what kind of sewing machine do i need?

I sewed the equivalent of a $100 machine to unrepairability in less than a year of not very heavy use. And it was frustrating... nothing seemed to work well, in comparison with my old straight stitcher that I'd used for about 30 years. I'd wanted a machine that I could have a zigzag stitch on, and not have to mount a Greist attachment to do buttonholes, and similar frustrations. What I found out was that it's no fun to sew on a machine that seems to be intent on balking you. The day one of the main gears broke while I was hemming jeans was a day of rejoicing. <g>

I wound up with a much more expensive Viking that's given me hours and miles of flawless operation in the 15 years since. So for me, that cheap machine was basically a waste of money.

If at all possible, go take some beginning lessons someplace where they have sewing machines for you to use. They're usually decent machines, and it also gives you a chance to see if you like sewing.

Otherwise, here's my standard advice to newbies -- and the machines with at least a decent buttonhole and blind hem stitch(es) will get you through virtually any aspect of garment making:

http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=201005... If you're on a very tight budget, then used machines can be wonderful deals. If you can afford new but want to not break the budget, then I'll now add Juki to my recommendation for Janome for basic new machines. I personally think that once you get up to about a budget of $200 or so for a new machine, you've got a good chance at a machine that will last and not drive you nuts.

Watch out for bells and whistles that don't add much to your sewing abilities. A good buttonhole method is worth trading for 100 stitches that are things like rows of duckies or flowers. Automatic needle threaders are generally the first thing that breaks, and it only takes a second to thread a needle. Go, try, learn, then make an informed decision about what you want based on real needs.

I had the same experience Kay did with a cheap new machine. I broke it, about 18 months after buying it. I had bought it because I wanted some of the fancy stitches and I wanted a machine to take back and forth to work with me while still having one to leave at home. Meanwhile, the somewhat more expensive straight stitch machine I'd had for 20 years was still going strong. It still is, and if I wanted to sell it right now I'd get about $30 for it. What I'm saying here is that you'll get a better machine for the money by buying a used one. Any sewing machine service shop will have a few in stock and they will be in perfect running order.

When you're learning to sew, all you really need is straight stitch and zigzag. Any machine made in the last 30 years will have those and many basic machines that age will also have some decorative stitches. After you have learned how to sew using those stitches, and trust me, it will be a little while before you exhaust the possibilities they offer, then you will be at the point where you'll have a better idea what other features really interest you in a more expensive machine. Unless you do a lot of sewing of children's clothes and want to decorate them, you won't use fancy stitches much. These days, I'd say that after a straight stitch/zigzag machine your next purchase should be a serger.

My suggestion is a basic, used machine that does straight stitches and zig zag.

Until you decide you like sewing, and how elaborate you want to get, that will be fine.

You can pick up really good used machines in all thrift stores, craigslist, yard sales, etc. for $15-25.

The very BEST answer can be gotten from "Kay"s avatar, on the right hand side of the page.

Is there a Joanne's near you? They give sewing lessons. Or maybe a local community college gives lessons. You probably don't need a real expensive machine since you are a beginner, but even the basic machines have a lot of options. Good luck and have fun.

Look here for some information.

http://www.sewing-machines-for-beginners.com/

I'd need to say the Memory Craft 7000, no longer definite of the quantity of the most up-to-date mannequin, however are safe machines, I suppose it's made be Bernina. They are beautiful high-priced, however good valued at the rate, for those who do plenty of stitching. I have regularly desired one myself, and if I had the money I could have one. I do not know approximately the more moderen units of Elna. They also are very safe. My mother has had hers for over 30 years, and it nonetheless works like a dream. Her mannequin got here with a suite of cams for patterned sewing, and a whole variety of alternative add-ons: toes, buttonholer, blind hem attachment, ruffler, smocker, cannot consider the whole thing. Good good fortune, and joyful crafting. Singer was once beautiful well, they offered in and out latest years has end up much less safe. JMHO.