What to look for in a sewing machine

What to Look for in a Sewing Machine

1. Assess your needs and desires, both current and future. Do you just want to hem an occasional set of pants or mend a torn pillow case? Do you regularly sew for fun, fashion, or to make that item you just can't find in the store? Are you a serious hobbiest, crafter or quilter? Would you like to do automated embroidery and create your on patterns on a computer? What capabilities will you need to perform these tasks? Would a serger make sense? Think about what you would like to do and select a machine with the right capabilities for the job. Having the right tool can make the differnce between an enjoyable adventure and a frustrating nightmare. Consult a sewing machine professional to help match your needs to a machine.

2. What material will you be sewing: leather, denim, fleece, canvas, chiffon, taffeta, or satin? If you want to sew a "difficult" material, test it out in the store before buying a machine.

3. How well does the machine fit your style of working. Just as there is not one car that is the "best for everyone", the same can be said for sewing machines. Are the layout and controls on the machine intuitive and comfortable to use? Is it too basic or too complex for your sewing needs? Machine design varies between brands and between machines. Try out different machines to find one that fits your working style. Remember: bigger is not always better and what works well for your friend, may not work well for you.

4. Quality. Does the machine have machined (crafted from a solid piece of metal) or poured (poured into a mold) parts. Machined parts are more precise and stronger. Does the machine have plastic mechanical parts? Many lower-quality machines are made with flimsy plastic parts that will not withstand wear for an extended period (designed obsolescence). How does the machine feel when you sew on it? Is it smooth and quiet or jerky and imprecise? An experienced sewing machine technician can be very helpful in determining the quality and reliability of a machine. Warning: do not equate high price or brand names that were good a decade or more ago with quality; sewing machines and the companies whose names are on them have changed radically over the years.

5. Training. Your new machine can be frustrating and key features may not be used if you don't have knowledgeable people to help you get started and answer your questions when you run into problems. Too many people get frustrated or work way too hard because they do not fully understand the features of a machine or how to properly use them.

6. Service. If the machine breaks or requires service, can you get it? Can you get local warranty work? Can your service center get parts? How long will you be without your machine if it breaks?

7. Total cost of ownership. How long will your machine last? How often will it need repair and how much will those repairs cost, both parts and labor? What is the warranty? Will you have to replace the machine, if it breaks (often the case with "bargain" machines). Will there be costs associated with not having your machine available or the machine not being capable of doing what you want it to? Will the machine sit unused because it is "too frustrating"?

In summary, if well maintained sewing machine will produce years of service and pleasure. Selecting a sewing machine that fits your needs and desires is an important choice. Take the time to honestly evaluate your needs and try out the machines to find your perfect match.