Used Sewing Machine: What should I look for (learning to sew)?

[Limabean1975]

AS the title says! I'll be looking on my local kijiji (similar to Craigslist). I'm essentially brand-new to sewing. I want to get a machine, start experimenting/ attempting to teach myself with books and websites, and maybe take a little beginner class. But I have no idea what to look for - newer? older? computerized? not computerized? Multiple stitch types or really basic? Good brands? There seems to be lots available and it looks like I could pick something up for as little as $20, but I'm not sure what that would be. I don't want to spend more than $50 or so while I learn and see if I stick with it or not.

Thanks for any advice! If anyone is really interested in helping me choose, PM me and I can show you my local kijiji. But I know that's alot to ask!

[Masel]

I used an older machine I got at a rummage sale for years. I only gave it up when I could no longer find anyone who could service it adequately. Once cool thing about it was that it weighted a ton which meant metal gears. Considering I made a couple of canvas tents with it that was a good thing. It wasn't great at doing edging on delicate fabrics however.

You'll want to be able to test that it works. A machine that comes with a manual would be great but you can find some operating instruction online. Budget some money to have it cleaned and serviced. In my experience the local fabric stores either have a contract with someone who services machines or can give you a name.

I wouldn't go so basic as to just have a straight stitch. Forward, backward and zigzag are what I use the most. I guess it depends what you want to do. I mostly make costumes and and some household stuff like curtains.

[Limabean1975]

Thanks Masel. I'm not even sure what I want to do! I just really want to learn to sew, probably starting with super simple things like cushion covers or plain curtains, then who knows...skirts...dresses...kid clothes....

[_ktg_]

Lima - thanks for starting this! I just came into possession of a very heavy, old Riccar 3400 - someone was tossing it, and it looked to be in great condition. I just invested a bit to get a new bobbin case and I'm hoping this will be a great machine to do some simple sewing - or really to learn how to sew since I flunked home ec oh so long ago

[Limabean1975]

Originally Posted by _ktg_

Lima - thanks for starting this! I just came into possession of a very heavy, old Riccar 3400 - someone was tossing it, and it looked to be in great condition. I just invested a bit to get a new bobbin case and I'm hoping this will be a great machine to do some simple sewing - or really to learn how to sew since I flunked home ec oh so long ago

My mom did my grade 7 home ec sewing projects for me. So I didn't learn to sew, but I did learn that that is no way for a child to learn anything!

[Limabean1975]

[emmalala]

Hi there, I would love some tips on buying a machine!

I have a Singer from the 80s but DD is asking for her own machine... A friend of hers has a Hello Kitty one which I assume is junk, but how can I tell? What should I look for?

Is it true that brand names are not helpful, that each mfg has some junky ones?

And does "great for beginner" mean "you will be frustrated if you sew more than 3 straight seams"

I mostly make curtains, mittens, costumes, skirts. My mother was good but I am just not meticulous enough to do complex things.

Thank you!!