Sewing machine - any recommendations?

9 replies

henrybaba · 05/12/2006 21:10

I am looking to purchase my first sewing machine. Just something simple and not too expensive for making some pretty basic clothes, cushion covers etc.. Can anyone recommend anything..? Make, model, where to get them..?

Thanks!!

OP posts:

jeangenie · 05/12/2006 21:14

i got a cheapish janone machine from john lewis a couple of years ago and it works well

really simple (which is exactly what i needed) with a straightforward instruction leaflet that I still have to refer to, EVERY single time!

Tillyboo · 05/12/2006 22:29

I recommend the 'Huskystar C20' by Husqvarna Viking.

A fantastic machine for a complete beginner but has great features for when you are more competant and it's very easy to use.
It has loads of patterns/ alphabet option and helpful user manual.
I had never used a machine in my life until a few months a go and have just done my first fair selling cushions, laundry bags etc. (Take a look at my previous post 'Wish me luck, first attempt at selling my stuff - 4th December. There is a link to a photo of my stall & it'll give you an idea of what you can achieve without spending a fortune on a machine).

Don't go too cheap or for a machine with no room for progression as you'll be frustrated as you gain in ability.

Have a look at Husky website
If you are anywhere near Reading, visit 'the Sewing Machine Shop' opposite Poundstretcher. It's a fantastic, traditional shop with great help and advice, unlike John Lewis who didn't want to know. I had a small problem with my machine recentrly and just took it back to the shop and the little chap fixed it for me free of charge whilst I did my shopping.

jeangenie · 06/12/2006 08:49

that's a good point tillyboo, I do sometimes wish mine did have more "fancy" options for me to experiment with, now that I've (kind of) got the hang of the basics (instructions at my side of course)

that sounds like a good recommendation

(if you are interested in patchwork/quilting, a lot of people doing that seem to rate bernina as a brand)

satine · 06/12/2006 09:08

Henrybaba, I've got a Toyota sewing machine exactly the same as this one that I was going to put on ebay. I'd be happy to sell it to you, if you want!

bundle · 06/12/2006 16:03

I have this Elna one, from John Lewis which is quite easy to use (compared with my 1913 hand-driven version..)

redclover79 · 06/12/2006 21:43

I have a janome 'first home' one which is really easy to figure out, and I can safely say it has yet to reduce me to tears or swearing under my breath! Would definitely not recommend my inherited uber-technical japanese one with confusing manual though!!

cece · 06/12/2006 21:55

If you are in Devon my dad has one for sale...

Original poster

henrybaba · 09/12/2006 14:37

Thank you all very much for the advice - will take a look at some of the recommended websites and maybe get back to you... All very helpful!

OP posts:

fizzbuzz · 09/12/2006 16:34

I'm a textile teacher, and spend most of my time swearing at dysfunctional sewing machines. 20 kids jamming machines at once is NOT fun!.

However I would recommend any machine that does computerised buttonholes-they are amazing! If they can do that, they can do pretty much anything.

Flip