? for those that sew

[jana]

I'm wanting to get into sewing and need some advice on a good sewing machine to start out with.
I don't want to spend too much money incase I don't have the patience to stick with it . I also don't want anything too complicated.
I thought about starting out with some easy things like curtains for around the house. Then work my way up from there.

 

[pumba]

I think that an inexpensive machine with a free arm ........would be up your alley.....And check out Sears and the Kenmore ones. They are simple to use and they are good lasting ones too. I started off making pants and vests for my daughter (who is now 33) .....This model we have is alot just good for having around for emergency sew ups and mends.
GOOD LUCK

 

[FantasticDisFamily]

Definitely you want something with a free arm. And there are many inexpensive (even less than $100) out there. A machine doesn't need to be fancy to let you do many different things. Unless you get to a point where you decide to start doing machine applique, embroidery, or quilting as long as the machine has forward and back straight stitches in adjustable lengths (standard), zig zag, and button hole function you can do just about anything as your skills increase.

Deb

 

[chi-mom]

I agree with trying Sears for your purchase. They have a wide variety of machines and all different brands. They usually have a sales person who is very knowledgable about the machines and can steer you in the right direction. I have found they really don't try to sell you a more expensive machine than you need.

 

[pjlla]

I bought a Brother on clearance at Bradlees (no longer in business) in about 1988 for $50 and it is still going strong! I have sewn loads of curtains, Halloween costumes, holiday dresses for DD and I, you name it. I know that Brother is kind of a cheap brand, but I've been happy with mine. It is just a basic model, but it does everything I need! ...................P

 

[OurDogCisco]

Also, checkout Costco. That's where I bought my 1st sewing machine. I also took classes at the local junior college. I learned so much about sewing through 2 classes than I would have learned on my own. And, it was much cheaper than taking the class through a sewing store.

Have fun!

Tina