sewing machines

My husband depleted my entire PayPal account yesterday on an expensive chainsaw.  It's important to note here that he already has a chainsaw.  This is totally OK with me. Moving on to the reason I bring this up...

I am going to buy a new sewing machine.  Do I already have a sewing machine?  Yes (see above chainsaw purchase). Realistically, the cost of the sewing machine is not a factor (see above depletion of PayPal account).   Due to my thrifty nature, however, I want to spend only a reasonable amount on a good quality, dependable, modern machine.   

Based entirely on this post and her attitude about sewing being exactly like mine, I am considering replacing my Singer Touch & Sew model 600 with a Singer Touch & Sew 7462.   I would love to hear from any of the experienced sewers out there.  What machine would you recommend to a friend...a friend that needs to move quickly while the whole chainsaw purchase is still fresh?  

Comments

[miss chris]

I have that same Singer(7462). The plus side is that it has all metal parts, which you don't always find in this price range. I haven't had a problem with it yet, either. Good luck with your purchase!

[Suzy]

Hi Julie, how exciting, shopping for a new sewing machine! I currently own 4 machines. I have a Bernina, Baby Lock, Viking and Riccar. All of these are excellent makes, especially Viking and Bernina. For years my number one machine was an old, 70's vintage, Singer Touchtronic 2000. I loved that machine and I bought it at an estate sale for $50. It came with a fabulous cabinet, and I was making the purchase for the cabinet and the machine was just a bonus, but I ended up using that machine to death. Most of my machines are older. I am not familiar with that particular Singer that you mention, but the price tag makes me wary. Generally inexpensive machines($200 is about as cheap as they come) don't have much power. POWER is my #1 requirement for a sewing machine. I don't need fancy stitches or features. Just give me power, straight and zig zag and I'm good. So I advise a test drive and compare to higher end machines. Test drive something more expensive just to get a feel for the power and as a point of reference. Most sewing centers sell used, refurbished machines and that's were I would be looking too. The saying, "they don't make 'um like they used to" absolutely applies here. Hope this is helpful! xo, suzy

[Chris]

Hi Jane,
Have been a long time lurker & fan of your blog & your fabulous craft projects.I have only ever owned Husqvarna Viking sewing machines- I've had 4 over the years & only purchased as many just to upgrade. But I have found them to be a reliable good little sewing machine.But we all have our favourites & I would just suggest you go with what you know & like, after all you have to live with it.
Happy sewing
Chris

[maddie]

Hi Julie,

I don't know your price range but I have never been unhappy with any of my Bernina machines but it's all in what you are wanting to sew.. and perhaps would you like to do a bit of mongraming? If so I have seen quite a few bargains out there.. do you have a good local shop that you can go to?.. Hope so!.. Good luck!

Maddie

[Angela]

Julie,
I've owned Singers, Pfaffs, Berninas, and Babylock machines and know that it's all a matter of preference. I'd suggest buying a used machine from a reputable dealer like Jackman's. They've got Babylocks and Berninas. You'll get a good deal on a display machine. You can get a higher end machine at a goo price.

[Marianna]

Hello,

I have a Janome 6500 that I have been very happy with. I purchased it used from another quilter, because the price of a brand new one was a bit too steep for my pocket. I also recommend like the previous post to purchase the best machine that you can afford. Demo, or used machines from a sewing dealer, or ask around at your local quilt store if anyone is selling their machine if you don't mind used.

In addition I recommend making a list of your needs then finding a machine that fits them. Any of the higher end brands are excellent machines, your needs should determine the one you buy.

Good luck :)

[Sarah]

Somehow sewing machines seem to be a very personal preference, don't they?

I had a singer that I absolutely despised, and I would never buy one again. (Martha Stewart endorsement or not.) It constantly had thread tension issues and was just not enough machine for me.

I would love to be able to afford a Bernina, but even the low range/used ones around here were in the $1200 range, and that's just way more than I can spend.

I ended up with a Huskystar C20, which I pretty much love. My only complaint is that either the local dealer is REALLY slow to order parts or Husqvarna is REALLY slow to ship parts. I can't quite seem to work out which is the problem though b/c the local dealer is pretty incompetent. LOL

Anyway, 2 years ago it was in the $300 range, and clearly I can make anything I want with it, from paper crafts to quilts.

[Cherry Tree Lane]

hi there!
I have both a SINGER and a BERNINA 525S. I LOVE my Bernina. I have used several different styles and types in sewing classes and have enjoyed each one. They are smooth and have wonderful features. I was able to get a used one for 725 at my local sew/vac store. Good luck!

[catherine]

started with a singer...ended with a Bernina.......I'll never go back.
it will be worth every nickel spent....trust me, you'll have it for YEARS.
plus, think of all of the cute stuff you could be whipping up....better run while that chainsaw's still fresh! ;)
xoxo
c.

[claudia]

Wow, lots of great suggestions and I would agree with the recs. you've received so far!

A word of caution, make sure the bobbin hook is metal and NOT PLASTIC! This will save you lots of headaches!

I've been teaching basic sewing lessons in Denver at a hip craft store and the machines we use are Janome, Sewist Series 525S. We have used them since January of this year and so far have only needed to have 1 of 4 serviced (that was in September!). I am very impressed with the stitch quality and power! They have held up well and, in my opinion, are a great machine for the price (around $250). I highly recommend this machine to my students (and to you) because the investment is not as steep as other Janome machines or other big name machines and this machine can last you a long time without the need to upgrade anytime soon. Your thrifty nature would appreciate the price and performance of the Janome Sewist 525S, I'm certain!
http://janome.com/index.cfm/Machines/Value/525S#Machines_Overview

FYI-I just purchased a Bernina at the beginning of this year and really am enjoying it! I just wish the presser feet were universal and not so expensive!