Sewing machine choices - Helllllppppp!

[RMWIFE]

I have decided that I am going to make roman blinds for my house. I have no idea what kind of sewing machine to choose! Can anyone guide me?
Thanks

[13loki]

I got an IKEA sy for Xmas. It is still in the box and my curtains are still 2 foot too long.

[craftynclothy]

What's your budget?

[BrownSauceSandwich]

Ooh, I love a good sewing machine thread. Have you asked around family/friends/random strangers, in case they've got one gathering dust somewhere? You might get lucky and find a vintage Elna, Viking or (jackpot) Bernina... Then you invest your budget in getting it serviced, and end up with an amazing machine for not much money.

What you need for your money are straight stitch, zig-zag and reverse. If you can afford one more feature, I'd be torn between some sort of buttonhole function (fewer steps are easier, but not a necessity) and a free arm (for sleeves). Other features range from handy (needle threading, automatic up/down, overlooking stitch) to fun-but-frivolous (decorative stitches). And where you have a limited budget, you'll only get the whistles and bells at the cost of substance/quality.

[wonkylegs]

I have an older version of this Janome
It's a fab, reliable, easy to use all rounder machine & I've made many clothes, curtains, blinds, cushions & crafts with it.

[Owllady]

I think if you want t something cheap and cheerful you can't go wrong with a brother

[EddieVeddersfoxymop]

With sewing machines, you get what you pay for. What about heading to your nearest dealer and trying a few out to see what suits (I love Janome, can't sew for peanuts on a Brother, and I'm a professional that needs a sewing machine ha ha). By trying a lot of machines, you can get a feel for what you like. I also bought a spare, 2nd hand machine from my dealer for the princely sum of £45....a 1970's New Home (now Janome), fully serviced, years warranty - a total bargain.

[amazonianwoman]

Definitely Janome. The best you can afford

[Owllady]

I world-class pattern cutter and have a fashion and textiles degree,I will have you know Eddie :o

[Owllady]

Omg, I did not type world class! I typed I worked as

[lockie1983]

Have a John Lewis own one ... Heard that the insides are Janome. It works really well and lovely to use. Prior to that had a cheapo Argos one, really rickety and served well for 15 years but died on my first pair of curtains