Getting Started - Sewing Machine

**cyokley** · 01-08-2010, 21:31

Hey folks. I am thinking of getting started as a DIYer. I am looking around for a cheap way to get started. I was wondering if you guys could recommend an inexpensive sewing machine that will do the job. I found this one, but I am new to all of this so I don't really know what to look for. Thanks for your help.

Chris

**MedicineMan** · 01-08-2010, 21:51

I'm studying these also thanks to Grizz and JustJeff. Someone told me that the machine we need must have a 'walking foot' that can handle slick materials like sil-nyl......if any can offer more clues on this please share.

**KerMegan** · 01-08-2010, 21:52

this has been addressed frequently- the best advice ever was "make sure the machine you choose has metal gears, not plastic or nylon"! sewing several layers of nylon/polyester/etc is tough going for any machine-
Reams of good advice can be accessed by typing "metal gears" into the search function on the top bar-
Hope this helps! KM

**MacEntyre** · 01-08-2010, 22:28

IMHO, you should avoid new machines such as the ones sold at WalMart... find a used or refurbished machine from a local ad, your church, or Craig's List. If you can find a local repair and refurbishing shop, you will be all set.

I bought an 80s Nechhi for $85 from a lady whose mother passed away, and paid $80 to service it. It's better than any $200 new machine.

I bought an early 60s Singer for $50 at a local church, and paid $40 to service it. It's frame is cast iron... it will last forever!

- MacEntyre

**Ramblinrev** · 01-08-2010, 23:42

A walking foot is not worth the bother as far as I am concerned _unless_ you are planning on doing commercial sewing for profit. For normal DIY use they can get in the way and present one more gadget to cause problems. My adivce has always been the same... Go to your local sewing machine shop and ask for the best OLD used machine they have. You need the forward stitch and that's about it. A reverse stitch is nice but not absolutely mandatory. A zig zag has uses but is very easily gone without. I advice buying from someone local for a couple of reasons. You know the machine has been properly serviced and you have a local source in case problems pop up later.

**gargoyle** · 01-09-2010, 06:10

If you don't have a local supply for sewing machines, buy it. It has a 25 year limited warranty. If it doesn't do what you need it to do, return it to walmart. Check it out and report back. Can't hurt a thing and you'll get your money back, if your not satisfied. Save your reciept!!

Check into local sewing classes as well, great place to pick up some great pointers. Or ask Grandma for some tips. Those old gals love to share their worldly knowledge of crafts.

**MedicineMan** · 01-09-2010, 06:43

Keep the tips coming, I'm learning

**cyokley** · 01-09-2010, 22:27

Thanks guys. I appreciate all of the advice. I will keep my eyes open for an older machine. I don't know of any shops that would have them around here, but I saw some on craigslist and I will talk to some family members about finding a place to get one tuned up.

Thanks for all the help.

**pedro** · 01-09-2010, 23:56

I just bought a walking foot for my Singer Slant-o-matic and I love it! I got it because I'm sewing up some insulated curtains (house-gear?) and I was having problems with the bottom material getting fed thru the machine faster than the top material. Rev has much more experience than me, but the results that I've gotten so far have been excellent.

+1 on the older machine, +1 on steel gears. I just came back from the local sewing machine store, and they had several trade-ins for sale at very reasonable prices.

**JohnSawyer** · 01-10-2010, 00:44

I have the LS2125 Brother sewing machine that I picked up on Craig's list for $25. It works fine for what I do (2 zig-zag sewn hammocks, 2 cheapo-quilts, misc bar-tacks in webbing, etc.)

It's not the greatest machine in the world, but it "injects thread into my gear." My advice? Listen to RamblinRev, watch his videos, buy lots of cheap material from wal-mart, and practice... I've sewn a number of projects, and it will be years before I'm any good at it...

There are hundreds of good machines out there, begging to be used. Ask around (older family, friends) You might find a good one cheap, or on indefinite loan...