Is this an okay starter machine?

[KayleeZoo]

Basic Singer

Is this an okay beginner machine? I've never sewn before, and would like to learn. If it's not great, does anyone have any alternate ideas?

[SammyLucasNHarper]

Go to a local sew shop and ask. Singer is really touch and go...some of their machines are "ok" and others are just JUNK! If you go to a local sew shop and buy then they can give instructions on how to use it and teach you how to sew (might only be a straight line but, better than nothing!). It is a REALLY good idea to buy local. As for brands...if it were me I would suggest a bottom of the line Husqvarna (husky star as its called), Bottom of the line Bernina, or (last for a reason) Janome. I would really stay away from Singer unless you get it from a local dealer who really hand picks their singers. (IE picking the "ok" ones from the bad apples)

Good Luck!

[jyanla]

I learned sewing by myself on a similiar Singer (cost $85), by reading manual and lots of sewing books from library. After less than two years, I sold it on Ebay and upgrade to a much nicer one.

But if I do it again, I probably will just buy a second hand sewing machine in good condition. I see lots of sewing machine ads, for only $40-$50. But you'll need a friend that knows how to sew to help you choose though.

[AngelBee]

:

[underthebluerug]

I would really try to stay away from Singer, unless we're talking about one of the beautiful, solid old original models (black, metal antique). I learned on one of those. The current makers own the name, but produce very low quality machines, and there are some shady Singer dealers/service deals out there.

Kenmore (Sears) machines are good starters if you want to buy new. They'll let you try before you buy (with instruction), give you a couple of hours of free lessons, and include a servicing plan. I personally wouldn't buy a used Kenmore sight unseen though (such as on eBay), as they have often been run into the ground by heavy use and poor upkeep. The tension adjustment mechanism is the first thing to go on Kenmores that are mistreated or used heavily. (Every make will have some weak spot.) But like I said, it's a good starter machine.

Whatever you do, make sure you're buying a machine with (a) adjustable presser foot pressure, and (b) a built-in free arm. These aren't luxury extras, despite what some sellers may have you believe. They're necessities for learning to sew without tearing your hair out.

HTH!

[shalena]

I agree with the PP. The current singers are nothing to write home about.


You might want to try getting a used machine off of craigslist or out of the paper. Alot of times you'll find nice, almost new machines.

[fek&fuzz]

my first machine was a reconditioned Elnita. I bought it at a vacuum and sewing machine shop. The owner recommended buying a higher quality reconditioned machine instead of the same priced new, but lower quality model. He was right, that machine lasted me for years.
My machine now is a White, pretty basic but works for me.
You might find more selection at Sears, rather than the sewing store.

[KayleeZoo]

Wow, great responses- thank you SO much ladies!!!

I went ahead and bought the Singer (found someone who has the same model and said that it's a good learner machine) for $68. I figure that in a year or two, I can research and buy a really "good" machine. I sewed my first straight line yesterday I'm so excited- finally, at 32, I want to learn to sew, and it's FUN!! Oh, and it has a built in free arm and adjustable foot. Thanks for the tips!!!

[merpk]

Am agreeing with your choice, Kaylee. Also got a Singer a few weeks ago, bought a reconditioned one on eBay, and it's doing a fine job for what I need it to do ... help me learn the basics of sewing and getting comfortable with a machine, and didn't cost me an arm and a leg just in case I don't absolutely love sewing.


I tried all kinds of researching new machines and found it way too intimidating and overwhelming, and found that a cheap-o Singer did the trick. Have not made anything major beyond a fabric cover for the machine but have done a lot of repairs, hemmed all sorts of pants, jeans, all that ... and it's working fine.


Am enjoying it massively. And hoping to upgrade in a year or two ... so will save the previous posts in this thread so I'll know what to look for.