These days, when you
decide you want to buy a sewing machine, there is a large range of
styles, models, and prices from which to choose and can be rather
confusing. However, if you know what to look for while you're buying,
it's a bit easier.
Of all the tools
you'll buy for your sewing room, the sewing machine is the largest
investment by far, so you'll want to make sure it is the right one
for you.
1) First, decide on
how you'll be utilizing your sewing machine. Will you be sewing
clothing, piecing and creating quilts, working with leather or denim,
or creating embroidered items? The reason this is so important is
because each sewing machine features different capabilities and
you'll want to choose the one that will meet your specific needs.
2) Do you want an
electric, mechanical, computerized, compact or serger sewing machine?
The answer to this question will narrow your field quite a bit.
3) Do some research
on sewing machine brand names, features, and price ranges. Check
customer reviews as well to get an idea how well people either like
or dislike a certain model of machine.
4) Before you even
leave the house, decide on how much you can spend for your machine.
The range of prices for sewing machines can range from under $100 for
a basic model, to over $8,000 for a machine that does practically
everything for you except cut your fabric. Be careful not to buy a
sewing machine based on everything you want to learn "someday",
but rather for the purposes for which you'll actually use it once you
bring it home.
5) It is a good idea
to attend some classes in your local area and talk to other people
about their sewing machine. Be sure to ask a lot of questions! Some
stores have several machines set up and will allow customers to give
them a trial run.
6) Where will you
spend your time sewing? If you have a larger space available, the
size of your machine may not matter. However, if you are using a
smaller area, you may want to consider a compact version to save on
space.
7) Will you buy a
sewing machine online or from a locally owned store? If you are
purchasing online, make sure the dealer is reputable. Check the
reviews left for the dealer and make sure to verify their address and
phone number. Given the weight of a sewing machine, inquire about the
shipping costs prior to placing an order, and ask about their return
policy.
Some companies will
ask you to pay return shipping costs and possibly a fee. Even if you
decide to purchase a machine online, be sure to first visit a local
dealer to try the machines in which you are interested.
8) Make a list of
the items you either already enjoy making, or items you wish to make
and take it with you when you visit a local dealer. Take along
samples of fabrics you use most.
9) Test the basic
stitches on the machine, as well as any other features of the machine
you might use. All stitching should appear balanced, not loose.
10) Ask the dealer
about the availability of replacement parts if they should be needed,
the cost of servicing the machine, optional upgrades, and warranties.
A reputable dealer will be glad to answer any questions you have and
allow you to try out any machine in their store. Be sure to ask also
if they offer classes as a bonus with your sewing machine purchase.
Although it is
probably very simple to buy a sewing machine from an online dealer,
there are several advantages to purchasing your machine from a local
dealer. He is only a phone call away, he has direct support from the
manufacturers of the machines he sells, and he probably already has a
repair department on site, which means you won't have to wait as long
for your machine to be fixed.
Let's say you decide
in a few years that you want to upgrade your machine. Some local
dealers will gladly accept the machine they sold to you as a trade-in
on an upgraded model, which could save you some money.
Buying a sewing
machine can be an enjoyable and educational experience, as long as
you are prepared ahead of time. You'll have the tools to make an
informed decision and be very happy with the machine you do purchase.
Once you've purchased your sewing machine, all that's left to do is
take it home and start getting creative!
