Which sewing machine for a novice??

[BehindLockNumberNine]

Hello,

It is my birthday in September and am hoping to get a sewing machine. Am a beginner, hoping to create things such as cusion covers, tote bags, pencil cases, a bit of bunting (sorry!) as well as boring things such as hemming curtains and perhaps a simple roman blind when I am feeling adventurous. Oh yes, and nine year old dd wants me to make her a dress .

Budget is up to £100

What would you buy??

Look on the John Lewis website to compare machines. buying guide here. I think you might want to consider spending a tad more on a new machine. The cheaper under-a- hundred-quid models are very basic and can't cope with heavy fabric and often have thread tension problems. I have also read that they don't stitch in reverse very well. I am sure lots of people love their sixty-quid Lidl but once you become proficient you will find that you need a machine with more functions.

Do you have a sewing machine shop near you? That's the best place to look because they can give you a demo before you buy. If you live in the southeast try World of Sewing in Tunbridge Wells, Bromley or Croydon. World of Sewing

would you consider a second hand machine?? you can find bargains on ebay or gumtree.
I paid £40 for mine- it is far more sturdy than my previous cheapy machine.

I got a Janome 2070, my first ever machine 3 months ago, friend spent 2 hours teaching me how to use it mind, but I was truly completely ignorant about sewing machines before that. I have been pretty happy with it.

Oooh, great replies, thank you x

There is a singer sewing shop near us, will head off there for some advice.

Second hand, yes I would consider second hand. Any suggestions as to which machines are worth having second hand?

Bumpetybump - any suggestions for a dearer sewing machine which is worth getting second hand?