Help Deciding on a Sewing Machine

[stefprez]

I would like to learn to sew and start to make some of my own gear, but I need a sewing machine first. I am wondering what advice someone can give on what to look for in a machine. I know NOTHING about sewing. I have quite the plethora of options from Craigslist, so any direction would be appreciated!

[SwampSloth]

I would like to learn to sew and start to make some of my own gear, but I need a sewing machine first. I am wondering what advice someone can give on what to look for in a machine. I know NOTHING about sewing. I have quite the plethora of options from Craigslist, so any direction would be appreciated!

i think you'd be better served buying a simple old well built reliable machine rather than a new cheapy plastic one.

[stefprez]

I can probably get something like this pretty cheap. Say $20-40. http://possumjimandelizabeth.com/adj..._domestic3.jpg

Good deal? (assuming it works)

[Yakfoot]

Sears Kenmore machines manufactured in the '60s and'70s were very well built machines. Model numbers will be 158.xxxxx. They will be referred to by the first 4x as the "model" in descriptions (example 1341). Look for models in the 1200's thru 1900 range. Some of the basic machines in the 1200, 1300 & 1400 range would be good.

Also check out a used singer 237, simple, solid and does zigzag. You can probably get one for 40-50 bucks on ebay.

If you have picked up a modern machine these older machines will be an eye opener, all metal and not necessarily aluminum. I think the singer weighs in at about 30lbs.....cuts down on vibrations .

[stefprez]

Great information! I'll keep that in mind during my hunt. Thanks!

[Ramblinrev]

Craigslist and ebay are at the bottom of my preferences for sources. But if that is the direction you really want to take, read my guidelines posts in my signature. Some people have found them helpful. My vid series has been been used by some folks as well.

[SpaceCadet]

Sears Kenmore machines manufactured in the '60s and'70s were very well built machines. Model numbers will be 158.xxxxx. They will be referred to by the first 4x as the "model" in descriptions (example 1341). Look for models in the 1200's thru 1900 range. Some of the basic machines in the 1200, 1300 & 1400 range would be good.

I borrowed my mom's old Kenmore. She said it's my brothers age which puts it around 1983 or older. After dealing with a cheap thread issue the Kenmore is working like a champ. If you see a used one on craigslist grab it up.

[gargoyle]

Start by checking with friends and family. Maybe someone you know has a good machine to get started with, and its just collecting dust.
Maybe grandma can give you some pointers.
A few hours of hands training from someone with of experience will be priceless.

Good luck in your quest.
(if that machine you linked a pic to works, I'd say grab it. Its pretty!!)

[Ramblinrev]

I can probably get something like this pretty cheap. Say $20-40. http://possumjimandelizabeth.com/adj..._domestic3.jpg

Good deal? (assuming it works)

I have two major concerns about the machine you linked to. I agree it is gorgeous and as a collectors piece might be useful. But before you set out to buy a transformed treadle machine (which I suspect is what it is...) you need to think about being able to get parts. Check the bobbin case. If it is a "torpedo" bobbin instead of a rotary style you will have to have replacements custom made or luck into a supply. Those bobbin cases took a lot of wear and tear and wore out over some time. They get sloppy and the stitch quality suffers and no amount of messing will get it good again.

Finding needles can also be a problem as they often used needles that are no longer available. You might have to make some adjustments using things like serger needles and such. It's pretty but whether it would be practical for a usable machine is questionable.

[stefprez]

I appreciate all the input everyone! I think I am going to keep looking around and not rush into getting one. Maybe take a sewing lesson from a center or my grandma. Then I will ease into the purchase mindset.