CHOOSING A SEWING MACHINE

A sewing machine is your most important piece  sewing equipment, so please select on with care.  There are a variety of models available to fit any budget or sewing need. Types range from a basic beginners machine which has a basic zigzag and a few built in stitches.  Most budget to mid price machines are mechanical machines, which means that you manually adjust the stitch width, stitch length and tension. A mechanical machine is driven by  a single motor.

This is an example of a basic beginner’s machine.  It is my very first sewing machine. I purchased this machine back in 2002 at Wal-mart for approximately $89. I made this purchase without having a clue about sewing or machines. I did not do any research as I am suggesting to you.  Thank goodness for me it works well still.



You can also buy an electronic machine that uses advanced computer technology. A computerized machine contains multiple electronic motors synchronized by a computer. The result is a variety of built-in stitching options.
Here is an example of a couple electronic machines. The Futura doubles as an embroidery machine and connects to a computer via usb cord. 

Look for a machine to match your sewing projects.  Buy a machine that satisfies your sewing needs, but don’t pay for features you will never or rarely use. Talk to fabric store personnel and friends who sew. Ask for demonstrations and try out and compare several models.
Your sewing machine’s manual is key to getting the best performance from you machine. I have made my manuals my best friend.  I have read each from cover to cover.  A majority of all major repairs could be avoided if owners would read and follow the guidelines in the manual.  If your manual is missing, contact the manufacturer for a new one to ensure that you get the right manual, include the model number of your machine with your request.  This number is usually stamped on a small metal plate secured to the machine. On a free arm machine, the plate is located to the back of the machine; on  flatbed machine it’s located on the front.