Sewing machine recs for beginners?

Goldengate8361 · ‎01-27-2014

I want to learn to sew. What sewing machine or brand would you recommend for someone who is totally new to sewing? Which is easiest to use for beginners?

Big Sister · ‎05-15-2010

I would not buy one with a lot of bells and whistles, but would look for a basic machine, either Kenmore or Singer. Just a simple basic one that I began with and never had to upgrade to all the bells.

You might even look for one that is refurbished.

tansy · ‎01-02-2011

I would visit the various sewing machine or quilting stores to check out machines. Don’t go overboard until you are sure you enjoy sewing. You can always trade up.

StylishLady · ‎03-11-2010

I'd take "tansy's" advice. Jo-Ann Fabrics or places like that will probably have sewing classes for beginners and steer you to a new user friendly machine.

Kachina624 · ‎03-10-2010

For close to fifty years, Ive used a sturdy Singer that does nothing fancy but zigzag. I made my tailored work wardrobe, huge drapery panels, childrens clothes, decorative pillows, even a vinyl canopy for a boat. Never wanted or needed anything fancier. Same machine still going strong today.

New Mexico☀️Land Of Enchantment

GCR18 · ‎07-03-2013

I have a no frills Singer. I haven't used it in ages, but it sewed straight lines and that was good enough for me.

Scooby Doo · ‎03-14-2010

I'd look in the classified ads and find a used machine to start out. People have them sitting in storage and want to get rid of them. They're usually good machines, owners just lost interest. I started out with a Singer, then I bought a Brother from Costco at a very good price. I prefer the Brother. It was around $130. I now have a $2K machine, but I still like the Brother. If you go to Joann's and look around, you'll find some on sale. Or go to your local quilting or fabric store and try some out.

Janome is a good beginner's machine also. But remember that these new cheaper machines have lots of plastic parts. The old machines of the past were built much better and will last many years. If you lived around here, I have two good used ones I'd sell you

Lilysmom · ‎03-09-2010

@Scooby Doo, @Kachina624, over twenty years I started quilting. I bought a used Singer sewing machine. It was dated when I bought it. I don't sew much but use it to piece quilts. I thought about buying a new one but DH said the one I have is probably better made. No plastic anywhere. I am still using it. The only down side is that it is HEAVY! I bet my machine could tell stories.

@Kachina624, I am not much of a seamstress. Your skill amazes me. My grandmother was a tailor. She made men's suits. My mother used to tell me that her dream growing up was to have store bought clothes. LM