern sewing machine this machine doesn't always get used.
Tip!
You need to use your sewing machine every month. Even if you do straight stitches, it's something to keep the motor going. In addition, clean the machine to prevent dust from coming inside and destroying the internals. THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT! Not cleaning or using your machine monthly can cause damage.
Negative with older machines, there is not much information online. The tools are often discontinued and you will have to find alternatives. If it's a known brand this would be easier to find, than with an unknown brand.
Also, you will need to find a local sewing machine to service the mechanism, in order for it to be well oiled up.
You can learn to do it yourself if you are experienced enough to work with machines. However, I don't recommend this for a beginner.
Option 3 - Want to invest in the future?
Sewing is a life skill that you can pass unto the next generation. Invest in a new machine, by visiting your local sewing shop and stick to your well-known brands, as there are more online user tutorials and troubleshooting information available.
I genuinely love my Singer limited edition sewing machine, which has lasted me for over 15 years. It's no longer available, as it's a limited edition. In addition, I only remember giving it twice to my local sewing machine shop, to service and it was due to not using the machine enough that dust came in and almost damaged the internals. From my experience, it’s best to use the sewing machine or else you might as well throw down money in the drain.
7 things to look out for when buying a sewing machine
1. Go for well know trusted brands that you can find reviews for. Brands that I trust and have worked with are Singer, Brother, Bernina, Janome and Husqvarna. There are more brands off course that are well recommended, but these are the ones well known in the sewing industry that I personally have worked with. The price in the United Kingdom can range from £199 and above to £2999. It really depends on what you will be using the sewing machine for. If you are an avid sewer and make clothing for a living, I would recommend a mechanical sewing machine. They are more durable than plastic ones.
2. Stitches to have and should be standard is straight stitch, zigzag stitch, button stitch, overlock stitch and reverse stitch.
3. Check what accessories can be purchased: twin needle, blind hem foot, zipper foot, invisible zipper foot, buttonhole foot etc.
4. Try out in a local sewing machine shop. Even if you don't purchase anything, try before you buy. You wouldn't purchase a car without driving it. The same goes for sewing machines.
5. Look into the reviews in regards to the noise level. If you have little children or live with people, it will cause a hindrance.
6. Check the weight of the machine, to ensure it's not too heavy for the surface you will be using. Mechanical machines are much heavier than plastic.
7. Last but not least, what is the warranty and repair cost. Look at what it will cost in a local machine shop or if the brand offers a repair service. Find out if there are online videos regarding the sewing machine for you to learn to set up and fix the machine by yourself. Research the most common problems for that particular sewing machine and how others have resolved them.
Are you a novice that doesn't know how to hand sew?
Are you a beginner that only knows how to hand sew?
Are you proficient that knows to operate a sewing machine?
Are you experienced that knows how to read patterns?
Then Semsah Help Create is for you!
A 4 steps program to help you perfect your design and sewing skills in order to create your garment fit for sale.