Beginner Machine

[croleRN]

I'm looking for recommendations for a good beginner sewing machine. I'm looking to to do basic stuff, slings, mending, maybe some curtains, etc. Nothing too fancy.

I am not opposed to used machines - if worth it.

Thanks!

[fallriverfox]

I have a bernina and it's pretty easy to use. They also seem to be very reliable (my mother used her first one for 30 yrs, and I'm up to 7yrs) so you may be able to find a good used one.

[eepster]

I noticed you mention sewing sling. I've sewn 3 slings and though you don't need the machine to do fancy stitches it isn't easy on the machine. When you sew the rings to the pleated shoulder it needs to go through several layers of durable fabric using upholstry weight thread. If slings are high on your priority list you will need a pretty heavy duty machine.

[luellamaeve]

Out of all the machines I have used and have currently the machine-brand- I swear by is Janome. From their portable five pounder to my $8000 do it all, their machines will always please.
I buy sewing machines for friends that live out of the country and don't want to pay outrageous shipping charges. I purchased this one last month and the girl loves it! Out of their 'cheap' models I bought my boyfriend(last year) this one and he has said, "If I knew using a machine was this easy I would have never asked you to sew my pants" I personnaly love the "Memory Craft" line, because it is computerized and, well, they're just fabulous machines!
Good luck and I hope my raving didn't get to you.:

[croleRN]

Thanks for the input!! Eepster, you mentioned requirements for slings...what would you consider a heavy duty machine? What is NEEDED and what is very HELPFUL?
Thank You!!!

[northcountrymamma]

I agree that for ring slings you would need a heavy duty machine...like a Viking, but for pouch slings, any machine should work.

[sabrinat]

If you want a basic beginner machine, how about getting a vintage machine. Maybe a Kenmore or singer from the 50-60's. It'll do a nice straight stitch or zz and they are readily available for under $50 at thrift stores. I love vintage machines so much that I have 6 of them. The most expensive one cost me about $45 and the least expensive was $8 and came in a nifty blond cabinet that I use almost daily. Even if it needs a bit of TLC any good sewing machine mechanic should be able to service it for you without much difficulty. You will probably end up with a much better machine, all metal that gives you a truer stitch and will help you decide if you really like sewing before you throw down the big bucks

[eepster]

I have been wishing for an old machine with a foot pedal. The only way I can get my kenmore to sew through all those layers is to turn the knob by hand. I suspect any vintage machine made before 1970 would work but I can't convince my husband to give one house room (I don't want to give up my fun stiches.)

Slings are all straight stitches so if it's what you want to make most I would recomend an older machine that doesn't have bells and whistles.