Mumsnet Talk

Just wondering if anyone has seen/had this sewing machine before?

www.lidl.co.uk/uk/home.nsf/pages/c.o.20090630.p.Sewing_Machine.ar11

Lidl are bringing in Singer Serenade sewing machines on Monday for only 79.99 (very cheap for a Singer, I think!). But can't seem to work out what model it is exactly, or if it's something exclusive to Lidl.

I'm needing a new machine (something that will sew through multiple layers of fabrics) so it caught my eye, but don't want to buy another cheap new machine that is lame!

It looks like a run of the mill basic sewing machine to me. If you like Singer, how about this one?

At least you get a decent warranty etc direct from Singer, just in case you do have any problems.

Not sure what brand I want, really! I had 2 lovely old Kenmore sewing machines back in America that never gave me any problems - and it was actually an old Singer one I had then that always needed to go in the shop! We talked to a local sewing machine repair man this morning and he suggested Bernina ones (though they're very pricey, it seems!). Or he said if going for a Singer, get an old one (like made 20 years ago), mentioning Singer 507 and other 500 series ones. He was mentioning about newer cheap ones having plastic parts in them, so guess that makes them less able to cope with heavy fabrics, unless you buy more expensive machines. So now I don't know what to think! Look for an old machine, or buy expensive new one!

I went for an old one, but I had had the chance to try one out before I bought it. I have an 1980's Pfaff machine with all sorts of programmes on it; it can thread the needle and even tells me when my bobbin is running out - how fab is that! I bought it from Tyson's Sewing Machines on ebay - they sell new and serviced ones.

Singer 507

ooh, your machine sounds lovely!

Yes, I found that one on eBay! Trying to think if I should go for it or not. They seem to have good feedback, and sell plenty of machines on there.

But what do you all think of the Lidl offer......so tempting, I could get it on wednesday

come on. I'm desprate for a sewing buff to give a review or the LIDL offer. I'm clueless. and eagerly watching this thread.

I'm afraid I've since learned that people "in the know" (as in, sewing machine repair people) say that Singers aren't very good these days. Apparently you're much better off going for an older machine secondhand, so you can get something that is actually a quality machine, even if basic. So I've decided to just wait and see if I can find a used machine - but think I'm going to stay away from Singers. It's a pity though, as it looked a good deal. I suppose it probably would be OK for light sewing (beginners) but don't think they're really able to cope with heavier fabrics etc.

thanks. So how old is best? WHich makes?

Good Housekeeping tried and tested reviews

If you click on the craft selection of that link, then 'sewing machines' should come up and they review about 11 of them.

anyone who bought that lidl sewing machine help , my friend wants to buy it for me is it good coz i havent seen it